If you’re looking for smoother, younger-looking skin, you may have come across retinol. It’s a staple in anti-aging routines for many. But what if there’s a better approach to skin aging?
Retinal, short for retinaldehyde, is a lesser-known but highly promising member of the retinoid family that’s gaining attention in longevity-focused skincare. Unlike retinol, retinal works faster, penetrates more efficiently, and may reduce signs of premature aging with less irritation than prescription tretinoin.
But to understand where retinal fits into the bigger picture of skin aging, we have to look beyond topical treatments. Many signs of aging skin stem from internal biological processes. A longevity-based approach incorporating strategic supplements, like NOVOS Core, can target the underlying causes of aging from the inside out.
Key Takeaways
- Retinal is one conversion step away from active retinoic acid, making it stronger and faster than retinol but gentler than tretinoin.
- Internal processes, such as oxidative stress, glycation, inflammaging, cellular senescence, and nutrient deficiencies, drive skin aging.
- Supplements like NOVOS Core can improve skin health by supporting collagen production, hydration, and repair from within.
- Pairing topical retinal with internal supplementation is one of the most effective strategies for maintaining youthful, resilient skin.
Retinol, Retinal, and Tretinoin: What’s the Difference?
Retinoids are all derivatives of vitamin A, but they vary in potency, speed of action, and likelihood of causing irritation. Understanding the differences can help you choose the best option for your goals.
| Retinoid | Strength | Speed | Irritation Risk | Prescription? | Conversion Steps |
| Retinol | Mild | Slow | Low | No | 2 steps to retinoic acid |
| Retinal (Retinaldehyde) | Higher than retinol (but below tretinoin) | Faster than retinol | Low to moderate in well-formulated products | No | 1 step |
| Tretinoin (Retinoic Acid) | Strong | Fastest | High | Yes | None (already active) |
Retinol is widely available but requires two conversions to become active in the skin. It’s generally well-tolerated but slower to show results.
Retinal, on the other hand, needs just one conversion and has been shown to deliver faster results with fewer side effects than tretinoin. It also offers some antibacterial properties, making it useful for acne-prone skin.
Tretinoin is the most potent form of vitamin A and is already in its active state. However, it often causes redness, peeling, and sensitivity, especially in those new to retinoids or with sensitive skin.
What Causes Premature Skin Aging?
Most people are aware that sun exposure and smoking contribute to aging skin. But fewer understand how internal biological processes affect the skin.
Skin aging is ultimately a symptom of systemic aging. While topical treatments may help at the surface, true rejuvenation starts at the cellular level.
Oxidative Stress
Oxidative damage from free radicals breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins responsible for firmness and elasticity. It’s a major factor in fine lines, sagging, and dullness.
Glycation
With glycation, sugar binds to collagen, making it stiff and less functional. This process speeds up wrinkle formation and can make skin appear tough or leathery.
Inflammaging
Chronic, low-grade inflammation gradually breaks down the skin’s structure. It contributes to redness, uneven tone, and weakened barrier function.
Senescent Cells
These “zombie” cells stop dividing but continue to release inflammatory compounds that harm surrounding tissue. In the skin, they disrupt regeneration and contribute to thinning, roughness, and reduced elasticity.
Micronutrient Deficiencies
Essential nutrients like vitamin C, glycine, and magnesium are required for collagen synthesis and skin repair. A deficiency in any of these can slow regeneration and accelerate signs of aging.
How Supplements Support Skin Longevity
The skin is a highly metabolic organ. Even if you’re using the most effective topicals, you’ll have limited results if your body lacks the nutrients required to build and maintain healthy skin tissue.
Supplements can complement topical products by addressing internal causes of skin aging and supporting the body’s natural repair mechanisms.
The NOVOS Core Difference for Skin Aging
In a small pilot study, participants who took NOVOS Core daily for six months showed measurable improvements in skin firmness. Using an indentometer — a scientific tool that assesses skin suppleness — researchers observed a 12% to 40% improvement across individuals. The average increase in firmness was 22%.
Participants also reported visible changes in skin quality, including enhanced smoothness, elasticity, and resilience.
While the study included just four participants, the results were consistent and promising. A larger dermatological trial is planned to further validate these findings.
Skin-Supporting Ingredients in NOVOS Core
These benefits align with the ingredients in NOVOS Core that support skin health from the inside out. These include:
- Hyaluronic acid: Helps maintain hydration and skin structure; shown in oral supplementation research to increase hydration
- Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG): Supports collagen production and skin stem cell health
- Fisetin: A senolytic agent that clears senescent cells, reducing chronic inflammation and supporting skin regeneration
- Glycine: A vital amino acid for collagen synthesis; helps maintain skin structure and hydration
- Vitamin C: Works together with AKG and boosts collagen production
- Glucosamine: Reinforces the extracellular matrix, improving firmness and flexibility
NOVOS Core doesn’t just target the symptoms of aging. It addresses its root biological causes. Each ingredient was selected not only for its visible skin benefits but also for its ability to modulate core longevity pathways.
In short, NOVOS Core goes beyond cosmetic improvements. It’s a longevity supplement that supports healthier, more youthful skin from the inside out.
What About the NOVOS Bar?
The NOVOS Bar offers a way to step up your longevity routine even further. It delivers skin-friendly compounds in a convenient daily snack or meal replacement.
- Contains polyphenol-rich olive oil to protect collagen and reduce inflammation
- Includes functional mushrooms like reishi and cordyceps, known for their antioxidant and adaptogenic properties
- Provides a spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals that support metabolism, skin health, and energy
The bar works synergistically with NOVOS Core to reinforce your internal aging defenses.
Final Thoughts: The Best Supplements for Aging Skin
Retinal is a promising topical ingredient for aging skin. But the truth is, no topical solution can fully offset the internal biological processes that drive skin aging.
The most effective strategy includes:
- Topical products for surface renewal and visible improvements
- Internal supplementation to rebuild collagen, reduce inflammation, and support skin structure
- Consistent habits that support metabolic and mitochondrial health
NOVOS Core provides the nutritional foundation your skin needs to stay firm, hydrated, and resilient, even as you age.
FAQ on Retinal vs. Retinol and How To Support Aging Skin
Is retinal stronger than retinol?
Yes. Retinal requires only one conversion step to become retinoic acid, making it more efficient and often more effective than retinol.
Can supplements improve my skin?
Yes. Supplements help address the internal causes of aging — like collagen loss and oxidative stress — allowing skin to regenerate at a cellular level.
How does NOVOS Core help aging skin?
It provides nutrients that support collagen production, antioxidant defense, and inflammation control, while also targeting cellular aging pathways.
Should I stop using topicals if I take supplements?
No. Topicals and supplements work best together. Topicals treat the surface, while supplements support your skin from within.
