Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin A (vitamin A cetate)
For the health condition: Age Spots

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Synopsis

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

Vitamin A, particularly in the form of vitamin A acetate (retinyl acetate), is used in dermatology primarily due to its role in skin cell turnover and its effect on pigmentation. Age spots, also known as liver spots or solar lentigines, are hyperpigmented lesions commonly caused by cumulative sun exposure and aging. Topical vitamin A derivatives—especially retinoids like tretinoin (retinoic acid)—have been studied and found effective in improving the appearance of age spots by promoting epidermal cell turnover and dispersing melanin granules, which can help lighten hyperpigmented areas over time.

While vitamin A acetate itself is a precursor and less potent than active retinoic acid, it is used in some over-the-counter skin formulations for its potential skin-renewing properties. However, most robust clinical evidence pertains to prescription-strength retinoids rather than vitamin A acetate itself. Multiple randomized controlled trials and reviews conclude that retinoids can improve signs of photodamage, including age spots, with regular use over several months. The effect of vitamin A acetate is presumed beneficial based on its conversion to active retinoids in the skin, but direct clinical evidence for the acetate form is less extensive.

In summary, the use of vitamin A (including acetate form) for age spots is scientifically grounded, though the strength of evidence is higher for prescription retinoids than for vitamin A esters found in cosmetic products.

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