Your Guide to Implementing Retinoids

Increase your cell turnover and minimize the purge

Retinoids have been widely used for decades to treat a wide array of conditions such as acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. They’re highly effective in increasing cell turnover and collagen production, leaving skin brighter, tighter and younger looking. However, there is a common condition associated with the implementation of retinoids- retinoid dermatitis. Retinoid dermatitis happens when the skin starts turning over at a faster rate- the new, fresh cells being produced at the base levels of the epidermis push their way to up the surface more quickly. As a reaction to this quickened rate of cell renewal, the surface layers of dead skin begin to rapidly shed so they can be replaced by the new cells. The loss of the dead skin cells in such a fashion can result in flakiness, increased sensitivity and a higher potential for irritation. This phenomenon, sometimes referred to as “purging” is an inconvenient side effect when you’re looking to improve your skin’s appearance and health. Luckily there are some things we can do to minimize the inconvenience of starting a new retinoid.