Vitamin A has been investigated for its role in wound healing, including burns and scalds. Several animal studies and a limited number of human clinical studies have explored the use of vitamin A (including retinol and retinyl esters) in the management of burn injuries. Vitamin A is known to be important for epithelial cell differentiation, immune function, and collagen synthesis, all of which are relevant to skin repair.

Topical and systemic vitamin A supplementation has been shown in some studies to accelerate epithelialization, enhance immune response, and reduce the risk of infection in burn wounds, particularly in patients with vitamin A deficiency. For example, a few clinical trials have reported improved healing outcomes in pediatric burn patients receiving vitamin A supplementation. Animal models also suggest that vitamin A can promote wound closure and improve tensile strength of healing skin. However, results are inconsistent, and some studies have not found significant benefits. Moreover, high doses of vitamin A can be toxic and may delay healing or cause hypervitaminosis.

Current evidence does not robustly support routine vitamin A supplementation for all burn patients but suggests potential benefit in specific settings, such as in malnourished individuals or those with documented deficiency. Guidelines generally do not recommend vitamin A as a standard therapy for burns unless deficiency is present. Thus, the evidence base is limited and moderate at best.