Fashion

Here's What Retinol Cream Actually Does

by Sienna Fantozzi

Feb. 24, 2016

There are a lot of beauty buzzwords out there and products you "should" be using, but there's no shame in admitting you don't always know what they actually mean or what they really do for you. If you're unsure of what retinol cream does, then it's probably a good idea to learn some facts about it before buying it and applying the product to your skin. We all fall victim to it, but just because a magazine or a celeb recommends it, doesn't always mean it's right for you.

So first things first — you probably should know what retinol actually is. It's another name for vitamin A, and is commonly used as a treatment for acne as well as anti-aging. So those are some pretty wide-ranging benefits, but how does it actually work?

According to dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Linder, when the retinol is applied to your skin, enzymes in your body convert it to the active form of vitamin A, retinoic acid, which then increases your cell turnover, stimulates collagen and elastin production, hydrates your skin, fades hyperpigmentation, and even prevents cystic acne and eczema thanks to this ah-mazing cell turnover.

Another bonus? While direct retinoic acid can be harsh, retinol is milder, and much more suitable for sensitive skin. If you're ready to give it to a try, shop these eight retinol creams to help fight acne and aging without irritating your skin.