Time and time again, dermatologists have told us how essential retinoids (like retinol) are to a well-rounded skincare routine, specifically one that’s geared toward premature skin aging prevention. This is because, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rebecca Marcus , retinol increases cell turnover, thus helping to stimulate collagen production.
When it comes to this powerful “active” ingredient, there’s an ongoing debate about prescription-only compositions. Marcus explained that they’re already in an active form that can be utilized by the skin, making their effect stronger and faster than OTC products. The other side of the argument insists that stronger doesn’t always mean better.
Retinol, particularly prescription-strength, has a notorious reputation for causing irritation, especially for more mature skin, which Marcus said is more delicate. OTC retinol, on the other hand, can be less sensitizing and better tolerated, though potentially less effective. But, this $17 retinol cream from France , which features a distinctive texture and three different types of effective retinol, may be able to provide a happy medium between the two.
′′[A313] contains minimal ingredients in its vehicle, which is helpful for those who are sensitive to fragrances or other ingredients that are commonly found in OTC retinol products,” Marcus said. And while she acknowledged the fact that the actives in A313 are not the same potency as the retinoid acid present in p.