What does vitamin A do for skin?

What forms of vitamin A are used on skin?

Retinoid is the umbrella term for topical products made from vitamin A. Retinol is one kind and is sold over the counter; adapalene, tretinoin, tazarotene and trifarotene are other topical retinoids, with some available over the counter and others by prescription. They differ in strength and directions, so retinol is not a general name for every vitamin A medicine.124

Topical retinoids come as creams, lotions, foams, emulsions and gels, which gives one vitamin more outfit changes than most people need.4

Over the counter retinol labels are not required to show the percentage, so the useful number can be missing before you even leave the aisle.2

Retinol increases skin cell production and turnover, exfoliates the surface and helps unclog pores. Retinoids also support collagen, the protein that helps give skin structure. Together, those changes help explain why vitamin A products are used for acne, uneven tone and signs of sun damage as well as fine lines.12

What are the benefits of vitamin A in skincare?

Topical retinoids help keep pores from clogging, so they can treat blackheads, whiteheads and some pimples. They are also used to help keep skin clear after acne improves. Retinoids can be useful for mild to moderately severe acne, but they are not recommended as the only treatment for severe acne. You can still see pimples during the first couple of months, and skin can look worse before it improves.145

Retinoids can help fade dark marks left after acne and improve uneven pigmentation. Some people find that retinol lightens sun spots, but this can take months and may irritate skin. Irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin, so a cautious start and moisturizer matter.124

Faster surface cell turnover can improve rough texture and some signs of sun damage. Topical retinoids can soften rough patches and fade age spots, and they can improve skin tone. These changes are gradual, not an overnight edit.3

Is vitamin A good for wrinkles?

Yes. Topical retinoids can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by supporting collagen and slowing its breakdown. Retinol sold over the counter is less strong and generally less irritating than tretinoin, but it is also less effective for wrinkles. Prescription strength is not automatically the best place to start; a lower strength used consistently is often the more sensible first step.23

Retinol begins working in skin cells before you can see a change. It can take several weeks to notice a difference in how skin looks or feels. Acne improvement can take 12 weeks or longer, dark spots can take months, and wrinkle changes often take three to six months; the best results can take six to 12 months. Continued use is needed to maintain wrinkle benefits.134

Can vitamin A irritate skin?

Yes. Dryness, redness, itching, burning, peeling and flaking are common early effects, and retinoids can increase sun sensitivity. Skin can look worse while adjusting, but mild irritation often settles as it gets used to the product. Starting with a lower strength and using it less often can reduce irritation; moisturizer can help too.14

Retinoids can suit people with mild acne, mild uneven pigmentation or mild fine lines. People with skin allergies or dryness may not be good candidates, and retinoids can worsen eczema. If your skin has significant redness or inflammation, avoid retinoids and ask a dermatologist about other options. People of all skin colors can use retinoids, but darker skin needs particular care because irritation can leave dark marks.24

Do not use retinoids during pregnancy. If you are breastfeeding, ask your health care provider before using retinol. See a dermatologist before trying a retinoid for severe acne scarring or acne linked to menstrual or other hormonal changes. If a retinoid irritates your skin, a dermatologist can help adjust the amount or frequency; do not change a prescription routine on your own.125

How do you use vitamin A skincare?

Use a topical retinoid at night and follow the package directions or your prescriber's instructions. Start slowly rather than using it every night from the beginning. A common starting point is every other night, building up gradually if your skin tolerates it.2

1. 1Before your first full use, test a small area of skin. Wait a couple of days and check for marked redness or itching.
2. 2Cleanse gently and pat skin dry. Apply a thin layer about the size of a pea over the face, avoiding the eyes, nose and mouth.
3. 3Start every other night for the first couple of weeks, or less often if your skin is easily irritated. Increase use gradually rather than jumping to nightly applications.
4. 4Finish with a facial moisturizer. If retinol irritates your skin, applying a thin layer of moisturizer first can help.
5. 5During the day, use sunscreen with broad spectrum protection and SPF 30 or higher. Seek shade and use sun protective clothing while using retinoids.

Avoid doubling up on retinol across several products; a retinol serum usually does not need a second retinol product layered over it. Choose a plain moisturizer instead, and keep sunscreen in the daytime routine.6