0.1% RETINAL (RETINALALDEHYDE)

Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a derivative of vitamin A and is widely recognized for its importance in skincare due to its potent anti-aging, acne-fighting, and skin-renewing properties. It is part of the retinoid family, which includes other compounds like retinol and retinoic acid. However, retinal is considered one of the most effective forms of vitamin A in skincare because of its ability to improve the skin with fewer side effects compared to other retinoids.

Why is Retinal So Important For Skincare?

Anti-Aging Properties:

• Stimulates Collagen Production: Retinal increases the production of collagen, a protein that maintains skin's firmness and elasticity. As we age, collagen production naturally decreases, leading to fine lines and wrinkles. By stimulating collagen, retinal helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improves skin texture.
• Cellular Turnover: Retinal accelerates the process of cell turnover, which is the shedding of old, damaged skin cells and the regeneration of new, healthy ones. This leads to smoother, brighter skin and helps reduce the appearance of age spots, uneven texture, and pigmentation.

Acne Treatment:

• Retinal helps prevent clogged pores by promoting exfoliation and reducing dead skin cell buildup. This decreases the likelihood of acne formation, making it effective for treating and preventing acne breakouts.
• It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with acne.

Less Irritating than Retinoic Acid:

• Retinal is a precursor to retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A that directly affects skin cells. When applied to the skin, retinal is converted into retinoic acid in a more gradual process than other retinoids like retinol or tretinoin.
• Because of this gradual conversion, retinal tends to be less irritating and causes fewer side effects like redness, peeling, or dryness, while still offering powerful results.

Brightening and Smoothing:

• Retinal is effective at fading dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and sun damage by promoting skin renewal and exfoliation. This leads to a more even skin tone and a radiant complexion.
• It also helps with skin texture, making the skin feel smoother and more refined.

Antioxidant Properties:

Like other vitamin A derivatives, retinal acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from free radicals, which are molecules that can cause premature aging and damage from environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution.

2% SQUALANE

Squalane is a powerful emollient derived from Squalene that locks moisture into the skin by forming a protective barrier without leaving a greasy residue.  It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), and mimics the skin's natural oils, making it suitable for all skin types, including oily and acne-prone skin.  It also helps keep our skin soft, smooth and supple by preventing transepidermal water loss.  Our squalane is derived from sugar cane.

• Regulates& balances our skin’s oil production
• Delivers deep hydration
• Soothes skin with anti-inflammatory properties
• Gentle on skin, great for acne prone and sensitive skin