Have you ever tried retinol but experienced redness, flaking, or breakouts, so you thought retinoids weren’t for you? Often, that’s because the concentration was too strong for your skin to tolerate. Retinyl Palmitate, a precursor to retinoic acid, offers a gentler alternative while still activating your skin’s retinoid receptors. By slowly introducing Vitamin A, the receptors build up a tolerance over time. Like other retinoids, it supports cellular renewal, collagen production, and overall skin health, helping your skin look smoother, firmer, and more even over time.
At Face Club, we focus on science-backed, effective skincare. Retinyl Palmitate can be seamlessly integrated into your routine to improve texture, maintain resilience, and enhance radiance—delivering the benefits of vitamin A without the irritation.
What Is Retinyl Palmitate?
Retinyl Palmitate is a vitamin A ester—essentially a precursor to retinol. Once applied to the skin, it undergoes a slow conversion process:
Retinyl Palmitate → Retinol → Retinal → Retinoic Acid
This gradual transformation makes it less irritating than stronger forms of vitamin A, making it an excellent entry point for those new to retinoids.
Read more about the Vitamin A conversion process here.
Benefits of Retinyl Palmitate
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Gentle anti-aging support – Helps soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without causing excessive dryness or peeling.
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Brightening effect – Supports more even skin tone and reduces the look of dullness over time.
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Boosts collagen production – Strengthens skin’s structure for firmer, smoother texture.
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Controls sebum production - Balances sebum production to ensure the oil glands are functioning properly.
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Safe for sensitive skin – The slow conversion reduces the risk of irritation, redness, and sensitivity.
Retinyl Palmitate vs. Retinol: What’s the Difference?
While both are part of the vitamin A family, the key difference is strength and tolerance.
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Retinol (the alcohol form of Vitamin A): More potent, but also more likely to cause flaking and redness, especially when starting out.
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Retinyl Palmitate (the ester form of Vitamin A): The addition of a fatty acid to Vitamin A makes this a more gentle, easily tolerated form.
Think of Retinyl Palmitate as a low-and-slow retinoid—building your skin’s tolerance while still delivering long-term benefits. You will get the same end result over time.
How to Use Retinyl Palmitate
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Use daily: Environ’s Retinyl Palmitate formula in AVST Moisturizer is gentle enough for daily application, morning and/or evening, depending on your skin’s tolerance.
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Always wear SPF: Since vitamin A can increase sun sensitivity, daily sunscreen is essential. We love all things Coola.
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Pair with hydration: Layer with a hydrating serum or nourishing balm to keep skin balanced and comfortable.
Pro tip: If you’re brand new to vitamin A, start with a level 1 in Environ’s step-up system, then gradually progress as your skin adapts.
Face Club Favorites with Retinyl Palmitate
Here are our top product picks available exclusively at Face Club that feature Retinyl Palmitate:
1. Environ Vita-Antioxidant AVST Moisturiser 1
A lightweight daily moisturizer with Retinyl Palmitate, Vitamins C and E. Perfect for anyone starting their vitamin A journey. You start with level 1 and slowly work your way up to level 5. We recommend one bottle of each before progressing.
2. Environ Vita-Antioxidant AVST Gel
A cooling gel formula with Retinyl Palmitate and antioxidants—ideal for sensitive, oily, or breakout-prone skin.
3. Environ Tri-Retinoid Complex Retinol Serum
A powerhouse serum blending Retinyl Palmitate, Retinol, and Retinyl Propionate for more advanced anti-aging, acne, and texture concerns. Introduce this for quicker results, only once you’ve reached AVST level 3 or higher.
4. Environ Vita-Peptide Eye Gel
A gentle yet effective eye treatment featuring Retinyl Palmitate and peptides to smooth fine lines and brighten the under-eye area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retinyl Palmitate
Can I use Retinyl Palmitate during the day?
Retinyl Palmitate is safe to use during the day (it even provides photo-protective properties), but we recommend to always pair it with daily sunscreen protection.
How long until I see results?
Most people notice smoother, brighter skin anywhere from a few weeks or up to a few months of consistent use depending on the skin concern..
Can I combine it with other actives?
Yes—Retinyl Palmitate pairs well with hydrating serums, peptides, and antioxidants. Avoid layering it with strong exfoliants until your skin adjusts.
The Bottom Line
Retinyl Palmitate is an excellent starting point for anyone who wants the proven benefits of vitamin A without the common side effects of stronger retinoids. By introducing it into your routine with trusted products from Face Club, you’ll set the stage for long-term skin health, radiance, and resilience.
Not sure where to start? Book a virtual consultation with Face Club today and let our skincare experts create a personalized plan that includes the right vitamin A products for your skin goals.