Topical vitamin A: types and applications in aesthetic medicine

Abstract

Vitamin A is a class of substances frequently referred to as retinoids. Retinoids describe all forms of Vitamin A and both naturally and synthetically produced derivatives. Topical retinoids have been in regular use in dermatology for half a century, and have been used to treat a variety of cutaneous disorders, such as photoageing, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles. This article explores the different forms of topical retinoids and their functions relating to treatment and prevention of photoaging and the treatment of acne vulgaris.