Retinol in cosmetology
*The article was translated into English using automatic translation. The editors are working on its improvement.
Retinol, or vitamin A, is a fat-soluble vitamin found in animals. Plants contain carotenoids (provitamin A) - precursors of retinol. About 500 types of carotenoids are known, among which the most common are α-carotene, β-carotene, γ-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. The most common and active among them is β-carotene. Once in the human body, it is broken down, forming two molecules of vitamin A. It can be deposited in the liver.
Retinol takes part in all processes occurring in the body: metabolism, redox reactions, synthesis of proteins and hormones. It controls the processes of proliferation (reproduction) and differentiation of cells, regulates bone growth, the functioning of the thyroid gland and immune reactions, protects against viral infections, and is responsible for the perception of light by visual receptors (without it, a person loses twilight vision). Vitamin A also corrects the permeability of cell membranes and the barrier function of the skin, strengthens nails and hair, and improves the condition of the skin. Therefore, it is often called an antixerophthalmic and anti-infective vitamin.
Retinol is a powerful antioxidant that neutralizes the effects of free radicals , thereby slowing down aging and preventing the formation of malignant tumors.