Retinyl Retinoate

Best

Antioxidant

Retinyl Retinoate description

Synthetic, “new generation” retinol with research showing its usefulness for restoring and improving signs of ageing in skin. Retinyl retinoate has been shown, in limited but promising research (most coming from the same team of Korea-based researchers), to be less sensitising than retinoic acid (prescription-strength) and cosmetic retinol. Retinyl retinoate may be less sensitising than pure retinol because of its slower conversion in skin to retinoic acid. However, when it comes to sensitivity from retinol, there’s much that can be done using time-release delivery systems and ingredient additions to maximise its benefits to skin while minimising, if not eliminating, its risk of sensitivity. Although there’s reason to consider retinyl retinoate if your skin seems intolerant of cosmetic retinol, it shouldn’t be construed as better or safer for skin than such alternatives.

Retinyl Retinoate references

  • Dermatology Research and Practice, 2010
  • Cutis, October 2008, issue 4, pages 281-284
  • The Chemistry and Manufacture of Cosmetics. Allured Publishing Corp. 2002, pages 833-839

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.