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Retinal – Faster and more effective than retinol

Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a form of vitamin A that plays an important role in skin cell renewal. It is part of the retinoid family, a group of ingredients known for their scientifically proven effects on mature skin, which is why they are often used in products that are intended to counteract the signs of aging and make the skin firmer and more elastic.

What is retinal?

Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a form of vitamin A that plays an important role in skin cell renewal. It is part of the retinoid family, a group of ingredients known for their scientifically proven effects on mature skin, which is why they are often used in products that are intended to counteract the signs of aging and make the skin firmer and more elastic.

The big difference between retinal and retinol is how they are converted in the skin. Retinol has to go through two steps before it becomes active as retinoic acid*, while retinal only requires one. This means that retinal works faster and more effectively, up to 10 times more than retinol, while being gentler than tretinoin, which is only allowed to be used in medicines in the EU.

* Retinoic acid is the active form of vitamin A and binds directly to the skin's cell receptors to stimulate cell renewal, increase collagen production and reduce pigmentation.

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Why is retinal unique?

Retinal stands out for its speed, efficiency and unique properties:

Faster results

Only one conversion step is required to become active in the skin, which provides a faster effect than retinol.

Antibacterial properties

Retinal is the only retinoid that directly fights bacteria, making it extra effective and suitable even for acne-prone skin.

High bioavailability*

Faster conversion means a more effective action in the skin, making retinal more powerful than retinol.

Stability and formulation

Because retinal is unstable, advanced formulations are required to maintain its effect, but when it is stabilized it can deliver optimal results, something we have achieved in Retinal Concentrate.

* Bioavailability refers to how effectively an active ingredient is absorbed and used by the skin. In the case of retinal, high bioavailability means that the skin can convert it quickly into retinoic acid, leading to faster and more noticeable results compared to retinol.

Retinal and collagen production

As we age, our body’s collagen production decreases, leading to less elastic skin and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Retinal stimulates the skin’s own ability to produce collagen, rebuilding skin structure and improving firmness and elasticity. Collagen is a key component in the deeper layers of the skin and is essential for firm, youthful skin. By increasing collagen production, Retinal helps the skin maintain its structure for longer.

Challenges with retinal

Retinal is unstable and easily degraded by oxygen, water and heat. To counteract this, innovative formulation technologies such as water-free formulations, airtight packaging, etc. must be used where retinal is kept stable until application.

How to use retinal?

Start by applying retinal a few times a week and gradually increase to allow your skin to adjust. Since retinoids can make your skin more sensitive to UV radiation, daily sun protection is a must when the UV index is above 2.

Conclusion: is retinal better than retinol?

Yes! Retinal is faster, more effective and has several other benefits. For those who want visible results faster, while maintaining skin balance, retinal is the obvious choice.