When it comes to anti-aging skin care, few others can claim to have the same wrinkle-fighting benefits of retinol. Yet even with all the wonders this skin care MVP can do, many still don’t fully understand how it works or how to use it properly. And despite its popularity, retinol can be intimidating for some—especially those with deeper skin tones or sensitive skin.

What Is Retinol and What Does It Do?

Dr. Ryan Turner, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, explains retinol—along with other retinoid ingredients like tretinoin and retinoic acid—is a specific type of retinoid in the vitamin A family. “Retinols are generally considered weaker versions of vitamin A and the term retinoid is usually used when referencing stronger prescription-type products such as tretinoin or adapalene,” adds Dr. Turner.

Is Retinol Safe to Use on All Skin Types?

According to Dr. Turner, retinol can be particularly beneficial to skin types prone to dark spots. “Deeper skin tones often have more concern about uneven skin, discoloration or hyperpigmentation. Retinols can help reduce epidermal melanin production and increase exfoliation of any unwanted pigmented areas such as those left behind after an acne outbreak,” he says.