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Copyright @ Pol J Cosmetol
Pol J Cosmetol 2023, 26(4): 209-212pl  Retinol and retinal, allies of youth - different or similar?Marta Billewicz Powiatowe Centrum Zdrowia w Brzezinach Summary Reducing the signs of ageing and slowing down the biological basis of this process has been a target of scientific research for years. Vitamin A derivatives such as retinol and retinal have been widely recognised as effective anti-ageing substances, as well as substances that reduce the visible effects of ageing on the skin. Cosmetics containing retinoids are readily available in almost every chemist´s shop and pharmacy and, when used as directed, produce long-lasting and visibly noticeable effects. They are characterised by a multidirectional action, not only at the epidermal but also at the dermal level. They have properties that regulate the biological processes responsible for skin ageing. Their action makes the skin more elastic and smooth. In addition, numerous scientific studies have shown that anti-aging effects are not the only positive effect of retinoids. The most commonly found retinoids in cosmetic preparations today are retinol and retinal. Seemingly similar molecules, showing an almost identical mechanism of action, after a more detailed analysis, may turn out to be dedicated to different therapeutic purposes. Key words: retinol, retinal, retinoids, retinoic acid, anti-aging |