Ingredient
Retinal
Retinaldehyde
Vitamin A Aldehyde
What it is
A vitamin A derivative (retinaldehyde) positioned between retinol and retinoic acid in the skin's conversion pathway, used in anti-aging and resurfacing products for its cell-turnover and antioxidant effects.
How it works
Once absorbed, retinal is enzymatically oxidized to retinoic acid, the active form that binds nuclear retinoid receptors to accelerate epidermal turnover and modulate collagen signaling; as an aldehyde intermediate it also carries direct antioxidant activity.
What it does
Skin conditioning
Antioxidant
Concerns to know
-
Potential irritant
May cause irritation for sensitive skin, particularly at higher concentrations.