Retinoids
INCI: Accutane
Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Retin-A, Retinol, Vitamin A, adapalene, isotretinoin, retinaldehyde, retinyl palmitate, retinyl propionate, tretinoin
The gold standard in anti-ageing skincare
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Retinoids?
Retinoids are a class of compounds derived from Vitamin A, representing the most extensively researched and proven anti-ageing ingredients in skincare. This family includes prescription-strength tretinoin, over-the-counter retinol, and gentler derivatives like retinal and retinyl palmitate.
These powerhouse ingredients work by binding to specific receptors in skin cells, accelerating cellular turnover and stimulating collagen production. Decades of clinical research have established retinoids as the benchmark against which all other anti-ageing ingredients are measured.
Clinical Evidence & References
- American Academy of Dermatology Association, Accessed June 2023, Webpage
- Journal of Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, January 2022, pages 71-78
- Cells, December 2020, ePublication
- Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, August 2019, pages 392-397
- Clinical Interventions in ageing, December 2006, pages 327-348
From the Clinic
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Resveratrol Dimethyl Ether Maltotrioside
A stabilised resveratrol derivative that provides antioxidant protection to skin
Resveratrol Dimethyl Ether Oligosaccharides
A modified resveratrol compound that works as an antioxidant in skincare formulations
Resveratrol Tributyl Ether
A stabilised form of resveratrol designed for enhanced skin penetration and stability
Retinyl Ascorbate
Hybrid molecule combining retinol and Vitamin C benefits
Retinyl Palmitate
Gentle Vitamin A ester for sensitive skin types
Retinyl Propionate
Balanced retinoid offering efficacy with tolerability
Articles About Retinoids
Learn more about this ingredient with our expert guides and articles.
Best Retinol Serums UK (2026): A Strength-by-Strength Buyer's Guide
A professional, skin-type-led guide to the best retinol serums in the UK, comparing retinol, retinaldehyde and retinyl retinoate from beginner to advanced.
Read article
The Truth About Retinol: Your Guide to the Gold Standard (and Its Powerful Cousins)
Discover why retinol is the gold standard in anti-ageing skincare. Learn how it works, when to start, and how to use it effectively.
Read articleLearn More About Skincare Ingredients
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