retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈre-tə-ˌnȯl 

-ˌnōl

: the chief and typical vitamin A C₂₀H₂₉OH that is a highly unsaturated alicyclic alcohol used in various forms in medicine and nutrition

Examples of retinol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Kate Somerville’s rich and creamy formulation, aimed at firming and brightening the skin, contains 100% pure retinol that’s encapsulated in volcanic soil. —Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2024

Nighttime routines used to consist of cleansing your face, putting on a basic retinol, and finishing with a generous slathering of Pond's Cream. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 28 Oct. 2024

Introduce this cream into your evening skincare routine, and the retinol will assist with skin renewal and collagen production overnight. —Felicity Carter, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

The key ingredients in this lightweight formula are retinal (a more effective form of retinol that's also gentler on skin), ginseng, and niacinamide to smooth fine lines, boost elasticity, and brighten your undereye area. —Annie Blackman, Allure, 10 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

retin- + -ol entry 1; from its being the source of retinal

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl 

-ˌōl

: the most common form of vitamin A

Medical Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl  -ˌōl 

: vitamin a sense a