Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, has long been the gold standard for skin renewal and rejuvenation. Recognized for its ability to transform skin texture and tone, it's a popular skincare ingredient that helps many achieve that coveted glow.

However, for those with sensitive skin, retinol may have been on the list of ‘ingredients to avoid.’ If you have been missing out on the anti-aging benefits of retinol, we have good news: retinol alternatives like retinoid exist for sensitive skin so that you can reap the amazing benefits of Vitamin A! 

Vitamin A Benefits: Retinol & Retinoids Explained

Vitamin A, in various forms such as retinol and retinoids, offers numerous benefits for the skin:

Reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles: Vitamin A derivatives promote collagen synthesis in the skin, which helps to improve skin elasticity and firmness. 

Promote the growth of new, healthy cells: This process can lead to smoother, more even-toned skin and a reduction in the appearance of blemishes and acne scars.

Unclogs Pores: Retinoids can help to prevent the formation of clogged pores by promoting the exfoliation of dead skin cells and reducing the production of sebum, the skin's natural oil. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals prone to acne or those with oily skin.

Improves Skin Texture and Tone: By promoting cell turnover and collagen production, retinoids can help to refine the skin's texture and even out its tone. This can result in a more radiant complexion.

Difference Between Retinol and Retinoids

Retinol, despite its anti-aging benefits, often raises concerns for those with sensitive skin because of how it works.

Retinol rejuvenates skin by first turning itself into retinoic acid, a process that requires it to convert into retinaldehyde first, and then into retinoic acid. This conversion can lead to irritation, redness, and dryness, particularly in sensitive skin types.

Retinoids are often considered more effective for sensitive skin due to their direct conversion into the active form of vitamin A (retinoic acid) within the skin. This means that retinoids typically require fewer steps to become active and may produce results more quickly than retinol.

The Solution for Sensitive Skin Types: Retinaldehyde

As you may have already guessed, the key to reducing chances of irritation is to use products with the closest available form of Vitamin A without prescription - retinaldehyde. 

Retinaldehyde, found in Dp Dermaceuticals’ Retinal Active, is a ‘step’ closer to retinoic acid, and therefore more gentle on skin. Studies have shown that retinaldehyde is as effective in reducing signs of aging, but with significantly less irritation.

In addition to retinaldehyde,  Dp Dermaceuticals uses Retinyl Acetate, and Retinyl Palmitate to give the amazing benefits of Vitamin A. 

Key Benefits of Retinal Active

If you have been wishing a product with retinol for sensitive skin, Dp Dermaceuticals Retinal Active is designed with sensitive skin in mind, offering a suite of benefits that address the unique challenges:

• Delivers the most active form of Vitamin A without a prescription: Targets the visible signs of aging without the harsh side effects.
• Reduces the risk of retinoid reaction: A gentler approach for sensitive skin types looking to incorporate retinol.
• Regulates healthy cell renewal: Encourages the turnover of skin cells in a balanced manner, promoting a smoother, more even skin texture.
• Aims to reverse the appearance of deep wrinkles, scars, and atrophy: Provides targeted treatment to not only surface-level concerns but deeper skin issues.
• Targets and treats bacterial proliferation: Helps in managing acne-prone skin by addressing bacterial growth. As acne-prone skin is sensitized, retinaldehyde is often better tolerated than retinol.

Shop Retinal Active for sensitive skin.

Key Benefits of R.E.R. Eye Serum

R.E.R. Eye Serum is a powerful eye serum combining rejuvenation properties and anti-ageing antioxidants.  

This corrective treatment:

• Actively helps to lessen the visible signs of skin damage from sun and aging. By using retinaldehyde, HylaFuse complex, the botanical ingredient bakuchiol, and other ingredients.
• Visibly firms and lifts contours and reduces puffiness. Promotes improved skin density.
• Combats visible signs of damage from the sun and other environmental factors. 

Shop R.E.R Eye Serum for Dark Circles.

Integrating Retinoids into Your Skincare Routine

Incorporating Retinal Active or R.E.R. Eye Serum into your skincare regimen is a step toward achieving a radiant, youthful complexion, even for those with sensitive skin. 

As with any new, potent product, you will want to start low and slow. Even though Dp Dermaceuticals offers science-backed formulations with no reported skin irritations, it is always recommended to do a patch test first, giving the product a couple of hours to show its effect on a small patch of skin. 

On especially sensitive skin, consider using the product 1-2x a week - during your PM skincare routine to avoid sun exposure - and gradually increase usage over 4-6 weeks.

For optimal results, couple this retinaldehyde cream with a hydrating hyaluronic acid serum, like Hyla Active, and SPF 30 or higher sunscreen like the healing camouflage that is Cover Recover.

Ready to experience the transformative powers of retinaldehyde?

Unlock the rejuvenating effects of retinaldehyde with DP Dermaceuticals. For those seeking enhanced skin care at home, Retinal Active and R.E.R Eye Serum are just a click away. 

For clinic owners, Med Spas and skincare professionals, join our wholesale program to access our full suite of DP Dermaceuticals’s dermatological innovations, including the Dermapen - DP4 Microneedling Pen, and revolutionize your patient care with unparalleled results.