Retinol is a form of vitamin A—a vitamin first discovered in the retina of the eye, which is how retinol got its name. Does retinol work? “Use a gentle cleanser, avoid harsh scrubs or overlapping strong active ingredients in the same routine, and moisturize well to minimize dryness or irritation.”How does retinol work? Bottom lineSo does retinol work? Over-the-counter retinol products have less robust data, but that doesn’t mean they’re ineffective.