Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1523489
ASCP SkinPro got a glow-up! Check out new app content at ascpskincare.com/skinpro 71 BONE DENSITY ISSUES While most research on retinol's effects on bone density has been conducted on adults, there's evidence suggesting that excessive intake of vitamin A, of which retinol is a form, can negatively impact bone health. High levels of vitamin A have been associated with reduced bone density and an increased risk of fractures. 6 This could potentially have more significant implications for teenagers, whose bones are still developing and growing. However, it's important to note that more research is needed on the exact effects of retinol on bone density in teenagers specifically. Chemical Exfoliators While AHAs and BHAs can offer benefits for skin texture and clarity in adults, their use in teenagers should be monitored by a dermatologist or skin care professional. Over-exfoliation and disruption of the skin barrier in adolescence could lead to long-term issues with skin health and integrity. Generally, a spot treatment with salicylic acid is preferred over salicylic exfoliating pads or serum containing harsh acids. SKIN SENSITIVITY AND IRRITATION Teenage skin is often more sensitive and prone to irritation compared to adult skin. AHAs and BHAs may cause irritation, redness, dryness, and even burning sensations, especially when used in higher concentrations or if the skin is already sensitive. Because teenage skin may not have a fully established protective barrier, the risk of adverse reactions to AHAs and BHAs is higher. Retinol Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is commonly used in skin care products due to its ability to promote skin cell turnover and improve skin texture. Its use, however, is associated with certain risks, particularly for teenagers, such as increased sensitivity to the sun and bone density issues. SUN SENSITIVITY Retinol can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, and thus more prone to sunburn and sun damage. This is because retinol accelerates the turnover of skin cells, which can leave the skin more vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, children and teens don't need to speed up their cell turnover because they already have more efficient skin cell turnover compared to adults. While people in their 30s have cell turnover of about 28 days, teens have about half that at an average of 14 days. Without proper sun protection, such as wearing sunscreen daily and limiting sun exposure, teens using retinol may experience increased sun sensitivity, leading to sunburns and potential long-term damage like premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and increased risk of skin cancer.