Why A313 Is So Popular: The French Retinoid Cream Everyone Loves
Every few years, the beauty world discovers a French pharmacy gem that causes a global frenzy. Most recently, that product is A313, the white-and-blue tube of Vitamin A Pommade praised across TikTok, Reddit, and editor reviews as a “French girl skincare secret.”
But unlike most viral trends, the popularity of A313 didn’t begin on social media—it started inside real French pharmacies, where dermatologists and pharmacists have quietly recommended it for decades.
So… why is A313 so popular?
Why does it inspire passionate fan reviews, near-instant sellouts, and suitcase-load purchases from travellers returning from Paris?
Here’s the full breakdown—science, results, and real-world experience—so you can understand whether A313 is worth the hype.
Why A313 Became a Cult Favourite Worldwide
At first glance, A313 doesn’t look like a luxury skincare item. It comes in a retro aluminium tube with pharmacy-style lettering. But beneath the unassuming packaging lies one of France’s most beloved Vitamin A formulas.
Here’s why A313 became a worldwide phenomenon:
1. It delivers the “retinoid glow”—without the harshness
Most retinoids cause dryness, peeling, or irritation when you first start using them. A313 doesn’t.
Featuring 200,000 IU of retinyl esters, A313 converts gently into retinoic acid, which means:
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fewer side effects
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slower, controlled results
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a soft, hydrated, “glass skin” finish
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suitable for sensitive skin users
It’s powerful enough to improve texture—and gentle enough that many can use it multiple nights in a row.
2. French estheticians and dermatologists swear by it
A313 is considered a medicated Vitamin A Pommade in France. For decades, skincare professionals have recommended it for:
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smoothing skin texture
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dullness and fatigue
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fine lines
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mild congestion
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dry or compromised skin
Unlike trendy launches, A313 has clinical heritage, making it trustworthy.
3. It went viral because the results are visible
Reddit threads, TikTok reviews, and beauty editors all say the same thing:
A313 gives you overnight radiance.
Users rave about:
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brighter skin after just few applications
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tighter pores
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reduced roughness
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a plump, hydrated glow
This is the kind of product that produces a visible difference within a few uses—rare for an Over-The-Counter Vitamin A.
4. The texture is unique—and addictive
A313’s balmy texture is unlike most retinoids.
It’s similar to a lightweight ointment or vaseline-like balm—except non-greasy, non-sticky, and fast-absorbing. This makes it:
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soothing
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hydrating
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comfortable for dry or dehydrated skin
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perfect as an occlusive night treatment (“slugging with benefits”)
Many fans say the texture alone makes them prefer A313 to traditional serums or creams.
5. It’s accessible—but still feels luxurious
A313 is affordable compared to high-end retinoids, but the results feel premium.
Combine that with the French pharmacy mystique and—you have a cult product that feels both exclusive and accessible.
What Makes A313 Different from Other Retinol Products?
There’s a lot of confusion online about whether A313 is “stronger” or “weaker” than retinol. The truth?
A313 contains Retinyl palmitate, a gentler form of vitamin A used in skincare to stimulate collagen, speed up cell turnover, and improve skin texture
Why use the form ?
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gentler than retinol
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slower-acting than retinal
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less irritating than tretinoin
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more tolerable for sensitive skin
So why does A313 still deliver strong visible results?
Because the formula is designed to:
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boost absorption
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use a high IU concentration
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remain on the skin longer thanks to its balm base
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protect hydration while Vitamin A works overnight
It’s less aggressive than prescription retinoids but far more effective than most standard “beginners retinols.”
Best Ways to Use A313 for Maximum Results
To get the most out of A313—and avoid irritation—here’s how dermatologists and French estheticians recommend using it.
Start slow
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Beginners:
1× per week, then gradually build to 2–3× weekly. -
Experienced retinoid users:
Can often start at 2–3× per week.
Warm it up first
Rub a pea-size amount between your fingers to soften the balm, making it easier to spread. Use on the face, neck and decolletage
Apply only at night
Vitamin A breaks down in sunlight and can increase sun sensitivity.
Use it on clean, dry skin
The occlusive texture locks in moisture—no need for an extra moisturiser unless your skin runs very dry.
Morning: always apply SPF
Daily sunscreen is non-negotiable with any retinoid.
A313 for Sensitive Skin — Is It Safe?
This is one of the biggest questions in the People Also Ask section of Google.
Yes—A313 is widely considered suitable for sensitive skin.
Here’s why:
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Retinyl Palmitate is a gentler form of retinol, specifically formulated to be suitable for sensitive skin
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it reduces irritation compared to typical retinoids
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The balm base prevents dryness
Many users who cannot tolerate retinol or tretinoin are able to use A313 comfortably.
However, avoid A313 if:
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you have rosacea flares
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you have extremely reactive skin
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you’re using strong exfoliants or benzoyl peroxide at the same time
If unsure, start slow and it’s always better to consult a dermatologist.
Tips for Getting the Best Results with A313
1. Less is more
A pea-sized amount is enough for the entire face.
2. Avoid mixing with exfoliants & Vitamin C
Skip acids (AHA, BHA, PHA) on nights you use A313.
3. Use regularly
Results come from consistency, not strength.
4. Expect a slow, steady glow
A313 is not designed for fast, aggressive results—it’s designed for:
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smoothness
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radiance
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refined texture
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long-term skin health
5. Hydration improves results
Pairing A313 with hydrating serums on non-retinoid nights helps maintain balance.
FAQs
Why is A313 so popular?
Because it delivers visible glow and smoother texture with far less irritation than traditional retinoids.
What makes A313 Retinol Pommade different from other retionol creams?
A313 uses retinyl palmitate, a stabilised form of vitamin A. This unique formula offers better stability, lower irritation risk, and antioxidant benefits, making it suitable even for sensitive skin.
Does A313 help with wrinkles?
Yes—when used consistently. The Retinyl Palmitate increase collagen production and cell turnover.
How often should I use A313?
Start once weekly, increasing to 2–3× per week as tolerated.
Can beginners use A313?
Yes. A313 is one of the most beginner-friendly Vitamin A products due to its gentle, moisturising formula.
Stay Glowing with A313 — The French Pharmacy Icon
A313 isn’t just a viral product—it’s a skincare classic with decades of credibility.
Its popularity comes from the perfect blend of:
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gentle but effective Vitamin A
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visible next-day radiance
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minimal irritation
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an iconic French pharmacy formula
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a luxurious yet accessible price
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a texture people fall in love with
If you’ve been wondering where to buy A313, you’ll be thrilled to know that French Beauty Co is the authorised distributor in Australia, for this legendary skincare gem.
Explore A313 and other French vitamin A essentials at French Beauty Co and unlock your healthiest, most radiant skin yet.
