Treating Acne with Retinoids
Retinoids, a general term that refers to a variety of ingredients derived from vitamin A. Retinol, retinaldehyde and retinoic acids are collectively known as Vitamin A. Retinoids may be natural or synthetic. They take part in growth of follicular epithelial cells reducing the risk of acne breakouts.
Role of retinoids in your body:
Your body is formed of several types of tissues and cells. Epithelial cells form a thin layer usually a single cell in thickness. Outer and inner layers of your skin are covered with epithelial layers. Epithelial cells form the lining of your blood capillaries, heart, lungs and retina of eyes.
For proper and healthy growth of tissues, growth of epithelial cells is vital. Epithelial cells usually form lining and covering of soft areas and parts of your skin such as face, palms and internal organs. All glands in your body are formed of epithelial and other types of cells.
Studies show that acne is the inflammation of hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Hair follicles are soft tiny cavities lined with epithelial cells. Sebaceous glands are formed of epithelial cells. Sebaceous glands produce sebum which is discharged through hair follicles lubricating hair shafts and outer layers of skin.
Due to weak immune system and accumulation of toxins (free radicals) sebaceous glands secrete excessive sebum. Due to excessive sebum, hair follicles become clogged and narrowed restricting the sebum. At this stage, bumps appear on your skin and called whiteheads and blackheads.
Did you notice the root cause of acne breakouts? Umm! Unhealthy epithelial cells cause overproduction of sebum that eventually causes inflammation and acne. Exactly, it is the root cause of acne.
Vitamin A (Retinoids) is vital for epithelial growth and differentiation. Studies show that normal levels of vitamin A within your body reduce risk of cancers and strengthen the immune system. A skin, deficient in vitamin A loses its elasticity.
How retinoids inhibit acne breakouts?
Retinoids maintain healthy growth of epithelial cells and strengthen the immune system. These are the two main causes of acne flare ups. Several studies show that when acne sufferers were prescribed retinoids, they experienced visible results.
How can I use vitamin A?
You can use vitamin A orally and topically. For treating severe acne, it can be taken orally as well as topically. Vitamin A is available in the form of creams and lotions.You may use multivitamin supplements orally. Do not exceed prescribed dosage as excessive dosage may produce toxicity.
Can I use Isotretinoin as retinoids?
Isotretinoin is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A. It is a prescription medication, so it would be best to consult with your dermatologist. Although Isotretinoin is effective anti-acne medication, it causes worst side effects from birth defects to neurological disorders.Always consult with your doctor before buying and taking Isotretinoin.
Conclusion:
Retinoids are chemical compounds similar to vitamin A. Vitamin A is vital for healthy growth of epithelial cells. Epithelial cells form outer and inner lining of skin, blood capillaries, heart, lungs, etc.
Acne breakout is directly associated with poor growth of follicular epithelial cells. These cells form hair follicles and sebaceous glands. Lack of vitamin A deteriorates epithelial tissues and hair follicles.
