Objectives: Cutting-Edge Insights into Retinoid Biology: A Review of Tretinoin and Retinoid-Based Treatments for Skin Photoaging
Introduction: The gold standard treatment for photoageing includes topical prescription tretinoin, also known as retinoic acid. Tretinoin, the most studied retinoid, has demonstrated significant improvements in reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation through the stimulation of epidermal turnover and collagen production. Other retinoids, such as tazarotene and adapalene, have also shown promising results in clinical trials, offering potential alternatives for anti-ageing therapies.
Materials / method: We examined the latest scientific literature to understand the state-of-the-art knowledge on retinoid treatments for skin photoaging. This review aims to summarize the current scientific understanding on the mechanisms of action, clinical efficacy, and advancements in retinoid formulations for anti-ageing treatments. In addition, we discuss our research whereby we have developed a novel cosmetic anti-ageing formulation containing retinyl propionate, niacinamide, and 4-hexylresorcinol which can improve the appearance of photoaged skin and may be a less irritating alternative to tretinoin.
Results: Despite their proven benefits, conventional retinoid formulations face challenges such as instability, low skin penetration, and irritation. While tretinoin is highly efficacious, it can cause irritation, scaling, and erythema, thereby reducing its tolerability. Recent advancements have led to the development of novel delivery systems to enhance the stability and efficacy of retinoids. Furthermore, alternative retinoid compounds, such as tretinoin precursors, are commonly used in cosmetic anti-ageing products delivering similar clinical benefits without the tretinoin-associated adverse events.
Conclusion: In conclusion, while tretinoin remains the gold standard in topical anti-ageing treatments, ongoing research into alternative retinoids and advanced delivery systems holds promise for more effective and user-friendly anti-ageing therapies. Further well-designed clinical trials are necessary to substantiate these preliminary findings and optimize retinoid-based treatments for facial ageing.
Disclosures
Did you receive any funding to support your research for this TOPIC?
Yes
Please specify entities (individual, company, society): Unilever
Were you provided with any honoraria, payment or other compensation for your work on this study?
Yes
Please specify entities (individual, company, society): Unilever
Do you have any financial relationship with any entity which may closely compete with the medications, materials or instruments covered by your study?
No
Do you own or have you applied for any patents in conjunction with the instruments, medications or materials discussed in your study?
No
This work is presented thanks to the support of: Unilever