Clinical Vitamin A
Clinical Vitamin A
Product Description
Product overview
Theramid Clinical Vitamin A is an ultra-potent overnight serum that layers three forms of vitamin A in a single formula: 5% Granactive Retinoid (0.5% Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate), 0.3% Retinol, and 0.1% encapsulated Retinal. Buffered with Ceramide NG, glycerin, vitamin E, and a fermented postbiotic, it targets fine lines, uneven texture, dullness, and loss of firmness. This is an advanced, high-strength treatment designed for users who already tolerate retinoids and want clinical-level results.
Triple Retinoid Complex
5% Granactive Retinoid, 0.3% Retinol, and 0.1% Retinal hit multiple conversion pathways to retinoic acid for amplified anti-aging action.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Retinoid Complex
5% Granactive Retinoid, 0.3% Retinol, and 0.1% Retinal hit multiple conversion pathways to retinoic acid for amplified anti-aging action.
Buffered, Lower-Sting Delivery
Encapsulation technology plus ceramides, glycerin, and propanediol cushion the formula so high-dose vitamin A feels less harsh than raw retinol.
Antioxidant Protected
Vitamin E (Tocopherol) and a synthetic stabilizing antioxidant guard the retinoids from oxidation and defend skin against free radicals.
Barrier & Microbiome Support
Ceramide NG and a Lactococcus Ferment Lysate postbiotic help reinforce the skin barrier while the actives resurface.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinol, retinal, and HPR. Topical vitamin A derivatives are generally avoided during pregnancy and nursing — the brand explicitly advises against use. Speak with your doctor.
Contains coco-caprylate esters, polyglyceryl-6 distearate, jojoba esters, and lecithin, which can feed malassezia yeast and may trigger fungal-acne breakouts.
Retinoids make skin more reactive to UV. Use at night only and apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning.
This is a high triple-retinoid dose. Beginners and reactive or sensitive skin should ramp up slowly (2 days on, 2 off) or choose a gentler retinoid first.
No added perfume, harsh alcohols, parabens, silicones, or sulfates. Still patch test, since retinoids can sting reactive skin.
Avoid combining in the same routine with strong AHA/BHA, benzoyl peroxide, or direct vitamin C to limit irritation. Alternate on separate nights.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGranactive Retinoid (HPR) 5% (0.5% HPR)Promising
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is a next-generation retinoid ester that binds skin receptors more directly than retinol, aiming for retinoic-acid-like results with less irritation. "5% Granactive Retinoid" corresponds to roughly 0.5% pure HPR.
- Stability: A 2021 analysis found HPR among the most stable cosmetic retinoids under light and heat exposure.
- Tolerability: Emerging studies suggest HPR delivers retinoid benefits with lower irritation than traditional retinol.
Retinol 0.3%Proven
The gold-standard, most-studied over-the-counter retinoid. It boosts cell turnover, supports collagen, fades dark spots, and refines pores once converted to retinoic acid in the skin.
- Evidence: Retinol has more peer-reviewed support for anti-aging than any other non-prescription active.
- Conversion: Takes two conversion steps to become active retinoic acid, so results build gradually over weeks.
Retinal (Retinaldehyde) 0.1% encapsulatedProven
The direct precursor to retinoic acid — just one conversion step away — making it act faster than retinol. It is encapsulated here for stability and a more controlled, lower-irritation release.
- Speed: Studies suggest retinal works faster than retinol due to its closer position on the conversion chain.
- Encapsulation: Liposomal encapsulation protects this notoriously unstable molecule and helps moderate its potency.
Ceramide NG SupportProven
A skin-identical lipid that bonds skin cells and reinforces the moisture barrier. It helps buffer the drying, sensitising effect that strong retinoids can have.
- Barrier: Ceramides are core building blocks of a healthy barrier, improving hydration and resilience.
- Soothing: A stronger barrier reduces transepidermal water loss and helps calm retinoid-related irritation.
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) AntioxidantProven
A fat-soluble antioxidant that protects skin lipids and the retinoid actives from free-radical and oxidative damage, supporting overall formula stability.
- Protection: Helps neutralise free radicals and offers minor support against UVB-related damage (not a sunscreen replacement).
- Synergy: Works well alongside other antioxidants to keep the formula potent.
Lactococcus Ferment Lysate PostbioticPromising
A fermented postbiotic intended to support skin resilience and recovery. It is a newer active where evidence is still developing, but early data is encouraging.
- Defence: A 2022 study found this ingredient helped protect skin against UV-induced damage in testing.
- Recovery: Often paired with actives to support a calmer, more comfortable barrier.
32 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Propanediol, Coco-Caprylate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Cellulose Acetate Butyrate, Cetyl Alcohol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol, Retinal, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Plankton Extract, Ceramide Ng, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Jojoba Esters, Lecithin, Pullulan, Sclerotium Gum, Xanthan Gum, Tricaprylin, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Caprylyl Glycol, Silica, Sodium Chloride, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINENight use only. Apply to clean, dry skin after lightweight hydrating steps, then seal with moisturizer. If new to retinoids, buffer by applying moisturizer before and after. Always finish with SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEPatch Test First
Because this is a high-strength triple retinoid, test on the inner arm or jawline for 24–48 hours before facial use.
Cleanse & Dry
In the evening, cleanse and let skin fully dry. Applying to damp skin can increase irritation with retinoids.
Apply a Small Amount
One pump (a thin layer) is enough for the whole face. Avoid the eye area and corners of the nose/mouth.
Ramp Up Gradually
Beginners: 2 nights on, 2 nights off, building toward nightly as tolerated. Advanced users can use nightly.
Moisturize & Protect
Follow with a barrier moisturizer. Every morning after use, apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You already use retinol or retinal and want stronger anti-aging results
- Your main concerns are fine lines, wrinkles, texture, or dullness
- You have oily, combination, or mature skin that tolerates actives
- You want multiple vitamin A forms in one streamlined night step
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You are completely new to retinoids
- You have very sensitive, reactive, or compromised-barrier skin
- You are prone to fungal acne (malassezia)
- You cannot commit to daily SPF
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free feel; retinoids help regulate sebum and refine pores without heaviness.
Absorbs fast and balances texture across the T-zone and cheeks; pair with moisturizer on drier areas.
Triple vitamin A plus ceramides make this a strong choice for visible firmness, lines, and radiance.
Effective, but layer a richer moisturizer before and after to offset retinoid-related dryness.
High triple-retinoid potency can cause stinging and peeling; reactive skin should choose a gentler option.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Adjustment Phase
Skin acclimates to the actives. Some users notice mild dryness, tightness, or light flaking — normal "retinization." Buffer and reduce frequency if needed.
Most users notice adjustmentSmoother Texture
Surface refinement becomes visible — softer feel, more even tone, and a fresher look as cell turnover picks up.
Texture improvement reportedLines & Radiance
Fine lines look softened and skin appears brighter. Retinoid studies note at least 6 weeks before firmness changes begin.
Visible glow & smoothingFirmness & Even Tone
With consistent use, deeper benefits build — improved firmness, fading of dark spots, and a more refined overall complexion.
Cumulative anti-aging resultsRatings by platform
390+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Three potent vitamin A forms in one bottle
- Visible smoothing and radiance, often quickly
- Buffered with ceramides for a less harsh feel
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, fragrance-free texture
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and reasonably priced for the strength
Criticized
- Too strong for beginners or sensitive skin
- Can cause dryness or peeling during adjustment
- Not pregnancy or fungal-acne safe
- Small 30ml size for the active load
- Requires strict daily SPF commitment
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same headline 5% Granactive Retinoid (HPR) concentration at a fraction of the price, but a single-active formula — no added retinol, retinal, or ceramides. Gentler overall, slower results.
Higher single-dose retinal (0.2%) for fast results, but lacks the layered HPR + retinol combo. A focused, affordable retinal option for those wanting one form rather than three.
A simple retinol-only serum at an entry price. Useful for building tolerance, but far less potent and without the multi-retinoid synergy or barrier support of Clinical Vitamin A.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
6 MONTHS6 months after opening. Retinoids degrade once exposed to air, so use within this window for full potency.
Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct light and heat. Close the cap fully to protect the vitamin A.
Pump bottle, which limits air and light exposure to help preserve the unstable retinoid actives.
Yes — 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. It contains retinol, retinal, and HPR, and topical vitamin A derivatives are generally avoided during pregnancy and nursing. The brand explicitly states it is not recommended for pregnant women. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, pause use and consult your doctor for a safe alternative.
No. The formula contains coco-caprylate esters, polyglyceryl-6 distearate, jojoba esters, and lecithin, which can feed malassezia yeast. If you are prone to fungal acne, this serum may trigger breakouts and a malassezia-safe retinoid would be a better fit.
Use them on separate occasions rather than the same routine. This serum already contains three retinoids plus a touch of lactic acid, so layering with strong exfoliating acids, benzoyl peroxide, or direct vitamin C in the same session can overload skin. Vitamin C works best in the morning; reserve this for night.
It performs best for oily, combination, normal, and mature skin that already tolerates retinoids. Dry skin can use it with extra moisturizer buffering. Very sensitive or reactive skin should approach with caution or choose a gentler single-retinoid product.
Texture and radiance often improve within 3–4 weeks. Fine lines and firmness take longer — retinoid research notes at least 6 weeks before structural changes begin, with cumulative benefits at 12 weeks and beyond. Consistency and patience matter more than dose.
Use it at night only. After cleansing and any lightweight toner or hydrating serum, apply a thin layer to dry skin, then seal with moisturizer. The next morning, always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
It rates low for comedogenicity (about 2/5) and is formulated oil-free with a lightweight, fast-absorbing texture. Most acne-prone users tolerate it well, though those specifically prone to fungal acne should note the malassezia caution above.
Around 6 months after opening. Vitamin A degrades with air and light exposure, so keep the cap closed, store it cool and dark, and use it within the PAO window to keep the actives effective.
Verdict: Theramid Clinical Vitamin A is one of the most active-packed retinoid serums at its price, stacking 5% Granactive Retinoid, 0.3% Retinol, and 0.1% encapsulated Retinal with ceramides and a postbiotic to soften the blow. It delivers fast, visible smoothing and radiance for experienced users chasing serious anti-aging results. It loses points only for being too potent for beginners and sensitive skin, and for not being pregnancy- or fungal-acne-safe. If you already use retinoids, commit to nightly moisturizer and daily SPF, this is a high-value powerhouse.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 7 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Coco-Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|