What does Vitamin A do for your skin?

Retinols and retinoids have become a household name in skin care, with both dermatologists and beauty experts recommending them to promote skin health and longevity. Did you know that these compounds are derivatives of vitamin A? Topical forms of vitamin A come in several forms and can be used in different ways. Let’s take a look at the various forms of vitamin A, vitamin A benefits for skin, sources of vitamin A, if you should take vitamin A supplements and the associated risks.

While there is some great research on the benefits of retinol and retinoids for skin health, there are also some well-known side effects and concerns with using them. This blog will cover everything you need to know about vitamin A for the skin and how Mitopure® is a gentler but highly effective alternative.

Urolithin A as a retinol alternative

Mitopure®, a highly pure form of the Urolithin A compound, has recently surfaced as a longevity-promoting molecule that can target skin health and aging at the cellular level.^[1]

Mitopure works by re-energizing the cellular “powerplants” and helps to combat both the internal and external factors that cause the skin to age. It is clinically proven to promote collagen organization and assembly, resulting in visible improvements in wrinkle depth and volume after just two weeks. ^[2]And unlike retinol and retinoids, Mitopure makes the skin more resilient to the damaging effects of the sun.

Mitopure will not irritate the skin as vitamin A derivatives do. Clinical studies found no issues with irritation or sensitization to Urolithin A.^[3] This makes it a safer and gentler alternative to retinol and retinoids while still achieving the remarkable skin-boosting benefits one associates with vitamin A.

Read on to learn more about the benefits and frustrating side effects of vitamin A for the skin.

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What is vitamin A?

Vitamin A refers to a family of fat-soluble molecules called retinoids. These molecules are essential to various metabolic processes in the human body. Retinoids are known to strengthen vision, support the immune system, improve reproductive function, enable deep sleep, and promote overall longevity!^[4]

Retinol vs retinoid

Vitamin A is defined as a group of retinoids. Some of these retinoids are in their active form, and some are in their inactive form. Retinoic acid is an active retinoid, and retinol is an inactive retinoid. Retinoic acid is far more potent because it is already in its active, processed form. Retinol is more well-known but is a milder derivative of vitamin A.^[5]

Vitamin A benefits for skin

Getting enough vitamin A in the diet is essential for good skin. However, topical vitamin A is also used as an active ingredient in skin care to address several concerns, such as acne,^[6] wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It can also be used to promote skin health and longevity.^[7] Let’s take a look at retinoid and retinol benefits.

#1: Cell renewal

Out with the old and in with the new! Cell renewal promotes a healthy skin appearance and even diminishes fine lines, scars, and hyperpigmentation.

Retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A, is key to promoting cell turnover. There are specific receptors on skin cells in the epidermal layer, the outermost layer of the skin. Retinoic acid binds to these receptors to regulate cell proliferation and death. Cell proliferation allows for fresh, new cells in the epidermis. This thickens the epidermis improving skin resilience and appearance.^[8]

#2: Collagen synthesis

Vitamin A works deep in the skin, past the epidermis, in the dermal layer. It stimulates fibroblasts, cells responsible for producing collagen. Collagen is a key structural protein to overall skin health and function.

It strengthens the skin’s epidermal layer; this makes the epidermis more effective at locking moisture into the skin and keeping pathogens out. Collagen not only leads to a more resilient skin barrier but can also improve skin appearance by tightening pores, maintaining skin hydration, and combatting sagging and wrinkling. It also repairs sun-damaged skin.

#3: Sebum regulation

Sebum is an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. High sebum production can lead to skin conditions such as acne, while low sebum production can result in dry, easily irritated skin. Topical and oral retinoids are known to reduce sebaceous gland activity.^[9]

Sebaceous glands contain specialized cells called sebocytes, responsible for the production of sebum. Retinoic acid inhibits sebocyte production, preventing sebum overproduction. Vitamin A is also an antioxidant, and studies have shown that people with higher levels of vitamin A in their plasma have a lower incidence of acne^[10]. In fact, vitamin A derivatives such as tretinoin and isotretinoin (i.e., Accutane) are specifically tailored to address oily, acne-prone skin. 

Best practices for using vitamin A for longevity

Like other vitamins, vitamin A is an essential nutrient for health, longevity, and skin function. (Read more about vitamins for longevity here!) While it’s critical to get enough vitamin A in the diet for skin health, using topical vitamin A in addition to a well-balanced diet can provide more benefits to the skin.

Foods that are rich in vitamin A

Eating foods high in vitamin A or precursors to the vitamin can promote cellular health and well-being. It has multiple functions including the maintenance of healthy skin.^[11] A few good sources of vitamin A include:

1. Liver & salmon. Animal liver and fatty fish such as salmon are rich in retinol.
2. Eggs. Egg yolk contains retinol.
3. Sweet potatoes & mangoes. These foods are rich in beta-carotene, a pigment that converts to retinol.
4. Carrots & spinach. Carrots and spinach are also rich in the beta-carotene pigment, producing retinol.

Vitamin A supplements

If you eat a well-balanced diet, you are likely getting enough vitamin A through food. Vitamin A is fat-soluble, meaning your body stores it, so it can build up to dangerous levels if taken in excess. ^[12]If you are concerned about your intake of vitamin A in your diet, it’s best to talk with your healthcare provider about what form and how much would be best for you.

Topical vitamin A

Many people use topical forms of vitamin A for the benefits to their skin. When applied directly to the skin, it can improve skin texture, help clear up acne, reduce hyperpigmentation, and enhance overall skin appearance. There are many over-the-counter and prescription options that are available.

Best practices for using vitamin A products for skin

Vitamin A skin benefits are scientifically backed. However, results may take weeks to months to appear, so it’s important to be patient and consistent. There are also notable side effects when using retinol and retinoids topically.

Here are some things to keep in mind when starting your vitamin A journey.

When should I use vitamin A?

Retinoids should be a part of your nighttime skin routine. While you sleep, the skin undergoes a natural regeneration process and is more receptive to the benefits of retinoids. Retinoids also increase sun sensitivity; nighttime application helps avoid strong sun exposure after use.^[13]

What are some risks?

Here are a few risks associated with the topical application of retinoids.

1. Dryness and irritation. Topical application can cause dryness, scaling, and even burning in some individuals. The level of irritation appears to depend on the form of vitamin A.^[14]
2. Avoid certain ingredients. Some ingredients can deactivate certain forms of vitamin A, such as benzoyl peroxide, which is typically used to treat acne. ^[15]Talk to your dermatologist about which forms of topical A fit best into your skin routine.
3. Sun sensitivity. Retinoids can increase skin sun sensitivity. Make sure to apply sunscreen daily while using retinoid products.
4. Risks to pregnant and nursing mothers. High doses of vitamin A (both in the diet and topically) can be dangerous for a fetus. Consult your healthcare practitioner before using either a dietary or topical form of vitamin A while pregnant.^[16]

Alternative skincare products

Although retinoids are considered highly effective, they still carry risks, especially for sensitive skin. Alternate skincare ingredients can also soften wrinkles, improve skin texture, and promote skin longevity with as much efficacy as vitamin A. These ingredients are much gentler than retinoids and safe for sensitive skin. (Read more about avoiding harsh skincare ingredients here!)

Final words

In the realm of skincare, understanding the balance between efficacy and gentleness is key. Vitamin A, in its various forms, has long been celebrated for its transformative effects on skin health, offering a pathway to rejuvenation and longevity. While the effect of vitamin A can’t be denied, too many people find that they cannot tolerate the side effects.

The emergence of Timeline’s Skin Health line introduces a novel approach, harnessing the power of Urolithin A to energize skin cells without the harsh side effects associated with traditional vitamin A derivatives. Mitopure® stands out as a testament to the evolving understanding of what it means to truly care for our skin, offering a promising horizon for those seeking the benefits of vitamin A without compromise.

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