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  Life   Health  30 May 2017  ‘Reti’fied for good?

‘Reti’fied for good?

THE ASIAN AGE. | DR SANJEEV NELOGI
Published : May 30, 2017, 12:17 am IST
Updated : May 30, 2017, 12:17 am IST

With the myriad benefits of retinol-based treatments being discussed at large, a skin expert decodes the pros and cons of using them.

File picture of Hollywood actress Keira Knightley. Used for representational purposes only.
 File picture of Hollywood actress Keira Knightley. Used for representational purposes only.

Feel your skin has lost its lustre? Maybe it’s in need of a beauty  ‘reti’fication! If you’re confused about what to choose, pick Retinol-based treatments. This Vitamin A extract, has always been popular among health enthusiasts.  Now, the beauty industry  is churning out tailor-made treatments using retinol as one of its main ingredients to help people achieve an enviably even complexion. We take a deeper look...

Retinol mainly focuses on tackling pigmentation-related problems. Young adults wanting to do away with fresh scars, acne, stretch marks and uneven pigmentation can opt for retinol-based procedures. Treatments like Lichen planus pigmentosus (LPP), Acanthosis nigricans, Frictional pigmentation and Melasma are some of the popular treatments, which use retinol in considerable quantities. And yes, they’re safe if the procedure is conducted under expert guidance.

Adults above the age of 20 can go ahead with retinol-based treatments – for an instant facial rejuvenation of sorts. If you have been suffering from  frictional pigmentation, applying special retinol-rich creams ( Applied only post a consultation with a skin expert) would be best recommended.  This is because, unlike the normal creams, the texture of retinol-based creams can cause dryness. Hence, moisturising is suggested.  These treatments are proven to be effective, there are a few guidelines to be followed. This is because retinol-based treatments are proven to come with a host of side-effects such as peri-oral pigmentation, Xerosis (dryness), hypersensitivity and redness.

Retinol is mildly acidic by nature. So, that means, be sure that you consult with a dermatologist before going ahead. The main takers of retinol-based treatments are individuals in their mid 40s. This is because retinols also helps accelerate the process of skin rejuvenation.  But, if tired-looking skin or uneven complexion has been a persistent issue, you can opt for it irrespective of your age.

— The writer is a senior skin consultant. Disclaimer: Always check with an expertbefore going ahead with this  treatment.

Tags: acne, retinol, pigmentation