Beauty Elixir

Retinaldehyde

Retinal: what to mix it with

Retinaldehyde is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, so it works faster than retinol while usually being gentler than tretinoin. It also has a mild antibacterial effect useful for acne.

Typical strength
0.05% – 0.2%
Best time
PM
Irritation
Price in India
₹900 – ₹3,000
Helps with
Aging, acne, texture and pigmentation
Pregnancy
Usually avoided in pregnancy and breastfeeding

How to use Retinal

Start at 0.05% two or three nights a week and build up slowly. Buffer with moisturiser if you are sensitive, and wear SPF daily.

Pairs beautifully with

Hyaluronic Acid Ceramides Centella Asiatica Squalane Sunscreen Snail Mucin Panthenol Aloe Vera Urea Polyglutamic Acid

Don't mix with

Retinol Adapalene Benzoyl Peroxide Tretinoin

Use at different times from

Vitamin C Glycolic Acid Lactic Acid Mandelic Acid Salicylic Acid PHA Copper Peptides Sulfur

Safe to layer with

Niacinamide Azelaic Acid Peptides Bakuchiol Tranexamic Acid Alpha Arbutin Kojic Acid Vitamin E Ferulic Acid Hydroquinone Tea Tree Oil Licorice Extract Glutathione Zinc PCA

Guides

Ingredients for acne & breakoutsIngredients for dark spots, tanning & pigmentationIngredients for fine lines & anti-ageingIngredients for uneven texture & bumps Is Retinal safe in pregnancy?

Retinal vs alternatives

More free tools

Pore-Clog CheckerIs it acne & fungal-acne safe? Can I Mix…?Check two actives or your routine Routine Builder7-day AM/PM plan in 30s Hair Porosity TestOils & wash schedule for your hair Spray CalculatorHow many sprays is right? Perfume DupesLuxury smell, budget price Batch Code CheckerIs your makeup expired?