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Active ingredient

Retinol

INCIRetinol

Last reviewed by BIOSAR Scientific Team, PharmD, Cosmetic Chemistry, Pharmacy practice on .

What it is

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative used in skincare to accelerate the cell renewal cycle, support collagen production, and refine the appearance of fine lines and uneven tone. It converts in skin to retinoic acid, the active form, which binds nuclear retinoid receptors and shifts gene expression toward repair. Introduce it gradually to limit irritation; use only at night, always with broad-spectrum sunscreen. Avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. BIOSAR uses it as Vitalize Retinol — a stabilised, gradual-release grade chosen for dependable potency and gentler tolerance.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Avoid

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Topical retinoids are explicitly avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding per ACOG and Mother to Baby. Although topical absorption is low, oral retinoids are documented teratogens and the precaution extends to topical forms during the entire perinatal period.

Mechanism in detail

What Retinol does

Vitamin A derivative. BIOSAR formulates it as Vitalize Retinol — a stabilised grade that shields the fragile molecule from light and air and releases it into skin gradually, so it supports the renewal cycle and refines the look of fine lines and smoother texture over time while staying kinder to comfort. Used at night, with daytime sunscreen; not recommended during pregnancy or lactation.

Evidence

What the research says

  • −44%Crow's-feet fine lines after one year, vehicle-controlledA year-long double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial by the product's maker, in 62 people with photodamaged skin: stabilised retinol improved crow's-feet fine lines by 44%. Avoid retinoids during pregnancy and breastfeeding.Read the study →J Drugs Dermatol 2015 (Randhawa)
Layering guidance

Use Retinol carefully alongside

These ingredients work well in a routine but are best applied at different times of day or on alternating days to limit irritation.

Where it helps

Concerns Retinol addresses

From the BIOSAR catalog

Products formulated with Retinol