Retinoids - Lotions And Potions: Skin Health

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Retinoids

Topical vitamin A–based drugs called retinoids reduce wrinkles. Tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova), adapalene (Differin), and tazarotene (Avage) are prescription drugs used in skin care. Tretinoin, under the brand name Retin-A, was first used as an acne treatment in the 1970s, but researchers later discovered that it fades actinic keratosis spots and speeds the turnover of superficial skin cells. In 1996 the FDA approved Renova, an emollient cream containing a 0.05% concentration of tretinoin, as the first drug to treat wrinkles. Similarly, the retinoid tazarotene is prescribed under the brand name Avage as a wrinkle treatment. Other retinoids are undergoing clinical trials.

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 liver spots and softening rough patches of skin. It takes 3 to 6 months of regular use before improvements in wrinkles are apparent; the best results take 6 to 12 months. Because retinoids can cause skin irritation, doctors often recommend using them only every other day at first and then gradually working up to nightly applications. Wear a sunscreen during the day, because retinoids increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. These drugs must be used continually to maintain their benefits.

Several over-the-counter products containing retinoids, such as Retinol, are now available. They may not be as effective in reducing wrinkles as tretinoin, but they do improve the appearance of photoaged skin. Tretinoin can be used with AHAs for additional skin-smoothing effects.

Last updated:	July 20, 2007