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

In some videos, young girls show off their skincare routines with products containing anti-ageing ingredients like retinol. —Sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 27 Mar. 2026

There’s also a touch of retinol—low on the ingredient list—but since this sleeping mask stays on overnight, sensitive skin types may want to patch-test first. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 Mar. 2026

Perhaps the best ingredient for this is retinol, which has long been a staple in facial skincare. —Hana Hong, Glamour, 25 Mar. 2026

From full-body skin rejuvenation with retinol to salves suited for any fragrance-layering agenda, skin care, body care, and even playful scent exploration now all go hand in hand. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Mar. 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
• catarrhal
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol

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