Aroma-Zone Retinal Active Ingredient

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 oxidises into Retinal, which in turn oxidises 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 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-ageing 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 ageing. 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.

A study tested the effectiveness of a cream containing 0.1% Retinal in reducing signs of ageing in women with signs of photoageing. After 3 months, their skin was smoother and their complexion more even.

A Note from Adeline Nalin, 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 (tretinoin, 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 authorised concentrations."

Adeline Nalin - Head Pharmacist and Toxicologist

A Note from Our Aroma-Zone Toxicologist

"Our Optimised Retinal Serum Concentrate underwent 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-ageing 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.

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

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 synthesising 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 Optimised 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-ageing activity.

This active ingredient is suitable for mature skin, dull skin, oily skin, blemish-prone skin, and skin prone to rosacea.

It targets wrinkles and fine lines, loss of firmness and elasticity, dullness, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation spots, excess sebum, blackheads, and whiteheads.

• Reduce wrinkles

• Firm the facial contours

• Improve the skin’s overall elasticity

• Brightens and evens out the complexion

• Reduce imperfections.

Optimised Retinal Concentrated Face Serum

This serum combines biotechnologically obtained retinal, mastic tree extract and hyaluronic acid to offer a comprehensive pro-age action. It helps firm the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, fade pigmentation spots and even out the complexion. Thanks to its purifying and sebum-regulating action, it also helps reduce blemishes, blackheads and residual marks. Its soft, fluid texture suits all skin types, even delicate skin. It can be used morning or evening, before other skincare, 2 to 3 times a week initially, then more frequently over time.

Marion is a Doctor of Pharmacy, naturopath, and coach. After twelve years working in the cosmetics industry, she now supports her clients in achieving greater overall balance and adopting a more mindful lifestyle, with a particular focus on sustainable nutrition. She is also the creator of a podcast, where she shares her insights to promote a lifestyle philosophy that respects both health and the environment.