HOW VITAMIN A TRANSFORMS YOUR SKIN
HOW VITAMIN A TRANSFORMS YOUR SKIN
Retinol, retinal, retinoic acid (tretinoin): Vitamin A appears in various forms as an anti-ageing and anti-acne ingredient. This article will help you understand the differences and choose the best vitamin A product for your skin health. Discover the benefits of vitamin A in your skincare!
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THE POWER OF VITAMIN A: RETINOL, RETINAL OR RETINOIC ACID FOR THE SKIN
What is vitamin A?
Vitamin A - especially the active form: Retinoids - plays a crucial role in skin health. The potent vitamin is known for its ability to improve skin texture, promote cell regeneration and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In addition, vitamin A helps to reduce pigmentation and improve skin tone, making the skin appear more even and radiant overall.
The effect of vitamin A on the skin
Numerous studies have shown that retinoids, the active form of vitamin A, can promote cell renewal and collagen formation. This means that by stimulating the formation of new skin cells, old, dead skin cells are removed. This renews the skin and can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, spots, large pores and hyperpigmentation. The skin becomes more even and the pores are refined.
Discover all the benefits of vitamin A for the skin:
1. improvement of the skin structure
Vitamin A supports the skin by promoting collagen production and increasing skin elasticity. As we age, the skin becomes thinner and loses firmness. Vitamin A helps to slow down these processes and improve skin structure by making the skin thicker and more resilient.
2. accelerated cell renewal
Vitamin A accelerates cell renewal, also known as "cell turn-over" or cell turnover rate. This means that old, dead skin cells are replaced more quickly by new cells. An increased cell turnover rate contributes to a smoother complexion and supports overall skin health. This process not only reduces fine lines and wrinkles, but also improves overall skin texture and reduces pigmentation. In addition, vitamin A refines the pores, resulting in an even complexion.
3. reduction of wrinkles and fine lines
By stimulating collagen production and promoting cell regeneration, vitamin A helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This makes the skin appear more youthful and smoother.
4. treatment of acne
Retinoids such as retinal have antibacterial properties that act specifically against the bacteria that cause acne. They also help to unclog pores and prevent the formation of new blemishes. Retinal is particularly effective against acne.
5. protection from environmental pollution
Vitamin A protects the skin from harmful environmental stresses such as UV radiation and pollutants from the environment. Retinal acts as a powerful antioxidant and protects the skin cells from damage caused by free radicals.
People with blemished skin, sun damage or the first signs of ageing particularly benefit from the effect of retinal on the skin. We have developed our highly effective Absolute A Retinal Serum especially for these skin conditions:
Retinal Serum
0.05% encapsulated retinal: the most effective form of vitamin A for the skin
Plus: peptides, ectoin, allantoin and ceramides
10% pre- and postbiotics to strengthen the skin microbiome and skin barrier
Ideal for beginners
Developed by dermatologist Dr. Emi Arpa
The best facial care ever
SIMONA L.
More than thrilled... never had such radiant skin ♥️
Jeanette G.
Amazing! I have very sensitive skin and tolerate the serum really well! Love it!
Lu H.
The choice of the optimal retinoid for your own skincare depends on your individual skin needs. If you are already used to products with retinal or retinol or would like to treat pigmentation spots specifically, we recommend our Absolute A+ Retinal Serum:
Retinal Serum
0.1% encapsulated retinal: the most effective form of vitamin A for the skin
Plus: peptides, ectoin, allantoin and ceramides
10% pre- and postbiotics to strengthen the skin microbiome and skin barrier
Ideal for advanced users
Developed by dermatologist Dr. Emi Arpa
Best skincare! I've tried a lot, but nothing comes close to Dr. Emi's products. I will probably never buy anything else again!
KATHARINA S.
I love the Rentinal +. Even my husband notices the positive change and says I look like I've been pealed out of an egg! I've never been so happy with my skin
Verena M.
I can only say the best products ever. I love them completely 🥰
Silke M.
RETINAL - THE BETTER RETINOL?
Retinol, retinal and retinoic acid (tretinoin) are different forms of vitamin A that act as powerful active ingredients against signs of skin ageing and acne. Their effectiveness and tolerability vary, which is why the following distinction is important when choosing the right retinoid:
- Retinol: The classic in skin care, known for its anti-ageing effect. Retinol is often used in skin care products. It requires two stages of conversion to retinoic acid, is less potent but widely used
- Retinal (retinaldehyde): More effective and better tolerated than retinol, it promotes collagen production and has an antibacterial effect. As it only requires one conversion step to retinoic acid, it is ten times more effective than retinol and is also suitable for sensitive skin
- Retinoic acid (tretinoin): Retinoic acid - also known as vitamin A acid - is the strongest form and is a prescription drug. It is particularly effective in the treatment of severe acne and deep wrinkles
Retinal (retinaldehyde) is considered the most effective non-prescription retinoid. It only requires one conversion step to active retinoic acid, which makes it more potent and at the same time more skin-friendly. Retinal can improve fine wrinkles and increase skin thickness at concentrations as low as 0.05%.
TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT RETINAL PRODUCT
1. pay attention to important ingredients
It all depends on the formulation - pay attention to the overall product. In addition to retinoids (retinal), the product should also contain other active ingredients that synergistically stimulate collagen production, such as peptides. It is particularly advantageous if retinal is encapsulated. This encapsulation increases the stability of the active ingredient in the formulation and can improve skin penetration. It should also contain nourishing ingredients that protect the skin from potential irritation. Particularly important are barrier-strengthening active ingredients such as ceramides and ectoinwhich support the skin barrier, and soothing ingredients such as allantoin, which is known for its calming properties. A well-formulated retinal skincare product combines these components to ensure maximum effectiveness with minimal side effects.
2. check active ingredient concentration
Pay attention to the concentration of retinal. When using vitamin A products, it is important to observe the correct concentration in order to avoid side effects. Too high concentrations can lead to skin irritation. It is recommended to start with lower concentrations and slowly increase the frequency of application. This gradual introduction of the active ingredients helps the skin to get used to the new products and minimizes the risk of irritation.
3. pay attention to the correct packaging
Pay attention to the packaging of vitamin A skin care products: In order for both retinal and retinol to develop their optimum effect on the skin, retinal creams or serums should be packaged in light and air-protected packaging. Airless pump dispensers make this possible by protecting the sensitive active ingredients from light and air. This special packaging ensures that the effectiveness of the product is maintained until the last application.
4. prefer trustworthy and transparent brands
Prefer retinal serums from reliable and transparent brands to avoid side effects. Products that have been developed in collaboration with dermatologists are particularly trustworthy. It is important to pay attention to the claims and scientific evidence instead of being misled by marketing promises. Brands that explain their active ingredients and state their concentrations are often the better choice. Transparent communication offers security and confidence in the effectiveness of the product.
Conclusion
Vitamin A, especially in the form of encapsulated retinal, has numerous positive effects on the skin, including improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles and even acne. Start slowly with the use of retinal products and gradually increase the frequency. Be sure to moisturize your skin and always use sunscreen during the day for optimal results.
FAQ on vitamin A and the skin
Retinol and Retinal can be used from young adulthood, especially when the first signs of skin ageing or acne appear. However, it is important to accustom the skin to retinol or retinal slowly.
No, it is not recommended to use products containing retinoids during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The use of products containing retinoids can be problematic during this time, as excessive amounts of vitamin A can be harmful to the unborn child or breastfed baby.
Retinal leads to accelerated cell renewal, which can cause slight skin irritation in the short term while the skin adapts. This can mistakenly give the impression that the skin is thinning. However, in the long term, Retinal helps to improve skin texture and strengthen the skin by stimulating collagen production and making the skin smoother and more resilient.
Possible side effects of retinoids such as retinol and retinal include skin irritation, dryness and redness. However, these side effects often subside once the skin has become accustomed to the facial care. It is therefore particularly important for sensitive skin to start using the product slowly and gradually accustom the skin to it. Another effect that can be experienced is so-called "skin purging". This is a temporary deterioration in the appearance of the skin, which can lead to an increase in blemishes and spots. This occurs because accelerated cell renewal brings clogged pores to the surface more quickly. Skin purging is usually temporary and a sign that the product is working by cleansing the skin from the inside out.
Don't forget: Retinoids such as high-dose retinol and retinal make the skin more susceptible to sun damage such as sunburns, hyperpigmentation and signs of ageing. Therefore: Always apply sun protection (at least SPF 30, preferably SPF 50) when using Retinal - even in fall and winter.
Retinol and retinal are not harmful in the correct dosages and when used properly. However, it is important to pay attention to the skin's reactions and adjust the frequency of application if necessary.
Retinol and Retinal should initially be applied two to three times a week to get the skin used to them. Over time, the frequency of application can be increased to every other day or even daily.
For beginners, a lower concentration of 0.25% to 0.5% retinol is recommended. Experienced users can use high-dose retinol products with higher concentrations of up to 1%, depending on skin tolerance. Lower concentrations are sufficient for the more effective retinal. Retinal products such as serums should contain between 0.05% and 0.1% retinal to ensure effective but gentle care. It is important to gradually accustom the skin to these active ingredients and to adjust the frequency of application if necessary in order to avoid skin irritation.
Retinol or Retinal should be applied to cleansed skin in the evening, as they make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation. It is important to always use a sunscreen during the day to protect the skin.
Retinol and Retinal should be applied in the evening after cleansing. With many serums, it is necessary to use a moisturizer on top to soothe the skin and prevent possible dryness. However, this is not the case with our Absolute A Retinal Serum, which can be sufficient on its own. If necessary, a moisturizer such as the Barrier Boost Moisturizer can of course also be applied on top. A sunscreen should always be used during the day.
Yes, retinol or retinal and vitamin C can be combined in the skin care routine, but not at the same time. Vitamin C is best used in the morning and retinol / retinal in the evening.
Vitamin C or vitamin A: which is better?
Retinal, a derivative of vitamin A acid, and vitamin C are two different active ingredients with different benefits. While retinal primarily has a regenerative effect and improves skin elasticity and skin structure by promoting collagen synthesis, vitamin C primarily has antioxidant properties. Vitamin C derivatives are used as antioxidants to reduce hyperpigmentation and improve skin texture, similar to Retinal. Both active ingredients have their own benefits. A combination of both active ingredients can be particularly effective.
Related blog posts
Boisnic S, Branchet-Gumila MC, Le Charpentier Y, Segard C. (1999). Repair of UVA- induced elastic fiber and collagen damage by 0.05% retinaldehyde cream in an ex vivo human skin model. Dermatology, 199(1), 43-48.
Kwon HS, Lee JH, Kim GM, Bae JM (2018). Efficacy and safety of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams used to treat photoaged skin: A randomized double-blind controlled trial. Journal of cosmetic dermatology, 17(3), 471-476.
Milosheska D, Roškar R (2022). Use of Retinoids in Topical Antiaging Treatments: A Focused Review of Clinical Evidence for Conventional and Nanoformulations. Advances in therapy, 39(12), 5351-5375.
Mukherjee S, Date A, Patravale V, Korting HC, Roeder A, Weindl G (2006). Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical interventions in aging, 1(4), 327-348.
Zasada M, Budzisz E (2019): Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments.