How vitamin A acid cream works against skin aging
Vitamin A acid cream, or tretinoin, is a powerful medicine that stimulates skin renewal and is effective against acne and skin aging. It promotes collagen production, reduces fine lines and evens out skin texture. Due to its medical effect, it is only available with a prescription.
What is Vitamin A Acid Cream?
Vitamin A acid cream, also known as tretinoin cream, is a medicinal skin cream that falls under the category of retinoids. This substance stimulates skin cell renewal and promotes the production of collagen in the skin. Callogen is an important protein that keeps your skin firm and elastic. In a medical context, vitamin A acid is mainly used for acne, but it also has a proven effect against skin aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation. This is what emerges from a scientific research where 180 studies were reviewed.
Is vitamin A acid the same as tretinoin?
Yes, vitamin A acid and tretinoin are actually two names for the same active ingredient. Tretinoin is the pharmaceutical name, while vitamin A acid is often used as an umbrella term. Both refer to an active form of vitamin A that is applied directly to the skin. This is different from, for example, retinol — a milder form of vitamin A often used in cosmetics — which has to be converted to tretinoin before it works. In addition to the fact that retinol is less powerful, another difference with vitamin A acid and tretinoin is that retinol is available over the counter.
Is vitamin A acid available by prescription?
Vitamin A acid cream is only available by prescription in the Netherlands. This is because it is a powerful active ingredient with medical effects and potential side effects. You can't just buy it at the drug store. At Fellos, after an online intake, you can go through a Dutch doctor, received a prescription. The cream is then delivered to your home free of charge.
What are the disadvantages of vitamin A acid cream?
While vitamin A acid is highly effective, there are also some disadvantages:
- Irritation: Redness, peeling and a burning sensation can occur, especially at the beginning.
- Hypersensitivity to sunlight: The skin becomes more sensitive to UV rays, which means that good sun protection is essential.
- Not suitable for everyone: People with very sensitive skin or certain skin conditions should consider alternatives.
- Patience needed: The positive effects on skin aging are only visible after a few months of consistent use.
It is therefore important to always seek medical advice and to build up use slowly. At Fellos, our doctors will provide you with free and accessible advice about your treatment by chat. You can find all possible side effects in the official leaflet via this link.
What is the effect of vitamin A acid cream on skin aging?
Vitamin A acid is one of the best-researched anti-aging substances. It accelerates natural cell division and stimulates collagen and elastin production. As a result, fine lines are reduced, the skin structure becomes more even and pigment spots can fade. It also helps prevent new wrinkles by strengthening the skin barrier.
When used regularly, the skin becomes visibly smoother and more radiant. This without major cosmetic treatments. Vitamin A acid is therefore a scientifically based alternative for those who want to tackle skin aging at the core.
Fellos adheres to strict editorial guidelines for sources to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of our content. Our content is based on scientific publications, research from academic institutions, and reputable medical organisations. If you notice an error, please let us know at care@fellos.nl.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information herein is not a substitute for professional medical advice and should never be relied upon. Always discuss the risks and benefits of any treatment with your doctor.
This content was last updated on
25/1/2026

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