Retinal
Common Name
Retinaldehyde (Retinal)
INCI
Retinal
Extraction or Production Process
Retinaldehyde is naturally produced in the body as an intermediate in the vitamin A metabolic pathway, but for cosmetic and pharmaceutical use, it is either extracted from animal sources or synthesized through controlled oxidation of retinol.
Natural Extraction:
- Found in animal liver, dairy products, and fish oils
- Exists as part of the retinoid metabolism process in living organisms
Synthetic Production:
- Oxidation of retinol under controlled conditions to form retinaldehyde
- The synthetic form ensures greater stability and purity for use in skincare products
Sources
- Naturally present in animal-based foods such as liver, dairy, and fish oils
- Commercially synthesized for cosmetic formulations and dermatological use
Country of Origin
Manufactured primarily in Europe and North America for pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications
Function
- Direct precursor to retinoic acid, requiring only one enzymatic conversion step
- Stimulates collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reducing fine lines
- Has antibacterial properties, making it effective for acne-prone skin
Properties
- 11 times more potent than retinol due to its faster enzymatic conversion
- Moderate irritation risk, but still gentler than tretinoin (retinoic acid)
- More stable than retinol, but still requires proper packaging to prevent UV degradation
Enzymatic Conversion to Retinoic Acid
Unlike retinol, which undergoes two enzymatic transformations before becoming active, retinaldehyde requires only one oxidation step, making it faster and more efficient in the skin.
Step-by-Step Conversion Pathway:
- Final Oxidation (Retinaldehyde Dehydrogenase Enzyme - RALDH):
- Retinaldehyde (C20H28O) → Retinoic Acid (C20H28O2)
- This step is catalyzed by retinaldehyde dehydrogenase (RALDH) enzymes, activating the retinoid for skin renewal
This faster conversion increases its efficacy compared to retinol, making it one of the most effective over-the-counter retinoids for anti-aging and acne treatment.
Benefits
- More effective than retinol, delivering visible improvements faster
- Reduces acne by limiting the growth of acne-causing bacteria
- Improves fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation with a lower irritation risk than tretinoin
- Balanced potency and tolerability, making it ideal for users upgrading from retinol
Contraindications and Precautions
- May cause irritation and dryness, especially during initial use
- Requires opaque, airtight packaging to maintain stability and efficacy
- Not recommended for use during pregnancy, as retinoids can interfere with fetal development
- Increases sun sensitivity—broad-spectrum sunscreen is required daily
