Retinaldehyde

INCI: Retinal

Intermediate vitamin A form between retinol and retinoic acid. More potent than retinol but gentler than tretinoin.

Anti-aging

Evidence by route

Topical application

Proven efficacy. Two or more independent RCTs with instrumental endpoints.

Studies show comparable activity to retinol with a better tolerability profile. One head-to-head trial demonstrated superiority over retinol in conversion rate and clinical efficacy.

Creidi P et al. Dermatology. 1998;197(4):363-368.

Working concentrations

0.05–0.1%

Tolerability and safety

Irritation potential

Medium

Allergen risk

Low

Pregnancy

Avoid

Skin types

Suitable for

NormalCombinationOily

Use with caution

SensitiveDry

Frequently asked questions

Is Retinaldehyde safe during pregnancy?

Retinaldehyde is not recommended during pregnancy. Consider an alternative from the same category.

What skin types is Retinaldehyde for?

Retinaldehyde suits: normal, combination, oily. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.

Can Retinaldehyde irritate the skin?

Retinaldehyde has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.