25/03/2026
Not all vitamin A works in the same way!
Vitamin A is often spoken about as one ingredient, but there are important differences in how it works in the skin.
Over-the-counter forms, such as retinol, need to be converted within the skin into their active form. During this process, the amount of active vitamin A available to the skin is reduced, meaning the overall effect is more gradual and can vary from person to person.
More active forms of vitamin A are available on prescription. These are already in a form the skin can use more directly, and are therefore used in a more structured way under clinical supervision.
Because of this, there can be differences in how quickly the skin responds, how predictable the response is and how the skin tolerates treatment
This is why vitamin A should not be approached as a one size fits all product.
If you would like guidance on what approach is appropriate for your skin you can book a consultation using the link in my bio
