Lets learn about the most trending topics these days which are Retinoid and retinol. These are a family of vitamin A but in different levels of potency and performance on the skin. 

Let's learn about the Retinoids. First of all we should know that it includes all vitamin A derivatives whether endogenous or exogenous. Take an example such as retinol, retinaldehyde, retinoic acid and synthetic retinoids. They act as they stimulate the skin cell division hence helping in improving the skin texture, tone and appearance. Derivatives of vitamin A, retinoids can also combat acne, make fine lines and wrinkles fade as well as equalize skin tone. 

 Retinoid vs. Retinol: The unknown Mysteries.

 Now that we’ve gone through the routinary information, let's dissect more on the differences between retinoids and retinol. 

Availability and Usage 

 Retinoids are generally classified as prescription drugs and some are available as OTC Drugs. Tretinoin and tazarotene are prescription strength or retinoids commonly administered for severe skin issues including cystic acne or significant facial lines. These are usually recommended by a dermatologist and most of them cannot be bought over the counter because of their potency as well as side effects. 

 Results and Timeline 

 Potential is indeed relative to the great responsibility that comes along with it as well as the improvement in efficiency. The prescription retinoids work faster as compared to retinol and the results one gets in the initial few days using the same are much better than when using retinol. But there may be some changes in your skin, for instance, the enhancement of the skin texture, skin tones, and skin brightness within the first few weeks after beginning the use of a retinoid. Yet, that is the reason that retinoids can also be more irritating and may make your skin red, peel and feel dry at first, especially when you commence with it. 

 Acne Several Common skin tolerance and side effects Skin tolerance: 

According to the research done, acne is among the most common skin tolerance reported by patients taking Clindamycin phosphate. 

 The choice between retinol and a superior retinoid could be due to skin sensitivity which could be considerable to some people. The retinoids for the same reason of being more potent can cause quite some discomfort especially in the initial stages of use. We can say that Some of the more frequently reported side effects are known as erythema, scaling, dryness, and photosensitivity. Some of the side effects include skin irritation, hair loss, dizziness and fungal and bacterial infections: These side effects are usually mild and last for a short time; however, this product can be used with a lower concentration and as time progresses its usage is gradually increased. Retinol on the other hand is much milder than the other products as it comes in the form of Vitamin A. Though it can sometimes elicit minor descriptions of irritation especially to those with sensitive skin, it is more tolerable than other retinoids in the market. 

 Well, how do you make a decision of which is perfect for you? It principally depends on the skin type, skin’s condition, and the time span within which one is willing to achieve the desired results. If you hardly use vitamin A or if you have sensitive skin, it is best to use retinol first. If you suffer from deeper lines and wrinkles, obvious dark spots, or even cystic acne, and your skin is not damaged by the RA, then a prescription strength retinoid could work better for you. Retinol, on the other hand, works slowly and will gradually help you achieve the skin that you want if you do not want to wait for a short time. It is long-acting and enables one to gradually increase the skin’s sensitivity to vitamin A in order to reduce the occurrence of side effects.

Everyone should include Retinoids and Retinol into their skincare routine.

Whichever of the two you decide to use, there are basic ways of incorporating retinoids or retinol into your skincare regimen. It is recommended that initially one should use it once or twice a week as a test, and then increase the number of days depending on the skin’s tolerance. 

Conclusion: 

It depends on the specific skin type that one has, the level of side effects they are willing to endure and the rate at which they want the acne to clear. Whether you choose the strength and efficiency of a retinoid or the less chemical approach of retinol, including vitamin A into your skin’s program will have a positive impact on your skin’s health, and its pigment in the long run.