If you're looking to treat acne, products like tretinoin, adapalene (Differin), and tazarotene are more effective than retinol. If you have skin conditions like psoriasis, it's best to get medical advice as any type of retinoid can irritate the skin (Leyden, 2017).
Retinol serves an age reversing purpose, Koreans use ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and antioxidants instead.
There are a number of alternative ingredients that you can keep an eye out for: "Bakuchiol, peptides, growth factors, antioxidants, niacinamide, and alpha hydroxy acids are some of the nonretinoid topical ingredients that also have antiaging properties," Dr. King says.
In a 2019 clinical trial, bakuchiol was proven to address signs of aging: helping to decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and minimize signs of hyperpigmentation. The results were as significant as retinol, but without the flaking or irritation that comes with Vitamin A use.
While bakuchiol is considered a gentler alternative to retinoids, says Dr. Garshick, “there is still a risk of sensitivity, including redness, dryness or stinging of the skin, especially with initial use.” That means that until your skin becomes accustomed to bakuchiol, you may still notice some irritation.
The effects are similar to that of retinol, although it will take you longer to get there (most skincare shows effects in three months). It's also a safer alternative. And ultimately, as with all skincare—whether you prefer bakuchiol over retinol—it's a personal choice.
Also known as retinoic acid, tretinoin is about 20 times more potent than retinol. It's stronger because retinoic acid is a form of vitamin A that acts directly on the skin to boost cell renewal, turnover, and DNA damage repair.
While Idriss considers retinol to be the “true gold standard” in skincare, she does recommend a plant-based ingredient called bakuchiol, an antixodent found in the seeds of the plant Psoralea Corylifolia, for those looking for a retinol alternative that's gentler on the skin.
Rosehip and Carrot Seed Oil
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative, so it makes sense that there are natural oils also rich in the vitamin, like rosehip and carrot seed. Rosehip oil is exceptional in regenerating and healing the skin, while increasing collagen production and skin elasticity.
Board-certified Korean dermatologist Choi Bo Youn supports Hong's statements, noting, that if you continually allow your skin to get dry, wrinkles are sure to appear. With that in mind, Koreans, again, constantly keep their skin hydrated and nourished in any way they can.
Double dosed skincare
This is why Korean women live by the rule of double cleansing, double eye mask and double hydration in their skincare regimen. The step cleansing method includes a foaming face wash followed by an oil-based cleanser. This clears the skin of every last bit of makeup and dirt from face.
Discontinue use if you have negative side effects after a few weeks of use and contact your physician to help reassess your skin type and find a solution that will protect your skin barrier . Consider using moisturizing and soothing topical skin care products with retinol to counteract its negative side effects.
Retinaldehyde is a relatively new vitamin A ingredient but still has significant published studies proving its efficacy: in particular, it is proven to be 11 times faster acting than traditional retinol.
Well, when it comes right down to it, the choice is really in what you're looking to do for your skin. While vitamin C is incredible for the skin because of its ability to help brighten and improve hyperpigmentation, the best active ingredient for wrinkles is retinol.
If you have acne, dermatologists recommend fighting it with a three-step regimen: a salicylic acid cleanser, a benzoyl peroxide spot treatment, and a daily moisturizer. Salicylic acid unclogs pores and helps exfoliate to make dead skin cells fall away faster.
Incorporate an exfoliating cleanser into your routine
"Whether it is a physical or chemical exfoliator, these ingredients help remove dead cells from the surface of the skin to brighten the complexion and improve texture," says Dr. Zeichner. It is also an important first step if you're planning to use a self-tanner.
Yes, because both collagen and retinol have anti-aging properties. However, retinol is a more potent anti-aging product, so it's better for those with deep-set wrinkles. Collagen is better for those with fewer and finer wrinkles.
If you're looking for an ingredient that can help to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, retinol may be the better option. However, if you're looking for something that will keep your skin hydrated and plump, hyaluronic acid may be a better choice.
Retinol is a powerful tool against aging skin and acne, but it's not for everyone. If you're prone to allergies or have sensitive skin, you might want to try skincare products with alternative anti-aging or skin-clearing ingredients.
Retinoids reduce fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the production of collagen. They also stimulate the production of new blood vessels in the skin, which improves skin color. Additional benefits include fading age spots and softening rough patches of skin.
Remember, unlike retinol, bakuchiol is a surprisingly safer option. That is why there is no hard and fast rule regarding when can you add a bakuchiol-infused product to your skincare routine.
When applied to the skin, its effects are similar to those of retinol, Carqueville says. Like its vitamin A-derived counterpart, bakuchiol can help boost collagen production, making your skin look tighter and plumper.
Because it's gentler, those who can't tolerate retinol may benefit most from using it. It should be noted that, like retinol, bakuchiol is best used on mature skin as younger users may not reap the full benefits of the collagen-boosting ingredient.