Are retinol and vitamin A the same thing?

What do the different names mean?

The conversion runs in two steps: retinol becomes retinal, then retinal becomes retinoic acid. These are related molecules, not different spellings of the same ingredient. For choosing skincare, look for the actual ingredient name rather than treating every mention of vitamin A as retinol. A 'vitamin A' description gives you the family name rather than the full introduction, which is an unusually formal way for a cream to remain vague.1

What does retinol do for skin?

Retinol can improve uneven pigmentation, texture, fine lines and wrinkles. It also has uses for acne and acne scarring. Retinoids help support collagen, a protein that gives skin structure, and elastin, which helps skin stay flexible. For mild acne, mild uneven pigmentation or mild fine lines, a topical retinoid can be an option.2456

How should you start using retinol?

For a retinol product available without a prescription:

1. 1Choose the lowest strength you can find. Retinol percentages are not always disclosed on packaging.
2. 2Start every other night and increase use slowly as your skin tolerates it.
3. 3Use moisturizer to help limit dryness and irritation.
4. 4Protect your skin during the day with sunscreen, shade and protective clothing.

When a topical retinoid is used for acne, apply it across the affected area rather than only to individual pimples. The aim is to prevent new clogged pores as well as treat existing ones. Acne benefits can take several months of regular use.7

Who should be careful?

Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. Skin allergies, dryness or substantial redness and inflammation are reasons to discuss alternatives with a dermatologist before starting. Irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin tones, so introducing retinol slowly matters. Moderate or severe acne scarring, or acne linked to hormonal changes, also warrants a dermatologist's assessment.2

Are retinol and Retin A the same thing?

No. Retin A is a prescription brand containing tretinoin, not retinol or retinal. Tretinoin is stronger than retinol. Retinol is available without a prescription and can be an alternative when Retin A is too irritating. The similar names make shopping less straightforward than it needs to be, as though skincare required a spelling test.5

For prescribed tretinoin, follow your prescription rather than the beginner retinol schedule. Tretinoin is generally used at bedtime in a thin layer after gentle washing and drying as directed. Keep it away from eyes, mouth and sunburned or eczema affected skin. Do not add other topical medicines, including benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, unless your doctor directs you to.3

Tretinoin can take 3 to 4 months, or up to 6 months, to improve fine wrinkles; it does not remove them. Tell your doctor about severe or persistent dryness, burning, peeling or swelling. Call immediately for rash, hives, or pain at the treated area. Discuss planned pregnancy or breastfeeding before using tretinoin, and call your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment.3