Clarification on Retinaldehyde Efficacy, Usage, and Safety (Pregnancy)

Asked by: ratthakan_d On: April 23, 2016 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I have some questions about Retinaldehyde. Could you please clarify the conversion pathway from Retinol to Retinaldehyde and then to Retinoic Acid in the skin, and how their efficacy compares (Retinol < Retinaldehyde < Retinoic Acid)? Are Retinol and Retinaldehyde generally permitted in cosmetics, while Retinoic Acid is typically a prescription drug?

Also, is it safe to use Retinaldehyde during the day, and is it safe for pregnant women?

Answer

Based on the provided discussion thread:
The initial information on the website regarding Retinaldehyde was indeed incorrect.
Users pointed out that:

  • Retinol is converted to Retinaldehyde, which is then converted to Retinoic Acid in the skin.
  • The efficacy increases in this conversion pathway: Retinol < Retinaldehyde < Retinoic Acid.
  • Retinol and Retinaldehyde are generally allowed in cosmetics, while Retinoic Acid is typically not (it's a prescription drug).
    The staff acknowledged the error and stated they would update the website information to reflect the correct understanding that Retinaldehyde has higher efficacy than Retinol and is permitted in cosmetics.
    The discussion also included questions and staff responses regarding the safety of Retinaldehyde for daytime use (generally okay if avoiding direct sun) and during pregnancy (staff advises against it due to its relation to Retinoic Acid, despite lack of specific studies on topical Retinaldehyde in pregnancy).

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