retinoid

“If you’re using a topical retinoid or topical vitamin C, they’re much less expensive,” she says.

One result of retinol biology remaining obscure for so long is that retinoid and vitamin A applications have long produced confusing results.

Thalidomide, a well-known teratogen in humans, and retinoid derivatives -- used in treatments against leukaemia, psoriasis, and acne -- are known to cause severe heart defects in the fetus.

“������ I tell patients is that the retinoid needs to be the star of the show. She’s a bit of a diva, and you really have to let her have her time to set the stage just the way she wants it before allowing the supporting cast onstage.”

“So, part of this is the fault of dermatologists. We need to give people the right information about how to safely and tolerably introduce a retinoid.”