How to Use a Retinoid like a Dermatologist

Summary

In this video, Dr. Maxfield and Dr. Shaw discuss the importance of retinoids in skincare, highlighting their benefits for acne, anti-aging, and skin texture. They share personal experiences and provide practical tips on how to incorporate retinoids into one's routine, emphasizing the need for patience and gradual introduction to avoid irritation. The doctors also address the 'retinoid sandwich' technique for sensitive skin and caution against use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They invite viewers to comment on their new setup and offer feedback to improve their channel's content.

Takeaways

• 🌟 Retinoids are considered the cornerstone of skincare routines, offering numerous benefits such as anti-aging, acne reduction, and improved skin texture.
• 🧪 Retinoids include a variety of vitamin A derivatives like adapalene, tretinoin, retinol, and retinaldehyde, each with different efficacy levels.
• 🚀 Starting a retinoid routine involves a gradual process to allow the skin to adapt, beginning with every other day and increasing frequency as tolerance builds.
• 📦 Choosing the right retinoid is crucial and depends on individual skin sensitivity; retinol is less irritating and a good starting point for sensitive skin.
• 💧 Applying a moisturizer before and after using a retinoid, known as the 'retinoid sandwich', can help reduce irritation and provide a protective barrier for the skin.
• 👁️ Protecting sensitive areas like the eye area is important when using retinoids, as these areas can become easily irritated; using an occlusive like Vaseline can help.
• 🤰 Retinoids should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the developing fetus or infant.
• 🕒 Patience is key when starting a retinoid routine; it may take two to three months to see significant improvements in skin condition.
• 📈 The 'purging' phase, where acne may initially worsen, is a temporary stage that should be weathered to experience the full benefits of retinoids.
• 💡 For optimal results, especially for anti-aging and hyperpigmentation, consistent use of retinoids for three to six months is recommended.
• 🔧 The video creators emphasize the importance of feedback from viewers to improve their content and make it more helpful for the skincare community.

Q & A

What is the main topic discussed in the video script?

The main topic discussed in the video script is the use of retinoids in skincare routines, including their benefits and how to incorporate them without causing irritation.

What are retinoids and why are they important in skincare?

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that include adapalene, tretinoin, retinol, and retinaldehyde. They are important in skincare because they have anti-acne, anti-aging properties, improve hyperpigmentation, skin texture, and minimize the appearance of pores.

What is the recommended starting point for using retinoids?

The recommended starting point is to use a retinoid every other day to allow the skin to adapt to the increased cell turnover and potential irritation.

What is the 'retinoid sandwich' mentioned in the script?

The 'retinoid sandwich' is a technique where you apply moisturizer, then retinoid, and then another layer of moisturizer to help prevent irritation and provide a barrier for sensitive skin.

Why is it important to protect sensitive areas of the face when using retinoids?

Sensitive areas such as the skin around the eyes need to be protected because they are the thinnest and most sensitive, and are prone to irritation from retinoids. Applying an occlusive like Vaseline or Aquaphor around the eyes before applying retinoid can help protect this area.

What is the 'purging' effect of retinoids and why should users not be afraid of it?

The 'purging' effect refers to the temporary worsening of acne when starting retinoid treatment as it increases cell turnover, causing acne to surface more quickly. Users should not be afraid of purging because it is a temporary phase, and continuing with the treatment can lead to clearer skin over time.

How long should one wait to see the benefits of retinoids?

For general benefits, at least two months of consistent use is recommended. For anti-aging benefits, it might take three to six months, and for hyperpigmentation, about three months.

What are some beginner-friendly retinoids recommended in the script?

Some beginner-friendly retinoids recommended are CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol, The Ordinary's Granactive Retinoid at 2%, and for prescription options, Altrina and Skin Medicinals tretinoin compounded with turmeric.

Why did the host initially experience redness and irritation when starting retinoid treatment?

The host initially experienced redness and irritation because they started using the retinoid every night without giving their skin time to adapt, leading to retinoid dermatitis.

What is the significance of the term 'landmark' or 'foundation' used to describe retinoids in skincare routines?

The term 'landmark' or 'foundation' signifies that retinoids are considered a fundamental and essential component of a skincare routine, upon which other treatments are built.

Why should pregnant or breastfeeding individuals avoid using retinoids?

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid retinoids because they may have adverse effects on the developing fetus or infant, and there is not enough research to confirm their safety during these periods.