Retinol and retinoids sound similar, and for good reason! They’re both related to vitamin AVitamin A is a superstar nutrient that plays many important roles in your body. • Other Names: Sometimes you might see Vitamin A called retinol, retinoids, or provitamin A (especially for plant sources). What does Vitamin A do? • Keeps your… Read More and play a role in skin health. But there’s a key difference between them that scientists and doctors use to distinguish them.

Retinol:

• Definition: Retinol is a specific type of moleculeImagine tiny building blocks that come together to form everything around you, from water to air to your own body! A molecule is a group of two or more atoms held together by strong forces called chemical bonds. Think of… Read More derived from vitaminA vitamin is an organic molecule, which means it’s a naturally occurring compound made up mostly of carbon. Our bodies need vitamins in small amounts to function properly. They help with many important jobs, including: • Building and maintaining healthy… Read More A. It’s like the raw, inactive form that needs some conversion to become fully functional.
• Other Names: You might not hear other names for retinol very often, but sometimes scientists refer to it by its chemical nameImagine you’re in a giant store with shelves full of ingredients, but the labels aren’t written in English! That’s kind of what it’s like for scientists and doctors dealing with all the different chemicals in the world. • Other Names: You… Read More.
• EtymologyEtymology is the study of the origin and history of words. It’s like detective work, tracing how words have changed over time and moved between languages. Think of it like this: • Words have a long history, just like old… Read More: “Retinol” comes from “retene” (a compound derived from vitamin A) and “-ol” (a suffix indicating an alcohol group).

How Retinol Works in Skincare:

• Once applied to the skin, retinol goes through a conversion process to become retinoic acidA Deep Dive into pH, Health, and Everyday Life Have you ever puckered your lips after biting into a lemon or felt a burning sensation in your chest after a spicy meal? That’s the tangy sensation of acidity in action…. Read More, the truly active formWhen scientists talk about “active forms” of vitamins and nutrients, they’re referring to the versions that your body can readily use to perform its functions. Imagine vitamins and minerals as a team of workers. Some might need some preparation or… Read More.
• Retinoic acid helps regulate cellCells are the basic building blocks of all living things. Think of them like tiny rooms that make up a much larger house—your body! Examples of cells: • Animal cells: These make up animals like you, cats, and birds. • Plant… Read More turnover, reduce wrinkles, and improve skin texture.

Where to Find Retinol:

• Retinol is a common ingredient in over-the-counter skincare products like creams, lotions, and serums.

Retinoids:

• Definition: Retinoids is a broader term that encompasses retinol and other vitamin A-derived compounds that have similar effects on the skin. Think of retinoids as the whole A-Team, with retinol being a key player.
• Other Names: Doctors might use specific retinoid names like tretinoin, adapalene, or tazarotene. These are different forms of retinoids with varying strengths and purposes.
• Etymology: “Retinoid” comes from “retina” (part of the eye) because early forms of retinoids were discovered for their effects on vision. However, their impact on skin health became more prominent later.

How Retinoids Work in MedicineMedicine is the field of science and practice that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of disease. Think of it like this: • Your body is a complex machine. • Medicine is like a toolbox, and knowledge is… Read More:

• Retinoids, including retinol, can be used in various ways:
  • To treat acne by unclogging pores and reducing inflammationInflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection. Imagine it like a fire alarm going off in your body, sending out signals to fight off invaders and heal damaged tissues. • Other Names: You might not hear many other… Read More.
  • To address signs of aging like wrinkles and sun damage.
  • To manage certain skin conditions like psoriasis.

Where to Find Retinoid Treatments:

• Prescription retinoids, often in stronger formulations, are available from doctors and dermatologists.

Here are some additional points to remember:

• Retinol and retinoids can cause side effects like dryness and irritation, especially when first used. It’s important to use them as directed and consult a doctor if needed.