Definition

A form of vitamin A that is used in skincare products and supplements to improve skin health and appearance.

Example

Many skincare products contain retinol to help reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture.

Conversation

Have you ever tried using retinol for your skin?

I haven't, but I've heard it can make a big difference.

Yeah, it's supposed to help with wrinkles and acne.

I might give it a shot then; it sounds really beneficial!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retinol is derived from 'retina' (from Latin 'retina', meaning net or network, referring to the net-like structure of the retina in the eye) and '-ol' (a suffix used in chemistry to denote alcohols or compounds containing hydroxyl groups). The word 'retinol' refers to a form of vitamin A that is related to the retina's function in vision.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'retina' as the part of the eye that helps you see, and remember that 'retinol' is a compound that supports vision.

Visually Confused Words