What is Vitamin A?

What is Vitamin A?

Introduction to Vitamin A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin essential for the normal functioning of the human body. Retinol is one of the most important forms of Vitamin A in cosmetics. It is one of the most important and well-researched anti-aging ingredients in skincare.

Forms of Vitamin A in Cosmetics

Retinoids - Derivatives of Vitamin A

Compounds derived from Vitamin A that function in the skin in various ways:

Retinol (Vitamin A)

  • Alcohol form: Retinol is the alcohol form of Vitamin A
  • Transformation in the skin: Undergoes a natural process in the skin, transforming into retinoic acids
  • Biological effect: Binds to nuclear receptors and initiates cellular changes

Other Retinoids

  • Retinoic acid: The most active form, but also the most irritating
  • Retinyl esters: A milder option, converts more slowly into the active form

Bio-retinoids

Modern skincare also utilizes bio-retinoids, such as:

  • Bakuchiol: Plant-based, non-irritating alternative to retinoids
  • Hexapeptide-40 and Polypeptide-76: Synthetic peptides that mimic the effects of retinol

Mechanism of Action of Vitamin A

At the Cellular Level

  1. Penetration: Vitamin A penetrates the keratinized cells of the skin
  2. Oxidation: Undergoes a two-phase oxidation process
  3. Transformation: Converts into the active form of retinoic acid
  4. Binding: Binds to nuclear receptors (RAR, RXR)
  5. Biological effect: Initiates the regulation of over 500 genes in the skin

Effects on Cellular Function

  • Cell renewal: Enhances cell turnover and the formation of new cells
  • Protein synthesis: Stimulates collagen and elastin production
  • Differentiation: Guides the maturation process of cells
  • DNA repair: Helps the cells' own repair mechanisms
  • Gene regulation: Affects hundreds of genes that guide the development of skin structure and function

Sources and availability of Vitamin A

Natural sources

  • Animal products (liver, fish, dairy products)
  • Vegetables (in the form of carotenoids, which convert to Vitamin A)

Cosmetic use

  • Synthetic retinol: Pure form produced in laboratory conditions
  • Encapsulated forms: Liposomal or time-controlled release
  • Combination preparations: Retinol combined with other active ingredients

Importance for skin health

Different forms of Vitamin A are essential for:

  • Maintaining skin structure
  • Normal cell renewal
  • Collagen production
  • Function of the skin's protective barrier
  • Regulation of pigmentation

Safety and usage recommendations

Important considerations

  • During pregnancy: Vitamin A is not recommended during pregnancy
  • During breastfeeding: Caution is advised
  • Sun sensitivity: Increases skin sensitivity to sunlight
  • Gradual introduction: The skin should gradually get used to the ingredient

Retinization process

Retinization is the process where the skin gradually gets accustomed to the use of products containing active forms of Vitamin A (retinoids). This occurs because the skin initially lacks sufficient functioning Vitamin A receptors. The process may cause:

  • Dryness and peeling of the skin
  • Possible irritation and redness
  • Temporary stinging
  • Appearance of pimples

Important: This is not an allergic reaction, but an indication of the skin's unfamiliarity with the active forms of Vitamin A. Most users can eventually use the product regularly without adverse effects.