Common Name(s): Retinoid active,rar nuclear receptor,anti-aging gold standard
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Stimulates collagen i and iii synthesis, accelerates epidermal renewal, inhibits mmp-1 collagenase, normalises pigmentation, and reverses photoaging signs including wrinkles, laxity, and texture.
Why It's Used: The most clinically validated anti-aging mechanism in dermatology with 40+ years of peer-reviewed evidence โ retinoids are the benchmark against which all anti-aging actives are compared.
How It Works: Retinol and esters are enzymatically converted in skin: retinol โ retinaldehyde (alcohol dehydrogenase) โ all-trans retinoic acid (retinaldehyde dehydrogenase). retinoic acid binds rar-ฮฑ/ฮฒ/ฮณ โ rare promoter binding โ col1a1, timp-1 upregulation; mmp-1 and il-6 downregulation through ap-1 pathway interference.
Typically Found In: Anti-aging serums,night creams
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ vitamin a derivative
Secondary Functions: Collagen booster,antioxidant
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.025%โ2% (check local limits)
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic or plant-derived. requires opaque, airless packaging.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 2/5 โ low to moderate
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Introduce slowly; retinization expected at higher potencies.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Use with caution โ avoid during pregnancy
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Safe at cosmetic concentrations. use spf. avoid during pregnancy. ewg score: 2.
Works Well With: Niacinamide,ceramides,hyaluronic acid,spf,tocopherol
Avoid Combining With: Pregnancy; extended uv without spf; benzoyl peroxide
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Different retinoid potency ladder: retinyl palmitate < retinol < retinaldehyde < retinyl retinoate โ hpr < all-trans retinoic acid. corresponding irritation follows the same order โ formulators select the potency/tolerance balance for their target consumer.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,retinoid anti-aging rar clinical evidence review