What is the Ideal Age to Start Using Retinol-containing Products?

Rather than nag you to quit, here are some facts: Smoking destroys collagen and elastin, and it decreases estrogen levels, which are necessary to keep skin firm. And significantly impairs healing after procedures and surgery. Don’t forget about causing cancer – and wrinkles. No smoking, please. Second, Retinol products are powerful antioxidants clinically proven to prevent UV damage and stimulate healthy skin renewal. From acne to wrinkles, antioxidants such as retinol... more

The earlier you start taking care of your skin the better.  The two major ways to keep your skin younger is to use sunscreen and not smoke.  Maintaining a proper balanced diet, drinking plenty of water, regular exercise, and taking anti-oxidant vitamins are also useful.  Topically, a regular regimen of retinoids (Retin-A, Retinol, Vitamin A), Vitamin C, and an alpha-hydroxy acid (glycolic acid) are essential.

Retinoids have been proven to be one of the best products for anti-aging. Regular use will stimulate your skin to make collagen, and improve the texture and tone of your skin. You may also notice an more even appearance of the pigmentation of your skin. When you start to use a retinoid cream for the first time, you will probably have some skin peeling or flaking, which is just your skin exfoliating and is not a sign of allergy or intolerance to the cream. If you are very dry, try using... more

Retinol, which is in over the counter cosmetic products is completely WORTHLESS - you are wasting your money! Prescription retinoIDS actually have been shown to work for fine wrinkles and lines (as well as dark spots, overall skin feel/smoothness, and glow). See you local dermatologist for a prescription.

Retinol is an excellent anti-aging product, and retin A or other prescription retinoids are even more effective. These agents have great science behind them, and excellent results for fine lines, acne, discolouration of the skin, and improving skin tone overall. It is never too young to start; speak with your dermatologist which retinoid to start with, and you can increase the concentration/strength slowly over time to minimize any side effects/irritation.

The use of retinols can be started in the teens (typically for acne), however in most patients, the late twenties to early thirties is the best time.

If you are concerned about aging of your skin, I would say the teen years might be a good time to start, taking time off only to have babies. We can pretty much guarantee it, that if you use a Retinoid, an anti-oxidant and a good sunscreen, you will look 5-10 years younger than your peers who did not. Retinols are not nearly as effective for preventing lines and wrinkles, though, as Retinoids. That is because, retinols need to spend energy to be converted from the alcohol form... more