SHOP
4-N-Butylresorcinol 
Serums 
Crèmes 
Dullness 
Dry 
Normal 
Oily 
Sensitive 
Fine Line & Wrinkles 
Anti-Ageing 
Acne 
Fine Lines & Wrinkles 
Retinal 
Redness 
Cleansers 
AHA 
Dryness & Dehydration 
Hyaluronic Acid 
Niacinamide 
Physical Sunscreen 
Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate 
Ceramides 
Uneven Tone & Hyperpigmentation 
Introducing Retinal
Erase signs of ageing without using harsh, drying, ancient formulations of retinols. Not all retinoids are created equal. Utilising cutting edge stabilising techniques, Ilumaé has banished Retinol to where it belongs, in the history books. Instead, Retinal, a scientifically proven superior, faster acting, less irritating compound is used to erase fine lines, eradicate wrinkles and revitalise your skin tone.
Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is an enhanced, faster-acting form of retinol and an essential active ingredient in Ilumaé’s Gentle and Intensive Nightly Retinal Crèmes. It is a form of vitamin A that is just one step away from the active form of retinoic acid.
Why is it not more widely used? The answer is twofold.
Retinal is very expensive costing upwards of $20,000 USD per kg! Compare that with the cheaper, inferior retinol which is only $300 per kg.
Stabilising Retinal in a cream is exceedingly difficult, so many other brands simply give up. Our formulations have gone through dozens of iterations, testing and retesting to ensure perfect stability.
We do not accept inferior ingredients in our range regardless of the cost or effort.
In the skin, Retinal is converted into retinoic acid, promoting accelerated cell turnover and stimulating collagen production (1). By promoting faster cell turnover, Retinal can help you defy the signs of ageing, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone (1).
Additionally, it can enhance collagen production, helping to improve skin elasticity and firmness (2). In addition, Retinal is a powerful antioxidant which will protect the skin against oxidative stress and further ageing (3).
Retinal’s benefits in cosmetic products are multifaceted. Primarily, it aids in anti-ageing by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin tone, and refining skin texture. These qualities unveil the radiance of youth by creating a plump, refined skin appearance.
Retinal can also help manage acne by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. Retinal is perfect for those with sensitive skin or new to retinoids as it is less likely to cause skin irritation compared to other retinoids such as retinol.
Several clinical studies have investigated the safety and efficacy of Retinal over the past few decades (1). A randomised, controlled trial highlighted that after prolonged, regular Retinal treatment, participants showed significantly fewer signs of photo-ageing, and less irritation compared to retinoic acid, and highlighted both the safety and efficacy of this luxurious ingredient (4). A randomised, double-blind trial highlighted that daily Retinal application led to an increase in skin thickness whilst another study showed improved skin elasticity (6).
Retinal can be used by anyone who desires to reduce the signs of ageing and achieve younger, smoother, and firmer skin. It can also be useful for those dealing with acne or blemishes, uneven skin tone, or rough skin texture. However, retinoids are not recommended for those who are pregnant or nursing.
Want to learn more?
Check out the supporting evidence
1. Mukherjee S, Date A, Patravale V, Korting HC, Roeder A, Weindl G. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(4):327-348.
2. Zasada M, Budzisz E. Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments. Adv Dermatol Allergol. 2019;36(4):392-397.
3. Babamiri K, Nassab R. Cosmeceuticals: The Evidence Behind the Retinoids. Aesthet Surg J. 2010;30(1):74-77.
4. Creidi P, Vienne MP, Ochonisky S, et al. Profilometric evaluation of photodamage after topical retinaldehyde and retinoic acid treatment. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1998;39(6):960-965.
5. Mordon S, Lagarde JM, Vienne MP, Nocera T, Verriere F, Dahan S. Ultrasound imaging demonstration of the improvement of non‐ablative laser remodeling by concomitant daily topical application of 0.05% retinaldehyde. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2004;6(1):5-9.
6. Diridollou S, Vienne MP, Alibert M, et al. Efficacy of Topical 0.05% Retinaldehyde in Skin Aging by Ultrasound and Rheological Techniques. Dermatology. 1999;199(Suppl.1):37-41.
reveal your best complexion
Science-backed, results oriented.
Devised with the combined knowledge of scientists, dermal therapists and leading doctors, our skin quiz will identify the correct products for your skin.
