Discover the benefits of vitamin A for your skin

Vitamin A has earned its reputation as one of skincare's true multitaskers. Whether you're looking to support healthy-looking skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines or keep blemishes under control, vitamin A plays an important role both inside the body and in your skincare routine. But here's where things often get confusing. Is vitamin A the same as retinol? What are retinoids? And do you need to get it from your diet, your skincare products or both?

Vitamin A is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that supports many important functions throughout the body.^1,2 It's involved in healthy vision, immune function, cell growth and the maintenance of the skin. When it comes to skin health, vitamin A contributes to the maintenance of normal skin. It helps regulate the growth and renewal of skin cells, supporting the skin's normal structure and function.³ Because your body cannot produce vitamin A on its own, it needs to come from your diet (or supplements).⁴ Topical vitamin A derivatives, such as retinol, can also be applied directly to the skin through skincare products.⁵

Vitamin A is the nutrient, retinoids are a family of compounds related to vitamin A that are widely used in skincare, and retinol is one of the most common retinoids you'll find in over-the-counter skincare products.

There are two main dietary forms of vitamin A:

Most people can obtain enough vitamin A through a balanced diet without needing to take supplements – as it’s fat-soluble, it’s best taken with a meal, especially one that contains some fat, as this helps your body absorb it more effectively. Excess amounts are stored in the liver rather than being excreted, this means it's important not to exceed recommended amounts, particularly if taking supplements. According to NHS guidance, the recommended daily intake for adults is:

Vitamin A deficiency is uncommon in the UK but can occur in certain circumstances. If you think you may have a deficiency, it's best to speak with your GP or another healthcare professional before taking supplements. Low vitamin A levels may contribute to:

Yes. Taking excessive amounts of vitamin A supplements over long periods can lead to toxicity because the vitamin is stored in the liver. Pregnant women should avoid high-dose vitamin A supplements unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional. Too much vitamin A may cause symptoms like:

There are now plenty of vitamin A skincare products available, making it easier than ever to find one suited to your skin type. If you're new to retinol, start with a lower-strength formula before gradually increasing the strength as your skin builds tolerance. Popular options include:

Vitamin A is one of the most well-researched nutrients for supporting healthy skin. Eating a balanced diet rich in colourful vegetables and vitamin A-containing foods helps support your skin from within – retinol skincare can complement this by supporting the skin’s normal renewal process and improving the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and blemishes over time. If you're just beginning your retinol journey, head over to our top retinol serum picks, choose a gentle formulation, introduce it gradually and always pair it with a daily SPF and moisturiser.

Disclaimer – This article provides informational advice and is not a substitute for medical care. Working with experts for accuracy, we take great care to ensure the information is up-to-date and relevant. However, you should always consult your GP or healthcare professional before using supplements or alternative products, particularly if you have medical conditions or are under supervision.