Retinal is the molecule of its big brother retinol, hailed as the anti-aging superstar. While retinol requires two metabolic conversion steps to reach the active form of retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin), retinal is a direct precursor, requiring only one conversion step to reach the active form, which is the one that actually works in skin cells. It is estimated that retinal can be converted into retinoic acid up to 10 times faster than retinol itself, making it an exceptionally effective member of the retinoid (vitamin A) family. Once converted, retinal helps skin cells produce more collagen and other structural elements, making the skin appear more youthful, firm, and elastic. It also accelerates the renewal process of the upper layers of the skin, making it smoother and more even. A-Game 5 is a must-have product for intelligently addressing aging, but its also useful as an adjunct product for treating hyperpigmentation issues, as well as helping acne-prone skin and its resulting scars. In terms of potency and insight, we compared our 0.05% Retinol Serum to the potency and efficacy of a 0.5% retinol product but with potentially less irritating effects and faster results. Cruelty-free | Vegan | Fragrance and essential oil free | Gluten free KEY INGREDIENTSRetinal (0.05%): Anti-aging superstar ingredient that is a direct precursor to retinoic acid (the active form understood by skin cells) and shows an excellent efficacy/tolerance ratio among topical retinoids.Allantoin + Panthenol: A classic duo of ingredients well known for their soothing and skin-protecting properties.Biosaccharide Gum-1: A carbohydrate molecule that has a pleasant ability to soothe and hydrate the skin, making A-Game even softer and silkier. INGREDIENTS Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Oleyl Erucate, Glycerin, Triheptanoin, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Cyclodextrin, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Allantoin, Retinal, Rubus Chamaemorus (Cloudberry) Seed Oil, Panthenol, Citric Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE Apply a pea-sized amount to your face, neck, and décolletage every night. You can apply liquid or gel-like products beforehand, such as toners, our liquid exfoliants, or serums like HA5 or B-Bomb. Afterward, you can apply your moisturizer. Remember to apply a cream with SPF 15 or higher every morning! If your skin is very sensitive, start using A-Game 5 every other day for the first 15 days. If your skin tolerates it, after this 15-day period, you can start using it daily. You can apply A-Game 5 around the eyes, but be careful to get it inside the eyes. Good to know: A-Game has a bright yellow color derived from retinal. Based on our experience, it dissipates upon contact with the skin and leaves no yellow residue on the surface. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding!