RetinAL Skin
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RetinAL Skin
New Enhanced Formula
RetinAL Skin

RetinAL Skin

A powerful yet gentle retinoid treatment

2592 reviews

RetinAL Skin is a nighttime retinal treatment designed to smooth the look of fine lines, refine texture, improve uneven tone, and support firmer healthier-looking skin, with barrier-supporting ingredients that help minimize the irritation that makes retinoids hard to use consistently.

Now enhanced with Alpine Rose and Lavender to support tired-looking skin, calm visible redness, and make consistent use feel more comfortable.
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Pair with Hydrating Lotion to support your barrier + help skin stay comfortable

Hydrating Lotion
Hydrating Lotion
lightweight, antioxidant rich, age-defying moisturizer
$115
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 and easy to use consistently
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


Now Enhanced With:

  • Rhododendron Ferrugineum Extract (Alpine Rose): Helps wake up tired-looking skin to support natural skin renewal over time
  • Lavandula Hybrida Extract (Lavender): Helps calm the look of redness + hydrates skin for extra comfort during use


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 Results

94%

of users reported more refined looking skin

94%

of users reported improved overall skin quality

88%

of users reported skin looks more lifted, radiant and firmer

Before

After

Age: 33-62 with normal skin
Concerns: Dark Spots, Uneven Skin Tone

*Based on an 4-week consumer study conducted on 32 women ages 33-62 using RetinAL Skin. Individual results may vary.

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

Rhododendron Ferrugineum Flower Extract

Antioxidant-rich botanical that helps defend against environmental stress + supports smoother, healthier-looking skin

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
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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?

RetinAL Skin 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?

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 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: 4.892747 / 5 from 2592 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%): It was reported by customers that this product makes their face feel smoother after using it.
  • Product Feel (15%): Many customers raved about how the product feels, describing it as great, amazing, and silky.
  • Fine Line Reduction (5%): Customers keep praising the RetinAL skincare line for its ability to reduce fine lines.
  • Noticeable Skin Difference (9%): Customers appreciated the noticeable difference in their skin after using the product, with many stating it made a huge difference.
  • Non-Irritation (5%): Customers appreciated that the product did not cause any irritation or noted any noted irritation at all.

Review topics: ["color","weight","smell","issues","feels","quality","improvement","price","results","looks","packaging","difference","texture","skin","amount","retinol","irritation","face","consistency","use","formula","breakouts","redness","lines","effects","wrinkles","complexion","tolerates","pores","acne"].

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

New formula !

"I can definitely tell the updated formula works better and I’ve been using since the very start of barefaced! The original consistency of the retinal was like a velvety texture and this one is slightly different and can tell this is now updated! It truly shows how much hidden crud is under my skin as this really pulls out the pimples"

— Ashley B. (5/5)

Retinal

"Love this product!! It doesn't dry my face out and I could totally notice a difference after a week or 2 of incorporating into my skin care. I'm obsessed with ALL Barefaced products!"

— Addie S. (5/5)

LOVE RetinAL

"This product is amazing! I can already see a difference in my fine lines and overall complexion. My skin feels and looks softer and brighter!"

— Casey S. (5/5)

Great product!

"This RetinAL is so silky smoothe and is not harsh on my skin at all. It is the first RetinAL that my skin has agreed with right away!"

— Erica M. (5/5)

RetinAL review

"Im 32 and just now trying to reinsert a retinol into my skin care routine. In the past my skin has been too sensitive and I gave up. I’ve started using Barefaced retinAL initially once every third day and my skin has had no problem tolerating it. Im only about 4 weeks in so I look forward seeing continued results after sticking with a solid routine!"

— Lauryn R. (5/5)

Yes!

"This has changed my face completely. Everyone tells me I’m glowing. I’ve been missing out now using this before. My face is forever changed for the better."

— Brittany B. (5/5)

Game changer!

"I absolutely love Barefaved RetinAL skin therapy! My skin tolerated it immediately with no adjustment period, and it along with my other Barefaced products have given me the glowing, even skin I’ve been aiming for! I am finally confident enough to go make up free day-to-day! So grateful for this skin care line and RST!"

— Libbie B. (5/5)

RetinAL

"This product is so good. My skin is smoother and feels firmer. It’s goes on really smooth and has a silky feel. A little goes a long way. I also have had no irritation when using the product."

— Krissie B. (5/5)

The best

"The only retinol I can tolerate daily! Goes on so smooth and keeps my skin looking like glass!"

— Madison C. (5/5)

I am getting unprompted compliments :)

"I did a complete overhaul of my skincare to address the rosacea that has, all of the sudden, began to flair, a lot. This has not only helped calm that but transformed my skin overall. It is working so well with all of the other products, I am very happy!"

— Chelsea M. (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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