A composition for the treatment of skin comprises a non-emulsified, aqueous suspension of retinol. The composition may further include at least one protein species, and some proteins used in the composition include collagen and elastin. The composition may also include hyaluronic acid. The composition may also include one or more of tocopheryl acetate, propylene glycol, and linseed extract. Also disclosed are methods for making the composition and use of the composition for the treatment of skin.