The active ingredient in many acne treatments derived from vitamin A is a retinoid. Retinoids are compounds related to vitamin A that influence how skin cells grow and shed, helping prevent clogged pores and reduce the formation of new acne lesions.
Common topical retinoids include tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene. Adapalene is widely available in nonprescription acne products in some countries, while tretinoin and tazarotene are commonly prescribed. These medicines can also help improve uneven texture and pigmentation left after acne, although their primary acne benefit comes from regulating pore blockage and inflammation.
Retinoids are often confused with benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. Those ingredients can also treat acne, but they are not vitamin A derivatives: benzoyl peroxide helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and oxidizes debris, while salicylic acid is a beta-hydroxy acid that helps exfoliate inside pores. Vitamin C belongs to a different group of skincare ingredients altogether.
Retinoids may cause dryness, peeling, redness, or increased sensitivity when treatment begins, so gradual use and moisturizer are common practical measures. Because some retinoid medicines require special pregnancy precautions, medical advice is important when choosing or using them.