Fact: You Don't Need to Avoid Retinoids During the Summer


Over the years, experts have introduced the retinoid as a godsend for people who want to reduce acne, wrinkles, and fine lines. The retinoids from vitamin A are converted to retinoic acid for use in skin care to stimulate collagen, restore old skin cells, and much more. Although it is known for its many skin care benefits, many are reluctant to use the retinoid because of its reputation for being harsh on the skin, especially in the sun.


This misunderstanding has led people to consider avoiding the ingredient altogether, especially in summer. But dermatologists are working to eradicate this myth and educate patients who want to double their skin care system this season.



Retinoids can be used daily

According to Drs. Loren Franco, a board-certified dermatologist, many people (non-pregnant) should use some form of retinoid in their daily skin care program — even during the warmer months. "You can and should use summer retinoids," said Drs. Franco. "My blood boils when a patient tells me that someone has asked us to avoid retinoids during the summer."


Most people can benefit from using retinoids throughout the year, but the type of retinoids used and their quantity will determine how it will affect their skin. For example, retinol is the most common type of retinoid used in commercial products. On the other hand, retinoids usually refer to prescription drugs that are more potent than retinol.


Why Many Doubt

Doubts about using retinol in the summer may arise for fear of making your skin worse if it is already irritated. However, retinoid sensitivity occurs especially if you have not yet found the right formula for your skin or if you are familiar with prescription-strength medications.


If your skin feels like it is burning when you use retinoids, that means it is working to replace dead skin cells and produce new, healthier ones. During that transition, your face may become irritated and red. Naturally, you may think that the sun will irritate your skin even more, which may be accurate if you are just starting to use retinoids, but it is not enough to cause sun damage. Dermatologists tell patients not to use retinoids before sun exposure, but it is more closely related to formula function than your skin damage.


Can Retinoids Be Used During Summer?

Retinoids, which include over-the-counter and prescription, can make your skin less sensitive to sunlight, but that doesn't mean you have to finish the phase. According to research, there is no evidence of an allergic reaction to the image or toxicity of the image containing retinoids. "As long as you use sunscreen daily and reapply when you are outdoors, your risk of retinoid burns [is small]" explains Dr. Franco.


Your skin is not the only one that is sensitive under the sun. The retinoids themselves are sensitive to sunlight, which can affect the performance of the product. "The sun makes the retinoid drugs less effective, which makes them less effective. To avoid this, we tell patients to use them at night," he said.


By using retinoids at night, you do not avoid skin irritation. Instead, it ensures the retinoid function of your skin. "Retinoids are sensitive to UV light. Therefore, by exposure to the sun, products reduce efficiency," Dr. Alexis Parcells adds. Although retinoids do not cause sun damage, Parcel says using SPF 30+ on your face daily through reuse is important to protect the overall health of your skin.


Skin Products to Avoid During the Summer

Although you should avoid using retinoids in the sun to prevent their activity from shrinking, you should skip other products as they can cause skin sensitivity and damage. "There are many ingredients, both over the counter and prescription, that can make your skin more sensitive to the sun and increase the chances of sunburn," said Drs. Franco. You may be familiar with the harmful effects of suntan oil, but the same goes for other oils and other plant-based skincare products, too.


"The most important thing is to avoid essential oils or skincare products that contain citrus ingredients such as lemon, grapefruit, bitter orange, or bergamot, all of which are phototoxic. They contain furocoumarin which, when exposed to the sun, can burn your skin. These are phototoxic. great no no summer. "

Final Takeaway

If you have never used retinoids in your skin care program, consider adding them to your nightclub this summer. Experts agree that the ingredient should not be underestimated in the season, and your summer skin will be better for it — if used properly. And, as usual, use an SPF of 30 or more daily, even if you are indoors.