Debunking Retinoid Myths: 6 Facts You Need To Know

Myth 1: All retinoids are the same 

Retinol, tretinoin, retinoids… confused by all the terminologies? Generally, these all belong to the vitamin A family. Retinoids are a group of vitamin A derivatives, with retinol and tretinoin falling under this umbrella. Each has different strengths and unique benefits. 

At CellDerma, we offer a 4th-generation retinoid resurfacing night serum, Retin-ACE™. It has considerably higher potency than retinol but delivers a well-tolerated and safer alternative to other vitamin A products. 

Myth 2: Only prescription-strength retinoids provide the best results 

Now that we know not all retinoids are the same, let’s explore their efficacy.  

Tretinoin, also known as all-trans retinoic acid, is a prescription-only retinoid and is popular due to its potency over retinol. But does this guarantee the best results? Tretinoin treatments are available in different strengths and are well-known for their anti-ageing effects. However, this also comes with possible side effects, such as skin irritation and photochemical instability.  

Our Retin-ACE™ adapts Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) in its formula, which has been proven to be as effective as 0.1% tretinoin for collagenesis, but without those irritant side effects. This ingredient is a retinoid ester, providing a safer clinically effective vitamin A for your skin concerns. 

Myth 3: All retinoids can cause dry, flaky skin 

Retinoids are often mistakenly associated with dryness and irritation. However, in our recent independent clinical studies, most participants reported that their skin felt more hydrated after 28 days of using Retin-ACE™. Among the 20 patients with oily and acne-prone skin, 95% agreed with this statement, while 100% of the 20 patients with other skin types agreed with this statement. Our serum is completed with non-comedogenic hydrating ingredients in its formula, such as plant-derived squalane and rosehip oil, making Retin-ACE™ a safer alternative to most vitamin A products. 

Myth 4: Sensitive skin cannot tolerate retinoids 

Not all retinoids are reactive on sensitive skin types. The HPR used in Retin-ACE ™ is proven to be gentler than retinol when applied topically. In our independent clinical studies, 100% of the 40 patients agreed that Retin-ACE™ is well-tolerated. 

Myth 5: Retinoids only target ageing skin

Do retinoids only target fine lines and wrinkles? Our latest independent clinical studies on the effectiveness of Retin-ACE™ have shown that this game-changing formula also delivers significant results for other skin concerns after 28 days of use. 

Among the 20 patients with oily and acne-prone skin, 95% reported that their skin was less oily. A further 95% observed a reduction in the visibility of pores. 

Among the 20 patients with other skin types, 95% stated that their skin was more radiant.  A further 95% reported a more even skin complexion. 

Myth 6: Retinoids cannot be used around the delicate eye area

The under-eye area is delicate, and some may worry about using retinoid-based skincare around the eyes. 

However, this concern is unfounded. Our independent clinical studies found that after 28 days of using Retin-ACE™, there was a 6.4% decrease in crow’s feet wrinkle depth. Moreover, 100% of respondents agreed that the serum was well-tolerated. CellDerma’s Retin-ACE™ is a must-have product that can be safely used around the eyes.