RetinAL Skin
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RetinAL Skin
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RetinAL Skin

RetinAL Skin

A powerful yet gentle retinoid treatment

2547 reviews

A gentle yet powerful retinal treatment that smooths fine lines, refines texture, improves tone and clarity, and supports firmer, healthier-looking skin.

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Core Four
Core Four
the foundation of your skincare routine
$381
What’s Included
  • SPF 50+: prevents sun damage and premature aging
  • Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): prevents free radical damage, boosts collagen
  • AHAs and BHAs: exfoliate dead skin cells and clear out pores
  • RetinAL (Retinaldehyde): aids cellular turnover for healthy, youthful skin
Key Benefits

  • Accelerates cellular turnover + boosts collagen production
  • Reduces the appearance of fine lines + wrinkles
  • Visibly improves uneven skin tone + texture
  • Aids in fading sun spots + smoothing out rough patches
  • Helps unclog pores + minimize breakouts
  • Supports the look of softer, smoother, firmer skin
  • Formulated to be potent yet well-tolerated
How to Use

Apply in the evening after serums. Follow with moisturizer or facial oil if desired. Use every night as tolerated. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency to every 3rd night for 2 weeks, then every other night for 2 weeks, then every night as tolerated.

We recommend doing a patch test before first use.
Ingredients

  • Retinaldehyde: Anti-aging powerhouse
  • Bakuchiol: Enhances efficacy + reduces sensitivity
  • Bisabolol: Potent soothing agent + antioxidant that hydrates, reduces inflammation + helps improve tone/texture
  • Argan Oil: Antioxidant-rich hydration
  • Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate: Deeply penetrates skin to deliver potent antioxidant, collagen-boosting + brightening benefits
  • Jojoba Oil: Deeply hydrates, balances oil production, calms redness + improves elasticity
  • Shea Butter: Moisturizes + provides barrier repair with anti-inflammatory + antioxidant support

Not recommended for use while pregnant. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider for any specific concerns.

  • Full size: 1 fl oz/30 mL
  • Mini: 15 mL/0.5 fl oz

View Full Ingredients

Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Bisabolol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan), Retinal, Bakuchiol, Lavandula Hybrida Extract, Rhododendron Ferrugineum Flower Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Triheptanoin, Methyl Methacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer, BHT

Jordan Harper, NP

From the Expert

Clinically-Proven Ingredients You’ll Love

  • No parabens
  • No fragrance
  • No phthalates
  • No sulfates
  • No artificial dyes
  • No mineral oil
  • No formaldehyde donors
Ingredient Highlights
Retinaldehyde

Visibly smoothes wrinkles, boosts collagen, evens skin tone + clarifies pores

Bakuchiol

Enhances efficacy + reduces sensitivity while helping smooth fine lines, improve firmness + even skin tone

Bisabolol

Potent soothing agent + antioxidant that hydrates, reduces inflammation + helps improve tone + texture

Argan oil

Antioxidant-rich hydration that calms skin, balances oil, supports elasticity + visibly improves fine lines + uneven tone

See Full Ingredients

Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Bisabolol, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil (Argan), Retinal, Bakuchiol, Lavandula Hybrida Extract, Rhododendron Ferrugineum Flower Extract, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Triheptanoin, Methyl Methacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer, BHT

Where it Fits in Your Routine

  • 01 CLEANSE
  • 02 TONE
  • 03 ANTIOXIDANT
  • 04 BRIGHTEN
  • 05 RETINOID
  • 06 HYDRATE
Brightening Facial Wash

1140 reviews

Brightening Facial Wash
rejuvenating cleanser for brighter, smoother skin
Toning Pads

4248 reviews

Toning Pads
reveals brighter, smoother skin & unclogs pores - best for first time users + normal/dry skin
Liquid Gold

4658 reviews

Liquid Gold
hydrating, 15% vitamin C serum
Brightening Serum

1145 reviews

Brightening Serum
dark spot corrector
RetinAL Skin

2547 reviews

RetinAL Skin
improve tone/texture + reduce fine lines/wrinkles
Hydrating Lotion

2253 reviews

Hydrating Lotion
lightweight, antioxidant rich, age-defying moisturizer

FAQs

Is this product considered pregnancy or nursing-friendly?

This product is not recommended for use while pregnant. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider for any specific concerns.
What skin types are best for RetinAL Skin Therapy?

RetinAL Skin Therapy is best suited for normal, oily, and combination skin types that can tolerate stronger actives. It's ideal for those looking to:

  • Reduce fine lines and wrinkles
  • Improve skin texture and tone
  • Minimize breakouts and clogged pores
  • Prevent early signs of aging
What should I expect when starting RetinAL Skin Therapy?

It’s common to experience mild dryness, flaking, or purging (temporary breakouts) in the first few weeks as your skin adjusts to the active ingredients. This is normal and temporary. If redness or irritation persists, reduce frequency or pause for a few days until the skin calms.

Most users notice improved clarity and texture within 8–12 weeks of consistent use.
How should I start using retinoid?

We wrote you a blog post all about it! Check it out here.
When will I start to notice results?

Results build gradually, but most users see visible improvements in 8–12 weeks, sharing that their skin feels smoother and looks more refined after the first month, with more significant tone and texture improvements over time.

Consistency is key. Use RetinAL Skin Therapy regularly and always protect your skin with SPF daily.
Can I use Toning Pads with retinoids?

Yes, Toning Pads are totally fine to use together with retinoids (like RetinAL Skin Therapy) but they can be irritating at first. If you’re new to the combo, or struggle with sensitivity, we recommend using the Toning Pads in the AM only and your retinoid at night. You can start using Toning Pads in the PM once you know your skin is tolerating them without dryness or sensitivity in the morning.
How do I apply my products?

We wrote you a blog post all about it! Check out How to Layer Your Skincare Products for more info.
What is your Shipping and Returns policy?

Orders are processed Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and major holidays. Orders are typically delivered within 5-7 business days.You may return any item purchased at full price in new or gently used condition within 30 days of purchase, by mail. Some orders may be subject to a $9.95 handling fee. Please note, some items are final sale. More Information on Shipping + Returns.

Overall rating: 4.8916373 / 5 from 2547 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

RetinAL Skin, a gentle retinoid with retinaldehyde, is praised for its ability to improve skin smoothness, texture, and tone. Customers appreciate its effectiveness in reducing fine lines and breakouts, while also noting its non-irritating formula and luxurious feel.

Summary topics

  • Face Smoothness: 3%
  • Product Feel: 15%
  • Fine Line Reduction: 5%
  • Noticeable Skin Difference: 9%
  • Non-Irritation: 5%

Review topics: ["acne","color","breakouts","retinol","ingredients","irritation","spots","dryness","redness","smell","wrinkles","pads","coverage","results","neck","flaking","bumps","pores","eyes","issues","skin","effects","improvement","tone","glow","quality","benefits","blemishes","appearance","looks"].

Review highlights

  • "The texture feels great and makes my face look amazing!" — Kimberly H.
  • "It makes my skin feel so soft and luxurious and has helped so much with fine lines around my eyes!" — Alexandra P.
  • "My skin has been tolerating this very well and I am definitely noticing my skin feeling smoother and firmer!" — Jenny P.

Reviews

Love love love

"I have implemented retinAL skin therapy into my routine on nights that I don’t use my tretinoin. It has been a game changer in how my skin looks in the short time I’ve been using it(as have all of my barefaced products). I’m so happy I found this brand!"

— Kellie M. (5/5)

Love this!

"This is the best retinol serum I have ever used. The texture is divine! It feels so soft, and soaks right into your skin. I’ve definitely noticed a huge improvement in the texture of my skin, and there is a softening of my fine lines. Quality product that works!"

— Maureen R. (5/5)

LOVE the feel & texture of this RetinAL

"I love the feel of this retinAL on my skin. It is hard to describe the consistency of it, kind of a mix between and oil and cream that does NOT leave your skin feeling slimy or oily at all."

— Kimberly M. (5/5)

Harsh at first

"I found this to be very strong the first time I used it. My face was burning and itchy. I made sure to only use once a week for a couple weeks. I am now up to 2 times a week. Not sure if it is the retinol or other barefaced products, but my skin is clearing up for the first time in years."

— AMY S. (4/5)

Makes my skin as smooth as butter

"This is officially my favorite skincare product. I’ve been using it every night before I go to sleep & my skin feels like silk. I’ve noticed a complete difference in my skin’s texture and it looks so much healthier."

— Juniper B. (5/5)

Great

"Best formula for a retinol, it’s very light and really improves appearance ofthe skin"

— Deyanira H. (5/5)

Love!

"This product is amazing! The texture is silky perfection!"

— Jillian A. (5/5)

Obsessed!!

"My first retinol, my skin tolerates it daily and I can tell a big difference! In my cystic acne as well!!!"

— Brittany H. (5/5)

Great product

"Helping bring back my complexing without irritation. Love it"

— Jessica M. (5/5)

"Amazingly smooth!! Love this product!"

— Kristi (5/5)

Q&A

If Tretinion is a little to strong for my skin, would your RetinAL cream be good and still strong enough for my skin. I’m 55.
Hi Stacey! Tretinoin is already in its active form (retinoic acid), which is why it works fast but can be very irritating. Retinaldehyde (RetinAL) only requires one conversion in the skin, making it significantly more tolerable while still being much stronger than traditional retinol. You'll still get the benefits such as increased cellular turnover, collagen support, and improvement in fine lines/texture, but typically with less redness, peeling, and barrier disruption. When switching to RetinAL Skin Therapy, start 2–3 nights per week and build slowly. The key is consistency without irritation as the best retinoid is the one you can actually use long term.
Can I use this on my neck for skin tightening?
Hi Lilli! While you can bring RetinAL Skin Therapy down to your neck/chest you will want to be cautious when doing so as the skin on the neck is very thin and sensitive. You might also consider the Revision Nectifirm Advanced to help improve crepey skin, rough texture, fine lines + wrinkles. Please feel free to reach out to us at hello@barefaced.com with any additional questions, we're happy to help!
hi! what is the order for liquid gold, brightening serum overachiever retinol therapy and the moisturizer thanks
Hi Stacy! Thanks for reaching out! You'll apply your products thinnest to thickest, so cleanse, Toning Pads, Liquid Gold, Brightening Serum, Overachiever, RetinAL, and Hydrating Lotion. Please let us know if you have any other questions!
Can you use this product when getting dark spots frozen off by the dermatologist? Should you stop use for a certain amount of time before?
Thank you for your question! With any in office procedure, we always recommend consulting with your dermatologist on what products you can use before/after your appointment. Please reach out to us if you have any other questions!
How long should I wait to apply moisturizer after applying RetinAL?
Hi Darcy! Thank you for reaching out! No need to wait anytime at all. We recommend applying products on right after the other for best absorption. Please reach out if you have any other questions!

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