Clinical Overview
The direct precursor to retinoic acid, requiring only a single enzymatic conversion step for up to 11x faster turnover.
Epidermal & Cutaneous Mechanism
Bypasses the rate-limiting oxidation step from retinol, providing high potency with direct antibacterial activity against C. acnes.
Addresses Skin Concerns
Inflammatory acneDynamic expression linesLoss of dermal density
Recognized INCI Names on Packaging Labels
RetinalRetinaldehyde
Compatible Synergies
- ✓Ceramides
- ✓Ectoin
- ✓Panthenol
Separate or Alternate
- ⚠️Glycolic Acid
- ⚠️Salicylic Acid
- ⚠️Benzoyl Peroxide