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The discussion surrounding the 'R' word is a frenzied one. Retinoids (the umbrella term for retinol products) are powerful enough to improve skin texture, pigmentation, and tone in just a few drops of serum or dollops of cream. The transformative effects on your skin are due to very potent formulations, which have caused retinols to garner a lot of differing opinions — and even more questions. When should you use them (along with when should you definitely steer clear of them)? How do the formulas work? Are they compatible with sensitive skin? And even, how do you refer to them? Are they retinols? And what's retin-A? These questions and more have confused many a skin-care fanatic.

We're here to offer some clarity. With plenty of false information floating around about retinoids, we've sifted through the craziest claims out there with the help of top dermatologists. Below are 11 myths about retinols and the truth behind them.

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