#1: Reduce Redness and Inflammation
Vitamin A is an anti-inflammatory. It helps reduce redness, swelling, and irritation associated with acne by reducing the inflammatory response to oil production. Retinoids can also help restore the skin's barrier function — they are good for treating dry or dehydrated skin (also known as xerosis).
#2: Thicken Filaments in the Stratum Corneum (SC) for a Fuller and Smoother Appearance
Retinoids increase the production of filaments in the stratum corneum (top layer of skin), which contributes to an overall smoother appearance. It's helpful for acne-prone skin because it prevents the formation of clogged pores. This is one of the reasons why retinoids and acne usually go hand in hand; with the latter, there are tiny tubes filled with sebum (oil) that lead to clogged pores. Over time, this leads to pimples or cysts breaking through the surface of the skin.
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#3: Stimulate Collagen Production for an Even Complexion
Retinoids stimulate collagen production, which means they're helpful for rejuvenating and improving the texture of skin (especially wrinkles). Over time, this helps reduce acne scars and other marks from past breakouts. By preventing elastin degradation (elastosis), retinoids also help prevent lines from forming around the eyes and mouth (these are referred to as "smile" lines and "parenthesis" — they're caused by repeated facial expressions over time).
#4: Increase Cellular Turnover for Younger-Looking Skin
Retinoids increase the speed at which skin cells die and new ones are formed. This means they stimulate the production of new cells to replace damaged ones and help renew the skin. In other words, retinoids can speed up cell turnover while also stimulating collagen production. They're especially good for preventing early signs of aging (such as wrinkles) and reducing acne scars.
#5: Lessen Pores Appearing Large and Clogged
Retinoids help prevent clogged pores by reducing comedogenesis (clogging). Each pore has a tiny tube (follicle) that is filled with oil. When this oil travels down the follicle, it can become lodged in the opening. This leads to acne in the form of pimples, cysts, and blackheads. Retinoids help prevent this from happening by blocking the pore.
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#6: Less Oil Production
Retinoids reduce the size of your oil glands (sebaceous glands). When used as a prescription, they can be even more effective than benzoyl peroxide for reducing acne because most of them prevent clogging of the pores before oil has a chance to come in contact with the skin.
