If you follow a skincare routine, you’ve probably heard of retinol. Also known as vitamin A, it is arguably the most popular and effective anti-aging ingredient. The only problem is that retinol has some side effects, especially if you have sensitive skin. Fortunately, there is a milder but equally effective alternative drug, retinyl palmitate.
Sometimes called Vitamin A Palmitate, it’s the least potent retinoid. For those with extremely sensitive skin who want to experience the benefits of retinol in their skin care routine without the irritation, it’s a solid option. To learn more, we consulted dermatologists Mona Gohara, MD, and Azadeh Shirazi, MD, as well as aesthetician Shani Darden.
Meet Our Experts
- Dr. Mona Gohara is a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut.
- Shani Darden is a celebrity esthetician and founder of her own eponymous skin care line.
- Azadeh Shirazi, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of La Jolla Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center.
Below, we explain what makes retinyl palmitate such a special ingredient, why it’s the best retinoid for sensitive skin, and how to use it in your skincare routine.
What is retinyl palmitate?
There are four types of retinoids commonly used in skin care, all of which are derivatives of vitamin A. Retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin) is the strongest retinoid and is only available by prescription. At the other end of the spectrum is retinyl palmitate, the weakest retinoid, which is available in over-the-counter products.
“When retinyl palmitate is absorbed into the skin, it is converted to retinoic acid by enzymes,” explains Dr. Gohara. This process is not direct, so it may take some time to see results when using retinyl palmitate.
Skin benefits
Despite the fact that retinyl palmitate is milder, it can improve the same skin care issues as retinol. “Retinyl palmitate increases collagen in the skin, minimizing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and smoothing skin texture,” says Darden.
Retinyl palmitate eliminates various skin care concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin, and age spots. It also promotes the production of collagen, a protein that keeps skin firm and smooth. ” [retinyl palmitate] “It accelerates cell turnover by generating new skin cells to replace old or damaged ones, resulting in a smoother, more even texture,” Dr. Shirazi explains. “It also works in the deeper layers of the skin to stimulate collagen production and fight wrinkles.”
Celebrity esthetician Shani Darden
Gentler retinoids like retinyl palmitate are effective and although they work slower, they still provide results.
—Shani Darden, Celebrity Esthetician
Dr. Shirazi says the effects of retinyl palmitate products typically begin to appear in four to six weeks. However, to reap long-term benefits, it’s best to be consistent. “In general, retinoids provide the greatest benefit when used long-term, so it’s worth sticking with them,” Darden added.
Retinol and retinyl palmitate
“These are both retinoids, which means they are converted within the skin to retinoic acid, which is the most active and effective form,” explains Dr. Silji. Dermatologists liken retinoic acid to espresso and retinyl palmitate to green tea.
“Retinol only goes through one conversion step to become retinoic acid, whereas retinyl palmitate goes through three steps,” she says. “Retinyl palmitate is the weakest version, but it’s also the least irritating, so it’s a better option for people new to retinoids or those with sensitive skin.”
How to use retinyl palmitate
Although retinyl palmitate is mild, we recommend introducing it slowly into your skin care routine. “It’s best to start with one night a week and slowly increase by adding just one night each week,” Darden suggests. “Increase as much as your skin can tolerate. If you notice a little irritation or dryness, taper off from there.” Some people can use retinyl palmitate every night, but he can only use it three times a week. Some people. “Really, it depends on your skin and how well it tolerates it,” says Darden.
Like other retinoids, it’s best to incorporate retinyl palmitate into your nighttime skin care routine. Apply a pea-sized amount of the product to clean skin before applying your moisturizer, says Dr. Gohara. If you need extra hydration, use a hyaluronic acid serum before using your moisturizer.
Darden also recommends using a vitamin C serum in the morning to give your skin an antioxidant boost during the day.
Vitamin A can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s important to wear sunscreen when using any type of retinoid.
side effects
Because retinyl palmitate is so gentle, side effects like itching, redness, or peeling are rare and minimal if they occur. If you have extremely sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea or eczema, it is best to use retinyl palmitate with caution or avoid its use altogether to avoid irritation.
Best Skin Care Products with Retinyl Palmitate
L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Eye Treatment
In addition to retinyl palmitate, this eye cream contains vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. Together, these ingredients moisturize, brighten, and firm the entire eye area.
Derma E Anti-Wrinkle Renewal Cream
Retinyl palmitate is effective against fine lines and wrinkles, while the cream’s vitamin E, alenthone and pantheon nourish the skin, making it soft and smooth. Even better, this is a very affordable option.
Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Capsule Daily Youth Restoring Serum
Retinyl palmitate can be used with ceramides, which strengthen the skin barrier, to minimize the risk of irritation. These single-serve capsules mean you won’t waste any extra product. Plus, it’s TSA compatible and perfect for travel.
Murad Hydrodynamic Ultimate Moisture
Provided by Murad
Vitamin A and dry skin seem to be directly linked to redness and inflammation. But Murad’s rich moisturizer is an exception. Specially formulated for extremely dry skin, it contains nourishing avocado, sunflower, olive fruit oil and shea butter. These moisturizing ingredients act like a retinyl palmitate cushion that tightens the skin.
Retrove Revitalizing Eye Concentrate Skin Hydrator
Using retinol around the eyes is effective at treating wrinkles, crow’s feet, and dark circles, but the ingredient can be irritating when used on this area of the face, which is why Retrouvé Eye Cream with Retinyl Palmitate is a great option for those looking for anti-aging benefits.
