A vitamin A derivative converted by skin into retinoic acid. One of the best-studied topical ingredients with proven anti-aging efficacy.
Topical application
AProven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.
Randomized controlled trials confirm increased collagen production, reduced wrinkle depth, and improved skin texture with long-term use. Evidence is weaker than tretinoin because retinol requires enzymatic conversion and is less standardized in OTC concentrations.
0.025–1%
Start at 0.025–0.05% once a week, gradually increasing frequency and concentration as tolerated. Full adaptation takes 4–8 weeks.
Irritation potential
HighAllergen risk
LowPregnancy
AvoidFor sensitive skin
For sensitive skin, the buffering method is recommended: apply retinol over a moisturizer rather than directly on bare skin.
Suitable for
Use with caution
Works well with
NiacinamideНиацинамид
Niacinamide reduces retinol's irritation potential by strengthening the barrier without sacrificing efficacy.
Panthenol (Provitamin B5)Пантенол (провитамин B5)
Panthenol softens retinol adaptation in the first weeks. Reduces redness and flaking without blocking the main effect.
CeramidesЦерамиды
Ceramides restore the barrier that retinol weakens during adaptation. A must-pair for sensitive skin.
3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid3-О-этил-аскорбиновая кислота
Unlike L-ascorbic acid, ethyl ascorbate is stable at neutral pH, so it can sit in the same formula or routine as retinol. Alternation is optional: C in the morning with SPF and retinol at night is best, but a single product works too.
Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.
Retinol suits: normal, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Yes, Retinol has high irritation potential. Start at low concentrations, introduce gradually, and always use SPF during the day.
A vitamin A derivative converted by skin into retinoic acid.
The INCI name is Retinol. It may also appear as: Vitamin A, 3,7-Dimethyl-9-(2,6,6-Trimethyl-1-Cyclohexen-1-Yl)-2,4,6,8-Nonatetraen-1-Ol, Ретинол.
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Does not combine with
Glycolic AcidГликолевая кислота
Using both in one routine raises irritation 2-3x. Alternate: retinol at night, AHA on a different evening.
Salicylic AcidСалициловая кислота
Simultaneous use raises irritation potential. Alternate every other day or split morning/evening.
Benzoyl PeroxideБензоилпероксид
Benzoyl peroxide oxidizes retinol, inactivating it. When both are needed – use at different times: BPO in morning, retinol at night.
L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)L-Аскорбиновая кислота (витамин C)
Different optimal pH: retinoids need neutral, vitamin C needs acidic. Use at different times: C in morning, retinol at night.
0.025–1%