Retinoid Reactions and How to Deal with them.
Retinol (a form of vitamin A) is renowned for its skin-transforming benefits, from reducing the signs of ageing to improving skin texture and tone. As much as the skin needs vitamin A to survive and thrive, one must be cautious using retinol as it may trigger reactions, especially when first introduced into your skincare routine. Retinoid reactions are sometimes part of the adjustment process. In this guide, we’ll explore what retinoid reactions are, why they happen, and how Environ helps manage them effectively.
1. What is a retinoid reaction?
Skin cells have vitamin A receptors because it’s such an important molecule to normalise and control most aspects of skin functioning. When the skin is exposed to UV, the vitamin A in the skin is destroyed. At the same time, UV destroys the vitamin A receptors on the cell wall. Not only does this result in the skin becoming deficient in this essential nutrient, but it becomes deficient in the receptors needed to metabolise it. If your skin does not have adequate receptors, the metabolism of vitamin A becomes ineffective. Vitamin A builds up outside the cell which causes a chemical irritation, known as a retinoid reaction.
2. What are the signs of a retinoid reaction?
Retinoid reactions are the initial responses your skin may have when you start using retinoids. You may experience dryness, redness, itchiness and even a warm sensation in the skin. Although retinoid reactions are usually transient or temporary, they can be uncomfortable, which is why understanding how to manage them is essential.
3. What to do if you experience a retinoid reaction?
If the irritation is severe, reduce the frequency of your retinoid application. Give your skin a chance to recover before gradually reintroducing the product.
Boost moisturisation. Add an extra layer of hydration to your routine with a product such as Super Moisturiser specially formulated with ingredients to help soothe, hydrate, and support skin barrier resilience. This will help counteract the effects of dryness and irritation experienced during retinoid reactions.
Consult a Skincare Professional if your reaction persists or worsens. They can help you adjust your routine and recommend the best Environ products for your specific needs.
4. How Environ avoids retinoid reactions
A retinoid reaction is a challenge that can always be solved. Understand that it’s transient – this means that the condition is temporary and will improve slowly as the skin is gradually exposed to more vitamin A and it builds up more receptors. A transient retinoid reaction is a good sign – it means there is work to do! It’s a sign that your skin desperately needs vitamin A and by slowly and consistently supplying it with vitamin A, your skin should normalise. If you experience a retinoid reaction, it’s important that you don’t give up. All you need to do is to adapt your strategy. To avoid the risk of retinoid reactions, Environ’s philosophy is Start low. Go slow.
Introducing vitamin A to your skincare routine is effectively achieved with Environ’s Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™. By starting with lower levels of vitamin A and slowly progressing to higher levels, the skin can acclimate more comfortably which assists to reduce the risk of retinoid reactions. This way, your skin is supported to build tolerance over time.
With years of expertise in vitamin A skin science, Environ’s approach is effective in allowing you to reap the long-term benefits of vitamin A and manage the risk of retinoid reactions. By gradually introducing vitamin A, supporting your skin’s barrier, and staying consistent with your routine, you’ll be able to navigate the potential initial challenges and enjoy healthy-looking beautiful skin for a lifetime.
