Vitamin A (Retinol family) sits in the vitamin a derivative category, but the reason it works is specific. See retinol, retinaldehyde, tretinoin, retinyl palmitate, bakuchiol entries.
The scientific name is See Retinol, Retinal, Tretinoin. See retinol, retinaldehyde, tretinoin, retinyl palmitate, bakuchiol entries. This mechanism is consistent across properly formulated products, which means the real variable is concentration and delivery system.
Typical working concentration is varies by form. Best suited to all skin types (varies by form) skin. Primary applications: anti-aging, acne, brightening, texture – see specific forms.
Works well with: Niacinamide, ceramides, peptides. Avoid combining with: AHAs/BHAs (same step), benzoyl peroxide.
Umbrella entry – see individual vitamin A derivative entries.