Retinol Vs. Phyto-Retinol: What’s The Difference?
December 25, 2024Retinol has long been hailed as a gold standard in skincare due to its transformative effects on acne, fine lines, and uneven skin texture. But in recent years, skincare trends have shifted toward gentler and more natural alternatives. So, plant-based ingredients like phyto-retinol are gaining traction, especially among those with sensitive skin or sustainable lifestyle preferences.
If you have ever wondered about the differences between these two ingredients—or which one might be better for your skin—you are in the right place. Let’s break down everything you need to know about retinol and phyto-retinol so you can make the best choice for your skincare routine.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, has been the go-to anti-ageing ingredient in skincare. It’s a member of the retinoid family, a group of compounds that promote faster cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.
How Does Retinol Work?
- Retinol undergoes enzymatic conversion in the skin to retinoic acid, its active form. This process accelerates the shedding of old skin cells and stimulates the growth of new ones.
- Retinol reduces the formation of comedones (clogged pores), which helps prevent acne breakouts. It also has some anti-inflammatory properties that help calm existing acne.
- Regarding fine lines and wrinkles, retinol increases collagen synthesis to improve your skin’s elasticity and reduce visible signs of skin ageing.
- It also enhances the evenness of skin tone by accelerating the skin’s natural renewal process and fading dark spots over time.
Common Drawbacks of Retinol
While retinol offers remarkable skin benefits, it has notable challenges:
- Irritation: During the initial weeks, retinol can cause extreme redness, peeling, or dryness as your skin adjusts to the ingredient.
- Sun Sensitivity: Retinol increases the skin's sensitivity to UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburns. So, using a broad spectrum sunscreen every day is highly recommended.
- Suitability Issues: Retinol isn't suitable for everyone, especially if you have sensitive skin or inflammatory conditions like eczema. It's also not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development.
What Is Phyto-Retinol?
Phyto-retinol is a plant-based alternative to traditional retinol, offering similar benefits but with a gentler approach. Unlike synthetic retinoids, phyto-retinols are derived from natural sources, with two standout ingredients leading the charge: Revinage and Bakuchiol.
Revinage is a plant-based alternative derived from various botanical extracts like Bidens pilosa, Linseed oil, Cottonseed oil, and Murumuru butter. It mimics retinol and interacts with the same retinoid receptors in the skin to stimulate collagen and cell renewal. Bakuchiol is another plant extract derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. It is often referred to as "nature’s retinol" as it offers many of the benefits of retinol without the associated irritation.
How Phyto-Retinol Benefits The Skin
- Phyto-retinols like Revinage enhance cell turnover and renewal, leading to smoother, more even-toned skin. It works by interacting with cellular pathways such as retinol to improve your skin's radiance and texture.
- Like retinol, Revinage and Bakuchiol also stimulate collagen production to increase firmness of the skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. They can significantly improve the appearance of fine lines and overall skin elasticity while being gentle.
- Phyto-retinols are naturally derived and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which makes them effective in calming redness and protecting your skin from oxidative stress caused by sun rays or pollution.
Key Differences Between Retinol And Phyto-Retinol
To understand which ingredient might be better for your needs, it’s essential to compare them across several factors.
1. Skin Tolerance and Side Effects
- Retinol: Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is typically synthesised for use in skincare. This synthetic production ensures potency but also increases the risk of irritation.
- Phyto-Retinol: Phyto-retinols are plant-derived compounds. Their structure differs from retinol, but interacts with similar pathways to deliver comparable results directly. However, Revinage resembles Retinol both structurally and functionally.
2. Skin Tolerance and Side Effects
- Retinol: Retinol often causes side effects such as redness, peeling, and dryness during initial use, a phase commonly called the "retinol purge." These effects occur because of its potency in accelerating skin renewal and reducing sebum production. You must introduce it gradually to your skincare routine and pair it with moisturisers and sunscreens to minimise irritation.
- Phyto-Retinol: Revinage and Bakuchiol, in contrast, are significantly gentler on your skin. They can help reduce fine lines, pigmentation, and acne without causing redness or dryness. Their gentle, soothing nature makes them especially suitable for sensitive skin types.
3. Efficacy
- Retinol: Retinol's effectiveness in addressing wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne has been studied for decades. However, improper use can lead to excessive dryness and sensitivity, particularly if you are a first-time user.
- Phyto-Retinol: Phyto-retinol has shown promising results in various studies. For example, Revinage is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 28% in just 42 days and brighten dark spots by 67%. Additionally, bakuchiol's antioxidant properties help fight environmental stressors to delay premature skin ageing.
4. Compatibility with Sensitive Skin and Pregnancy
- Retinol: Due to its potency, retinol is often too harsh for sensitive skin, causing discomfort and visible irritation. Furthermore, retinol and other vitamin A derivatives are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding because of potential health risks.
- Phyto-Retinol: Bakuchiol and Revinage are well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its natural origins and gentler mechanism also make it a safer alternative during pregnancy, though it is still advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Which One Should You Pick?
Both retinol and phyto-retinol offer incredible benefits for your skin, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The decision between retinol and phyto-retinol depends on your skin’s needs, your lifestyle, and how your skin tolerates active ingredients. If your skin is sensitive, dry, or prone to redness or if you’re looking for a more natural, soothing option to improve skin texture and tone, phyto-retinol is an excellent choice. Its safety profile and lack of sun sensitivity make it more convenient for everyday use.
Tips for Integrating Retinol or Phyto-Retinol Into Your Routine
Regardless of which ingredient you choose, here are some tips for getting the most out of it:
- Start Slowly: Introduce the product gradually, using it 2-3 times a week and increasing frequency as your skin builds tolerance.
- Use Sunscreen: If you’re using retinol, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable to protect your skin from UV damage.
- Layer Wisely: Apply retinol or phyto-retinol at night, after cleansing, and follow with a moisturiser to minimise irritation.
- Listen to Your Skin: If you experience excessive dryness or irritation with retinol, switch to a photo-retinol for a gentler approach.
Shop Phyto-Retinol Advanced Serum Moisturiser
Juicy Chemistry's Phyto-retinol Advanced Serum Moisturiser delivers the benefits of retinol to the skin to actively target signs of ageing. Suitable for all skin types, it also strengthens your skin barrier and provides antioxidant and soothing benefits.
The non-greasy, natural formula is made with Revinage, a CO2 supercritical plant-based extract that mimics retinol to stimulate collagen and cell renewal. Also fortified with nourishing ingredients like Moringa and Aloe Vera Juice, this lightweight face moisturiser will promote brighter and prevent moisture loss to keep your skin soft and hydrated throughout the day. Shop Here.
References:
Retinol Vs. Phyto-Retinol: What’s The Difference?
Retinol has long been hailed as a gold standard in skincare due to its transformative effects on acne, fine lines, and uneven skin texture. But in recent years, skincare trends have shifted toward gentler and more natural alternatives. So, plant-based ingredients like phyto-retinol are gaining traction, especially among those with sensitive skin or sustainable lifestyle preferences.
If you have ever wondered about the differences between these two ingredients—or which one might be better for your skin—you are in the right place. Let’s break down everything you need to know about retinol and phyto-retinol so you can make the best choice for your skincare routine.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol, a derivative of Vitamin A, has been the go-to anti-ageing ingredient in skincare. It’s a member of the retinoid family, a group of compounds that promote faster cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.
How Does Retinol Work?
- Retinol undergoes enzymatic conversion in the skin to retinoic acid, its active form. This process accelerates the shedding of old skin cells and stimulates the growth of new ones.
- Retinol reduces the formation of comedones (clogged pores), which helps prevent acne breakouts. It also has some anti-inflammatory properties that help calm existing acne.
- Regarding fine lines and wrinkles, retinol increases collagen synthesis to improve your skin’s elasticity and reduce visible signs of skin ageing.
- It also enhances the evenness of skin tone by accelerating the skin’s natural renewal process and fading dark spots over time.
Common Drawbacks of Retinol
While retinol offers remarkable skin benefits, it has notable challenges:
- Irritation: During the initial weeks, retinol can cause extreme redness, peeling, or dryness as your skin adjusts to the ingredient.
- Sun Sensitivity: Retinol increases the skin's sensitivity to UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburns. So, using a broad spectrum sunscreen every day is highly recommended.
- Suitability Issues: Retinol isn't suitable for everyone, especially if you have sensitive skin or inflammatory conditions like eczema. It's also not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development.
What Is Phyto-Retinol?
Phyto-retinol is a plant-based alternative to traditional retinol, offering similar benefits but with a gentler approach. Unlike synthetic retinoids, phyto-retinols are derived from natural sources, with two standout ingredients leading the charge: Revinage and Bakuchiol.
Revinage is a plant-based alternative derived from various botanical extracts like Bidens pilosa, Linseed oil, Cottonseed oil, and Murumuru butter. It mimics retinol and interacts with the same retinoid receptors in the skin to stimulate collagen and cell renewal. Bakuchiol is another plant extract derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. It is often referred to as "nature’s retinol" as it offers many of the benefits of retinol without the associated irritation.
How Phyto-Retinol Benefits The Skin
- Phyto-retinols like Revinage enhance cell turnover and renewal, leading to smoother, more even-toned skin. It works by interacting with cellular pathways such as retinol to improve your skin's radiance and texture.
- Like retinol, Revinage and Bakuchiol also stimulate collagen production to increase firmness of the skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. They can significantly improve the appearance of fine lines and overall skin elasticity while being gentle.
- Phyto-retinols are naturally derived and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which makes them effective in calming redness and protecting your skin from oxidative stress caused by sun rays or pollution.
Key Differences Between Retinol And Phyto-Retinol
To understand which ingredient might be better for your needs, it’s essential to compare them across several factors.
1.Source
- Retinol: Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is typically synthesised for use in skincare. This synthetic production ensures potency but also increases the risk of irritation.
- Phyto-Retinol: Phyto-retinols are plant-derived compounds. Their structure differs from retinol, but interacts with similar pathways to deliver comparable results directly. However, Revinage resembles Retinol both structurally and functionally.
2. Skin Tolerance and Side Effects
- Retinol: Retinol often causes side effects such as redness, peeling, and dryness during initial use, a phase commonly called the "retinol purge." These effects occur because of its potency in accelerating skin renewal and reducing sebum production. You must introduce it gradually to your skincare routine and pair it with moisturisers and sunscreens to minimise irritation.
- Phyto-Retinol: Revinage and Bakuchiol, in contrast, are significantly gentler on your skin. They can help reduce fine lines, pigmentation, and acne without causing redness or dryness. Their gentle, soothing nature makes them especially suitable for sensitive skin types.
3. Efficacy
- Retinol: Retinol's effectiveness in addressing wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne has been studied for decades. However, improper use can lead to excessive dryness and sensitivity, particularly if you are a first-time user.
- Phyto-Retinol: Phyto-retinol has shown promising results in various studies. For example, Revinage is clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by 28% in just 42 days and brighten dark spots by 67%. Additionally, bakuchiol's antioxidant properties help fight environmental stressors to delay premature skin ageing.
4. Compatibility with Sensitive Skin and Pregnancy
- Retinol: Due to its potency, retinol is often too harsh for sensitive skin, causing discomfort and visible irritation. Furthermore, retinol and other vitamin A derivatives are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding because of potential health risks.
- Phyto-Retinol: Bakuchiol and Revinage are well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. Its natural origins and gentler mechanism also make it a safer alternative during pregnancy, though it is still advisable to consult a healthcare professional.
Which One Should You Pick?
Both retinol and phyto-retinol offer incredible benefits for your skin, but they cater to different needs and preferences. The decision between retinol and phyto-retinol depends on your skin’s needs, your lifestyle, and how your skin tolerates active ingredients. If your skin is sensitive, dry, or prone to redness or if you’re looking for a more natural, soothing option to improve skin texture and tone, phyto-retinol is an excellent choice. Its safety profile and lack of sun sensitivity make it more convenient for everyday use.
Tips for Integrating Retinol or Phyto-Retinol Into Your Routine
Regardless of which ingredient you choose, here are some tips for getting the most out of it:
- Start Slowly: Introduce the product gradually, using it 2-3 times a week and increasing frequency as your skin builds tolerance.
- Use Sunscreen: If you’re using retinol, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable to protect your skin from UV damage.
- Layer Wisely: Apply retinol or phyto-retinol at night, after cleansing, and follow with a moisturiser to minimise irritation.
- Listen to Your Skin: If you experience excessive dryness or irritation with retinol, switch to a photo-retinol for a gentler approach.
Shop Phyto-Retinol Advanced Serum Moisturiser
Juicy Chemistry's Phyto-retinol Advanced Serum Moisturiser delivers the benefits of retinol to the skin to actively target signs of ageing. Suitable for all skin types, it also strengthens your skin barrier and provides antioxidant and soothing benefits.
The non-greasy, natural formula is made with Revinage, a CO2 supercritical plant-based extract that mimics retinol to stimulate collagen and cell renewal. Also fortified with nourishing ingredients like Moringa and Aloe Vera Juice, this lightweight face moisturiser will promote brighter and prevent moisture loss to keep your skin soft and hydrated throughout the day. Shop Here.
References:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2699641/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/bakuchiol-does-it-make-skin-look-younger
