Is Retinol (Vitamin A) vegan?
Depends
Synthetic retinol in skincare is vegan; fish-liver retinyl palmitate is not.
What it is
A form of vitamin A used in anti-aging skincare.
Why depends
Most cosmetic retinol today is synthetic or yeast-fermented. 'Retinyl palmitate' in some supplements still comes from fish liver oil.
Where you'll find it
- Anti-aging serums
- Multivitamins
- Fortified margarine
Vegan alternatives
- Beta-carotene (provitamin A from plants)
- Bakuchiol (plant-based retinol alternative)
FAQ
- Is bakuchiol as effective as retinol?
- Studies show comparable wrinkle reduction with less irritation; not a perfect 1:1 swap.
Sources
Last reviewed June 4, 2026