5 Best Esthetician-Approved Vitamin A Serums Of 2024

Fight the signs of aging with this wonder ingredient in your beauty regimen.

Reviewed by Olunife Ofomata, Licensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist Olunife Ofomata Olunife OfomataLicensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist linkedin_iconyoutube_icon
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach Shiboli Chakraborti MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 4 years
Edited by Krati Darak, MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach Krati Darak MBA, Certified Skin Care Coach linkedin_icon Experience: 3 years
Fact-checked by Medha Deb, Integrated MA Medha Deb Integrated MA linkedin_icon Experience: 5 years
Last Updated on
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Look for a powerful substance that can both fight the aging signs on your skin, and you will find Vitamin A as the answer. Some of the best Vitamin A serums can even prevent signs of aging from occurring. Due to Vitamin A aka Retinol’s clinical backing by different studies, it is used in some of the most advanced skin-care formulations targeting anti-aging (1,2,3). Retinols are potent formulas with high effectiveness and bioavailability. Use of retinol or Vitamin A serums can benefit your skin greatly by helping to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, and dark spots with more effectiveness and speed. Although, direct use of this active ingredient, Vitamin A, can harshly affect the skin, which is why moisturizing agents are added to it to make it usable for people with sensitive skin. These products are a must have in your skin care routine as they have received positive reviews from users. Check out our list of the best 5 Vitamin A serums and choose one for yourself.

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Overall: Eva Naturals Retinol 2.5% Anti-Wrinkle Skin Firming SerumPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For Sensitive Skin: TruSkin Retinol 2.5% + E & Hyaluronic Acid SerumPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best Anti-Aging: Mad Hippie Vitamin A SerumPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart
Best For All Skin Types: Skincare LdeL Cosmetics RetinolPrice on Amazon
Best Against Hyperpigmentation: Sweet Chef Beet + Vitamin A Serum ShotPrice on AmazonPrice on Walmart

5 Best Vitamin A Serums Available Right Now

1. Best Overall: Eva Naturals Retinol 2.5% Anti-Wrinkle Skin Firming Serum

Eva Naturals Retinol 2.5% Anti-Wrinkle Skin Firming Serum is powerful and effective for fighting the signs of aging such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, sagging skin, and dullness. The results-driven formula contains 2.5% retinol that boosts natural collagen production and skin cell turnover while eliminating dead skin cells. It also improves skin elasticity and firmness. Hydrating and moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, and vitamin E nourish the skin and have a skin plumping effect. The antioxidant and astringent properties of green tea and witch hazel protect the skin from free radical and sun damage.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 5 inches | Weight: 3.2 Ounces

Key Ingredients

  • Vitamin E oil
  • Jojoba oil
  • Witch hazel
  • Green tea
  • Hyaluronic acid

Pros

  • Natural ingredients
  • Fights fine lines and wrinkles
  • Reduces inflammation
  • Improves complexion
  • Moisturizes the skin
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Watery formula

Our Tester's Experience

"This has been a game changer for my skin health. It has smoothed out fine lines, made my skin tone even, and firmed the skin. It has a fast-absorbing nature and works fine on my oily skin."


protip_icon Pro Tip
Cleanse your face with the Eva Naturals Bee Clean Hydrating Foaming Cleanser before applying the serum to achieve clean and moisturized skin.

2. Best For Sensitive Skin: TruSkin Retinol 2.5% + E & Hyaluronic Acid Serum

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4.3
TruSkin Retinol Serum for Wrinkles & Fine Lines Image: Truskin Naturals

TruSkin Retinol 2.5% + E & Hyaluronic Acid Serum is lightweight and effective. All the natural ingredients in it are derived from plants. It is also free from parabens, corn, soy, etc. Thus, it can be used by people with sensitive skin. This clinically-tested serum consists of a synergistic blend of skin care ingredients such as vitamin A, green tea extract, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and organic aloe vera that helps in skin rejuvenation. This potent anti-aging serum replenishes the moisture levels of the skin, lightens pigmentation, and soothes inflammation. Adding this product in your skin care routine will help with skin repair, while reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

Skin Type: Sensitive.

Key Ingredients

  • Organic aloe vera
  • Botanical hyaluronic acid
  • Vitamin E
  • Organic green tea extract

Pros

  • Reduces pigmentation
  • Dermatologist-tested
  • Hydrates the skin
  • Lightweight
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Vegan

Cons

  • Sticky formula

protip_icon Quick Tip
Apply 2-3 drops of this serum to your face and gently pat it for 2-3 minutes. Follow up with the Tru Skin Retinol Moisturizer to achieve firm and smooth skin.

3. Best Anti-Aging: Mad Hippie Vitamin A Serum

Mad Hippe skin care products are all-natural and eco-conscious. Their Vitamin A Serum uses highly effective derivatives of active retinol and hyaluronic acid such as HPR (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) and Sodium Hyaluronate that penetrate deep into the skin. This serum also contains alpha-lipoic acid and phytoceramides that aid gentle exfoliation, reverse damage to the skin barrier, and replenish moisture in the skin. Thus, it helps your skin look brighter, plumper, and healthier. The oat beta-glucan and aloe extracts fight inflammation and soothe the skin. This potent vitamin A serum helps in fighting wrinkles and tightening the skin to make you look youthful and radiant. Perform a patch test before committing to this product, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Skin Type: All | Product Dimensions: 1.6 x 1.6 x 4.3 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Key Ingredients

  • Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (Vitamin A derivative)
  • Phytoceramide
  • Oat beta-glucan
  • Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic acid derivative)

Pros

  • Tightens the skin
  • Soothes inflammation
  • Penetrates deep into the skin
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • All-natural
  • Cruelty-free
  • GMO-free

Cons

  • May cause breakouts initially

Our Tester's Experience

"This serum has become a staple in my skin care routine. It's gentle on my sensitive skin and has contributed to the overall smoothness of my skin. It's a good product that offers noticeable improvements on a budget."


Eva Naturals Retinol 2.5% Anti-Wrinkle Skin Firming Serum
Best Overall
TruSkin Retinol 2.5% + E & Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Best For Sensitive Skin
Mad Hippie Vitamin A Serum
Best Anti-Aging
Skin Type All Sensitive. All
Dimensions 1.5 x 1.5 x 5 inches- 1.6 x 1.6 x 4.3 inches
Weight 3.2 Ounces- 1.6 Ounces
Rating
Reviews10,2615,0301,804
Price$14.99$19.99$26.39

4. Best For All Skin Types:Skincare LdeL Cosmetics Retinol

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4.5
Skincare LdeL Cosmetics Retinol Image: Skincare Ldel Cosmetics Retinol

The Skincare LdeL Cosmetics Retinol has a powerful formula that helps to improve the appearance of scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging. This wrinkle reduction serum is formulated with 500,000 IU of potent vitamin A, also known as retinol, that improves skin texture for a smoother, younger-looking skin. The formula is designed to visibly firm and tone the skin for a more youthful appearance with clean skin. It has been clinically proven to be as effective as more expensive products, making it a cost-effective solution for those with dry skin or looking for an anti-aging serum.

Skin Type: Dry | Product Dimensions: 6 x 5 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.6 Ounces

Key Ingredients

  • Vitamin A concentrate
  • Aloe vera

Pros

  • Mild scent
  • Safe and tested formula
  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • None

Our Tester's Experience

"This facial serum gave me smoother, softer skin, and has also tackled fine lines and dark circles. It has improved my skin texture and reduced acne. It absorbs easily and offers visible skin clarity with continued use."


5. Best Against Hyperpigmentation: Sweet Chef Beet + Vitamin A Serum Shot

Sweet Chef Beet + Vitamin A Serum Shot is infused with powerful antioxidants, multivitamins, and nutrients from the extracts of seaberry and beetroot. This anti-aging serum helps in getting an even skin tone and texture by refining pore size and smoothing the skin. It also addresses the specific needs of oily skin, such as acne and excess oiliness. Omega fatty acids and retinol nourish and rejuvenate dull skin to make it look healthy and beautiful, while also reducing blemishes. This serum is free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, alcohols, and artificial dyes.

Skin Type: Oily, Combination, Sensitive, Dry, Normal | Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: 3.21 Ounces.

Key Ingredients

  • Beetroot extract
  • Seaberry fruit extract
  • Vitamin A

Pros

  • Smoothens the skin
  • Reduces hyperpigmentation
  • Improves the skin tone
  • Reduces enlarged pores
  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • No synthetic dyes

Cons

  • May cause mild irritation

Our Tester's Experience

"This works nicely on my sensitive skin. It's a breeze to apply and absorbs quickly without any irritation. It visibly brightened my complexion too. The lightweight formula also works nicely with moisturizers for a hydration boost."


*The prices provided in this article are based on the latest available information. However, they may vary due to changes in pricing by the seller and/or promotional offers.

Infographic: Tips To Include Vitamin A Serum In Your Skin Care Routine

Vitamin A serum is celebrated for its potent anti-aging properties. It is like a gold standard of skin care, but stuffing it up on your skin without any cautionary steps can be perilous. Numerous skin flaking and peeling cases are associated with the improper usage of vitamin A. The infographic below will offer a quick look into the various tips to be remembered while applying a vitamin A serum. Scroll down to keep your skin safe!

Tips To Include Vitamin A Serum In Your Skin Care Routine (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

The Bottom Line

Vitamin A serums can offer visible results by keeping the premature signs of aging at bay! These serums are affordable options that can effectively reduce dark spots, patches, and wrinkles while moisturizing your skin to its very core. Vitamin A serums can also help in improving the firmness of your skin while boosting blood circulation, making them ideal for mature skin. The Eva Naturals Retinol 2.5% Anti-Wrinkle Skin Firming Serum improves cell turnover and boosts collagen, while the TruSkin Retinol 2.5% + E & Hyaluronic Acid Serum improves pigmentation and soothes irritated skin. If you are new to retinol products, then try the Sweet Chef Beet + Vitamin A Serum Shot for a gentler approach suitable for rejuvenating dull, sensitive skin. The natural ingredients in these serums protect the skin against sun damage and UV rays. However, while choosing the best vitamin A serum to add in your evening skin care routine, you should select the ones that also reduce inflammation and acne flare ups and improve your complexion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is vitamin A serum the same as retinol?

No, retinol is a vitamin A derivative.

What does vitamin A serum do for your skin?

Vitamin A serum reduces signs of aging, visibility of pores and pigmentation, and thickens the dermis for healthy skin.

Can you use vitamin A serum while pregnant and breastfeeding?

No. It is recommended to avoid vitamin A serum while pregnant and breastfeeding.

Can I use vitamin A serum every day?

Begin with twice a week and once your skin grows tolerance for it, proceed to use every alternate night.

How long does it take to see results from vitamin A serum?

It takes roughly three months for vitamin A serum to show visible and lasting results.

Does vitamin A serum help acne?

Yes, vitamin A is an antioxidant-rich serum that prevents cell damage and reduces acne breakouts and acne scars.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shiboli Chakraborti is a certified skin care coach who has expertise in reviewing and recommending the best products for your skin. She has prepared this list of the best vitamin A serums after thoroughly checking the product formulations and understanding their suitability for different skin types. She has also checked user feedback and reviews to understand the efficacy of each product before recommending them to you.

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Varani, James, et al. “Vitamin A Antagonizes Decreased Cell Growth and Elevated Collagen-Degrading Matrix Metalloproteinases and Stimulates Collagen Accumulation in Naturally Aged Human Skin1.” Journal of Investigative Dermatology, vol. 114, no. 3, Mar. 2000, pp. 480–486‌
    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022202X15407985
  2. Kafi, Reza, et al. “Improvement of Naturally Aged Skin With Vitamin A (Retinol).” Archives of Dermatology, vol. 143, no. 5, 1 May 2007‌
    https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/article-abstract/412795
  3. Bhawan MD, Jag. “Short- and Long-Term Histologic Effects of Topical Tretinoin on Photodamaged Skin.” International Journal of Dermatology, vol. 37, no. 4, Apr. 1998, pp. 286–292‌
    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1365-4362.1998.00433.x
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Olunife Ofomata
Olunife OfomataLicensed Esthetician & Makeup Artist
Olunife Ofomata, founder and CEO of Sweeter Juice Skin, is an expert in the fields of esthetics, medical esthetics, and makeup artistry with over 14 years of experience. She is a licensed esthetician and certified makeup artist and obtained her makeup and esthetics education from Makeup Designory in Soho, NYC and Long Island Nail & Skin Care Institute.

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Shiboli Chakraborti
Shiboli ChakrabortiCommerce Editor
Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.

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Krati Darak
Krati DarakAssociate Commerce Editor
Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.

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Medha Deb
Medha DebCommerce Editor
Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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