Cosmeceuticals Using Vitamin A and Its Derivatives plus New Delivery Methods for Them

Aging of the skin is a complex process by which synergistic intrinsic and extrinsic factors influence the dynamics of a person's appearance. Prematurely aged skin is a direct consequence of chronic, repeated exposure to ultraviolet radiation, a process called photoaging. Topical retinoids represent an important and powerful tool in the treatment and prevention of photoaged skin, however potent topical retinoids such as tretinoin are associated with local irritation. Retinol, retinaldehyde, and retinyl esters constitute the topical cosmeceutical retinoids and may represent a gentler yet effective alternative to their prescription counterparts. In addition, advances in pharmaceutical formulations with new delivery systems have been utilized to optimize retinoid chemical stability, solubility, and efficacy, as well as minimize their associated side effects.