CHAPTER 13. Topical Retinoids for the Treatment of Photoaged Skin

Abstract

Skin photoaging is characterized by fine and coarse wrinkles, dyspigmentation and textural irregularities. These clinical findings have negative cosmetic and functional implications. Topical retinoids activate retinoid receptors in the skin leading to clinical improvement in wrinkles, dyspigmentation and skin roughness and are considered to be the mainstay of therapy for photoaged skin. Natural and synthetic topical retinoids are reviewed with respect to their molecular mechanisms and clinical effects.