Retinol

Retinol (CAS 68-26-8), also marketed as Vitamin A1, is the bioavailable alcohol form of Vitamin A used across cosmetic, nutritional, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. It functions as a cell-renewal active in topical formulations. In cosmetics, retinol is the primary active in anti-aging serums, night creams, and treatment moisturizers, where it drives skin cell turnover at concentrations typically ranging from 0.01% to 1%.

Nutritional supplement manufacturers incorporate it into softgel capsules, multivitamin tablets, and fortified powders to meet established dietary reference values. Food producers use it to fortify dairy products. It is also utilized in infant formula and cooking oils, restoring vitamin content lost during processing. Pharmaceutical-grade retinol enters topical drug formulations and compounded preparations targeting dermatological indications.

Retinol is supplied as a crystalline powder or stabilized oil solution, with oil-based forms common for easier handling and formulation incorporation. Standard grades include USP, BP, and Ph. Eur. These grades support pharmaceutical and nutraceutical compliance requirements. Food-grade material meeting FCC specifications is available for fortification applications and various industrial processes.

Encapsulated or beadlet forms are offered to improve stability during processing and shelf life. These specialized formats ensure the active ingredient remains potent throughout the manufacturing cycle.