Quick answer
The name for the entire vitamin A molecule; Has more than 70 years of research proving its anti-aging abilities; Communicates with skin, telling it how to look and behave younger; Effective at several strengths; Is sensitive to light and air exposure Key benefits: Anti-Aging, Anti-Acne, Pore Minimizer.
Retinol
Updated
Retinol; vitamin A
Purpose
One of the most recognized anti-aging ingredients, this powerhouse has multiple benefits for skin. With over seven decades of research proving its effectiveness, it’s used in several strengths and types of products to deliver visible results.
Rating
BEST
Category
Antioxidant, Retinoids
INCI Purpose
SKIN CONDITIONING, SKIN CONDITIONING - MISCELLANEOUS
Benefits
Risks
Alternative Names
At a Glance
The name for the entire vitamin A molecule
Has more than 70 years of research proving its anti-aging abilities
Communicates with skin, telling it how to look and behave younger
Effective at several strengths
Is sensitive to light and air exposure
Article
Retinol is the name for the entire vitamin A molecule. This powerhouse ingredient has more than 70 years of established studies showing it has value for skin on several fronts: It’s a skin-restoring, wrinkle-smoothing, firming and pore-refining ingredient and an antioxidant, allowing it to improve a variety of skin concerns, most related to visible signs of aging.
Retinol delivers its long list of visible results because of the way it uniquely communicates with skin cells and influences various pathways, effectively “telling” skin how to look and act younger. For instance, recent research shows retinol can jump-start skin’s production of hyaluronic acid, resulting in a plumper, more hydrated appearance.
Packaging is a key issue, so any container that lets in air (like jar packaging) or sunlight (clear containers) just won’t cut it. Lots of retinol products come in unacceptable packaging; these should be avoided because the retinol will most likely be (or quickly become) ineffective. Only purchase retinol products sold in opaque, airless, or air-restrictive packaging.
Many consumers are concerned about the percentage of retinol in anti-aging products such as serums or moisturizers. Although the percentage can make a difference (larger amounts of retinol, generally considered 3% or higher, are used in clinical settings for more dramatic results), it’s not helpful in understanding how a retinol product will benefit your skin. Studies have shown even small amounts (as low as 0.01%) of retinol can make an impact in the appearance of visible signs of aging. Far more important is the delivery system, packaging, and the other ingredients present with the retinol.
Using a product with a range of anti-aging ingredients plus retinol is far more valuable for skin than using a product with only a supposedly high percentage of retinol. Skin needs far more than any one ingredient can provide, however great that one ingredient may be.
There are several myths about using retinol with other anti-aging ingredients or products, such as those with vitamin C or exfoliants like glycolic acid.
See: Vitamin A, Retinoids, Retinaldehyde
References