Ingredient glossary
Retinal
INCI: Retinaldehyde
Worth paying for
Does Retinal clash with what you already use? Check it →Strong results with strong evidence behind them. This is one genuinely worth having in a formula.
What it does
- anti aging
- texture
- brightening
strong evidenceClinical data at 0.05–0.1% shows significant improvements in photoaging, texture, TEWL and hydration with good tolerability compared to vehicle, with 0.1% offering additional pigment benefits.
On a label: works best above 0.05%.
Who it's for, and who should skip it
Tends to suit
- normal
- oily
- combo
Approach with care
- pregnancy
- breastfeeding
- very sensitive
- compromised barrier
- Clogs poresLow
- Irritation riskModerate
Pregnancy: Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Plays well with
- ceramides
- niacinamide
- panthenol
This, for every label you own
One ingredient is easy. A full label is where it gets confusing. The Ingredient Decoder reads any product and tells you the honest truth, ingredient by ingredient.
Educational information about a cosmetic ingredient, not medical advice.