retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈre-tə-ˌnȯl  -ˌnōl 

: the chief and typical vitamin A C₂₀H₂₉OH that is a highly unsaturated alicyclic alcohol used in various forms in medicine and nutrition

Examples of retinol in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The formula feels impressively plush and decadent, combining hyaluronic acid to boost deep hydration, retinol to smooth skin and target signs of aging, and vitamin C to brighten your complexion. — Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026

As great as retinol is, dryness can come with the territory, so glycerin and hyaluronic acid step in to replenish moisture and keep skin feeling comfortable. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 2 Oct. 2026

Rather than relying on harsher skincare actives like vitamin C, salicylic acid, or retinol, the Essentials collection focuses on gentle, moisturizing ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, glycerin, shea butter, and cocoa butter. — Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 28 Sep. 2026

Shop the under-$15 lotion, plus more retinol body lotions like the Gold Bond Age Renew Overnight Lotion and the Advanced Clinicals Retinol Overnight Body Lotion. — Isabel Bekele, InStyle, 28 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

retin- + -ol entry 1; from its being the source of retinal

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for retinol

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• gossypol

Kids Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl 

-ˌōl

: the most common form of vitamin A

Medical Definition

retinol

noun

ret·​i·​nol ˈret-ᵊn-ˌȯl  -ˌōl 

: vitamin a sense a