Products That Contain Retinol

Retinol is a form of vitamin A. In the body, it helps with vision, fights off infection, and aids in the development of a fetus during pregnancy. Retinol is found in many products, from food to cosmetics. Though retinol plays a role in many biological processes, too much may be harmful. Toxicity is especially dangerous in pregnant women, for whom too much retinol can cause birth defects.

Retinol in Food

• Retinol is found in foods that come from animals. The list of high-retinol foods include milk products, eggs and liver. Some cereals are also fortified with retinol. Daily multivitamins are also usually fortified with vitamin A in the form of retinol.

Retinol in Cosmetics

• Retinol is found in prescription and over-the-counter cosmetics, though in these products it is sometimes simply referred to vitamin A. According to a study conducted by Dr. Reza Kafi of Standford University School of Medicine, topical treatment with retinol can reduce the appearance of fine lines due to aging. The study points to increased collagen production and water retention as reasons the skin smooths with retinol treatment.

Retinol in Medication

• According the the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, vitamin A retinoids have been shown to be effective in reducing the growth of cancers such as lung and breast cancer. It is already used as a treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia. Retinol is has also been shown to slow the progress of retinitis pigmentosa, a disorder which causes the loss of rods and cones, the photoreceptors in the eye.

  Retinol and other vitamin A retinoids are also found in oral products, such as Accutane, used to treat acne.