You may have heard the term retinoids when considering different methods to use for your acne treatment, but you may not know some key details that can help you make an informed decision. In fact, the first thing you should be aware of is that there are both oral and topical versions of retinoids. Most types of treatments only come in one form or the other, so this makes retinoids unique. Keep in mind, there is no permanent acne cure, but you can find ways to help reduce or alleviate the amount of flair ups or breakouts you have.
How It Works
The chemical compounds that make up retinoids are similar to vitamin A. Retinoids are often used to help heal skin conditions. Though it is not completely clear as to how retinoids work, there are some indications as well as some known details.
By being introduced into the cells and connecting to certain receptors, retinoids alter the manner in which the skin regenerates. This means dead skin cells flake off sooner and the likelihood of blocked pores diminishes greatly. Another explanation for how they work is their ability to speed up the growth of cells.
If you are a candidate for retinoids, your doctor will prescribe these to you. You can discuss with him or her whether you should consider using the oral or topical version of retinoids. Those who suffer with chronic or severe cases of acne may qualify to use this type of treatment system.
Retinoids are especially useful for those who have not had success with other methods of treatments, or had another method for treating acne begin to lose its effect as your body built up immunity. Although in many cases, this may actually be part of your first line of attack in your fight against acne. Depending on your individual situation, your doctor may want to put you on retinoids before trying other, more drastic, measures.
Possible Side Effects
It depends on the type of retinoids you are prescribed.
- The most common reported side effects relating to topical retinoids are dryness, redness and irritation.
- You will also have a heightened sensitivity to sunlight, which can cause further irritation.
The best method to avoid irritating your skin when using topical retinoids is to slowly introduce it to your skin care regimen.
You can begin by applying only a small amount and gradually increase the amount over time. Or you can also try using the topical solution every other night so your skin has a chance to have a break from this new substance. Try also applying topical retinoids about half an hour following a cool water facial wash because warm water opens up pores and can cause a heightened level of sensitivity.
The effects linked to the oral version of this acne treatment include, mainly, eye complaints. Issues such as dry eye syndrome or contact lens intolerance have been reported. If you wear contact lenses, you should make sure your doctor is aware of this, in case he or she would prefer to prescribe you an alternate or the topical retinoids, instead.
Oral versus Topical Retinoids
Oral retinoids main feature is anti-inflammatory properties, although it is suggested for the reduction of formation of blemishes. This is also effective for using with patients who have severely sensitive skin and may not be able to use the topical version. Also, those patients with scarring may be candidates for worsening the scars or not feel comfortable using a solution on their damaged skin. Women who are pregnant or lactating, or people with renal disorders cannot and should not use retinoids.
Topical retinoids work by unblocking the skin and unclogging the pores, partially by removing dead skin cells quicker. The reason some people do not like to use topical versions of this acne treatment is that it may, in some cases, increase the level of acne outbreaks, at first. Also, the redness, drying and peeling that can result from retinoids can be bothersome to some users.
As is the case with any type of medication, it is best to discuss with your doctor which method of retinoids may work the best option for you.