Skingredients Retinal 0.06% + Peptides Serum

A beginner strength retinal serum for fine lines, texture and firmness, made for people new to vitamin A or moving on from a gentle retinol

Skingredients Retinal 0.06% + Peptides is a night serum that combines retinal (retinaldehyde), a fast acting form of vitamin A, with a triple peptide complex and niacinamide. At 0.06%, it is the entry strength: enough to start building results, with barrier support ingredients to help skin settle in.

• 0.06% retinal, a next generation form of vitamin A
• Triple peptide complex for the look of firmer, smoother skin
• Niacinamide to support the skin barrier and even tone
• Sodium hyaluronate, glycerine and squalane for hydration
• Suitable for all skin types. 30ml

What is retinal, and how is it different from retinol?

Retinal and retinol both belong to the retinoid family. Skin has to convert vitamin A into retinoic acid before it can use it. Retinol takes two steps to get there. Retinal is one step closer, so it works more directly, which is why it is often described as the next step up from retinol.

The strength matters as much as the form. Starting low and building up is the most reliable way to keep using a retinoid long enough to see the benefit.

Who it is for

• First time retinoid users
• Anyone stepping up from a gentle retinol
• Early fine lines, uneven texture and dullness
• The look of enlarged pores

Already using a retinoid nightly without irritation? Retinal 0.1% + Peptides is the stronger option.

Results

In a 12 week consumer study of 22 people using Skingredients Retinal + Peptides:

• 78% noticed an improvement in skin texture
• 73% noticed an improvement in fine lines
• 73% noticed an improvement in skin firmness

How to use

1. Use in the evening only. Cleanse and pat skin dry.
2. Apply any hydrating serums first, then 2 to 3 drops of Retinal over the face, neck, chest and around the eyes.
3. Follow with a moisturiser, such as EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex or EltaMD PM Restore.

Start every 2 to 3 nights and build up to nightly as your skin adjusts. Some dryness or flaking in the first few weeks is normal. Use exfoliating acids on different nights. Wear a broad spectrum SPF every morning.

Key ingredients

• Retinal (retinaldehyde) 0.06%: a form of vitamin A that supports skin renewal.
• Triple peptide complex: selected to support the look of firmer, smoother skin.
• Niacinamide (vitamin B3): supports the skin barrier, tone and moisture retention.
• Sodium hyaluronate: attracts and holds moisture.
• Glycerine and squalane: hydrate and reduce moisture loss.
• Allantoin and vitamin E: to soothe and protect.

Size: 30ml

Complete the routine

Retinal makes skin more sensitive to the sun, so daily SPF is essential. Finish every morning with an EltaMD SPF:

• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46: oil free with niacinamide, suited to sensitive and blemish prone skin. Also available tinted.
• EltaMD UV AOX Elements SPF 50: a tinted mineral SPF with antioxidants.
• EltaMD UV Daily Hydration+ SPF 50: extra hydration for dry or mature skin. Also available tinted.

In the evening, follow Retinal with EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex or EltaMD PM Restore, or choose from the full moisturiser range.

Frequently asked questions

Is retinal stronger than retinol?

Retinal is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid, the form skin uses, so it works more directly than retinol. The 0.06% strength is designed as a starting point.

Which strength should I choose?

Choose 0.06% if you are new to retinoids or have used a gentle retinol. Choose 0.1% if you already use a retinoid most nights without irritation.

How often should I use it?

Start every 2 to 3 nights and build up to nightly as your skin adjusts.

Can I use it with vitamin C?

Yes. Use vitamin C in the morning and retinal in the evening.

Can I use it with niacinamide or hyaluronic acid?

Yes. Both are already in the formula and work well alongside it.

Can I use it with AHAs or BHAs?

Use exfoliating acids on different nights, especially while your skin is getting used to retinal.

Can I use it around the eyes?

Yes, Skingredients advise it can be used around the eye area. Apply a small amount and avoid the eyelids.

Do I need SPF?

Yes. Wear a broad spectrum SPF every morning when using any retinoid, such as EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, UV AOX Elements SPF 50 or UV Daily Hydration+ SPF 50.

What age should I start using retinal?

Skingredients suggest from around 25, although every skin is different.

How long does retinal take to work?

Retinoids work gradually, so consistency matters more than strength. Skin often feels smoother first, after around a month of regular use. Fine lines and uneven tone take longer and need ongoing use.

Can retinal help with pigmentation?

Retinal supports skin renewal, which can help the look of uneven tone and dark spots over time. Daily SPF is essential alongside it, as sun exposure is the main driver of pigmentation.

Can I use it if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, with a slower start. Begin with 0.06% once or twice a week, keep the rest of your routine simple and avoid other strong actives while your skin adjusts.

Do I still need a moisturiser?

Yes. Retinal does not replace your moisturiser. Apply one afterwards to support hydration, especially if your skin feels dry or tight. EltaMD Barrier Renewal Complex and EltaMD PM Restore are both good options to pair with it.

Can I use it while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. Retinal is a form of vitamin A and is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.