If you’re new to retinaldehyde (retinal) you’re probably wondering... how do I fit this into my skincare routine? What can I layer it with? Is this going to burn my face off? 

Trust us, we get it –you’ve got some questions and we have some answers. Worry no more, we’re spilling the tea on this powerful vitamin A derivative. Let’s start with the basics:

Retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal) and retinol belong to the same family: Retinoids. Retinoids are all forms of Vitamin A. The pure form is called Retinoid Acid (the active ingredient in Tretinoin), but it’s super harsh on the skin. That’s why scientists have been working on gentler derivatives, like retinol and retinaldehyde.

To work their magic, they both have to be converted to Retinoid Acid. Retinaldehyde converts in one step. Retinol takes two. Like this:

Retinyl Palmitate > Retinol > Retinaldehyde > Retinoic acid

If you’re new to retinaldehyde (retinal) you’re probably wondering... how do I fit this into my skincare routine? What can I layer it with? Is this going to burn my face off? 

Trust us, we get it –you’ve got some questions and we have some answers. Worry no more, we’re spilling the tea on this powerful vitamin A derivative. Let’s start with the basics:

Retinaldehyde (a.k.a. retinal) and retinol belong to the same family: Retinoids. Retinoids are all forms of Vitamin A. The pure form is called Retinoid Acid (the active ingredient in Tretinoin), but it’s super harsh on the skin. That’s why scientists have been working on gentler derivatives, like retinol and retinaldehyde.

To work their magic, they both have to be converted to Retinoid Acid. Retinaldehyde converts in one step. Retinol takes two. Like this:

Retinyl Palmitate > Retinol > Retinaldehyde > Retinoic acid

The process goes in just that order, which also correlates with the retinoids' potency and efficacy; the more steps in the conversion process, the weaker the retinoid is. 

Translation: Since retinaldehyde is the final stop before the hard stuff, it's as strong of a retinoid as you can get without going into prescription-strength territory.

Still, at the end of the day, all retinoids have a similar effect on skin, albeit in varying degrees. And while they often get lauded for anti-aging, retinoids are a good pick for all ages. Retinoids, including retinaldehyde are superpower ingredients, extremely effective at combatting blackheads and whiteheads, as well as fine lines and wrinkles, and can be used by everyone from acne-prone teenagers to those with more mature skin who are seeking to unlock the anti-aging benefits.

Like any retinoid, retinaldehyde delivers a long list of benefits, no matter your complexion concern.

Speeds cell turnover: Our skin cells naturally turn over every 28 days on average, though this process takes longer as we age. By causing the skin cells on the outermost layer of skin to turnover faster, new cells can emerge, resulting in smoother, more even skin.

Stimulates collagen production: Along with working on the surface of the skin to speed up cell turnover, retinoids, including retinaldehyde, also work on the deeper layer of the skin, where it boosts collagen synthesis for anti-aging benefits, increases elasticity, and repairs connective tissue in the skin.

Keeps pores clear: In speeding up cell turnover and acting as an exfoliant, it also helps unclog pores to keep them clear, which is why it's often found in acne treatments. Retinaldehyde also balances oil production, thus shrinking the pores to prevent them from getting clogged and inflamed.

No matter whether it's prescription-strength or over-the-counter, any retinoid carries with it the potential for the same type of unpleasant and unsightly side effects: redness, peeling, dryness, flaking. If you have super sensitive skin, it’s important to be careful when first using a product that contains any type of retinoid. Start slowly and work your way up to higher amounts as your skin gets accustomed to it.

According to experts, mid-twenties to early thirties is a great time to begin incorporating a topical retinoid in your skincare routine. 

Since this is the time that cell turnover starts to slow down, it'll help boost any collagen production that’s been lost. 

Prevention is key!