What effects do retinoids have?
Retinoids increase the turnover of cells in the skin and also increase the collagen content of the skin. This results in a plumping of the skin which makes wrinkles less obvious. Retinoids also even skin pigmentation and improve skin tone. In many people, small pigment patches, that are called lentigines (singular – lentigo), especially those that are due to sun exposure, will lighten when treated with retinoids. Retinoids have been shown to help firm skin while on a diet and losing a lot of weight. Plus, studies have shown that retinoid treatment can make stretch marks less obvious. Of course, since the retinoids were developed for acne, after a few weeks treatment most people find that blackheads are less visible, and acne is improved. If you have acne or are prone to breakouts, the first treatments with a retinoid may make your condition worse. This is only temporary.
