Retinoids (retinol, retinaldehyde, tretinoin)
Category: Active ingredient
Brief description: Retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives that have been widely used in skincare for their ability to address various skin concerns.
Benefits: Anti-aging, acne-fighting, and skin-smoothing properties; stimulates collagen production, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and helps to unclog pores.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Not recommended for sensitive skin; may cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially in higher concentrations.
Target audience: People who want to address signs of aging, uneven skin texture, or acne.
Chemical composition: Vitamin A derivatives, varying in structure and potency.
Physical aspect: Varies depending on the specific retinoid; retinol is typically a yellowish liquid, while tretinoin is a yellow crystalline powder.
Compatibility: Sensitive to light, heat, and air; should be used in formulations with stabilizing agents and proper packaging.
Concentration: Varies depending on the specific retinoid and product type; retinol is commonly used at concentrations of 0.01-1%, while tretinoin is prescription-only and typically used at concentrations of 0.025-0.1%.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Potential for skin irritation, redness, peeling, and increased sun sensitivity; not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Regulatory status: Retinol and retinaldehyde are widely used in over-the-counter products; tretinoin is a prescription-only medication.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Can be derived from natural sources, such as animal liver and fish, or synthesized; no significant sustainability or ethical concerns.
Brief description: Retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives that have been widely used in skincare for their ability to address various skin concerns.
Benefits: Anti-aging, acne-fighting, and skin-smoothing properties; stimulates collagen production, reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and helps to unclog pores.
Skin type suitability/concerns: Not recommended for sensitive skin; may cause irritation, redness, and peeling, especially in higher concentrations.
Target audience: People who want to address signs of aging, uneven skin texture, or acne.
Chemical composition: Vitamin A derivatives, varying in structure and potency.
Physical aspect: Varies depending on the specific retinoid; retinol is typically a yellowish liquid, while tretinoin is a yellow crystalline powder.
Compatibility: Sensitive to light, heat, and air; should be used in formulations with stabilizing agents and proper packaging.
Concentration: Varies depending on the specific retinoid and product type; retinol is commonly used at concentrations of 0.01-1%, while tretinoin is prescription-only and typically used at concentrations of 0.025-0.1%.
Side effects/adverse reactions: Potential for skin irritation, redness, peeling, and increased sun sensitivity; not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Regulatory status: Retinol and retinaldehyde are widely used in over-the-counter products; tretinoin is a prescription-only medication.
Sustainability/ethical considerations: Can be derived from natural sources, such as animal liver and fish, or synthesized; no significant sustainability or ethical concerns.
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Active Ingredient
Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) (glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid)
AHAs: Exfoliation experts. Promotes skin glow.
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