Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A (retinyl palmitate)
For the health condition: Skin (dry and/or flaky)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin A, particularly in the form of retinyl palmitate, is used in dermatology to support skin health, including addressing dryness and flakiness. Retinyl palmitate is an ester of retinol (vitamin A) and is commonly found in topical skincare products. The scientific rationale for its use is rooted in vitamin A’s essential role in skin cell differentiation and proliferation. Deficiency in vitamin A is well-documented to cause xerosis (dry, rough, scaly skin) due to abnormal keratinization. Supplementation or topical application can resolve these symptoms in deficient individuals. Topical vitamin A derivatives (retinoids) have been shown in clinical studies to promote epidermal renewal, enhance stratum corneum hydration, and improve overall skin texture. However, the evidence supporting the use of retinyl palmitate specifically (as opposed to prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin) for treating mild dry or flaky skin in individuals without deficiency is moderate. While some studies indicate improvement in skin hydration and barrier function, the effects are less pronounced than with pharmaceutical retinoids. Most over-the-counter formulations are used for their mild, supportive effects on skin appearance and texture rather than as primary treatments for significant dermatological conditions. Thus, while there is scientific validation for vitamin A’s role in maintaining skin health and treating dryness due to deficiency, the strength of evidence for routine use of retinyl palmitate in otherwise healthy individuals with mild dryness is moderate.

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