In which products can we find retinol?

Retinol is one of the available forms of vitamin A. It belongs to the family of retinoids of the first generation. When applied topically, retinol is metabolised into retinoic acid, its active form, through an enzymatic system naturally present in the epidermis. More specifically, retinol is transformed into retinal before being converted into retinoic acid. This latter is capable of interacting with retinoic acid receptors (RAR) and, by activating them, triggers a cascade of cellular signals. The retinol can thus stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, promoting smoother and more elastic skin, and accelerate cell renewal. Moreover, it is recognised for its antioxidant virtues and its regulatory action on melanogenesis, which allows it to reduce the appearance of pigmentation spots. These various benefits explain why retinol is incorporated into many types of skincare.

• Face Serums : Face serums are among the most common products for delivering retinol due to their light texture and targeted concentration. In this form, it works by stimulating the proliferation of keratinocytes and increasing collagen production, which improves skin elasticity and reduces fine lines. Moreover, thanks to its ability to stimulate cell renewal, the retinol promotes the removal of dead cells and refines the skin texture, a beneficial property for those prone to blemishes, such as blackheads.

• Eye Contour Care : Despite the sensitivity of this area, some products specifically formulated for the eye contour contain low-dose retinoids. Incorporating these actives into eye contour care helps to smooth fine lines and refresh the gaze. To maximise the tolerance of retinoids, these products are often enriched with soothing and repairing agents, such as ceramides.

• Night Creams : The retinol molecule is photosensitive, meaning it is likely to degrade when exposed to sunlight. That's why it is often incorporated into night care products, such as moisturising creams. These help to smooth the skin during sleep, a time when skin regeneration is at its peak. These formulas often combine retinol with hydrating and soothing active ingredients, like hyaluronic acid or panthenol, which helps to limit the risk of irritation associated with the use of retinol.

• Shampoos : Less commonly, retinol is incorporated into hair care products. These are often aimed at individuals with an oily scalp or prone to dandruff. However, while numerous in vitro studies have shown that retinol can reduce sebum synthesis, the in vivo results are less conclusive. As for its effect on dandruff, this is explained by its ability to accelerate cell renewal.

  Note : Some studies suggest that retinol may enhance the effects of minoxidil, a medication used in androgenetic alopecia. However, no clinical study has shown that retinol alone can accelerate hair growth.

Important : Retinoids, even when applied topically, are strictly not recommended for pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy. Although their systemic absorption is low when applied locally, these molecules have a high teratogenic potential, meaning they can cause abnormalities in the foetus, hence the importance of adhering to the precautionary principle.

At Typology, we have developed several products containing retinol or other derivatives of vitamin A.

• Formulated with 0.3% retinol, the serum for fine lines and wrinkles prevents skin sagging by stimulating the synthesis of collagen and elastin. It contains 99% naturally derived ingredients and also includes castor oil and soybean oil, ideal for nourishing mature skin.

• With 0.2% retinol and tsubaki oil, the firming night cream is enriched with tightening agents to slow down the appearance of wrinkles and make the skin more plump. It contains 98% naturally derived ingredients and boosts the production of collagen and elastin fibres, in order to prevent signs of skin ageing.

• Specifically formulated for the sensitive eye contour area, the eye serum for fine lines and wrinkles contains 0.1% of hydroxypinacolone retinoate, a gentle retinoid that acts directly on RAR receptors, for enhanced effectiveness on wrinkles and skin sagging. The eye serum for wrinkles and fine lines also contains hyaluronic acid, known for its moisturising properties, and niacinamide, which is soothing and protective.

• KAFI & al. Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol). Archives of Dermatology (2007).

• KIM K. H. & al. The Additive Effects of Minoxidil and Retinol on Human Hair Growth in Vitro. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin (2007).

• QUAN T. & al. Molecular basis of retinol anti-ageing properties in naturally aged human skin in vivo. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2017).

• ZASADA M. & al. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Advances in Dermatology and Allergology (2019).