Retinol: The Anti-aging Superhero Ingredient Your Night Cream Might be Missing

Dr. Yuan | Created on: July 22, 2020 | Updated on: Sept 22, 2022

Fact-checked by: Vincent Wang MS CPE, Certified Professional Ergonomist


If you’re not already on the bandwagon, chances are you’ve at least heard a thing or two about the much deliberated ingredient, retinol. On one hand, it has a reputation as a miracle worker, but on the other hand it’s said to wreak havoc on sensitive skin. So, which one is it? Is it safe? Does it really work? We’re here to answer all of your questions and show you how retinol just may be the transformative ingredient your routine’s been missing.

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Retinol is a compound that belongs to the retinoid family of vitamin A derivatives, commonly found in skincare products. You can easily get your hands on over-the-counter retinoids, such as retinyl palmitate, retinol, and retinaldehyde—or snag a stronger version by prescription, like tretinoin (Retin-A) or tazarotene (Tazorac). All retinoids work by supercharging cell turnover, which can result in a variety of skin improvements, from diminishing hyperpigmentation and acne to boosting collagen and softening fine lines and wrinkles. They are by far the most clinically studied and praised topical anti-aging ingredients out there.


If you’ve heard that retinoids don’t make for the best night cream for sensitive skin, think again; it’s all how you approach it. Retinol is one of the weaker retinoids available, which makes it a great first step for sensitive skin types or those who are just beginning their retinoid journey, as many retinoid products cause irritation when you first start using them. But according to studies, retinol works just as well as the stronger options, and although it may take a bit more time to show results, it does so without causing nearly as much peeling, dryness, redness, or breakouts during the acclimation period.


it may take a bit more time to show results, it does so without causing nearly as much peeling, dryness, redness, or breakouts during the acclimation period.

  • It removes excess oil and impurities
  • It clears pores of debris
  • It hydrates the skin
  • It restores the skin’s pH balance
  • It aids in the absorption of other skincare products

Retinol is a compound that belongs to the retinoid family of vitamin A derivatives, commonly found in skincare products. You can easily get your hands on over-the-counter retinoids, such as retinyl palmitate, retinol, and retinaldehyde—or snag a stronger version by prescription, like tretinoin (Retin-A) or tazarotene (Tazorac). All retinoids work by supercharging cell turnover, which can result in a variety of skin improvements, from diminishing hyperpigmentation and acne to boosting collagen and softening fine lines and wrinkles. They are by far the most clinically studied and praised topical anti-aging ingredients out there.

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“Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur. Quis lacinia eu mauris nulla integer nullam. Risus fames ipsum aliquet in volutpat suspendisse nullam. Proin at et massa urna elementum enim.”

-Amber Li, Designer at PROVEN

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