Skin problems can arise at any age: during adolescence, acne appears on the face due to hormonal changes, and with age, the skin loses its elasticity and wrinkles begin to appear.
Retinoic ointment is a universal remedy for solving cosmetic problems; it is sold in pharmacies and is classified as a medicine.
What is Retinoic ointment
The main component of the ointment is isotretinoin, its content can be 0.05 g or 0.1 g. The substance is a biologically active form of retinol (vitamin A), which affects the process of cell differentiation.
Excipients include petroleum jelly, glycerin, ethyl alcohol, emulsion wax, dibunol, distilled water and butyloxyanisole.
The product is a yellowish substance of uniform consistency without inclusions. Packaged in tubes of 10 or 15 g, sold in boxes along with instructions.
The most effective skin rejuvenation products
Pharmacies offer a large selection of drugs that help fight age-related changes in facial skin. They must contain the following components:
- Vitamins A, D, E and B5 . They are found in products used to treat burns and wounds.
- Hyaluronic acid . Found in preparations designed to combat dryness and restore the dermis.
- Amino acids . Used to improve metabolism in the skin.
- Natural plant extracts . They saturate the epidermis with useful substances and moisturize.
In most cases, pharmaceutical products contain a higher concentration of active substances than cosmetic creams.
Mechanism of action of Retinoic ointment
The instructions for Retinoic ointment contain information that the drug belongs to dermatotropic agents. This means that the composition protects the skin from microbes and parasites, stimulates the healing process and renewal of the epidermis.
Due to retinoic acid, the product provides:
- anti-inflammatory effect;
- exfoliating effect;
- antiseborrheic effect;
- dermatoprotective effect.
Isotretinoin has proven effectiveness in the treatment of dermatitis, normalizes the functioning of the sebaceous glands and thereby relieves acne, pimples and acne.
Glycerin present in the composition helps smooth the skin, and ethanol has an antibacterial effect and improves blood circulation. The medicinal composition is able to penetrate into the deep layers of the skin and inhibit the production of sebum, preventing the expansion of the diameter of the sebaceous ducts and their clogging with secretions. The ointment improves the removal of fat, due to which the inflammatory process is relieved, and the pores are narrowed, giving the skin a healthy and even appearance.
The more cosmetics I buy, the faster I will achieve results?
The logic “the more the better” does not work in cosmetology, as in medicine. After all, for example, no one treats the flu with all available means at once. This is both pointless and counterproductive. So in the case of pharmacy cosmetics, products from different brands and lines are more likely to interfere with each other. Cosmetics with different compositions and effects on the skin often turn out to be incompatible.
Thus, retinol does not combine well with essential oils and acids, occlusive preparations do not combine well with hyaluronic acid, and salicylic acid, which is used to treat acne, does not work well with another component of the same purpose - benzoyl peroxide.
The consequences of a combination of incompatible things can be very sad: the protective functions of the skin will be disrupted, it will become hypersensitive, and the ailments that the patient so desperately tried to overcome will intensify. Therefore, if a pharmacy visitor says that he did not go to a cosmetologist, it is better to recommend him products from the same line. Only a specialist can make “cosmeceutical cocktails”.
Retinoic ointment for wrinkles
Dermatologists who prescribe Retinoic ointment for the treatment of skin diseases note that as a result of use, the face is further transformed: the face becomes elastic, the skin is tightened and thickened, rashes and wrinkles disappear.
Conducted scientific studies confirm that isotretinoin, when applied systematically, is capable of:
- have a rejuvenating effect on the skin;
- increase elasticity and firmness;
- renew the epidermis due to intensive exfoliation of the dead layer of cells;
- improve skin tone;
- make the skin denser and thicker;
- restore tissue, smooth out deep wrinkles, including around the eyes, creases;
- indirectly stimulate the production of collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin, which smooth the surface and increase tightness.
Thus, having noticed the first age-related changes, such as sagging skin, paleness of the face, wrinkles, start using Retinoic ointment, which can be applied not only to the face, but also to the shoulders, hips and back.
Is it true that pharmaceutical cosmetics without preservatives are better than those that contain them?
The absence of preservatives in pharmaceutical cosmetics does not automatically make them super effective. However, there is indeed a trend in this market to move away from such “chemical additives.” This is due to the desire of manufacturers to make products hypoallergenic. In most cases, it is preservatives and artificial colors that cause a negative immune reaction. Products from pharmacy lines that are free of them are safer in this regard than standard products, although individual intolerance cannot be ruled out 100%.
In pursuit of “purity” of the composition, cosmetic companies sometimes make funny excesses. A striking example of this is the fight against parabens, one of the most commonly used preservatives. In the early 2000s, a number of studies showed that parabens can provoke breast cancer and endocrine dysfunction1. After this, leading manufacturers began to refuse to use them, and “paraben free” labels began to appear on cosmetics.
However, further study of these preservatives did not confirm the frightening conclusions2. Yes, parabens can cause allergies in people with sensitive skin, but they are not capable of causing cancer. In addition, the substances that replaced them (thiazolinones, benzoates, sorbates, etc.) turned out to be even more powerful allergens.
If there are no preservatives in cosmetics at all, its service life after opening the package is much shorter than that of an ordinary one. Fragility is the downside of safety, and this must be taken into account when purchasing. But most often, cosmetic brands follow the “middle” path, using well-studied compounds with proven safety.
When the drug is contraindicated, side effects
Like any medicine, the ointment has contraindications for use:
- planning conception, pregnancy, breastfeeding (cannot be applied to large areas of the skin);
- taking other retinoid drugs to avoid overdose.
With caution, it can be used by persons with chronic kidney and liver diseases, chronic pancreatitis, and severe heart failure.
Undesirable effects may occur during treatment:
- personal intolerance to the substance and auxiliary ingredients;
- the appearance of new rashes from the second week of use, redness of the skin, which does not require cessation of therapy.
When used for a long period, increased dryness of the skin with peeling, conjunctivitis, inflammation of the mucous membrane and skin of the lips may occur.
Are drugstore cosmetics intended only for people with skin diseases?
The concept of “pharmacy cosmetics” is quite broad. Products sold through pharmacies can be aimed at treating specific dermatological ailments - say, rosacea or acne. In this case, they are medicines and do not formally belong to the category of “cosmetics”.
But can oily skin be called a disease? No, this is just one of the normal variants, characterized by naturally increased secretion of subcutaneous sebum. There is no cure for this, but among pharmacy cosmetics there are many products to keep oily skin healthy.
There are even more such lines for different skin types on pharmacy counters than narrowly targeted ones. These cosmetics often exceed mass market ones in terms of the content of active substances, but at the same time they are still a care product, and not a therapeutic agent in the strict sense of the word. It is sold without a prescription (since it is not a medicine) and is unlikely to harm anyone much if you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for use. However, before purchasing it, it is still advisable to visit a cosmetologist - a specialist will help you make the best choice.
How to apply anti-wrinkle ointment
If Retinoic ointment is used for wrinkles, then the following procedure must be followed:
- Cleanse your face of decorative cosmetics using toner.
- Dry the skin with a clean towel or dry cloth.
- Apply the ointment to the face and décolleté in a thin layer.
It is better to carry out the procedure once a day before bed to allow the drug to be absorbed.
You can apply the composition as a mask for 40-60 minutes and rinse with warm water, and then use a moisturizer.
It is important to understand that the result will become noticeable with regular use.
For ladies over 40+
Laura
The arsenal of anti-aging products has been replenished with Laura pills from Evalar. Tablets from the anti-aging cosmetics line are more expensive, but within a month they reduce crow’s feet by 30%.
Qi-klim
The creams “Qi-Klim” and “Qi-Klim Botoeffect” include active ingredients classified as anti-wrinkle medicine:
- aloetoin:
- phospholipids;
- mineral complex;
- fatty acids: lycopenes, estrogens, isoflavones, lycopenes.
Phytoestrogens from black cohosh and the hexapeptide argireline relax muscles no worse than Botox and help prolong youth.
Hydrocortisone ointment
Glucocorticoids included in the formula of hydrocortisone ointment help correct age-related formations. According to the principle of action, the drug is comparable to hyaluronic acid.
Benzyl nicotinate relieves puffiness under the eyes and dilates blood vessels.
Peach oil
Glycerin and peach oil fill the connective tissue fibers with moisture.
Important : The drug with hormones should not be used for more than a week.
Compositions with phytoexrogens are also aimed at age-related manifestations. Extracts from the bark of mimosa, ginseng, wild yam, horse chestnut have an antioxidant, regenerating, drainage effect, which is important for maintaining water balance during menopause.
Reviews
You can find different reviews of Retinoic ointment online. Young people note the effect declared by the manufacturer - acne disappears. Older women confirm that the product helps smooth out shallow wrinkles. Users express their opinion about unpleasant sensations at the beginning of use - tightness and burning.
Reviews from cosmetologists about Retinoic ointment for wrinkles indicate that if you use the product correctly, discomfort will be minimized. The composition perfectly smoothes out unevenness, eliminates acne, and improves skin structure.
Important to remember
What is important to remember when exchanging a beautiful tube from a cosmetic store for a nondescript one from a pharmacy?
- All ointments and medicated gels should first be tested on the skin of the wrist. And only after making sure that there is no allergic reaction, that is, after 24 hours, can you try them on your face.
- Ideally, before using ointments and gels, you should consult with both a cosmetologist and a dermatologist. No matter how carefully you read the composition of the drug and reviews about it, the doctor knows much more. And about side effects, and about what time it is better to use the ointment, and what products it should not be combined with.
- Be especially careful with ointments containing hormones. If you can’t cope without them, use a minimal amount of the product, in exceptional cases.
- Even the most desperate beauty fans do not recommend getting carried away with “cosmetics” from the pharmacy. Do not accustom your skin to heavy doses of active ingredients, this will deplete it. After the 7-day course, be sure to give your face a long rest.
Types of face creams in the pharmacy
Cosmetology in Russia and abroad is developing at a rapid pace, so manufacturers of face creams are trying to ensure that they not only have a masking effect, but also have a certain therapeutic effect.
In accordance with the principle of action, all creams from the pharmacy can be classified into several groups, namely:
- creams with moisturizing effect;
- nourishing creams;
- anti-aging face creams;
- regenerating, designed to restore the integrity of the epidermis;
- creams to eliminate skin rashes;
- creams with soothing properties against allergic reactions, irritations and redness of the skin.
Each cream used to eliminate disorders in the condition of the skin can bring enormous benefits, especially if the characteristic characteristics of the skin and its needs are taken into account when used.
Vichy
Vichy cream was one of the first to appear in pharmacies, and to this day it manages to remain among the leaders. The entire line of these skincare products is very popular among Russian women due to their effective qualities.
On pharmacy shelves you can find the following products from this manufacturer:
- Vichy Ultraleaf, intended for the care of mature skin containing healing oils and plant extracts;
- Lift active from Vichy – to increase skin elasticity and prevent the formation of wrinkles;
- Ideal from Vichy - moisturizing cream - day care, intended for all skin types, provides hydration for a long period.
Vichy creams are hypoallergenic and have an easily absorbed texture. These products do not stay on the shelves despite their high price.
Avene
The Avene company uses thermal water in its face creams, which sets them apart from similar products. Thanks to its content, cosmetic preparations are effective even for sensitive and irritated skin.
The following products from this famous brand are especially popular:
- Avene Cicalfate with antibacterial and healing effects;
- Avene Hydrance Optimale Legere is a cream with a light texture for normal and combination skin with a moisturizing effect.
Thermal water in Avene pharmaceutical creams is the hallmark of this company. The content of additional specific components gives these skin care products truly unique properties.
GALENICK
When considering medicinal face creams from a pharmacy, you cannot ignore the Galenic series of cosmetics, the composition of which is based on spring water. I especially liked the products of this brand for eliminating and preventing stretch marks on the skin, as well as creams used for night care.
The most popular creams among women are:
- Galenic Beauté De Nuit Gelee Chrono-Active, which is a night moisturizing gel cream with a long period of hydration;
- Galenic Hydra-Matifying Cream-Gel is a cream-gel with moisturizing properties that help with skin flaking and tightness.
Unfortunately, the cost of these products is quite high and, although they can be bought in pharmacies, they are not always on sale. Also, it is better not to use these creams in winter, but in summer they are simply irreplaceable.
BIODERMA
Bioderma regenerating face cream is perfect for sensitive skin, and is also used for therapeutic purposes for various dermatitis, rosacea and to eliminate skin damage due to eczema.
Women especially appreciated the following types of creams from this brand:
- Bioderma Sensibio AR Creme against skin redness, which has hypoallergenic properties while simultaneously protecting against adverse environmental influences;
- Bioderma Hydrabio Riche is a moisturizing cream for sensitive skin containing salicylic acid.
For those with problem skin that does not tolerate cosmetic creams well, the series of these products includes a stronger moisturizing cream labeled Forte, which especially carefully cares for the skin and restores the natural hydration of the skin.
La Roche-Posay
The Hydreane moisturizing series is in deserved demand in Russian pharmacies, especially those intended for daily care. So:
- base cream with moisturizing properties La Roche-Posay Hydreane Extra Riche - intended for sensitive skin prone to excessive dryness;
- La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo cream-gel with a corrective effect that normalizes sebum secretion.
These products can have a therapeutic effect on various skin rashes in the form of acne or acne. They can be effective from the first days of use, and can also be used for applying foundation.
Pharmatheiss cosmetics
Moisturizing creams in this series containing hyaluronic acid received positive reviews, for example:
- Pharmatheiss cosmetics Pharma Hyaluron Night Cream is a good pharmacy cream containing hyaluron, which has undergone double purification and has a high lipid content;
- Pharmatheiss cosmetics D'Oliva in the form of a night cream containing ceramides, which increase skin elasticity and enhance regenerative processes in the skin.
Along with the effectiveness of these funds, I am pleased with their relatively low prices and availability. The disadvantages include the formation of a greasy film on the skin and too long absorption.
Differences between pharmaceutical face creams
Cosmetics belonging to the middle or budget class do not always meet the requirements for them and, at best, may turn out to be useless. And although store shelves are lined with attractive boxes of various creams and masks, many of them turn out to be ineffective. In contrast, a face cream purchased at a pharmacy is not only almost the same in price, but also has proven quality and safety, since it undergoes the most stringent multi-level control before sale.
The main difference between pharmaceutical cosmetics is the complete absence of harmful effects on the body and the minimum content of chemicals, and also the fact that anyone can afford them without compromising their family budget.
Creams that can be purchased at a pharmacy at a low price or expensive collagen ointments help solve a specific existing problem. By purchasing a remedy for dry skin, you can effectively moisturize it, buying an anti-irritation cream, with its help you can quickly soothe irritated skin and relieve it of redness.
Full confidence in the high quality of pharmaceutical creams does not arise out of nowhere. All medicinal and decorative cosmetics in the assortment of pharmacies are offered only after undergoing numerous tests and testing with confirmation by appropriate certificates.
