Encapsulated All-Trans Retinol

Ingredient

Encapsulated All-Trans Retinol

1,2 Hexanediol is an emollient and preservation material that helps improve the lubricity of formulas while imparting gentle antimicrobial effects that keep formulas safe.

Common Name

Retinol

Category

Vitamin A derivative

Benefits
  • Anti-aging
  • Exfoliation
  • Acne-fighting
  • Skin-renewal
Performance Rating

Exceptional

Chemical Structure

Quick Summary Benefits

Reduces fine lines and wrinkles

Improves skin texture and tone

Unclogs pores and reduces acne

Stimulates collagen production

Enhances skin cell turnover

Use & Background in Skincare

Retinol is a powerhouse ingredient in skincare, known for its ability to promote skin renewal and combat signs of aging. It has been used in dermatology since the 1970s and has become increasingly popular in over-the-counter skincare products due to its proven efficacy in improving various skin concerns.

Detailed Description

Encapsulated All-Trans Retinol is a stabilized form of vitamin A that has revolutionized anti-aging skincare. This ingredient works by penetrating the skin and being converted to retinoic acid, which then interacts with skin cells to promote various beneficial effects. The encapsulation technology helps to protect the retinol molecule from degradation and allows for a more controlled release into the skin, potentially reducing irritation while maintaining efficacy [1].

Retinol's primary mechanism of action involves increasing cell turnover and stimulating collagen production. By accelerating the rate at which skin cells are replaced, retinol helps to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone. Additionally, it has been shown to regulate sebum production, making it effective in treating acne-prone skin [2].

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of retinol in improving various signs of photoaging. A 2007 study published in the Archives of Dermatology found that applying retinol lotion for 24 weeks led to significant improvements in fine wrinkles [3]. Another study in 2009 showed that even a low concentration (0.1%) of retinol could improve signs of aging when used over a prolonged period [4].

While retinol is highly effective, it's important to note that it can cause irritation, especially when first introduced to a skincare routine. The encapsulated form aims to mitigate this issue by providing a more controlled release. Users should start with a low concentration and gradually increase usage to build tolerance [5].

Comedogenicity

1-2 (Low) [6]

Sustainability Notes

Retinol can be synthetically produced, which reduces the environmental impact compared to naturally sourced ingredients. However, the encapsulation process may involve additional materials. Companies are increasingly focusing on developing more sustainable encapsulation methods to improve the overall environmental profile of encapsulated retinol products.

How It's Made

Retinol is typically synthesized in laboratories from β-ionone, a compound derived from citral. The encapsulation process involves surrounding the retinol molecules with a protective barrier, often using materials like cyclodextrins or liposomes [7].

References

[1] Zasada, M., & Budzisz, E. (2019). Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, 36(4), 392-397.

[2] Mukherjee, S., Date, A., Patravale, V., Korting, H. C., Roeder, A., & Weindl, G. (2006). Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging, 1(4), 327-348.

[3] Kafi, R., Kwak, H. S., Schumacher, W. E., Cho, S., Hanft, V. N., Hamilton, T. A., ... & Voorhees, J. J. (2007). Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Archives of Dermatology, 143(5), 606-612.

[4] Randhawa, M., Rossetti, D., Leyden, J. J., Fantasia, J., Zeichner, J., Cula, G. O., ... & Southall, M. D. (2009). One-year topical stabilized retinol treatment improves photodamaged skin in a double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 8(10), 932-936.

[5] Culp, L., Moradi Tuchayi, S., Alinia, H., & Feldman, S. R. (2015). Tolerability of topical retinoids: are there clinically meaningful differences among topical retinoids?. Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 19(6), 530-538.

[6] Fulton Jr, J. E., Pay, S. R., & Fulton III, J. E. (1984). Comedogenicity of current therapeutic products, cosmetics, and ingredients in the rabbit ear. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 10(1), 96-105.

[7] Sorg, O., Antille, C., Kaya, G., & Saurat, J. H. (2006). Retinoids in cosmeceuticals. Dermatologic Therapy, 19(5), 289-296.