Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

A clinically backed anti-aging serum with retinal, designed with dermatologists to target and help prevent advanced signs of skin aging.

Strength:

Level 1 — 0.05%

Level 2 — 0.1%

Level 3 — 0.2%

$39.99

Fast delivery from $4.99. Subscriber? Add to your regular deliveries

Key benefits

Rapid renewal, glowing skin

Delivers visible results on skin aging, texture, dullness, dark spots and firmness.

11x faster than retinol

Retinal acts 11x faster than standard retinol — for notieceable results, much sooner.

Three strengths, zero guesswork

Start at level 1 for beginners, and step up when you're ready. It's clear, flexible, and made to move with you.

Full ingredients

Aqua (Water), Squalane, Niacinamide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Olive Oil Polyglyceryl-6 Esters, Butylene Glycol, Panthenol, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phenoxyethanol, Cellulose, Tocopherol, Dimethicone, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Retinal, Ethylhexylglycerin, Xanthan Gum, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Cholesterol, Phytosphingosine, Carbomer, Ceramide Eop, Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40 Sh-Polypeptide-76, Citric Acid.

How to use

In the evening, apply 1-2 pumps on clean, dry skin. Allow the product to fully absorb before adding [moisturiser/moisturizer]. For best results, use consistently as part of your nighttime routine.

New to retinal? Give your skin time to adjust by applying it 2-3 times a week. Then gradually increase to daily use as tolerated.

Not suitable for use with other Vitamin A products, such as prescription or non-prescription retinoids. Not recommended while trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if unsure.

Where should I start?

Our multi-level Retinal System is designed to help you build a routine that works for you — whether you're new to actives, or ready to level up.

Start with Level 1 if you have sensitive skin or you're new to using retinoids. It's a safe, gentle way to introduce actives into your skincare routine.

Step up to Level 2 next, once your skin has adjusted to Level 1. You can start here if you've used retinoids before without previous issues.

Level 3 is the highest strength in the range, before we recommend moving to a personalized formula. It's more targeted, with more potent active ingredients that are expertly tailored to your skin's needs.

Introduction to Retinal

Not sure where to start with actives? Our Retinal System is structured to help you start gently, before stepping up with confidence. From Level 1 to Level 3, each stage strengthens your skin as it builds tolerance.

For a firmer, revitalized complexion, this range’s key ingredient retinal is a next-generation form of Vitamin A that treats and helps prevent photoaging. Suitable for all ages and skin types, this powerful retinoid activates faster than standard retinol — visibly smoothing fine lines, dark spots, enlarged pores and rough texture.

Retinal converts to retinoic acid 11x faster than traditional retinol, for better results with less chance of irritation — making it suitable even for sensitive skin.

Boosted with biomimetic growth factor and our Barrier Repair Complex that features intensely hydrating ceramides, Vitamin E and panthenol, it's backed by science to promote collagen synthesis, and support your skin's elasticity and resilience.

Think of each Level as skin training. Build your tolerance, strengthen your skin barrier, and create a routine that adapts to your skin.

Real results after 8 weeks*

• “My fine lines and wrinkles appear reduced” (96% agree)
• “My skin appears more even” (96% agree)
• “My skin feels firmer” (94% agree)

*Based on a user trial of ‘Retinal 0.1% Serum — Level 2’, including 54 respondents aged 25–60, with a range of skin types. Average overall rating: 4.43 out of 5 stars.

Note: Not suitable for use with other Vitamin A products, such as prescription or non-prescription retinoids. Not recommended while trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if unsure. Its bright yellow color is due to its high concentration of retinal. Allow the product to fully absorb before contact with clothing, bedding, or towels to avoid leaving a tint on the skin or light fabrics. Any marks on skin will rinse off with water, and fabric stains can easily be removed with your usual detergent.

This product is packaged in an airless pump to preserve its freshness and potency. It may take 8–10 pumps to activate the dispenser on first use.

Ingredients backed by science

Retinaldehyde
Retinaldehyde

Benefits

Targets fine lines, loss of firmness, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and sun damage.

In depth

Retinal (also called retinaldehyde) is a next-generation retinoid that works up to 11x faster than standard retinol. Retinal treats and helps prevent signs of skin aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, dullness and uneven skin texture. It's also suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin.

Found in

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum
Vitamin E
Vitamin E

Benefits

Provides antioxidant protection from damaging free radicals.

In depth

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage, which can cause signs of premature aging.

Found in

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum
Biomimetic growth factors
Biomimetic growth factors

Benefits

Visibly firms, smooths and strengthens skin.

In depth

Biomimetic growth factors have rejuvenating benefits that work alongside retinal to support natural processes within the skin.

Found in

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum
Panthenol
Panthenol

pan·then·ol

Benefits

Moisturises your skin by holding onto moisture at the skin's surface

In depth

Panthenol acts like a humectant, which means it retains moisture at the skin's surface to help maintain a strong and healthy skin barrier.

Found in

Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer

Nourishing Ceramide + Peptide Moisturizer

Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid + Vit B5 Serum

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum
Ceramide complex
Ceramide complex

seh·ruh·mide

Benefits

Helps maintain a healthy skin barrier function.

In depth

Dermatica’s unique skin-identical technology. The combination of ceramides and essential lipids deliver intense hydration while restoring the skin’s barrier function.

Found in

Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer

Nourishing Ceramide + Peptide Moisturizer

Restoring Ceramide Skin Balm

Clarifying Azelaic Acid 15–20% Cream

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

FAQs

After I reach Retinal 0.02% Serum — Level 3, what should I use next?

A personalized formula is the best step up from Retinal Serum 0.2% — Level 3. This is our signature tailored treatment plan, delivered monthly and designed to target your specific skin concerns.

It’s made for your skin by our expert dermatology team
Includes active ingredients you can’t often get over the counter
Our team builds your treatment plan for you, and continues adjusting your formula as your skin progresses — so there’s no guesswork needed.

You can switch to a personalized formula at any point in your retinal journey. Our experts will tailor the active ingredients and strength to suit your skin type, goals, and history.

How long until I see results?

Thanks for reaching out. That’s a great question.

Everyone’s skin is different, but in general, most people start to notice visible improvements within 8 weeks of regular use. You may see early signs sooner, such as brighter skin and a more even tone, but for changes like reduced fine lines, smoother texture and improved firmness, this usually takes at least 2–3 months.

Want to take your skincare a step further? A personalized formula can deliver visible results faster than retinal. This is our signature tailored treatment, delivered monthly. It’s made for your skin by our expert dermatology team, using bespoke strengths and ingredients — so there’s no guesswork needed. Our team builds your plan for you, and continues adjusting your formula as your skin progresses.

Remember to use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) every day, especially when you’re outdoors. Apply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

What level should I start on if I've never used retinoids before?

If you’re brand new to retinal or retinoids in general, we recommend starting with Retinal 0.05% Serum – Level 1. It’s a gentle introduction that allows your skin time to adjust, while still giving you the visible benefits of retinal.

Once your skin gets used to it, you can step up to the next strength. Or if you’re still noticing improvements on the level you’re at, you can continue using your current strength.

Does retinal cause any side effects?

Like all Vitamin A products, retinal may cause some temporary side effects when you first start using it. These include mild dryness, flaking, redness or sensitivity, and can happen while your skin is getting used to the retinal.

It shouldn’t be cause to worry, as these effects usually settle down as your skin gets used to it. Here’s how to prevent them:

Start slowly (2–3 times a week), then build up to daily use as your skin adjusts
Avoid using other active ingredients in your routine (e.g. glycolic acid, salicylic acid, etc) unless you’re sure your skin can tolerate it
Always apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) in the morning and reapply every two hours during the day
Soothe and hydrate dry, flaky or sensitive areas with Restoring Ceramide Skin Balm. Apply a thin layer to the affected area(s) in the evening, and leave it on overnight.

However, if irritation is persistent or becomes severe, stop using retinal and seek advice from your doctor before restarting.

Will this stain clothing, skin, or pillowcases?

Due to the high concentration of retinal, our Retinal Serums are bright yellow in color and may leave a mark on light fabrics. If you notice any stains, don’t worry. You can easily remove them with your usual detergent.

Tips to avoid stains:

Allow the product to fully absorb before your face touches clothing, bedding, or towels to avoid leaving a tint on light fabrics
Rinse off any residue from your skin using water

Do I need to wear sunscreen while using this product?

Yes, you should apply broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning as a non-negotiable, especially when using retinal (or any Vitamin A product).

Products that contain Vitamin A have a gentle exfoliating effect, which can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (providing UVA/UVB protection) with an SPF of 30 or higher will help protect against damage and keep your results on track.

When spending time outdoors, remember to reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Can I use this with my personalized formula?

In general, our Retinal Serums may be used alongside a personalized formula, as long as it doesn’t already contain a retinoid (such as tretinoin or adapalene). Using two Vitamin A products at once can increase your risk of skin irritation and may disrupt or damage your skin barrier.

If you’re a subscriber, please send our dermatology team a message from your dashboard. They can advise on the most effective option for your skin, and give you personalized advice.

Please note: We strongly recommend that you avoid products containing Vitamin A, including retinal or prescription retinoids, while trying to conceive, pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can I try this if I have facial eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis?

Please do not use our Retinal Serums if you have active facial eczema/dermatitis/psoriasis. Vitamin A is a potent active ingredient that can make these conditions worse, especially if your skin barrier is already compromised.

If you have eczema/dermatitis/psoriasis on your face, we recommend:

Ask a doctor or dermatologist (whichever is more available to you) to help treat this first.
Once your condition is under control, do a patch test to make sure Retinal Serum doesn’t cause a reaction.
If your skin is currently flaring, wait until it has calmed for at least 1–2 weeks before introducing retinal.
Start with the lowest strength (Level 1), just 2–3 nights a week, and pair it with a gentle cleanser and nourishing moisturizer.

Why did you create this range?

At Dermatica, our mission is to make science-backed skincare accessible to everyone. We created our Retinal System to offer a clinically backed Vitamin A serum for those who aren’t ready to commit to a prescription. It also provides a gentler alternative for customers who find prescription retinoids too strong.

Which is better?

Our personalized formulas are still the most effective option we offer. They’re tailored to your skin needs by dermatology experts, and contain active ingredients you often can’t find over the counter. Your bespoke treatment plan also includes unlimited check-ins, expert guidance and free formula adjustments throughout.

When does this product expire?

We recommend that you finish this product within 12 months after the first use.

Can I use this if I’m pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive?

Our dermatology team does not recommend this product while pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive, because it contains topical Vitamin A (retinoids). Currently, we don’t have enough reliable evidence to safely confirm if Vitamin A skincare (such as retinol, retinal (retinaldehyde), tretinoin and adapalene) can be used during pregnancy.

Here are two pregnancy-safe routine essentials with similar benefits:

Vitamin C 15%: Fresh Batch Ascorbic Acid – Apply in the morning before sunscreen to help improve the appearance of dark spots, dullness, signs of aging and loss of skin firmness. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Clarifying Azelaic Acid Cream – Apply once a day, morning or evening, on clean, dry skin. This multi-action cream helps boost cell turnover and treats post-blemish marks, breakouts, dark spots and signs of aging. It’s also suitable for sensitive skin.

If you are subscribed to a pregnancy-safe personalized formula, your treatment plan will already contain azelaic acid. Please do not use Clarifying Azelaic Acid Cream as well, as this may cause irritation.

Can I use this if I have rosacea, sensitive skin, or acne?

Unfortunately, we can’t offer personalized dermatology advice to non-subscribers, as we need to assess your skin before giving guidance.

Retinal may be suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin, but it depends on your skin’s history and tolerance. Many people with these concerns benefit from starting at the lowest strength (Retinal 0.05% Serum – Level 1), then gradually stepping up to a higher strength when suitable.

If you have rosacea, we recommend speaking with our dermatology team before trying products containing Vitamin A, as retinoids can worsen symptoms for certain people.

Features	Product features	Retinal Serum	Personalized formula
Strengths to suit your skin
Personalized to your skin by dermatology experts
No consultation needed
Ongoing support from dermatology team
Backed by dermatology expertise

Personalized formulas

Routine essentials

Your skincare, solved

Prescription treatments made for you

Prescription acne treatments

Prescription treatments for acne scars & pigmentation

Prescription anti-aging treatments

Prescription hyperpigmentation treatments

Prescription melasma treatments

Prescription skin glow treatments

Prescription rosacea treatments

Evidence-based ingredients

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

Key benefits

Full ingredients

How to use

Where should I start?

Introduction to Retinal

Ingredients backed by science

Retinaldehyde

Retinaldehyde

Benefits

In depth

Found in

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

Vitamin E

Vitamin E

Benefits

In depth

Found in

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

Biomimetic growth factors

Biomimetic growth factors

Benefits

In depth

Found in

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

Panthenol

Panthenol

Benefits

In depth

Found in

Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer

Nourishing Ceramide + Peptide Moisturizer

Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid + Vit B5 Serum

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

Ceramide complex

Ceramide complex

Benefits

In depth

Found in

Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer

Nourishing Ceramide + Peptide Moisturizer

Restoring Ceramide Skin Balm

Clarifying Azelaic Acid 15–20% Cream

Retinal 0.05%—0.2% Serum

Your routine

How to add Retinal Serum to your daily routine

Find the right strength for you

Retinal 0.05% Serum: Level 1

Retinal 0.1% Serum: Level 2

Retinal 0.2% Serum: Level 3

Two paths to skin support. Both expert-backed and designed to work.

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Clarifying Azelaic Acid 15–20% Cream

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Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer

Clarifying Azelaic Acid 15–20% Cream

Balancing Glycerin Gel Cleanser

Soothing Centella Gel Moisturizer

FAQs

After I reach Retinal 0.02% Serum — Level 3, what should I use next?

How long until I see results?

What level should I start on if I've never used retinoids before?

Does retinal cause any side effects?

Will this stain clothing, skin, or pillowcases?

Do I need to wear sunscreen while using this product?

Can I use this with my personalized formula?

Can I try this if I have facial eczema, dermatitis or psoriasis?

Why did you create this range?

Two paths to skin support.
Both expert-backed and designed to work.