In the battle against aging skin, there are so-called “miracle” ingredients that often arise as solutions to fight unwanted skin conditions. One of the most popular of those is Retinol, a type of retinoid (or a Vitamin A derivative)that’s popular in products designed to improve skin complexion and texture.
But while Retinol is the most commonly discussed of its ingredient family, retinoids come in a variety of forms and strengths, some of which can only be prescribed by your physician, and others that are available over the counter. And we’re here to introduce you to Retinol’s non-prescription, gentle cousin, Retinaldehyde.
Like all non-prescription retinoids, both Retinaldehyde and Retinol have to be first converted by skin enzymes to the only active form of Vitamin A (aka Retinoic Acid) before they can start working their rejuvenating magic. Here’s the sequence of the conversion process.
Retinyl palmitate -- Retinol -- Retinaldehyde -- Retinoic acid (Tretinoin)
It is believed that the closer on this cascade a compound is to Retinoic Acid, the more readily it can be converted. Side effects like redness, flaky skin and irritation, while temporary, are often encountered when using Retinoic acid. The search for a compromise between effectiveness and mildness can leave you frustrated. This is where Retinaldehyde comes in.
Retinaldehyde has been shown to improve the feel of firmness and elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and rough skin. It is also often tolerated than Retinoic Acid, making it an attractive option for those with sensitive or delicate skin.
Is Retinaldehyde the same as Retinal?
If you haven’t heard of Retinaldehyde, you may have heard of Retinal. Not to be confused with Retinol, Retinal is the same ingredient as Retinaldehyde – it’s just an abbreviated version of the name. The two can be used interchangeably – you’ll still receive the same powerful results.
Should I use a Retinaldehyde product?
If you’d like to explore an alternative option to address aging skin, or if your skin simply doesn’t play well with other retinoids, we highly recommend giving Retinaldehyde a try.
Ask your skin care professional about our SUZANOBAGIMD Retivance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex, which includes 0.1% Retinaldehyde and other key ingredients, such as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 and Antioxidants, which work together to help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin texture, leaving you with a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion.
My skin becomes irritated from retinoids. Can I use Retinaldehyde?
Obagi SUZANOBAGIMD Retivance® Skin Rejuvenating Complex is often well-tolerated by patients. Formulated with a rich fatty acid base, it contains Chamomilla recutita (matricaria) flower extract, which acts as a soothing agent on the skin.
