What is Pro-Retinol and why use it

What is Pro-retinol?

Pro-retinol is a derivative of vitamin A trademarked by the cosmetic company L’Oreal. Pro-retinol is used as the main ingredient in topical anti-aging and wrinkle diminishing moisturizers and creams from L’Oreal.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology (1), retinol is a derivative of vitamin A that works by unclogging pores which made the skin appear more radiant and brighter.


The University of Michigan made a study back in 2007, which showed that retinol (the main ingredient in Pro-retinol) smooth wrinkles and fine lines due to the aging process.

In general terms, Vitamin A is mainly referred to as retinol, so most people know retinol as Vitamin A.
The human body can convert retinol into retinoic acid and the active form of retinol is retinoic acid.
Pro-retinol in skincare includes certain molecules. These molecules like retinaldehyde and retinyl esters are typically the main difference between retinol and Pro-retinol.
Pro-retinol is often referred to as Retinyl Propionate on product labels etc.
By using the patented word “Pro-retinol“, many cosmetic products often use this name to indicate the product’s potential to form retinoic acid.

Pro-retinol can only (as noted at the top of the text) be found in L’Oreal products, like “advanced Revitalift”. Retinol can be found in many different over-the-counter skincare products and prescription skincare products.

What is Pro-Retinol and why to use it – Benefits.

Pro-retinol includes skin regenerating and anti-age properties. Pro-retinol has also shown to improve skin moisture levels and faster regeneration of collagen.
Retinol and Pro-retinol is an antioxidant and retinol can be absorbed through your skin.
Pro-retinol and Retinol helps improve the production of collagen according to The University of Michigan
The University of Michigan claims that retinol and pro-retinol can make your skin less vulnerable to injury and enhancing its elasticity.

What is Pro-Retinol and why use it – References

American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.aad.org/