The use of retinol in skincare is generally recommended for people aged 25 and older. At this age, the skin begins to show the first signs of aging, such as a loss of radiance and fine lines. Retinol can help stimulate cell renewal and prevent signs of aging. However, it is essential to introduce it gradually into your beauty routine so that the skin can adjust to this powerful active ingredient.
Aroma-Zone Retinal active ingredient
FIRMING ANTI-AGING
The multi-targeted active ingredient to reduce the visible signs of aging
More potent and without the side effects of retinol, Retinal is a precursor to retinoic acid, the only active form of Vitamin A. A signature ingredient in mature skin care, it addresses all signs of skin aging, firming, smoothing, and purifying the skin while giving it a radiant glow.
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Retinal Aroma-Zone profile
INCI Name : Retinal
VEGAN
BIOCHEMICAL COMPOSITION
There are several different retinoids : Retinol, Retinal, and Retinoic Acid. Only retinol, retinal, and retinol esters can be used in cosmetics.
Once absorbed by the skin, Retinol oxidizes into Retinal, which in turn oxidizes into Retinoic Acid. Retinal requires only a single conversion to produce Retinoic Acid and is therefore more effective than Retinol, requiring a lower dose.
TRACEABILITY & SUSTAINABILITY
Naturally derived active ingredient. The retinal used by Aroma-Zone is obtained through biotechnology.
Retinal : what effect does it have on the skin ?
Retinal is a retinoid, meaning a derivative of Vitamin A, retinoic acid. Retinoic acid can bind to specific cell receptors to produce numerous effects. However, it is irritating to the skin and cannot be used in cosmetics. Retinal is better tolerated and is converted into retinoic acid once absorbed by the skin.
Retinal’s anti-aging activity stems from its ability to increase skin cell proliferation, stimulate the synthesis of collagen and elastin, and limit their breakdown. The skin is thus regenerated and radiant, smoothed, and firmed. Its antioxidant action also protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals, reactive species that damage cells and cause premature aging. By promoting more even melanin distribution within the skin, retinal also reduces dark spots.
Retinal is also the enemy of blemishes : it reduces the production of sebum by the sebaceous glands. The skin is clearer and more refined.
Retinal : scientifically proven efficiency
A study tested the effectiveness of a cream containing 0.1% Retinal in reducing signs of aging in women with signs of photoaging. After 3 months, their skin was smoother and their complexion more even.
Skin tolerance
A note from Adeline Nalin, our Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist at Aroma-Zone
“Retinal (synonymous with retinaldehyde) is an immediate precursor to retinoic acid (RA): it is enzymatically converted into retinoic acid in the skin, giving it a potency that lies between retinol (less active) and retinoic acid (retinoin, which is more active). This potency translates into greater efficacy and, above all, better local tolerance.
In fact, several controlled studies show that retinaldehyde causes significantly less erythema, desquamation, and burning/itching sensations than retinoic acid while providing beneficial biological effects [J W Fluhr et al., Tolerance profile of retinol, retinaldehyde, and retinoic acid under maximized and long-term clinical conditions, Dermatology 1999:199 Suppl 1:57-60].
The SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) further concludes in its recent 2023 opinion that there is no risk of skin or eye irritation for consumers when retinal and vitamin A derivatives are used in various cosmetic products at authorized concentrations.”
Adeline Nalin - Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist
A safe ingredient for your health
A note from our Aroma-Zone Toxicologist
“Our Optimized Retinal Concentrated Face Serumunderwent numerous local tolerance tests prior to development, including an in vitro test on reconstructed human epidermis (vegan method), and confirms excellent skin tolerance.
It is suitable for all skin types , even sensitive and delicate skin.”
Adeline Nalin - Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist
A note from the Dermatologist
“For me, it is THE ultimate anti-aging treatment, and it is also an essential ingredient for oily or blemish-prone skin. Also known as retinaldehyde, retinal is a derivative of Vitamin A that promotes cell renewal. It improves skin texture and reduces pigmentation spots.
Caution: this is a powerful active ingredient that may cause irritation or purging when first applied. It should therefore be introduced very gradually (2 or 3 times a week) in the evening.”
Dr. Dima Haidar - Dermatologist
Formulation focus with the Aroma-Zone R&D laboratory
The Retinal used by Aroma-Zone stands out for how it is obtained : it is of natural origin, produced via biotechnology from bacteria capable of synthesizing this molecule. This biotechnological approach yields a pure, traceable active ingredient that meets our standards for natural ingredients.
Within the retinoid family, only retinoic acid has a direct effect on the skin, but it is not permitted in cosmetics. Precursors such as Retinol and Retinal are therefore used to allow for a gradual conversion into Retinoic Acid. Because it requires only a single conversion in the skin, Retinal acts more quickly than Retinol and is generally better tolerated.
Since retinal is sensitive to light, it is protected by opaque packaging to preserve its stability over time.
In the Optimized Retinal Concentrated Face Serum, it is combined with mastic tree extract, an active ingredient that helps preserve the retinoic acid naturally present in the skin, thereby enhancing the formula’s anti-aging activity.
For which skin types ?
This active ingredient is suitable for mature skin, dull skin, oily skin, blemish-prone skin, and skin prone to rosacea.
What issues does this address ?
It targets wrinkles and fine lines, loss of firmness and elasticity, dullness, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation spots, excess sebum, blackheads, and whiteheads.
What Retinal does for the skin
Reduce wrinkles
Firm the facial contours
Improve the skin’s overall elasticity
Brightens and evens out the complexion
Reduce imperfections.
Retinal : an essential ingredient for the skin
Optimized Retinal Concentrated Face Serum
This serum combines biotechnology-derived Retinal, mastic tree extract, and hyaluronic acid to deliver comprehensive anti-aging benefits. It helps firm the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, fade dark spots, and even out skin tone. Thanks to its purifying and sebum-regulating properties, it also helps reduce blemishes, blackheads, and residual marks. Its soft, fluid texture is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. Use it in the morning or evening, before your skincare routine, 2 to 3 times a week at first, then gradually increase frequency.
FAQ
At what age can you start using Retinol?
At what age can you start using Retinol?
At what age can you start using Retinol?
Why is Retinal considered the “ideal” retinoid for cosmetic use?
Why is Retinal considered the “ideal” retinoid for cosmetic use?
Why is Retinal considered the “ideal” retinoid for cosmetic use?
Retinal is the direct precursor to retinoic acid, the biologically active form of Vitamin A. It requires only a single step of conversion in the skin, making it more effective than retinol at equivalent concentrations, while being better tolerated. It thus offers an excellent balance between performance and comfort of use.
Why is Retinal also effective for acne-prone skin?
Why is Retinal also effective for acne-prone skin?
Why is Retinal also effective for acne-prone skin?
Originally, vitamin A derivatives were developed to combat acne. Their anti-aging efficacy was discovered at the same time. In other words, retinol is effective at reducing blemishes and brightening the skin!
By accelerating cell turnover and exfoliating the skin, it unclogs pores and limits the formation of comedones (clogged pores), blackheads (pores clogged with oxidized sebum) and pimples (inflamed or even infected clogged pores). It smooths the skin, refines skin texture, and reduces the appearance of old blemishes more quickly. Its regulating effect on sebum production helps limit the occurrence of new blemishes.
Can Retinal be combined with Vitamin C, exfoliating acids, or Niacinamide?
Can Retinal be combined with Vitamin C, exfoliating acids, or Niacinamide?
Can Retinal be combined with Vitamin C, exfoliating acids, or Niacinamide?
Retinal can be combined with other active ingredients, but these combinations require gradual introduction. Niacinamide is generally well-tolerated. Vitamin C and exfoliating acids can be used, but ideally at separate times or alternately, to maintain skin comfort and avoid excessive sensitivity.
Is Retinal suitable for sensitive skin or skin prone to rosacea?
Retinal is better tolerated than other retinoids and may be suitable for sensitive skin, provided it is introduced gradually. Starting with a few applications per week helps avoid discomfort. For reactive skin, paying attention to how your skin feels remains essential.
Can Retinal be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
The Optimized Retinal Concentrated Face Serum is suitable for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Spotlight on our specialist editor, Marion Alves De Oliveira
Marion is a Doctor of Pharmacy, naturopath, and life coach. After twelve years in the cosmetics industry, she now guides her clients toward holistic balance and a more mindful lifestyle, drawing on her expertise in sustainable food practices. As the creator of a podcast, she shares her insights to promote a philosophy of living that respects both health and the environment.
Bibliography
1
SKINCARE, The Skin, an Aroma-Zone publication by La Plage
2
J W Fluhr et al., Tolerance profile of retinol, retinaldehyde, and retinoic acid under maximized and long-term clinical conditions, Dermatology 1999:199 Suppl 1:57-60.
3
Kwon, H. S.; Lee, J. H.; Kim, G. M.; Bae, J. M. Efficacy and Safety of Retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% Creams Used to Treat Photoaged Skin
A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology 2018, 17 (3), 471–476. https://doi.org/10.1111/jocd.12551.
4
Mukherjee, S.; Date, A.; Patravale, V.; Korting, H. C.; Roeder, A.; Weindl, G.
Retinoids in the Treatment of Skin Aging: An Overview of Clinical Efficacy and Safety. Clinical Interventions in Aging 2006, 1 (4), 327. https://doi.org/10.2147/ciia.2006.1.4.327.
5
Zasada, M.; Budzisz, E. Retinoids: Active Molecules Influencing Skin Structure Formation in Cosmetic and Dermatological Treatments.
Advances in Dermatology and Allergology/Postȩpy Dermatologii i Alergologii 2019, 36 (4), 392. https://doi.org/10.5114/ada.2019.87443.
6
SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety)
Revision of the Scientific Opinion (SCCS/1576/16) on vitamin A (Retinol, Retinyl Acetate, Retinyl Palmitate), preliminary version of December 10, 2021, final version of October 24–25, 2022, SCCS/1639/21.
