Ingredient
Retinaldehyde (Retinal)
Retinal is gaining share as consumers seek more potent OTC retinoid options without moving to prescription retinoids.
Category: Retinoids
Chemical formula: C20H28O
Main cosmetic effects: Smoothing; texture refinement; anti-aging; blemish support.
Source: Vitamin A aldehyde; generally synthesized.
Developer / supplier: Longstanding retinoid research; increasingly used by Medik8, Avène and K-beauty brands
Origin: France / United Kingdom / Global
Representative product: Medik8 Crystal Retinal
Approx. retail price (USD): 60-115
Evidence maturity: Strong to moderate evidence
What it does
Smoothing; texture refinement; anti-aging; blemish support.
Notes
Retinoids | Strong to moderate evidence