Retinoids are hands down one of the best anti-aging skincare ingredients. They can increase cellular turnover, improve pigmentation, support collagen production, decongest pores, and prevent acne. However, not all retinoids are created equal. The moonlight retinal super serum is one of the more potent OTC versions that I love @maeloveskincare Read below to learn about retinoid/retinal/retinol strength ⬇️ Strength hierarchy (strongest → weakest) 1. Tretinoin (retinoic acid) prescription 2. Retinaldehyde (retinal) OTC 3. Retinol OTC 4. Retinyl esters (retinyl palmitate, retinyl acetate, etc.) OTC How they convert in the skin * Retinyl ester → Retinol → Retinal → Retinoic acid (active form) The fewer conversion steps required, the more potent and faster acting the ingredient tends to be. #boardcertifieddermatologist #skincare #antiaging #retinol #retinal