Retinoic Acid aka Retinoid aka Retinol

Our Retinol Products

You can get buried in the science of retinoic acid and in discussions of its history and many variations. Search for it on Google and you’ll see. In this post, we’re aiming to skim the surface and provide you with info on just the…

Our Retinol Products

BASICS

Retinoic acid is able to connect to most skin cell receptors and “direct” the cell to be younger and healthier – not just behave that way, but to actually be that way. It has also been shown to increase collagen, build new elastin, and interrupt free-radical damage.

Retinol and retinoid are essentially the same thing — they differ in strength, allowing for options in customizing a regimen for each of our clients. Over-the-counter retinol products work by converting into retinoid at the skin’s cellular level. Potency is reduced during this conversion, making retinol around 100 times gentler than retinoid prescription products.

There’s an option for all skin types and any age may benefit.


BENEFITS

Smoother, luminous, and overall healthier skin!

• Prevents and treats acne
• Speeds turnover of surface skin cells
• Evens pigmentation
• Fades scaly spots or patches on top of skin (actinic keratosis)
• Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
• Increases collagen production
• Fades age spots
• More beautiful skin texture and tone
• Plumps skin
• Exfoliates dead skin cells
• Reverses sun damage

Prescription products may also treat psoriasis and scars.
 

PRODUCTS

One size does not fit all – that’s why we carry a variety of options.

Obagi Medical

• Tretinoin Cream and Gel uses tretinoin, a derivative of Vitamin A, and sodium hyaluronate, which is similar to hyaluronic acid but is more easily absorbed, allowing for incredible hydration. Prescription only.

Hayes Valley Medical SkinCare

• All-trans-Retinol Treatment Pads are available in four different strengths and contain green tea complex to soothe skin.

• Enriched Retinol Eye Cream is intensely hydrating.

• Retinol Smoothing Body Lotion with all-trans-retinol at the maximum level appropriate for the skin on the body.

(We also recommend our Restorative Moisturizer as an enhancement to any retinoid therapy.)

SkinMedica

• Age Defense Retinol Complex is available in three strengths and contains algae extract for hydration.


USE

It can require patience to use retinols – improvements are not usually seen for several months, and the best results begin to show at six to twelve months of use.

Generally you’ll experience minimal side-effects while using retinols.

They may irritate or dry the skin during the first few weeks of use. It’s essential that you consult with a skin care expert who can provide a regimen which usually starts with lower dosages and alternate days for application, building to a product that works best for you and may be applied nightly.

Essential is the consistent use of sunscreens as skin will be more sensitive to sunlight.

You’ll also want to use a moisturizer. Your skincare expert will be able to advise on whether to apply it under or over your retinol.

A tiny bit goes a long way – think of the size of a lentil as one face application.

Retinol is safe and effective for the skin around the eyes.

hvme-horizontal-rule-products

There’s a reason skin care professionals and their clients describe retinol products as being the gold-standard and the holy grail of skin care, and, along with sunscreen, the product they cannot do without. Consultations are always complimentary and no-obligation — please do make an appointment with us to learn more about retinols.




Marie R.
Another great experience at Hayes Valley Medical. From making the appointment (seamless) to the treatment with Susie, an excellent experience, completely pristine, great results (already!), and professional follow-up. Can’t say enough.
Kirsten S.
Linda and staff are amazing. I am always very happy with my treatment results. It is apparent that she researches various technologies and techniques. The applications are always evolving with new and improved products. Highly recommended.
Click Here
Suzanne P.
Excellent service and an overall pleasant experience. Victoria was professional and knowledgeable. She proposed treatments addressing both my anesthetic and medical concerns.. I could not be happier with the results. Also, the Receptionist, Mattie, was pleasant and efficient. I look forward to future treatments.
Click Here
Lisa M.
Hayes Valley is the best! Kate did an incredible job with Dysport removing the wrinkles from my forehead, Sandra gave me great abs and glutes with Emsculpt, and Linda gave me my youthful facial structure back with Sculptra. These women are truly amazing. So glad that I found them!
Click Here
Gene V.
I love Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics! I've been coming for a while now for Botox and filler treatments. Linda is AMAZING! She knows just the right amount of product needed in all the right places to bring out my best facial features. I feel more handsome every time!!

The front desk staff are super sweet and helpful. They always ask exactly what I want and I never feel like I'm being 'upsold' or encouraged to do anything other than what I came in for. I would highly recommend HVME to anybody that is on the unsure about trying some of the services they offer. You won't be disappointed. Thank you!!
Click Here
Gene V.
I love Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics! I've been coming for a while now for Botox and filler treatments. Linda is AMAZING! She knows just the right amount of product needed in all the right places to bring out my best facial features. I feel more handsome every time!!

The front desk staff are super sweet and helpful. They always ask exactly what I want and I never feel like I'm being 'upsold' or encouraged to do anything other than what I came in for. I would highly recommend HVME to anybody that is on the unsure about trying some of the services they offer. You won't be disappointed. Thank you!!
Click Here
Julie S.
This was my first experience with any filler/injection treatment and it was very pleasant, professional and everyone there made me feel safe, welcome and I felt very knowledgeable coming out of my treatment about what to expect. I will absolutely be back!
Click Here
Tina B.
Diana at the front desk is so sweet, the medical assistant was amazing & personable and Kate who did my procedure is my favorite! As I walked out and met my husband, I told him how much I enjoy being there & what a good vibe Hayes has.
Click Here
Cher B.
Sheila and Linda took great care of me and I look younger and vibrant.  I do not trust anyone else for injectables.  Linda is careful, thoughtful, and respectful of one’s budget. I have followed her from Marin into SF and I will continue to follow her where ever she practices.
Click Here
Emily N.
I highly recommend Hayes Valley Medical Esthetics!! All the front desk staff are warm, friendly and professional and Denise is the best for laser, she goes above to make you feel comfortable and at ease. Andrea is exceptional at explaining the services they offer. They are the best in SF in my opinion and I do my research!
Click Here
Kathleen F.
Excellent customer service, advice, and care. Botox and Microneedling. Melonie is a gem. She is extremely knowledgable, sincere and honest. Everyone here is helpful, They carry a fabulous array of skin products too. I am so pleased with my results!
Click Here

Receive 10% off your first treatment at any of our locations!

Close