retinoic acid

noun

ret·​i·​no·​ic acid ˌre-tə-ˈnō-ik- 

: either of two isomers of an acid C₂₀H₂₈O₂ derived from vitamin A and used in the treatment of acne:

a

: tretinoin

b

: isotretinoin

Examples of retinoic acid in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Because of its lower concentration of retinoic acid, retinol doesn’t require a prescription, and is a popular choice for line-smoothing moisturizers such as Philosophy’s new cream. —Jackie Fields, People.com, 1 Oct. 2024

Clinically tested on sensitive skin, the product is formulated with soothing bisabolol and oat, as well as a retinol complex that’s infused with the anti-aging, retinoic acid ester HPR. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Sep. 2024

Retinol can commonly be found in over-the-counter skincare products (no prescription necessary), while prescription retinoids like Tretinoin contain retinoic acid, a more active retinoid with a higher potential to irritate the skin, especially for new users. —Cai Cramer, Peoplemag, 8 Aug. 2024

To be clear, retinoid is the general term for the group of molecules that react with retinoic acid receptors on the skin to address age spots, texture, and wrinkles. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 24 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

retinoic acid

noun

ret·​i·​no·​ic acid ˌret-ᵊn-ˌō-ik- 

: either of two isomers of an acid C₂₀H₂₈O₂ derived from vitamin A and used especially in the treatment of acne:

a

or all-trans-retinoic acid : tretinoin

b

or 13-cis-retinoic acid : isotretinoin