Vogue Publishes Dermatologist-Guided Guide to Choosing the Best Retinoid

Key facts

• Retinoids are a family of vitamin A-derived molecules that work by communicating with skin cells.
• Retinoic acid is the biologically active form; tretinoin and tazarotene are prescription retinoids that require no conversion.
• Adapalene is a synthetic retinoid that binds to fewer nuclear receptors than retinoic acid and is available OTC and by prescription.
• Retinal requires one conversion to retinoic acid, while retinol requires two, making retinol less potent but more tolerable.
• Formulation, concentration, and skin tolerance are as important as retinoid strength.
• Azideh Shirazi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in La Jolla, CA; Brendan Camp, MD, is in New York, NY.
• Recommended products include L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Pure Retinol Night Serum ($32), Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 ($87), La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment ($40), and Musely The Anti-Aging Cream ($35).
• Vogue's testing methodology evaluates type of retinoid, other active ingredients, concentration, texture, packaging, finish, and skin-care concerns.