Vitamin A
Vitamin A is a powerhouse skincare ingredient, often appearing as retinol or retinyl esters in UK beauty products. It is beloved for helping skin look smoother, brighter and more youthful. Shoppers will find it in serums, creams and eye treatments aimed at tackling visible signs of ageing.
How it works in skincare
In cosmetics and skincare, vitamin A and its derivatives work by encouraging skin cell turnover and supporting the skin’s natural renewal process. This helps to smooth the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture while promoting a brighter, more even-looking complexion. Formulated at the right levels, it integrates beautifully into night creams and targeted treatments, though it is best introduced gradually to allow skin to adjust.
Key benefits
- Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Promotes smoother skin texture
- Contributes to a brighter, more even skin tone
- Supports improved skin firmness and elasticity
- Helps minimise the look of enlarged pores
- Enhances overall skin radiance
Best for
mature skin, dull skin, uneven skin tone, ageing skin, normal skin
Where it comes from
While vitamin A can be derived from animal sources such as fish liver oil, the forms used in modern UK cosmetics are typically produced synthetically or sourced from plant carotenoids found in fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes and spinach.