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Ask A Dermatologist about Tretinoin/Niacinamide Cream for Anti-aging
Every person undergoes the natural process of aging on a daily basis. From the 19th century to the early 20th century, advocates against aging often portrayed old age as something to dread and detest, and they developed various methods to eliminate it entirely. There is a growth in consumers interested in over-the-counter skincare products designed to enhance the look of skin that has been affected by sun-exposure and the natural aging process. Tretinoin and niacinamide are two skincare ingredients that have gained worldwide popularity due to their numerous benefits, so combining them may be a game-changer for anti-aging.
What is Tretinoin? 1, 2
Tretinoin is a vitamin A derived from retinol often used to treat acne or other skin issues, a more potent form of retinol available as a prescription. Resulting in less oily and clearer skin by unclogging pores and reducing sebum production. Wrinkles, dark spots, and roughness on facial skin caused by photodamage from sun rays can also be treated with the use of tretinoin. It works by brightening the skin, renewing older skin with newer layers, and decelerating the natural process of skin cell removal that may have been affected by sun damage. In many studies, tretinoin has the ability to speed up skin cell turnover, improve skin texture, help unclog pores, build collagen, and so much more that creates a youthful and refreshing complexion. Enhancing collagen production is how retinol assists in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Nonetheless, it's crucial to emphasize that tretinoin possesses considerable potency and may lead to irritation, particularly during initial usage.
What is Niacinamide? 3, 4
Niacinamide is a form of essential vitamin B3 found in the food that we eat that offers benefits in energy metabolism, cell health, and our skin. It plays a role in the production of keratin, a protein essential for maintaining skin health. Additionally, it has demonstrated the ability to enhance skin strength, smoothness, and radiance. Which is why niacinamide is found as an additive in the cosmetic and skincare industry. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin when taken supplementary, being used to treat conditions like acne, rosacea, and facial redness. Ultraviolet radiation (UV) causes DNA damages to the skin, which can sometimes lead to melanoma or nonmelanoma skin cancer. With the help of niacinamide, it can reduce the incidence of skin cancers in high-risk patients and enhance DNA repairments in skin damages. All in all, niacinamides benefits includes boost of hydration, calm facial redness, reduce appearance of pores, protect against skin cancer, treat hyperpigmentation, and reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
Benefits of Using Tretinoin and Niacinamide Together 5
Utilizing these two components enhances facial aesthetics by imparting a sense of fullness and a radiant glow. However, it is important to introduce this compound gradually and use cautiously to avoid any adverse reactions. Niacinamide is known for its gentle nature and numerous skin benefits, in contrast to tretinoin, which is a potent ingredient that requires careful usage. Tretinoin may lead to skin dryness, redness, irritation, peeling, or even exacerbate existing skin issues. If you experience any adverse reactions on your skin, niacinamide can serve as a soothing agent to mitigate irritation and redness. Hence, these two ingredients can be used in combination to enhance your skin's appearance, but it's key to use them in the appropriate proportions to avoid potential severe skin complications. Collectively, they form a powerful and safe remedy to enhance the smoothness, clarity, and radiance of your skin
Author: Thao Aparicio
Reference:
Tretinoin (topical route) precautions. Mayo Clinic. February 1, 2023. Accessed October 16, 2023. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/tretinoin-topical-route/precautions/drg-20066521?p=1.
Yoham AL, Casadesus D. Tretinoin. [Updated 2023 Mar 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
Schneik4. Top 6 benefits of niacinamide. Cleveland Clinic. January 30, 2023. Accessed October 16, 2023. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/niacinamide/.
Minocha R, Damian DL, Halliday GM. Melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer chemoprevention: A role for nicotinamide?. Photodermatol Photoimmunol Photomed. 2018;34(1):5-12. doi:10.1111/phpp.12328
Desk D. Can niacinamide and retinol be used together. Clinikally. March 3, 2023. Accessed October 16, 2023. https://www.clinikally.com/blogs/news/niacinamide-and-retinol.