Conditions that arise in the skin with aging, consequently bring undesirable aesthetic appearances , which is why some therapies have been resorted to that can delay the effects of the passing of the years, including the use of retinoic acid .
In the following article, we give you all the necessary information about retinoic acid, its benefits, and how to use it on the skin.
What is retinoic acid?
Retinoic acid or tretinoin, is an acid derived from vitamin A , being essentially its main metabolite form and is part of a group known as retinoids .
To highlight: Its use as medicine is essentially topical, to treat skin conditions such as acne, photoaging, to improve the healing process, stretch marks, among others. (1)
What benefits does retinoic acid have on the skin?
The main way in which retinoic acid is used on the skin is mainly at the aesthetic level and hence its benefits. We mention the most relevant:
1. Promotes the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid
Retinol used topically can penetrate the deepest layers of the skin, activating the function of type I and III collagen through dermal fibroblasts. (two)
In the same way, the production of elastin is carried out through fibroblasts, a cell that is activated by retinoic acid for the production of this protein. (3)
Note: Hyaluronic acid acts on the skin maintaining its stability and hydration. In this sense, retinoic acid contributes to the production of hyaluronic acid synthesized by epidermal keratinocytes. (4)
2. Reduces pores, wrinkles and expression lines
Thanks to the activating property that retinol has on fibroblasts and epidermal keratinocytes for the production of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid, it contributes to mitigating the effects of skin aging, maintaining its elasticity, firmness and freshness.
Note: This medication is in high demand in the treatment of the effects of photoaging of the skin. (5)
3. Reduces spots and acne marks
The sun, age, hormones or injuries, among other causes, can affect hyperpigmentation of the skin that can cause an alteration in its tone unevenly. This hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin.
To highlight: Retinoic acid has the ability to inhibit melanin production , thus improving skin pigmentation and blurring blemishes.
How is retinoic acid used on the face?
The dose of retinoic acid will depend on the aesthetic objectives to be achieved, as well as the individual characteristics of each patient. Here are some ways to use it:
1. Apply small amounts progressively
Because skin sensitivity is different between people, the dose of retinoic acid should be done progressively, starting with a small amount, in relation to the initial concentration and the times of application per week.
Important: It is necessary to consult a specialist , who will indicate after an evaluation, the concentration and frequency of treatment with this medication.
2. Use it preferably at night
Retinoic acid (tretinoin), used topically, has the characteristic of being irritating to the skin due to its acidic pH, so it is recommended to use it outside of exposure to sunlight and in small quantities. The specialist doctor will make the necessary recommendations.
3. Combine it with moisturizers and sunscreen
Taking into consideration that retinol under certain conditions is a skin irritant causing dry skin, it is advisable to combine it with other substances that help mitigate its dehydrating and irritating effect.
The combined use of this acid, with moisturizing cream and also with lotions for protection against the effects of UV rays, contributes to a greater tolerance of the side effects of retinoic acid.
Contraindications and side effects of retinoic acid
Due to its condition as an irritant , there are some contraindications and side effects during its use. We mention the most important ones:
1. Allergy to components
There are people who manifest allergic skin reactions to direct contact with certain chemical compounds, triggering some type of dermatitis . It is appropriate to consult a specialist about the allergic effects of retinoic acid, and how to cope with them.
2. Mucosa and wounds
The irritant action of retinoic acid can be dangerous when accidentally dropped on mucosal tissues such as those of the oral or nasal cavity, since they are tissues with weaker protective properties than the skin.
Note: Likewise, the application in areas near wounds , scrapes and skin lesions is contraindicated due to the irritating action of retinoic acid.
3. Sun exposure
Retinoic acid is a photosensitive medicine, that is, it reacts when receiving ultraviolet light from the sun’s rays, causing skin lesions such as erythema, irritation and spots. Therefore, during its use , exposure to the sun should be avoided.
4. Pregnancy and lactation
It is recommended that retinoic acid not be used during pregnancy , due to its possible association with congenital malformations such as microtia, heart, central nervous system, lung, and genitourinary defects.
Note: The possibility that retinoic acid is excreted through breast milk has not yet been ruled out, therefore, during periods of breastfeeding, therapy with this acid should be suspended or postponed.
5. Inflammation, irritation and peeling
The condition of acid substance when applied topically , stimulates the turnover of epidermal cells, causing erythema and its consequent inflammation and possible desquamation of the skin due to its dryness,
Important: The side effects of retinol are reversible. There is also no evidence of carcinogenic, mutagenic, teratogenic or fertility effects. Medical supervision is vital.
Key Findings
- Retinoic acid comes from vitamin A or retinol.
- Retinol is used to reduce blemishes, smooth wrinkles, and treat acne.
- Its use is contraindicated during periods of pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Retinoic acid after its topical application, sun exposure should be avoided.
- It is recommended that before using it you go to the consultation of a specialist doctor, for better results and to avoid unwanted effects.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.