You're probably familiar with retinol and retinoids, but what do you know about retinal, also known as retinaldehyde? Retinaldehyde is a potential retinoid used in skincare for its anti-aging benefits, and studies have shown it to have more potential than the average retinol. Keep reading to learn more about this promising ingredient and get to know some of our favorite retinal products!

What is retinal, aka retinaldehyde?

Retinoids are a class of molecules derived from vitamin A. There are many different types of retinoids out there, but only one of them, retinoic acid, is the biologically active form that actually leads to improvements in the appearance of the skin. Other retinoids turn into retinoic acid when applied topically to the skin, of course, but it takes a few conversion steps for some of them to get there: according to studies, "the conversion sequence is retinyl esters to retinol, which gets converted to retinaldehyde, giving rise to the final product, retinoic acid."

The closer a retinoid is to retinoic acid (meaning, the fewer conversion steps it needs to become retinoic acid), the more potent it is. The problem is that, according to studies, "although the more potent retinoids are more effective and lead to faster and more visible results, they tend to be less stable and are associated with an increased risk of side effects, most notably skin irritation."

It's a difficult dilemma: choosing a potent retinoid to maximize results may lead to serious redness and irritation; conversely, choosing a milder retinoid to minimize side effects may mean sacrificing potency and results.

The retinoid we're bringing you today, retinaldehyde (or retinal, for short), "is the most potent retinoid available in over-the-counter products". Because retinaldehyde requires only one conversion step to retinoic acid, it is considered more potent than retinol, which requires two conversion steps).

Our favorite skincare products with retinal

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 Night Serum

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 Night Serum 30ml (1floz) Medik8 Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 Night Serum 30ml (1floz) $115.11 Buy Now

Medik8 Crystal Retinal is a retinaldehyde serum designed to unveil radiant, youthful-looking skin by targeting fine lines and wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven texture. The key ingredient in this iconic night serum is next-generation retinal, which has been proven to work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol. Hyaluronic acid, with his hydrating and plumping effect, and vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, complete the formula to maximize its anti-aging benefits.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal is available in 6 different strengths, so you can choose the concentration of retinal that best suits your skin type and experience with this retinoids. The options range from 0.01% to 0.24% retinaldehyde, with Crystal Retinal 6 sitting at 0.06%, making it perfect for regular to experienced users.

ISDINCEUTICS Rejuvenate Retinal Intense Serum

ISDINCEUTICS Rejuvenate Retinal Intense Serum is a nighttime serum that promotes skin renewal thanks to its unique combination of ingredients. With an innovative bi-phase texture that is both lightweight and nourishing, this serum helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles while helping to even out the skin texture for a radiant, renewed appearance.

In addition to retinaldehyde, the key ingredient in this formula, this serum also features bakuchiol, a naturally derived retinol-like ingredient that helps promote skin firmness, as well as antioxidant melatonin and soothing niacinamide.

Sensilis Pure Age Perfection [Retinal] Redensifying & Perfecting Treatment

Sensilis Pure Age Perfection [Retinal] Redensifying & Perfecting Treatment 50ml (1.69 fl oz) Sensilis Sensilis Pure Age Perfection [Retinal] Redensifying & Perfecting Treatment 50ml (1.69 fl oz) $78.62 Buy Now

Sensilis Pure Age Perfection [Retinal] Redensifying & Perfecting Treatment is a dual-correction serum specially developed for oily skin that also struggles with signs of aging.

Formulated with retinal, growth factors, and prebiotics, this serum accelerates the cell renewal process and promotes firmer, more even skin. Retinal, in particular, works by stimulating the synthesis of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, which in turn helps revitalize the appearance of oily skin with signs of aging, leaving it looking more even, radiant, and youthful. If you're looking for a serum that can improve the appearance of both acne-related imperfections and signs of aging on oily skin, this is the ideal product!