Retinal

What it does

Retinaldehyde converts to retinoic acid in a single step rather than two, which makes it faster-acting than retinol at the same strength — and a little less forgiving.

How to use it

Evening only, on dry skin, two nights a week to start. Buffer with moisturiser if the skin protests. Sunscreen the next morning is not optional.

Pairs well with

• Ceramides Rebuild the lipid layer that keeps moisture in and irritants out. Read more
• Panthenol Vitamin B5 — soothing, humectant, friendly to compromised skin. Read more
• Squalane Lightweight emollient that mimics the skin's own sebum. Read more