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The Closest Dose of Retinoids You Can Get to an Rx

16 Mar 2022

When it comes to preventing the signs of aging, one may think prescription-grade retinoids are the only answer. But it’s all about retinal—with an ‘A.’

When it comes to preventing the signs of aging, one may think prescription-grade retinoids are the only answer. 

“If you look at the history of retinoids, or retinoic acid, you’ll find it was originally prescribed for breakout-prone skin,” says Jacob Tomás del Rosario, Youth To The People’s Director of Field Sales + Education, adding, “But over time, it became apparent that the overall benefits predominantly included minimizing texture, fine lines, and increasing skin density.”

While retinoic acid, also known as the most potent derivative of vitamin A, is praised for its youth-promoting properties, the ingredient is not accessible without a prescription. For real results without an Rx, enter: retinal, as found in the Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum, an over-the-counter option from YTTP that’s effective with continued use.

What Is the Difference Between Retinol and Retinoids?

Aside from being over-the-counter vs. prescription-grade, the key differentiator between retinol and retinoids are their strength levels. This is determined by the number of steps it takes for its corresponding skincare product to transform into retinoic acid, aka retinoids.

“Retinol will convert to retinaldehyde and retinaldehyde will convert to retinoic acid (aka retinoid). At every conversion step, the retinoic acid component becomes smaller and smaller,” explains del Rosario. “So, the closer you get to that conversion of retinoic acid, the more potent it’s going to be.” 

Youth to the People sought out to create a product that would serve as a powerful, clinical retinaldehyde, which is how the Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum, the closest dose to an Rx, became the latest innovation to join YTTP’s portfolio. This multi-effect serum smooths textured and blemished skin, improves the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and brightens uneven skin tone. This is not only due to the retinaldehyde, but also the addition of skin-loving and skin-calming ingredients like a triple ceramide complex, niacinamide, and ashwagandha, among other replenishing ingredients.

“The formulation is really inspired by high science and is paired with really calming ingredients to ensure you are less likely to experience those side effects you typically get or can get from any type of retinoid or retinoic acid by prescription,” says del Rosario.

The Youth Serum is also easy to use. All you need to do? Apply a pea-size amount to your clean, dry face and neck at night—the Superfood Cleanser works well for all skin types—and follow it up with a moisturizer, like YTTP’s Superberry Hydrate + Glow Dream Mask. Those looking for extra cushion against potential irritation may enjoy applying the hydrating Oasis Serum before the Youth Serum, too.

“Anyone that’s breakout-prone or concerned with preliminary signs of aging are going to be the candidate for Youth Serum,” adds del Rosario. “It can go across the board, which is nice with this one.”

Written by Grace Gavilanes for Youth To The People

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