At GGR, honesty is our policy. So, let me get extra real with you for a moment. Yes, vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports your vision, immune system, skin health, and overall wellness. However, not even the best vitamin A supplement will give you eagle-precision vision, an immune system stronger than the world’s strongest man, or flawless skin straight out of your wildest dreams. Even after eating carrots like a bunny and trying plenty of great options myself, I’m still typing this with my regular ol’ four eyes—proudly, I might add.
What I can tell you is the products you’re about to see, like the best multivitamins, protein powders, and pre-workouts, have been carefully researched, tested, and selected by our expert team of certified personal trainers, registered dietitians, and nutritionists. Whether you’re looking for a plant-based option, a comprehensive formula, or something easier on your Apple Pay, our expert-approved picks are here to help you find the perfect fit—just like a great pair of glasses or comfortable pair of contacts.
So, let’s see what the top picks are all about!
Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
The 8 Best Vitamin A Supplements of 2025
- Best Vitamin A Supplement Overall: Nutricost Vitamin A 10,000 IU Softgels
- Best Multipurpose Vitamin A Supplement: AG1
- Best Vitamin A Supplement for Vision Support: NOW Foods Vitamin A 10,000 IU Softgels
- Best Vegan Vitamin A Supplement: Why Not Natural 10,000 IU Vitamin A Drops
- Best Liquid Vitamin A Supplement: Pure TheraPro Rx Vegan A-D-K Drops
- Best Budget Vitamin A Supplement: Swanson Vitamin A 10,000 IU Softgels
- Best Gummy Vitamin A Supplement: Bulletproof Vitamin A+D+K Gummies
- Best Cod Liver Oil Vitamin A Supplement: Carlson Cod Liver Oil
Best Vitamin A Supplement Overall: Nutricost Vitamin A 10,000 IU Softgels
Good for: Anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality, and reliable source of vitamin A
Nutricost’s vitamin A capsules feature a high dosage of the vital compound in a convenient, single-capsule serving size. Plus, the 500-serving containers and bulk order options can help you keep stock for plenty of days ahead.
What our tester says:
“Each capsule is roughly the size of my pinky nail. I had no issues getting them down each day, and it appears that online reviews share the same sentiment.”
Best Multipurpose Vitamin A Supplement: AG1
Good for: Those looking for a comprehensive formula that goes beyond just vitamin A
If you’re looking for a greens powder with a unique blend of minerals, nutrients, power greens, enzymes, and probiotics and you’re willing to spend some money, Athletic Greens may be a good choice for you.
What our tester says:
“I just like the peace of mind knowing that I’m getting more micronutrients than are in my diet already, and it’s a healthy habit that I can feel good every day.”
Best Vitamin A Supplement for Vision Support: NOW Foods Vitamin A 10,000 IU Softgels
Good for: Supporting eye health with a high-quality vitamin A formula
NOW Foods’ 10,000 IU vitamin A softgel is a dependable go-to for people seeking vision support. Plus, vitamin A—sourced from retinyl palmitate and fish liver oil—is the lone ingredient, so there’s no gray area surrounding what’s actually in each daily serving.
What our tester says:
“This is a solid formulation with 3,000 micrograms of preformed vitamin A (from bioavailable retinyl palmitate and fish liver oil) and organic extra virgin olive oil to increase absorption. However, I’d prefer to see an antioxidant source within the makeup to better preserve the oil’s freshness.”
Best Vegan Vitamin A Supplement: Why Not Natural 10,000 IU Vitamin A Drops
Good for: Plant-forward or vegan dieters seeking a highly absorbable form of vitamin A
For those needing a vegan-friendly vitamin A source, Why Not Natural’s 10,000 IU Vitamin A Drops can be worthwhile with a plant-based formulation free of sugars, soy, gluten, or GMOs. Plus, the liquid format can make it easy to manage your daily serving whether you’re in need of the full 10,000 IU or a smaller quantity to match your nutrient goals.
What our tester says:
“You get a natural flavor that’s pretty unique, but I think this is a refreshing daily supplement thanks to the included orange extract. It’s a hint of citrus that makes this liquid tincture easier to consume.”
Best Liquid Vitamin A Supplement: Pure TheraPro Rx Vegan A-D-K Drops
Good for: Those who prefer a flexible, easy-to-swallow liquid supplement that combines vitamins A, D, and K in one formula
Pure TheraPro Rx gives you more than just vitamin A in an easy-to-absorb liquid format. This clean, vegan-friendly formula contains vitamin A alongside vitamins D3 and K2 for a robust tincture that can help to support your immune system, bone health, skin health, and more.
What our tester says:
“I really like the five-drop serving size that allows for quick, convenient supplementation each day.”
Best Budget Vitamin A Supplement: Swanson Vitamin A 10,000 IU Softgels
Good for: Budget-conscious consumers looking to increase their vitamin A intake
With over 250 single-serving capsules per bottle and a budget-friendly cost per serving below $0.05, Swanson Vitamin A Softgels can be an excellent budget-friendly solution to supplementing your daily nutrition. Each serving also contains 10,000 IU of retinyl palmitate, which equates to roughly 333% of your daily vitamin A value.
What our tester says:
“The taste, itself, is general and manageable, there is a present odor when opening the bottle. In my trials, this definitely detracted from the overall experience.”
Best Gummy Vitamin A Supplement: Bulletproof Vitamin A+D+K Gummies
Good for: Those seeking a sugar-free gummy focused on bone, vision, and immune support
The Bulletproof Vitamin A+D+K Gummies provide potent doses of each vitamin in one gummy. With no added sugars, these gummies can be a nice alternative for those who struggle swallowing pills.
What our tester says:
“These are SO GOOD. I’m almost out of these gummies and I’m really sad about it.”
Best Cod Liver Oil Vitamin A Supplement: Carlson Cod Liver Oil
Good for: Anyone seeking a natural source of vitamin A with added benefits from vitamins D, E, and omega-3s
Carlson’s Cod Liver Oil is an old-school favorite that blends vitamin A with omega-3s for full-spectrum wellness. While there’s a definite “fishy” flavor note to this oil, the brand does throw in some Natural Lemon tastes to help make consumption less of a chore.
What our tester says:
“While I didn’t personally notice any fishy sensations, I was surprised at how smoothly this oil went down—even at a full 1-teaspoon dosage. No issues, whatsoever.”
Other Vitamin A Supplements We Researched
As we narrowed down our top picks, we took a close look at a number of contenders. Here are a few we reviewed, but ultimately ruled out.
- Carlson Vitamin A: Carlson’s delivers a strong dose of vitamin A sourced from cod liver oil. However, we’d like to see added antioxidants to help protect the oil from oxidation, which can impact freshness and stability over time. For that reason, we chose to leave it off our top list.
- Nature’s Way Vitamin A: Nature’s Way offers a clean, fish oil-derived vitamin A with a milder scent than many competitors. However, it’s priced higher than similar products and, like Carlson’s, lacks antioxidant protection for the oil. With better-formulated and more affordable options available, this one didn’t make the cut.
- Nordic Naturals Vitamin A + Carotenoids: Nordic Naturals is a trusted brand, but this particular product delivers only provitamin A (beta-carotene), which isn’t absorbed as well as preformed types. Plus, the small 30-serving bottle doesn’t offer great value compared to longer-lasting alternatives.
How We Picked and Tested the Best Vitamin A Supplements
Finding the best vitamin A supplements took more than just reading labels. Our team of certified personal trainers, registered dietitians, and nutritionists elected our top picks through thorough research, hands-on testing, and criteria from our GGR supplement testing methodology—like formulation, taste, and transparency—to rate each product on a 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) scale. Here’s a closer look at said criteria:
- Formulation: We gave preference to products with preformed vitamin A, which the body can absorb and use more efficiently than provitamin A. We also favored formulas with antioxidants and high-quality oils (such as olive oil over soybean oil) for better absorption and stability, while deducting points for lower-quality ingredients like added sugars and fillers.
- Vitamin A Form: Preformed vitamin A (such as palmitate) is absorbed at a rate of 70 to 90 percent, whereas provitamin A (like beta-carotene) has a much wider and often lower absorption range of 8.7 to 65 percent1. Based on these evidence-based ranges, we prioritized products containing preformed vitamin A for more reliable absorption.
- Swallowability: From pill size and coating to texture, we considered how easy (or not) each supplement was to take.
- Taste: Taste can make or break the entire experience, and we always aim to avoid the latter. Anything with a strong odor or off-putting flavor lost points.
- Side Effects: We paid close attention to how we felt after taking each supplement—no one wants stomach issues, weird aftertastes, or headaches. We also factored in feedback from online reviews to spot patterns.
- Third-Party Testing: We gave top marks to dietary supplements with certifications from trusted organizations such as NSF, Informed Sport, or BSCG. Transparency also matters (a lot)—that means clear labeling, accessible COAs, and no shady proprietary blends.
- Value: We aimed to recommend high-quality options at a range of price points, so there’s something for just about every budget without sacrificing quality.
Benefits of Vitamin A Supplements
Here’s the thing: the health benefits of vitamin A supplements are primarily related to treating or preventing a vitamin A deficiency. That said, when dietary intake is low, supplementing with vitamin A may offer more pronounced support in the following areas:
Supports Healthy Vision
Vitamin A6 is essential for maintaining clear, healthy vision. One of the first telltale signs of vitamin A deficiency is an eye condition called xerophthalmia7, or unusually dry eyes. If left untreated, it can lead to night blindness and even permanent damage. Luckily, when it’s caused by low vitamin A levels, xerophthalmia is often reversible with proper, expert-guided supplementation.

Vitamin A may also help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD)8, a condition that impacts central vision as we age. While AMD doesn’t cause total blindness, it can make everyday activities—like reading, driving, or recognizing faces—more difficult.
Bolsters Immune Health
As Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD explains, “You can think of your immune system as an internal shield that protects you from getting sick. It’s our body’s way of fighting off germs and keeping you in good health. As such, it’s important to support this system with proper nutrition, good hygiene, and adequate sleep habits.”
While every pillar of immune support matters, vitamin A is often called the “anti-inflammation vitamin” because of its critical role in enhancing immune function9. It helps maintain the protective barriers of the skin, lungs, and gut, which are your body’s first defense against infection. It also supports the development and function of immune cells, helping your body respond quickly and effectively to illness.
Without enough vitamin A, your immune system can weaken and leave you more vulnerable to infections. While research is still evolving, vitamin A has been shown to enhance immune defense and may offer protection against a range of infectious diseases.
May Play a Role in Cancer Prevention
Vitamin A helps regulate cell growth and development, which is why it’s been studied for its potential in cancer prevention. Some research suggests that a higher intake of vitamin A may be linked to a reduced risk of certain cancers, including lung, pancreatic, esophageal, ovarian, and bladder cancer1.

That said, here’s a note of caution: in certain cases, especially among smokers and former smokers, high-dose vitamin A supplements may actually increase the risk of some cancers1. So, it’s best to approach supplementation thoughtfully and under medical guidance.
Supports Skin Health
Vitamin A supports skin health by increasing cell turnover, stimulating collagen production, and supporting wound healing.
RELATED: Best Collagen Supplements
Fun fact: Vitamin A10 is the first vitamin approved by the FDA for its anti-wrinkle properties, due to its effects on skin texture and appearance. That’s why retinol, a form of vitamin A, is a staple ingredient in so many skincare products.
But (yes, again), it’s all about balance. Your body needs the right amount of vitamin A to support healthy skin and hair, but too little or too much can have negative effects.
Potential Side Effects
While vitamin A is crucial for your health, more isn’t always better. Vitamin A in excess may cause:
- Dry or orange-yellowish skin
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Bone pain
- Cerebral edema (swelling in the brain) in severe cases
Toxicity typically happens when someone consistently consumes high doses, usually over 10,000 to 15,000 micrograms of retinol activity equivalents (RAEs) per day, over an extended period. Acute toxicity can also occur if someone takes a very large dose all at once, though this is less common6.
How Much Vitamin A Should I Take Per Day?
The amount of vitamin A your body needs depends on your age, sex, and life stage. Here’s what the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) suggest for most adults each day1:
- Men (19+ years): 900 mcg
- Women (19+ years): 700 mcg
- Pregnant women: 770 mcg
- Lactating women: 1,300 mcg
These amounts are measured in retinol activity equivalents (RAE) to reflect different forms of vitamin A—like retinol from animal sources and beta-carotene from plant-based foods. Unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise, avoid exceeding the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for preformed vitamin A, which is 3,000 micrograms RAE daily for adults1.
And to drive this home one last time, Dr. Dasgupta (not just me!) emphasizes, “A vitamin A supplement may not be necessary for everyone. Similar to multivitamins, those with balanced diets, certain medical conditions, or athletes taking specific medications may be at risk of exceeding safe nutrient counts if they were to adopt a vitamin A supplement regimen.”
Buying Guide: What to Look for in Vitamin A Supplements
Choosing the right vitamin A supplement can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you find a high-quality option that fits your health goals and lifestyle.
Ingredients and Formulation
Look for a supplement with a simple ingredient list. Ideally, it should include preformed vitamin A (a majority, if not all), a stable oil to support absorption, and antioxidants to preserve the oil’s freshness.
Some products may also include complementary nutrients, such as vitamins D or K, which can support overall wellness. Just be sure you’re not overdoing any listed nutrients from your diet or other supplements.

Watch out for unnecessary additives like added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or fillers. If you have allergies or dietary preferences, check the label carefully for common allergens like fish, soy, or tree nuts, and opt for a vegan formula if that’s important to you.
Vitamin A Form
Vitamin A comes in two main forms: preformed vitamin A (retinyl palmitate or retinyl acetate) and provitamin A (beta-carotene).
Preformed vitamin A is more readily absorbed and used by the body, making it a more reliable choice for those who want to ensure adequate intake. Provitamin A, found in plant-based sources, must be converted by the body into its active form, and its absorption rate can vary significantly.
If your goal is optimal absorption and effectiveness, a supplement containing preformed vitamin A is generally the better option.
Supplement Type
Vitamin A is available in several formats, so pick what fits your lifestyle best and makes sticking to your routine as seamless as possible:
- Softgels and capsules: Convenient, stable, and easy to take, but some may be smelly.
- Liquids: Great for adjustable dosing or if you struggle with pills.
- Fish liver oil: A natural source of vitamin A with omega-3s, but it may have a strong taste.
- Gummies: A tasty, easy-to-take option, especially if they’re properly dosed. Just be mindful of added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and whether they contain gelatin if following a vegan diet.
Taste and Available Flavors
While taste isn’t a deal-breaker for everyone, it can make all the difference, especially if you choose a liquid or gummy format. Some products offer mild, pleasant flavors such as citrus, which can be more enjoyable than the earthy or fishy aftertaste of other forms.
A supplement you enjoy taking is one you’re more likely to stick with over time.
RELATED: Best Tasting Protein Bars
Third-Party Testing
Third-party testing helps ensure that what’s on the label is exactly what’s in the bottle—and that it’s free from harmful contaminants like heavy metals. Certifications from trusted organizations like NSF, USP, or Informed Choice add an extra layer of confidence, especially for supplements you take daily or if you’re an athlete subject to drug testing.
Value
Look for a product that fits your budget but doesn’t compromise on quality—finding that sweet spot between affordability and effectiveness is key. Many brands sweeten the deal with perks like rewards programs, subscription discounts, and flexible delivery options that allow you to pause or cancel at any time.

It’s also a good idea to compare prices across trusted retailers like Amazon. Just make sure you’re buying from a reputable seller.
Experts Who Contributed to This Article
FAQs About the Best Vitamin A Supplements
What is the best form of vitamin A?
Preformed vitamin A—such as retinyl acetate or retinyl palmitate—is generally regarded as the most effective form in terms of absorption and bioavailability. As a dietary supplement, 70 to 90 percent of preformed vitamin A, while beta-carotene absorption can vary significantly, ranging from 8.7 to 65 percent1.
What is the best vitamin A supplement?
The “best” vitamin A supplement really comes down to individual needs, such as the dose, whether you prefer a simple formula or one that includes other nutrients, and even your preferred format—think gummies, softgels, or capsules.
That said, there are a few key things to look for. Aim for a supplement that contains preformed vitamin A—such as retinyl palmitate or retinyl acetate—since it’s more easily absorbed and used by the body compared to the plant-based carotenoids like beta-carotene.
Since vitamin A is fat-soluble, it’s also important that the supplement includes a stable oil—like MCT or olive oil—to enhance absorption. Bonus points if it contains antioxidants like vitamin E, which help preserve the oil and enhance overall stability.
Is it worth taking a vitamin A supplement?
Taking a vitamin A supplement may be beneficial for some individuals, especially if their diet lacks sufficient vitamin A. However, more isn’t always better when it comes to this nutrient, as excessive intake can be harmful. It’s best to seek medical advice before supplementing, particularly if you manage a health condition or take prescription medications.
How much do vitamin A supplements cost?
Our research shows that vitamin A supplements typically cost around $0.26 per serving on average, with prices ranging anywhere from $0.04 to $0.83. This wide range typically stems from differences in formulation, serving size, added ingredients, and whether the product holds third-party certifications for quality and purity.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
References
- National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements – Vitamin A. Nih.gov. Published 2023. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- National Institutes of Health. Office of Dietary Supplements – Vitamin E. Nih.gov. Published March 26, 2021. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminE-HealthProfessional/
- Olsen T, Lerner UH. Vitamin A – a scoping review for Nordic nutrition Recommendations 2023. Food Nutr Res. 2023;67:10.29219/fnr.v67.10229. Published 2023 Nov 7. doi:10.29219/fnr.v67.10229
- National Institutes of Health. Vitamin D. National Institutes of Health. Published 2024. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/
- Halder M, Petsophonsakul P, Akbulut AC, et al. Vitamin K: Double Bonds beyond Coagulation Insights into Differences between Vitamin K1 and K2 in Health and Disease. Int J Mol Sci. 2019;20(4):896. Published 2019 Feb 19. doi:10.3390/ijms20040896
- Debelo, H., Novotny, J. A., & Ferruzzi, M. G. (2017). Vitamin A. Advances in Nutrition (Bethesda, Md.), 8(6), 992–994. https://doi.org/10.3945/an.116.014720
- Feroze KB, Kaufman EJ. Xerophthalmia. [Updated 2023 Apr 17]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431094/
- Khoo HE, Ng HS, Yap WS, Goh HJH, Yim HS. Nutrients for Prevention of Macular Degeneration and Eye-Related Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2019;8(4):85. Published 2019 Apr 2. doi:10.3390/antiox8040085
- Huang Z, Liu Y, Qi G, Brand D, Zheng SG. Role of Vitamin A in the Immune System. J Clin Med. 2018;7(9):258. Published 2018 Sep 6. doi:10.3390/jcm7090258
- Zasada M, Budzisz E. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Postepy Dermatol Alergol. 2019;36(4):392-397. doi:10.5114/ada.2019.87443









