What is Retinoids?

Retinoids are the vitamin A family of skincare actives. From weakest to strongest: retinyl palmitate → retinol → retinaldehyde → tretinoin (retinoic acid). Each form converts to retinoic acid in skin — the ultimate active form — via 1–3 enzymatic steps. Retinoids are the gold-standard anti-aging and anti-acne topical active, with decades of clinical evidence. ALL retinoids are contraindicated in pregnancy. Start low (retinol 0.2–0.5%), use 2–3 nights/week, build up slowly.