Vitamin A deficiency has long been associated with impaired vision, leading to its discovery. As early as ancient Egypt and Greece, as well as during the Middle Ages, animal liver (which has the highest deposit of vitamin A) was used to treat "night blindness." In 1912, Frederik G. Hopkins discovered a new component in milk that was neither fat, protein, nor carbohydrates, which would soon be named vitamin A. In 1943, the first study on the use of retinoic acid in acne treatment was published, followed by years of research that confirmed many benefits of applying retinol to the skin. By the early 1990s, a study confirmed the effectiveness of retinoic acid in combating premature skin aging.

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Vitamin A, as we know, is essential for our body for healthy vision, bone growth, and a strong immune system. However, what we sometimes forget is that our body does not produce it naturally, making it crucial to consume certain forms to ensure we get the minimum required doses. Unfortunately, our skin is the last organ to receive the vitamins we intake, so relying solely on diet won't provide enough vitamin A for the skin. Thus, topical application is the best way to enable the health and anti-aging benefits that vitamin A offers.

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"As a derivative of vitamin A," explains dermatologist Dr. Jasmina Kozarev, "it is most commonly used as an anti-aging agent to slow down signs of skin aging. Retinol reduces the appearance of wrinkles and positively affects skin pigmentation, preventing acne formation. It also stimulates collagen production, which helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles."

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However, by the end of the last millennium, it was noted that retinoic acid sometimes increased skin irritation and sensitivity. This is when retinol enters the picture.

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What is Retinol?

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Today, retinoids are commonly used in two forms: retinoic acid and retinol. Retinoic acid is available only by prescription and is usually used to treat acne. On the other hand, retinol is a common ingredient in cosmetic products used to treat fine lines and wrinkles. Various forms of vitamin A can be found under the name retinoids (which is a collective term for all retinol forms), retinoic acid, or tretinoin (the strongest form), derivatives of retinoic acid, retinyl palmitate (the mildest form), and retinaldehyde.

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It is important to understand that retinol is not a magic wand that will provide instant results. To show its full effect, it requires at least six to eight weeks of use. Some dermatologists, based on their practice, claim this period can be longer—up to 12 weeks.

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What is certain is that spring is the ideal time to start using products containing retinol. It is best and safest to determine the method and rhythm of application with a dermatologist to avoid side effects that some skin types are prone to (irritations, including redness and dryness).

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Considering the potential side effects for certain skin types, Dr. Jasmina Kozarev, as an experienced dermatologist, has formulated a unique product called Retinall + Phyto Hyaluron Gel. This is the only product on the market that contains high-concentration retinol but also includes an effective component that reduces irritability. There is no facial redness regardless of how the product is used. This booster is ideal for areas with a higher number of wrinkles. Retinall + Phyto Hyaluron Gel improves collagen production and prevents its breakdown. The skin becomes firmer, fresher, and more elastic with fewer fine lines and wrinkles. Retinall gel accelerates the skin cell regeneration cycle, creating a smooth and even complexion. It reduces hyperpigmentation and brightens the skin while simultaneously hydrating and providing protective effects. Retinall gel is applied at night because sunlight can diminish its effectiveness.