RETINAL

WHAT IS RETINAL?

Originally identified as another form of vitamin A, retinal has established itself as a powerful agent in skincare. Although its properties were long overshadowed by the more well-known retinol, retinal is gaining importance due to its potent yet gentle effect.

Chemically, retinal belongs to the family of retinoids and is a precursor to retinoic acid. Its structure, consisting of a cyclohexene ring and an isoprenoid side chain, allows retinal to penetrate deep into the skin and act at a cellular level. This ability is crucial for its anti-aging effect, as retinal influences cell division and renewal. Like retinol, retinal is also light- and air-sensitive, which poses particular requirements for the packaging of retinal products to maintain their effectiveness.

NATURAL SOURCES OF VITAMIN A

Vitamin A is present in various foods. The human body converts vitamin A to retinal through hydrolysis, which is then further processed in the liver. The most important vitamin A-rich foods include meat, especially liver, fish, eggs, and dairy products.

Plant-based foods often contain beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A that the body can convert to vitamin A. Beta-carotene is particularly abundant in carrots, but red peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and broccoli are also good sources of this provitamin. The conversion of beta-carotene to vitamin A is an important process that contributes to maintaining various bodily functions, including supporting skin health.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RETINOL AND RETINAL?

Although retinol and retinal both belong to the retinoid family and offer similar benefits for skincare, there are significant differences between these two active ingredients. These differences affect their effectiveness, tolerability, and application in skincare.

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND CONVERSION

Retinol (Vitamin A1) and retinal (retinaldehyde) are chemically related substances, but their molecular structures differ slightly. Retinal is a direct precursor to retinoic acid, the most active form of vitamin A in the skin. To exert its effects, retinol must be converted in two steps: first to retinal and then to retinoic acid. In contrast, retinal only needs to undergo one step to be converted into retinoic acid, making it a more effective and efficient active ingredient.

EFFICACY AND SPEED OF RESULTS

Since retinal is closer to the final form of retinoic acid, it works faster and more effectively than retinol. Users of retinal often report quicker and more visible results in reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and improving skin texture. Retinol takes more time to show its effects as it needs to be converted first.

SKIN TOLERANCE

Another significant difference lies in skin tolerance. Retinal is known for its milder side effects. It causes less skin irritation and redness compared to retinol, making it a suitable choice for individuals with sensitive skin. Retinol can lead to dryness, peeling, and irritations in some users, especially when used too quickly or in high concentrations.

STABILITY AND FORMULATION

Both active ingredients are sensitive to light and air, requiring careful formulation and packaging. However, retinal is somewhat more stable than retinol, meaning it is less prone to degradation and can maintain its effectiveness longer when formulated and stored correctly.

APPLICATION

Both retinol and retinal are used in anti-aging products and acne treatments. Since retinal works faster and is less irritating, it is often used in products for sensitive skin or in formulations that aim to deliver quick results. Retinol is widely used and can be found in a variety of skincare products, from entry-level to advanced formulations.

Thus, both retinol and retinal offer significant benefits for skincare, but differ in their effectiveness, speed of results, and tolerability. Retinal provides a faster and often gentler alternative to retinol, making it an excellent choice for those looking to achieve visible results without excessively irritating their skin.

BENEFITS OF RETINAL IN SKINCARE

Retinal has established itself in skincare as a versatile and effective active ingredient. Its numerous benefits make it a valuable component in many skincare products. Here are some of the key benefits of Retinal:

ANTI-AGING EFFECTS OF RETINAL

Retinal is particularly known for its impressive anti-aging properties. It stimulates collagen production in the skin, which is crucial in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. By promoting a tighter and more elastic skin structure, Retinal helps make the skin appear more youthful and fresher. Products like Retinal serums and Retinal creams are therefore essential elements in any anti-aging skincare routine to effectively combat the signs of aging.

IMPROVING SKIN TEXTURE WITH RETINAL

Retinal works deep in the skin to accelerate cell renewal. This process helps to more effectively remove dead skin cells and promotes the formation of new, healthy skin cells. The result is a smoother, refined, and more even skin texture. Retinal products are ideal for those seeking solutions for refined skin texture and skin structure renewal.

RETINAL IN ACNE TREATMENT

Retinal has also proven to be effective in treating acne. It supports the opening of clogged pores, thereby reducing the occurrence of acne breakouts. Additionally, Retinal has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce acne and its sequelae. Skincare products containing Retinal are thus an excellent choice for those struggling with acne-prone skin.

CORRECTING SKIN DISCOLORATION WITH RETINAL

Retinal can effectively help in treating pigment spots and skin discoloration. It accelerates skin renewal, improving the distribution of pigments in the skin. This leads to lightening of dark spots and a more even skin tone. Retinal is therefore a key element in the treatment of hyperpigmentation, providing a clearer and more radiant skin complexion.

ANTIBACTERIAL PROPERTIES OF RETINAL

In addition to its anti-aging and skin renewal properties, Retinal also possesses antibacterial properties. These make it an effective remedy against acne and other bacterial skin issues by inhibiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria.

PROMOTING SKIN HEALTH WITH RETINAL

Retinal not only contributes to the aesthetic improvement of the skin but also promotes its overall health and resilience. By stimulating skin renewal and improving collagen production, Retinal supports strengthening the skin barrier. This helps the skin better protect itself against environmental influences and preserve its natural protective function. Retinal products are therefore an important part of a comprehensive skincare routine aimed at long-term maintenance of skin health.

IMPROVING SCAR HEALING WITH RETINAL

Retinal is also an effective active ingredient in improving scar healing. It promotes skin renewal and stimulates collagen production, which significantly contributes to reducing scar tissue. Regular use of Retinal can improve both the appearance and texture of scars. This makes Retinal a valuable component in scar treatment, both on the face and body.

Retinal offers numerous benefits for skincare, from combating skin aging to improving skin texture and treating acne and skin discoloration. Its milder side effects and effective mode of action make it an excellent active ingredient for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Regular use of Retinal can lead to healthier, more youthful, and radiant skin.

RETINOL, RETINOL DERIVATIVES, AND RETINOIDS: THESE ARE THE DIFFERENCES

WHAT ARE RETINOIDS?

Retinoids are a collective term for all forms of vitamin A used in skincare. The strongest and most biologically active form is retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin). Due to its high potency and potential for strong skin irritations, retinoic acid is prescription-only and should only be used under medical supervision.

RETINAL AND RETINAL DERIVATIVES

Retinal (retinaldehyde) is a precursor to retinoic acid and only needs one conversion step to become the active form. This makes retinal more effective and faster-acting than retinol, while being less irritating. Retinal offers a good balance between efficacy and tolerability and is therefore included in many over-the-counter skincare products.

RETINOL AND ITS DERIVATIVES

Retinol is also a precursor to retinoic acid, but requires two conversion steps (first to retinal, then to retinoic acid) to exert its effects. Due to these additional conversion steps, retinol works more slowly and mildly than retinal. Retinol is widely used and found in many over-the-counter skincare products.

For even gentler applications, there are retinol derivatives (also known as retinol esters), such as:

• Retinyl palmitate
• Retinyl acetate
• Retinyl linoleate

These derivatives are first converted on the skin into retinol, then further into retinal, and finally into retinoic acid. Due to their mild effect, these derivatives are particularly suitable for sensitive skin types.

EFFECTIVENESS AND TIMELINE OF RETINAL

The time until visible improvements occur with retinal can vary depending on skin type, product used, and its dosage. Since retinal is quickly converted into retinoic acid, results are often seen faster than with retinol. Nevertheless, it is advisable to give the active ingredient about eight to twelve weeks to fully exert its effects. Patience pays off, as retinal can cause profound changes in skin structure, such as reducing fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.

RETINAL IN DIFFERENT SKIN CONDITIONS

Retinal has established itself as a versatile active ingredient for different skin types. It offers numerous benefits ranging from combating acne to reducing signs of aging:

RETINAL FOR OILY SKIN

For individuals with oily skin, retinal can be an extremely effective solution. It helps regulate sebum production and reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, leading to a clearer and less shiny complexion. Additionally, retinal supports the prevention of acne breakouts, which are common in oily skin.

RETINAL FOR DRY SKIN

Dry skin can benefit from the application of retinal, especially when used in combination with moisturizing ingredients. Retinal promotes cell renewal, resulting in a smoother skin texture and improved moisture absorption. As retinal is less irritating than other retinoids, it is particularly suitable for dry and sensitive skin types.

RETINAL FOR MATURE SKIN

Retinal is particularly effective for mature skin as it stimulates collagen production, tightening the skin. It helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, contributing to a more youthful appearance. Retinal improves skin elasticity and promotes firmness, making it an essential component in anti-aging products.

RETINAL FOR COMBINATION SKIN

Retinal can help balance oily and dry areas in combination skin. It regulates sebum production in oily zones while providing moisture to dry areas. This leads to a more harmonious skin appearance and reduces issues associated with combination skin.

RETINAL FOR PIGMENTATION

Retinal is effective in treating pigmentation issues. It accelerates the skin renewal process and helps lighten dark spots, resulting in a more even skin tone. Continuous use of retinal products can visibly reduce hyperpigmentation.

RETINAL FOR ACNE/BLEMISHED SKIN

Retinal is a proven active ingredient in acne treatment. It helps open clogged pores and regulate sebum production, reducing the occurrence of acne breakouts. Retinal has anti-inflammatory properties and supports the healing of existing acne while preventing the formation of new pimples and blackheads.

Overall, retinal offers a wide range of benefits for different skin types and is a key element in modern skincare, effectively addressing a variety of skin issues. Its ability to renew the skin, provide moisture, and regulate sebum production makes it a valuable component of any skincare routine. Whether oily, dry, mature, combination, or blemished skin – retinal offers the appropriate solution for every skin type.

EFFECTIVE SCAR TREATMENT WITH RETINAL

Scars caused by acne, burns, cuts, or surgeries can affect the skin's appearance in the long term. The appearance and development of scars depend on various factors, including genetic predisposition, scar location, skin type, age, and overall health condition. During the active healing phase, when scars are still red and in the process of healing, their appearance can be improved.

RETINAL IN SCAR TREATMENT

Retinal is an effective active ingredient for scar treatment that promotes skin renewal and increases collagen production. These properties make it an ideal substance to refine skin texture and improve the appearance of scars. By activating skin cell regeneration, retinal contributes to smoothing the scar surface and supports skin restoration. Promoting collagen production by retinal strengthens the skin, reducing the visibility of scars. Additionally, retinal helps minimize pigment spots often associated with scars and improves skin elasticity, contributing to effective scar healing and improved skin appearance.

IMPORTANCE OF SUN PROTECTION WHEN USING RETINAL

Retinal can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. This occurs because retinal accelerates cell turnover and removes dead skin cells, thereby thinning the top layer of the skin. This reduces the skin's natural protective barrier, leading to increased susceptibility to sunburn. The dryness of the skin caused by retinal can be intensified by sun exposure.

Therefore, it is important to use effective sun protection during the day when using products containing retinal. A high-quality sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays and prevents light-induced skin aging. Retinal products should preferably be applied in the evening to maximize their effectiveness and minimize the risk of sun damage.