What is retinol?Updated a year ago
Retinol is the anti-aging superstar of the skincare world. This ingredient belongs to a whole family of different types of retinoids, which are molecules related to vitamin A. They trigger receptors that tell fibroblasts in the lower layers of the dermis to speed up their action, resulting in fast skin renewal.
It’s the secret to correcting just about any skin imperfection. Retinoids are proven to increase collagen production, resulting in a visible reduction in wrinkles and fine lines. Beyond that, retinoids can also help with blemishes and clogged pores (some are even considered acne medications), discoloration, scarring, skin texture, and more.
At Protocol, we use retinal, which is short for retinaldehyde. Most cosmetic or OTC retinol products are made with retinal’s precursor, retinol. When applied to the skin, retinol converts into retinal and then it converts into retinoic acid.
This dual conversion process robs retinol of a lot of its potential power. Retinal, on the other hand, only needs one conversion step. Research shows that it retains a lot of the same effects as applying retinoic acid to the skin but with significantly less irritation. That’s why it’s the star in our Enzyme-Active Retinol Serum.