Retinaldehyde (RetinAl) is a part of the vitamin A family of ingredients and is the most potent cosmetic retinoid. As with most retinoids, retinal must be converted to retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A, in order to work. However, compared to retinol which undergoes 2 conversion steps to retinoic acid, retinal undergoes only one conversion, making it more potent/effective than retinol.

Retinaldehyde is also unique in comparison to other retinoids in that it has antibacterial properties, alongside all other properties of retinoids. This means that you get the smoother, firmer, and more even skin tone that retinoids provide with the additional bonus of antibacterial properties for people with acne. 

It is part of a family of ingredients also found on ingredients lists as encapsulated retinaldehyde, hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinyl propionate and retinyl retinoate (8x more powerful than retinol).

Renude

blemishes

dull skin

enlarged pores

fine lines

firmness

pigmentation

scarring

uneven texture

wrinkles

I have chosen this potent anti-ageing treatment to target the key areas of ageing you mention are concerns for you: wrinkles, skin firmness, enlarged pores and pigmentation.

Amino acids are the small building blocks that make up peptides, and proteins. Each amino acid has a unique structure, and as such plays a specific role within the body. There are around 20 different types considered to be most important for human health. In the outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, they are present in the ‘natural moisturising factors’, our skin’s own moisturising mechanism, and they help to support water transport between skin cells to keep our surface smooth and hydrated.

amino acids

argania spinosa kernel oil (organic)

Argan oil is derived from the nut of the Argan tree which grows in Morocco. It is naturally high in Vitamin E and fatty acids, which work to nourish the skin, protect the natural lipid barrier and provide antioxidant protection against free radicals.

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3 and Nicotinamide, has many skincare benefits. Firstly, it regulates sebum production in the skin, which in turn reduces blemishes and visible pore size. It also reduces facial redness by improving microcirculation, which means moving the blood inside the capillaries away from the face to reduce visible redness. It also has the ability to strengthen the natural lipid barrier of the skin by encouraging ceramide production (the building blocks which seal our skin cells together), which in turn increases the hydration within the epidermis. Lastly, niacinamide works to help reduce hyperpigmentation by blocking melanin from being deposited on the skin cells.

niacinamide

Many peptides function as anti-ageing ingredients in skincare, due to their ability to fit specific receptors in the body to trigger anti-ageing responses. This includes mechanisms like collagen production, cell regeneration or even blocking muscle contractions to smooth expression lines. Peptides are made up of amino acids, and are unique in shape, with a huge variety available to target specific responses in the body.

palmitoyl oligopeptide

palmitoyl tetrapeptide

retinaldehyde

Vitamin A, aka Retinol, is one of the most well-researched actives used in skincare today. Retinol and all of its derivatives are broken down within the skin first into retinaldehyde, then into retinoic acid, the active form recognised by the body to trigger it’s skin benefits.

Retinoic acid (aka tretinoin) is the gold standard of anti-ageing and works in a number of ways. Firstly, it blocks the production of collagen-degrading enzymes, meaning collagen does not get broken down as quickly in the skin. After prolonged use (6M+), it has also been shown to stimulate the production of type I and type III collagen, reducing wrinkles and improving skin firmness. It has been shown to protect against UV-induced damage, as well as reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation in the skin. Skin treated with retinoids is smoother, more even-toned, firmer and younger looking.

Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid (a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body), created to improve the ingredient stability. It works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

sodium hyaluronate

Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body. Hyaluronic acid works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

A multitasking overnight mask supercharged with a time-release Retinaldehyde, 13.5% Peptide Complex, 9 Antioxidants, & 5 Brighteners, to hydrate and brighten stressed-out skin, as it repairs all signs of premature aging. Formulated with our patented Ally-R™, an encapsulated form of Retinaldehyde, it also combats blemishes, smoothens wrinkles, and reverses sun damage, all without any of the traditional irritation. Working while you sleep to boost your skin’s immunity and accelerate skin cell renewal, this overnight mask also boost the skin’s natural reparative process and its defenses against environmental aggressors, giving new life to dull, sallow skin. While nutrient and antioxidant-rich Organic Argan Oil and Arctic Cranberry Seed Oil provide skin with superior hydration. Clinically proven to help problematic skin types regenerate faster, reducing acne lesions by 67.2% in 28 days. Due to the Retinal content, this formula is not recommended if pregnant/breastfeeding.

Counter Culture

blackheads

lack of radiance

loss of firmness

rough skin

This multi-functional serum addresses early signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles, and helps improve uneven skin tone. The formula includes 16% micro-encapsulated Retinol Complex to enhance skin texture and tone, while Sodium Hyaluronate and Squalane boost hydration and improve moisture balance in the skin.

Glycerin is a humectant present in all natural lipids. It works to attract water molecules towards it, plumping & hydrating the applied area, resulting in smooth, soft, hydrated skin. It is one of the most widely used humectants in skincare, due to it’s high performance and broad availability (making it very cost-effective). Recent research has shown that it’s ability to penetrate the layers of the skin is superior to that of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, making it a brilliant choice for overall skin hydration, and suitable for all skin types.

glycerin

Sunflower seed oil is a natural oil derived from the seeds of the sunflower plant. It is rich in omega fatty acids and used in skincare for its emollient and antioxidant properties. 

helianthus annuus seed oil

hyaluronic acid

The name for a group of lipids comprising of a fatty acid, glycerol & phosphate. Lecithin in an example of a phospholipid.

phospholipids

Our outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, has a multilamellar structure (essentially a fine membrane), made up of lipids (fats), to form a non-permeable barrier. This keeps water inside the skin, and acts as the first defense against external aggressors. The lipids which make up the majority of this are known as ceramides, which are produced naturally in the body from a range of other naturally-occurring lipids, which we class here as essential lipids (not the same as essential fatty acids, which are deemed ‘essential’ as the body cannot produce these naturally.) Using these lipids in skincare helps to support the natural skin barrier, preventing water-loss to keep skin hydrated and balanced.

proline

retinol

Sodium lactate is a salt produced by the fermentation of lactic acid. It acts as a humectant in the skin, drawing water molecules from the atmosphere towards it to plump and hydrate. It is present in the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), as both sodium and lactate. Studies have shown that lactate levels in the stratum corneum directly correlate with the hydration levels within the skin, with low levels resulting in dry, rough, flaky skin. Applying this ingredient topically helps the natural water-binding capacity of the epidermis, resulting in smoother, softer, more hydrated skin.

sodium lactate

Natural moisturising factor (NMF) is a substance produced by the body, made up of minerals, lactate, urea, amino acids & humectants, which coats the surface skin cells to keep them moisturised. NMF increases the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which results in more hydrated, plump, smoother skin.

Squalane is a natural substance usually derived from olives. It is structurally very similar to our skin’s own sebum, so is a great ingredient to support our own natural skin processes. In drier skin, which is naturally lacking in natural sebum, it helps to support the skin barrier to prevent water loss, which results in more hydrated, smooth and plump skin. Due to its sebum-mimicking structure, it is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause breakouts, so is also suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. It can be a great option to reduce any over-stimulation of the sebaceous glands, which can occur with excess cleansing (and make breakouts worse). It also works to support the skin barrier to combat any drying effects caused by ingredients commonly associated with acne treatment, so is a great ingredient for all skin types.

squalane

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble Vitamin contained in many plant oils, or can also be produced synthetically. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

vitamin e

Cosmedix Serum 16 is a Rapid Renewal Serum that includes 2x Vitamin A (Retinol & Retinal) to help smooth the look of lines and wrinkles, and uneven skin tone for a healthier-looking complexion.
 WHAT IT DOES:
 
 Helps improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
 Deeply hydrates, soothes and nourishes a dry complexion
 Helps reduce the look of an uneven skin ton
 Helps improve hydration and prevent moisture loss
 Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula boosts moisture without causing dryness
 
 Help address early signs of ageing and boost hydration with Serum 16. Formulated with 16% Micro-encapsulated Retinol Complex, this Rapid Renewal Serum combines hydration with Retinol and Retinal to help improve the appearance of an uneven skin tone and smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles. This gentle Retinol-infused face serum treatment is packed with vitamins and moisture-rich ingredients to delicately improve the look of skin without causing redness or dryness. Serum 16 is ideal for dry, sensitive skin types that cannot tolerate traditional Retinol.
 TRANSFORMATIVE INGREDIENTS
 16% LG-Retinex | COSMEDIX proprietary encapsulated blend of Retinol and Retinal that helps reduce the look of lines and medium to deep wrinkles
 Sodium Hyaluronate and Squalene | Boost hydration and help prevent moisture loss
 Vitamin E | Helps protect the skin from environmental stressors

Unfragranced

Nut free

This cult multi-functional retinoid serum targets both congested skin and signs of ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. The inclusion of retinal, a potent form of vitamin A, helps accelerate cell turnover and improve skin texture. Hyaluronic acid and squalane provide hydration and support the skin barrier.

3-0-Ethyl ascorbic acid is a modified version of L-ascorbic acid (pure Vitamin C), designed to improve its stability and skin penetration abilities, to achieve optimum skin benefits. Once absorbed into the skin, the ethyl group is removed, and l-ascorbic acid is returned to its active form, where it can best support the skin to achieve visible brightening & anti-ageing results.

ethyl ascorbic acid

Vitamin C has many skin benefits, including its action as an antioxidant, to neutralise free radicals (reactive molecules with an unpaired electron), preventing them from causing damage to cells within the body. Vitamin C is also involved in the collagen-production process, so provides anti-wrinkle activity through this mechanism. Lastly, Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin-synthesis, and can therefore visibly reduce areas of hyperpigmentation in the skin.

Lecithin can be classed as a phospholipid, which occurs naturally in eggs, soybean, sunflower oil and corn. It contains a high concentration of fatty acids, which support the skin’s natural barrier by creating a lipid film to prevent trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). Lecithin also has lipophilic & hydrophilic properties, meaning it can function as an emulsifier and skin penetration-enhancer, helping to deliver actives deeper into the skin.

lecithin

mineral uv filters

tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate

This cult retinal serum targets multiple signs of ageing, including fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone. The inclusion of retinal, a potent form of vitamin A, helps accelerate skin cell turnover and improve texture. Hyaluronic acid and squalane provide hydration and support the skin barrier to improve tolerance of the formula. 

I have chosen this evening treatment moisturiser for your routine to support youthful functioning of the skin. It contains a blend of retinal, peptides and a blend of plant antioxidants to protect the skin and keeping it looking radiant, smooth and healthy.

argania spinosa kernel oil

palmitoyl  tripeptide

Resveratrol in a polyphenol most famously found in the skin of red grapes, but also occurs naturally in peanuts and certain fruits such as blueberries and cranberries. It is included in skincare for its powerful antioxidant abilities - with research showing it can protect against free radicals, as well as oxidative damage caused by UV. 

resveratrol

This multitasking treatment moisturiser is supercharged with time-release Retinaldehyde, 4 Peptides, 10 Antioxidants, 5 Brighteners, Organic Argan Oil, Arctic Cranberry Seed Oil, and Indian Ginseng Extract to brighten, moisturise and reduce the signs of premature ageing. Formulated for all skin types.

These formulas deliver a potent dose of vitamin a (retinoid), which has proven effectiveness in treating both acne and ageing concerns.

Retinol night cream picks

This active-packed overnight treatment contains retinaldehyde for all its brilliant skin benefits, alongside peptides to minimise fine lines and support the skin barrier, plus antioxidants to protect.

This is an incredible formula containing retinal alongside a cocktail of skin loving ingredients. Niacinamide to brighten, superoxide dismutase to protect, hyaluronic acid to hydrate, bakuchiol and peptides to firm and smooth and a host of plant extracts to support the skin.

Awarded

Vegan

PETA certified

Cruelty free

This serum targets fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin texture. Retinal, a potent form of vitamin A, works faster than traditional retinol to deliver visible anti-ageing benefits. Butterfly Lavender Extract and Algae Extract enhance hydration and improve overall skin texture.

Algae is an incredibly interesting natural ingredient source. It is essentially an underwater plant, designed to get its food from sunlight, much like any other plants, although from much more challenging conditions. There are many types of algae (kelp, laminaria, microalgae), but in general in all its forms it acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting from free radical damage, as well as being able to hydrate the skin and deliver naturally-occurring vitamins into the skin.

algae extract

Jojoba oil is a natural oil from the jojoba plant. It is structurally similar to our skin's natural sebum (oil), so absorbs very well into the skin and doesn't clog the pores. It is fantastic for nourishing the skin and is naturally high in fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins to optimise skin barrier health.

jojoba oil

red algae

Natural oil rich in linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid, which cannot be produced naturally by the body and which helps support the lipid barrier of the skin, minimising water loss to keep skin soft, smooth and moisturised.

safflower seed oil

True Skincare ‚Äì Advanced Retinal Serum (0.05%), 30ml
 This anti-ageing powerhouse has been developed using clinically proven natural ingredients to help reduce the appearance, of fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin texture. Naturally derived from the pink lakes, Retinal works 11 times faster than traditional, synthetic retinol by skipping the first phase of the conversion process, delivering clinically proven results quicker while still being as gentle on the skin and also helping to tackle acne and rosacea. Combined with clinically proven Butterfly Lavender Extract to help further these youth renewing credentials, and Algae Extract to help hydrate the skin, this waterless wonder provides quick and effective results without compromising on ethics, elegance or efficacy.
 What's the difference between RetinAl and RetinOl?
 Good question! When applied to the skin, retinOl converts into retinAl, which then converts into RetinOID. By skipping this first conversion process, retinAl can work much faster at delivering those incredible results, without any additional adverse side effects. Furthermore, retinOl is synethic, whereas our retinAl is naturally derived from the pink lakes, providing clinically proven results. We didn't want to offer just another "natural alternative to retinol" like Bakuchiol for example, as we wanted to give you real results backed by real data.
 ‚Ä¢ Waterless formulation
 ‚Ä¢ Clinically proven ingredients, including naturally-derived retinal
 ‚Ä¢ 92% organically grown ingredients
 ‚Ä¢ 99% natural origin
 ‚Ä¢ Leaping Bunny approved by Cruelty Free International
 ‚Ä¢ Vegan friendly
 ‚Ä¢ Sustainably sourced
 ‚Ä¢ Made in the UK

I have chosen this multi-tasking overnight treatment cream for your evening routine. It contains a blend of established active ingredients - retinoid, peptides, niacinamide, bakuchiol, glutathione - to smooth skin, reduce lines, fade pigmentation and improve overall radiance.

bakuchiol

Bakuchiol has been dubbed as ‘nature’s retinol’ due to its ability to achieve some of the same skin benefits (without the side effects). Studies have shown this plant active, when used twice daily, to result in visible improvements in wrinkle depth, skin smoothness, elasticity & uneven skin tone.

Bisabolol is a naturally-occurring active found in the chamomile plant, although this can also be created synthetically. It’s key properties are as an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, with some studies also showing it to have a brightening effect on the skin. Bisabolol is also a rich source of Panthenol (Vitamin B5), which acts as a humectant, meaning it draws water molecules towards it to plump and hydrate the area. Studies have also shown that bisabolol can enhance the penetration of other actives into the skin, so is great when used in combination with other actives designed to work at the basal layer of the epidermis, or in fact the dermis.

bisabolol

Lactobacillus ferment is a probiotic, with a number of skin benefits. It was first shown by Estee Lauder to protect against environmental aggressors by supporting DNA repair within the cell. It was later shown to have powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, with research indicating it being particularly beneficial for those with acne or rosacea. The manufacturer of the ingredient, Barnet, has confirmed the mechanism of this is by suppressing the growth of harmful bacteria associated with these conditions, and encouraging the diversity of growth of beneficial skin microbiota.

lactobacillus ferment

Probiotics can be defined as living bacteria which are good for the skin, and are useful to include in skincare formulations in order to populate a healthy microbiome (the ecosystem of bacteria on the skin). A diverse breadth in the strains of bacteria living on the skin results in a healthy microbiome, and some early research has linked certain imbalances in this microbiome to skin conditions such as acne, ezcema and psoriasis.

palmitoyl tripeptide

silybum marianum (milk thistle) fruit extract

Milk thistle extract is used in skincare for it’s soothing and skin-restoring abilities, as well as its antioxidant abilities.

Superoxide dismutase is an enzyme produced naturally in the body, specifically to break down the free radical superoxide (an oxygen with an excess electron and thus a negative charge). It is considered to be the body’s most important antioxidant and works by catalysing the conversion of superoxide, into elemental oxygen (O2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a process known as dismutation. This action is part of the body’s natural anti-ageing mechanism, so including this ingredient in skincare supports this natural protection process.

superoxide dismutase

This mid-strength retinoid night cream brightens, repairs and regenerates the skin. Formulated to account for melanated skin needs, this product is able to address post-acne marks and scarring on all skin tones, while minimising the risk of irritation. It contains a blend of Retinaldehyde, patented theraputic Liposomal Ursolic Acid and a restorative Tripeptide complex working alongside a botanical blend and antioxidants, including Bakuchiol, Glutathione and Niacinamide.

Retinaldehyde

What is Retinaldehyde?

What does Retinaldehyde do?

Who is Retinaldehyde good for?

Who should avoid Retinaldehyde?

Retinaldehyde

What is Retinaldehyde?

What does Retinaldehyde do?

Who is Retinaldehyde good for?

Who should avoid Retinaldehyde?

Treatments (6)