Ingredient · INCI listed
Retinol
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that converts to retinoic acid in the skin, boosting collagen production, accelerating cell turnover, and treating both acne and signs of aging. It's the most studied anti-aging ingredient in dermatology.
Evidence — Well-established
Data summary
Products containing
48
Most common in
27 products
retinoids
Typical pairing
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Evidence level
Well-established. Prescription retinoids (tretinoin) have 40+ years of clinical data. OTC retinol is less potent but still effective — it just takes longer (12-24 weeks vs 8-12 for prescription).
Verified reviewer
Where it shows up
