5 reasons why you should start using vitamin A

If you have an interest in skin care, then you already know that vitamin A is the gold standard. 

Unlike newer and trendier ingredients, the benefits of vitamin A have been widely researched. However, most traditional forms of vitamin A (read: retinol) also come with a well-publicised list of side effects like purging and dryness — even if you are using them correctly. 

So it's easy to understand why many people are simply far too nervous to try the ingredient for themselves, regardless of it's so-called benefits.

Which is why we decided to ask a cohort of skin experts — April Brodie (Integrated Facialist), James Vivian (Dermal Therapist and Founder of Viviology), Dr Joseph Hkeik (Cosmetic Doctor, Founder of All Saint Clinic, and Co-Founder of Lana Banana Skincare), and Lana Sayah (Co-Founder of Lana Banana Skincare) — for their reasons why it's worth the hassle. 

5 reasons why you should start using vitamin A

1/ It’s the ultimate multi-tasker

"Vitamin A is one of the most well-researched and effective ingredients in skincare, and for good reason," James Vivian explains. "It helps to normalise oil flow, improve texture, support collagen production, and reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone. Think of it as your all-rounder for skin clarity and resilience."

2/ It works preventatively and correctively

"I love that Vitamin A is just as powerful for prevention as it is for correction," Vivian tells BEAUTYcrew. "Whether you're addressing early signs of ageing, sun damage or breakouts, or simply want to future-proof your skin, it's one of the smartest ingredients you can introduce."

"You don’t need to wait until your forties to start thinking about ageing," agrees Lana Sayah, who says the ingredient helps your skin stay firm, bouncy, and smooth over time.

Vitamin A is like your skin’s personal trainer, constantly revealing fresher, smoother skin, she explains.

"If you’re dealing with dullness, breakouts, or those little post-pimple marks, this is your go-to," she went on to say. "It keeps pores clear and reduces excess oil, making your skin look clearer and more even without over-drying it."

3/ It's a necessary step for glass skin

Vitamin A is one of the most studied and results-driven ingredients in aesthetic medicine, says Dr Joseph Hkeik. "It plays a critical role in accelerating cell turnover, helping to fade pigmentation, smooth texture, and restore vibrancy to the skin," he explains.

While April Brodie claims it’s incredibly effective at reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time by stimulating collagen production.

"It leaves the skin feeling smoother, firmer, and more youthful," she tells BEAUTYcrew. "It can fade dark spots, reduce hyperpigmentation, and even out skin tone. It’s not just about how your skin looks, it also improves how it feels, making it softer and more refined."

4/ It strengthens skin from within

Vitamin A encourages healthier, more efficient skin renewal, Vivian tells us. "Over time, this helps to improve barrier function, reduce congestion and create a stronger, more balanced complexion," he explains.

"It helps the skin shed old, dull cells and bring fresh, new ones to the surface—essential for that healthy, radiant glow," agrees April Brodie. And according to Dr Hkeik it's proven to stimulate fibroblasts (the cells responsible for collagen production), which can lead to firmer, thicker, more resilient skin over time.

5/ It can be used in a clinical environment and as part of your at-home routine

"At All Saint Clinic, we often complement topical Vitamin A with medical-grade peels or laser resurfacing to enhance that renewal process, especially for patients with sun damage or uneven tone," explains Hkeik. "These modalities work synergistically to support skin density, tone, and elasticity."

"For our patients struggling with breakouts or textural irregularities, we often use LED therapy and hydrating facial treatments, alongside medical-grade retinoid products to calm the skin, clear debris, and promote healing without stripping it,” he explains.

Main image credit: @victoriabaron

Now that you're educated on all things vitamin A you're ready to try retinol sandwiching, and shop around for some retinol skin care products, retinal, and even retinol alternatives for sensitive skin.