DermaQuest RiQ Retinal 0.05% 14,8ml

Mild retinaldehyde serum for sensitive skin and beginners

Many people want the visible benefits of a retinoid — smoother skin, finer lines, an even complexion — but shy away from the thought of irritation, flaking, and redness. The good news: not all vitamin A is the same. Retinaldehyde is the smart intermediate between retinol and retinoic acid, converting into the skin more than ten times faster than retinol and being significantly gentler on the skin barrier.

The DermaQuest RiQ Retinal 0.05% makes this ingredient type accessible for sensitive skin and those new to retinoids. Thanks to hydroxysome microencapsulation and the Allosteris enhancer, the active ingredient is released in a controlled way into the skin, for visible repair without the typical buildup period or breakdown reaction.

Benefits

• Reduces the visibility of fine lines and early wrinkles through accelerated cell renewal
• Fades pigmentation spots and gives a more even, radiant complexion
• Soothes redness and supports a calmer skin appearance
• Refines skin texture and helps reduce impurities
• Suitable for sensitive skin and as a first retinoid in a routine
• Works overnight in harmony with the skin’s natural repair rhythm

Active ingredients

Retinaldehyde 0.05%: The direct precursor of retinoic acid and thus the most active form of vitamin A available without a prescription. Retinaldehyde stimulates collagen production, accelerates cell renewal, and helps renew the skin from within — with demonstrably less irritation than classic retinol. Microencapsulation via hydroxysomes ensures controlled, gradual release into the skin.

Bakuchiol: A plant-based ingredient from the Babchi plant known as a natural alternative to retinol. In this formula, bakuchiol works synergistically with retinaldehyde: it enhances the anti-aging effect while calming the skin, reducing irritation.

Allosteris: A patented retinoid enhancer that boosts the effect of retinaldehyde without stressing the skin barrier. This allows a low concentration of 0.05% to deliver noticeable results, making this serum especially suitable for sensitive skin.

Ceramide NP, AP and EOP: These three different ceramides together form the building blocks of the skin barrier. They retain moisture, protect against external irritants, and compensate for the natural drying that sometimes accompanies retinoid use. The result is a smooth, comfortable skin during treatment.

Squalane and Sodium Hyaluronate: These two ingredients work on different layers of the skin. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture in the deeper layers, while squalane seals the top layer and ensures a soft, supple feel.

Symphytum Officinale and Aloe Barbadensis: Botanical extracts of comfrey and aloe vera that soothe, repair, and neutralize any sensitivity. This plant-based support makes RiQ Retinal especially suitable for reactive skin types.

How to use

1. Use the serum only in the evening, as retinoids make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation
2. Thoroughly cleanse the face and optionally apply a toner
3. Use a pea-sized amount and spread the serum evenly over the face, neck, and décolleté
4. Avoid the eye area and direct contact with mucous membranes
5. Finish the routine with a DermaQuest moisturizer of your choice
6. Always use sun protection with SPF 30 or higher as the last step in the morning

Build up use gradually: start with two to three evenings per week and increase based on skin response. According to DermaQuest, retinoid use is recommended in spring and autumn, with a three-month break in between.

Suitable for

• First introduction to retinoids
• Sensitive and reactive skin that cannot tolerate classic retinol
• Skin with fine lines and early signs of aging
• Dull skin with pigmentation spots or uneven tone
• Skin prone to blemishes and post-inflammatory pigmentation
• Not suitable during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with active skin irritation

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between retinaldehyde and retinol?

Retinaldehyde is one step closer to the active form retinoic acid than retinol. The skin only needs to perform one conversion step instead of two, making it faster and milder. For sensitive skin, this is often a better choice than a classic retinol serum.

Can I use this serum if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, this formula is specifically developed for sensitive skin. The combination of microencapsulation, ceramides, and soothing botanicals minimizes irritation. Always test the product first on a small skin area and gradually increase use.

How do I combine this with other active ingredients?

Do not use retinaldehyde in the same routine as AHAs, BHAs, or high concentrations of vitamin C. Alternate these active ingredients on different evenings or use vitamin C in the morning and retinaldehyde in the evening. Always combine with a good moisturizer and SPF during the day.