Aging can bring visible changes to our skin, like fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. Sun exposure accelerates these changes, making us look older than we feel. Tretinoin, a powerful ingredient, helps by boosting collagen and cell turnover. But it can cause irritation. Glycolic acid, found in over-the-counter products, offers a gentler alternative. It exfoliates, improves texture, and has antioxidant benefits.
When used together, tretinoin and glycolic acid create a winning combination. Studies show they enhance each other's effects, offering better results without as much irritation. One study featured a woman who used tretinoin on one side of her face and glycolic acid cream on the other. After six weeks, she noticed the glycolic acid side looked smoother, clearer, and less irritated than the tretinoin side.
This woman's experience highlights the effectiveness of glycolic acid as an alternative to tretinoin. The Dermatologist's Choice Ultra Anti-Aging Cream, with active non-neutralized glycolic acid, offers a dermatologist-recommended option for anti-aging, pigmentation, and acne concerns. After just six weeks of use, it left her skin feeling smoother and clearer, without the irritation often associated with tretinoin.
In the pursuit of youthful skin, it's essential to find the right balance of ingredients. Tretinoin and glycolic acid, whether used separately or together, offer promising solutions for maintaining radiant, healthy-looking skin.
Sources: Alliance Dermatology, before and after
Efficacy and tolerability of a double-conjugated retinoid cream vs 1.0% retinol cream or 0.025% tretinoin cream in subjects with mild to severe photoaging