What does retinoid mean?
A retinoid is a chemical compound related to vitamin A. The word covers naturally occurring substances such as retinol and synthetic derivatives such as tretinoin, which is widely used to treat acne and improve the appearance of ageing or damaged skin. In dermatology, a retinoid usually appears in a cream, gel, or other topical preparation. These medicines work by influencing skin-cell growth and renewal, but they can also cause dryness, irritation, peeling, and increased sensitivity to sunlight. The term has a primarily medical and cosmetic meaning, although it is also used in biochemical and pharmaceutical research. “Retinoid” should not be confused with “retinal,” which is a particular vitamin A-related compound directly involved in vision.
nounA chemical compound with activity similar to vitamin A, especially one used in dermatological treatments for acne, wrinkles, and other skin conditions. The term includes both naturally occurring retinoids, such as retinol, and synthetic derivatives.
- Any natural or synthetic compound related to vitamin A, including retinol and retinoic acid; the term is especially common in medicine and dermatology.
"Her dermatologist recommended a topical retinoid to help improve her acne."
"The clinic prescribed a topical retinoid for persistent acne."
"Retinoids can cause dryness and increased sensitivity to sunlight when applied to the skin."
The plural is used when referring to a class of compounds or to several vitamin A-related medicines.
"Topical retinoids are often introduced gradually to reduce irritation."
Retinoids belong to the vitamin A family, turning a nutrient associated with vision into powerful tools for treating acne and signs of skin ageing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does retinoid come from?
The word was formed in the early 20th century from “retina” and the combining form “-oid,” meaning “resembling” or “like.” Its scientific sense developed alongside research into vitamin A and related compounds. The same root is reflected in words such as retinal, retinol, retinitis, and retinopathy.
How retinoid is actually used
In contemporary usage, “retinoid” usually refers to a topical or oral medicine used for acne, pigmentation, or skin ageing. Medical use is most common, and products containing retinoids may require careful use and sun protection.
Easily confused with retinoid
A retinoid is a broad class of vitamin A-related compounds, whereas retinal is specifically the aldehyde form involved in converting light into neural signals in vision.