Skinbetter AlphaRet Review: Is It Really Better Than Tretinoin?

Skinbetter AlphaRet Review: Is It Really Better Than Tretinoin? — Dr Dray

Dr Dray

AI-assisted summary of Skinbetter AlphaRet Review: Is It Really Better Than Tretinoin? — original source. Check the original for full context.

Source published:

Key ideas

  • Skinbetter Science markets AlphaRet around ethyl lactyl retinoate—a conjugate of lactic acid and retinoic acid—yet clinical research has yet to confirm through pharmacodynamic testing that the molecule successfully cleaves into active retinoic acid in human tissue. (3:58)
  • While a 12-week split-face clinical trial found AlphaRet improved fine lines and pigmentation with higher tolerability than 0.025% tretinoin or 1% retinol, the study lacked a vehicle control and biopsy data to verify dermal collagen synthesis. (5:39)
  • AlphaRet's formulation includes established actives like niacinamide, glycolic acid, squalane, and ceramides, which provide epidermal plumping, barrier repair, and hyperpigmentation reduction independently of the proprietary retinoid conjugate. (7:36)
  • For patients seeking retinoid efficacy with minimal irritation, Dr. Dray recommends over-the-counter 0.1% adapalene or cosmetic retinol/retinaldehyde as cost-effective options with standardized, biopsy-proven collagen benefits. (11:13)

Detailed notes

## Background Published on YouTube by dermatologist Dr Dray on October 12, 2026, this video reviews Skinbetter Science's AlphaRet Overnight Cream to determine if it is worth the hype. According to the page description, Dr Dray evaluates the clinical research behind the proprietary retinoid ethyl lactyl retinoate, examining whether it truly matches the anti-aging benefits of tretinoin with less irritation or if its marketing outpaces the scientific evidence.

## TL;DR Dr. Dray critically analyzes the science behind Skinbetter Science's AlphaRet Overnight Cream and its proprietary active, ethyl lactyl retinoate. She evaluates the published clinical trials, noting critical methodological flaws such as the lack of vehicle controls and an absence of histological biopsy data demonstrating actual collagen stimulation. Furthermore, she explains that the product's visible cosmetic benefits can easily be attributed to supporting ingredients like glycolic acid, niacinamide, and rich hydrators rather than the retinoid conjugate itself. While clarifying that AlphaRet is not a scam and functions as an effective hydrating moisturizer, she concludes that its premium price tag is difficult to justify over proven, cost-effective options like over-the-counter adapalene, retinaldehyde, or retinol.

## Atmosphere & style The presentation carries Dr. Dray's signature no-nonsense, pragmatic clinical approach, laced with dry wit and grounded skepticism toward cosmetic industry marketing. It feels like an intimate, evidence-based dermatological consultation that methodically strips away technical jargon and luxury mystique to focus strictly on study design and pharmacodynamics. The tone is measured, informative, and consumer-advocacy driven, ensuring viewers feel educated rather than swayed by aesthetic hype.

## Bulletin - [03:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=238s) Skinbetter Science markets AlphaRet around ethyl lactyl retinoate—a conjugate of lactic acid and retinoic acid—yet clinical research has yet to confirm through pharmacodynamic testing that the molecule successfully cleaves into active retinoic acid in human tissue. - [05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) While a 12-week split-face clinical trial found AlphaRet improved fine lines and pigmentation with higher tolerability than 0.025% tretinoin or 1% retinol, the study lacked a vehicle control and biopsy data to verify dermal collagen synthesis. - [07:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=456s) AlphaRet's formulation includes established actives like niacinamide, glycolic acid, squalane, and ceramides, which provide epidermal plumping, barrier repair, and hyperpigmentation reduction independently of the proprietary retinoid conjugate. - [11:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=673s) For patients seeking retinoid efficacy with minimal irritation, Dr. Dray recommends over-the-counter 0.1% adapalene or cosmetic retinol/retinaldehyde as cost-effective options with standardized, biopsy-proven collagen benefits.

## Key takeaways - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=0s) Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream features ethyl lactyl retinoate, a proprietary hybrid molecule chemically bonding lactic acid with retinoic acid. - [00:52](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=52s) The proposed mechanism of ethyl lactyl retinoate—gradual enzymatic hydrolysis releasing free lactic acid and retinoic acid to reduce irritation—remains an unverified hypothesis in living human skin. - [02:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=143s) Prescription tretinoin acts directly on cellular retinoic acid receptors without requiring conversion, whereas cosmetic prodrugs like retinol and retinaldehyde convert gradually, trading speed for lower irritation. - [03:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=238s) The foundational 2015 study on the conjugate evaluated an entire three-product regimen featuring an exfoliating cleanser and SPF 50+ sunscreen, making it impossible to attribute improvements directly to ethyl lactyl retinoate. - [05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) A 12-week randomized split-face study found AlphaRet improved fine lines, wrinkles, dyschromia, and erythema with superior tolerability over 0.025% tretinoin cream and 1% retinol. - [05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) The AlphaRet split-face study lacked an identical vehicle control formulated without ethyl lactyl retinoate, preventing researchers from distinguishing the active's effects from the base cream. - [05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) Unlike classic tretinoin research, the clinical evidence for AlphaRet relies entirely on surface visual grading and lacks punch biopsy data demonstrating dermal fibroblast stimulation or new collagen formation. - [07:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=456s) Deeply hydrating base ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, squalane, and ceramides plump dehydrated epidermis, creating an optical smoothing of fine lines that does not represent structural collagen synthesis. - [07:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=456s) Supporting active ingredients in the formula—including glycolic acid for exfoliation and niacinamide for redness, pore appearance, and hyperpigmentation—can fully explain the clinical results. - [09:49](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=589s) To scientifically validate AlphaRet, Dr. Dray requires vehicle-controlled trials, histological proof of collagen induction, and head-to-head tolerability tests against low-irritation retinoids like adapalene. - [10:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=642s) While AlphaRet is not an ineffective product or a scam, existing literature fails to substantiate that its clinical benefits justify a luxury price point over standard skincare formulas. - [11:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=673s) Over-the-counter 0.1% adapalene serves as an affordable, standardized retinoid backed by histological collagen data, avoiding confounding multi-ingredient blends when assessing skin tolerance. - [12:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=767s) Marketing claims asserting that AlphaRet is inherently less irritating than other retinoids remain unproven because the product was never tested against gentle, accessible options like adapalene.

## Detailed walkthrough ### [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=0s) Introduction to AlphaRet and the Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate Hypothesis

For anyone seeking an anti-aging topical that delivers the visible results of prescription tretinoin without the dreaded irritation and peeling, Skinbetter Science’s AlphaRet Overnight Cream has likely appeared on the radar. The product centers around a proprietary topical vitamin A molecule called ethyl lactyl retinoate. This ingredient chemically links retinoic acid with lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). The marketing pitch claims that this hybrid conjugate provides the full clinical power of a standard retinoid while sidestepping the uncomfortable side effects. However, the core question is whether sufficient clinical evidence proves that ethyl lactyl retinoate truly matches what established retinoids, cosmetic retinol, or retinaldehyde can do—especially when it comes to stimulating collagen synthesis deep within the skin.

Beyond its featured retinoid conjugate, AlphaRet Overnight Cream is packed with an extensive supporting cast of well-known skincare actives, including glycolic acid, niacinamide, squalane, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and peptides. Despite this complex cocktail, the entire product is marketed around the specific actions credited to ethyl lactyl retinoate. The theoretical rationale behind the molecule, originally detailed in a 2015 paper, proposes that once the conjugate penetrates the skin barrier, natural hydrolysis cleaves the chemical bond over time. This slow release is designed to gradually supply both free lactic acid and active retinoic acid directly to the tissue.

Conceptually, the idea is brilliant: take a retinoid, pair it with an evidence-based exfoliating AHA, and slowly meter their release into the skin to circumvent dryness and peeling while maximizing anti-aging efficacy. As Dr. Dray dryly points out, "Who wouldn't want that? I'm sure you'd pay well over $100 for an ounce." Yet, she emphasizes that this concept remains fundamentally a hypothesis. It sounds compelling on paper, but the real test is not what happens in a petri dish or with "Bunsen burner type stuff"—it is what rigorous human trials demonstrate on living patients.

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: Proposed Mechanism of Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate accDescr: Conceptual diagram showing how ethyl lactyl retinoate penetrates skin and is hypothesized to hydrolyze into lactic acid and retinoic acid.

subgraph Conjugate["Proprietary Molecule"] ELR["Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate<br/>(Lactic Acid + Retinoic Acid)"] end

subgraph Penetration["Skin Barrier"] ELR -->|"Penetrates Stratum Corneum"| Hydrolysis["Proposed Enzymatic Hydrolysis"] end

subgraph DualRelease["Hypothesized Time-Release Actives"] Hydrolysis -->|"Releases AHA"| LA["Lactic Acid<br/>(Hydration & Exfoliation)"] Hydrolysis -->|"Releases Retinoid"| RA["Retinoic Acid<br/>(Cell Turnover & Collagen)"] end ```

[02:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=143s) Why Retinoids Work: Active Retinoids vs. Prodrugs

To evaluate ethyl lactyl retinoate fairly, one must first look at why dermatologists value topical vitamin A in the first place. Retinoids represent some of the most thoroughly investigated topical compounds for addressing photoaging. Prescription tretinoin remains the historical gold standard for clearing sunspots, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and kickstarting collagen production. The catch is that tretinoin is notoriously drying and irritating, leaving a substantial number of patients unable to tolerate routine application. Tretinoin operates directly in its active biological form; because it is not a prodrug, the skin does not need to convert or metabolize it before it binds to cellular receptors.

Other prescription retinoid generations carry solid evidence for treating signs of aging as well, such as tazarotene and adapalene. While the newest generation retinoid trifarotene likely provides comparable anti-aging perks, its novelty means robust clinical trials specifically testing it for photoaging have yet to be conducted. Across the board, however, these potent prescription options frequently trigger irritation.

This tolerability barrier explains the massive popularity of over-the-counter cosmetic alternatives like retinol and retinaldehyde. These cosmetic variants boast objective evidence demonstrating that they can deliver meaningful, comparable improvements in aged skin with significantly less irritation. Their gentle profile stems from their nature as prodrugs: the skin must systematically convert them through metabolic steps before they reach active retinoic acid. Although this enzymatic conversion means visible transformations take slightly longer to manifest, the results remain clinically significant. Given this established track record for cosmetic prodrugs, the prospect of introducing an entirely new, gentle retinoic acid prodrug conjugate is inherently attractive.

- **Prescription Retinoids (Active Forms / Direct Receptor Binding):** Tretinoin (first generation), adapalene and tazarotene (newer generations), and trifarotene (fourth generation, but currently lacking dedicated photoaging trials). - **Cosmetic Retinoids (Prodrugs requiring enzymatic conversion):** Retinaldehyde (requires one conversion step) and retinol (requires two conversion steps).

[03:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=238s) Examining the 2015 Clinical Evidence for the Conjugate

The foundational research evaluating this alpha hydroxy acid-retinoic acid conjugate dates back to a 2015 clinical paper studying 25 female participants displaying moderate sun damage. Rather than testing the conjugate as an isolated, standalone active, the study evaluated an entire three-product daily regimen over an 8-week period. Participants were instructed to use: - A daily facial cleanser containing lactic acid and salicylic acid. - A targeted serum containing 0.1% of the lactic acid-retinoic acid conjugate. - A broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen.

At the conclusion of the 8 weeks, the study investigators reported visible improvements in overall photodamage, skin dryness, surface flaking, dyschromia (uneven pigmentation), and general skin appearance, all alongside favorable tolerability scores. While these findings initially appear promising, Dr. Dray underscores a critical scientific flaw: the study design completely fails to isolate ethyl lactyl retinoate from the confounding variables. There is no way to know whether the clinical improvements stemmed from the proprietary conjugate, the exfoliating acids in the cleanser, or the strict daily use of an SPF 50+ sunscreen—an intervention proven all on its own to reverse visible signs of photoaging.

Furthermore, the authors of the 2015 paper themselves framed the slow, hydrolysis-based release of lactic acid and retinoic acid as a *proposed* mechanism rather than a verified biological fact. A proposed mechanism is simply a theoretical model until confirmed by rigorous pharmacodynamic testing. Without concrete proof showing that the conjugate is reliably cleaving inside human tissue, much of the marketing excitement surrounding the active remains scientifically unvalidated.

[05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) The 12-Week AlphaRet Split-Face Study and Study Design Limitations

A second clinical trial offers data directly relevant to AlphaRet Overnight Cream itself: a 12-week, randomized split-face comparative trial. The study enrolled 48 women ranging from 30 to 65 years of age—a broad demographic bracket representing vastly different degrees of cumulative lifetime ultraviolet damage. Ultimately, 47 subjects completed the protocol, applying AlphaRet to one side of the face while treating the opposite side with either a cosmetic 1% retinol or prescription 0.025% tretinoin cream.

The reported outcomes seemed to validate the product's premium status: - AlphaRet visibly improved fine lines, deep wrinkles, dyschromia, overall skin tone, erythema (redness), and pore size (which Dr. Dray playfully summarizes as skincare "Goals"). - AlphaRet was significantly better tolerated than both the 1% retinol and the 0.025% tretinoin cream.

| Comparative Study Feature | AlphaRet Overnight Cream Study Setup | Scientific Limitation Identified by Dr. Dray | |:--- |:--- |:--- | | **Study Design** | 12-week randomized split-face trial ($n=48$ enrolled, $47$ completed). | Evaluated finished cosmetic formulations rather than an isolated active molecule. | | **Tested Comparators** | AlphaRet applied to one side; 1% retinol OR 0.025% tretinoin applied to the other side. | Lacked an identical vehicle control (AlphaRet base formula minus ethyl lactyl retinoate). | | **Outcomes Reported** | Reductions in fine lines, wrinkles, dyschromia, redness, and pore size with superior tolerability. | No punch biopsies performed to assess cellular retinoid receptor binding, dermal thickness, or collagen synthesis. |

While a consumer might look at these results and conclude that AlphaRet is an undisputed upgrade over tretinoin, Dr. Dray urges a closer examination of the trial methodology. Most critically, the study lacked a true vehicle control group—meaning researchers did not test an identical AlphaRet cream formulated without the ethyl lactyl retinoate. Without a vehicle blank, it is impossible to determine how much of the cosmetic improvement came from the conjugate versus the rich moisturizing base.

Furthermore, the study relied entirely on surface visual scoring without histological or biopsy evaluations. Established retinoids like tretinoin possess extensive biopsy data proving that they enter dermal cells, engage retinoic acid receptors, and physically stimulate fibroblasts to manufacture new collagen. The AlphaRet trial demonstrates that the finished cream moisturizes effectively and improves surface appearance, but it provides zero biopsy evidence that ethyl lactyl retinoate penetrates tissue to stimulate new structural collagen.

[07:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=456s) Why the Supporting Ingredients Complicate the Anti-Aging Claims

The inability to isolate the effects of ethyl lactyl retinoate becomes even more glaring when examining the remainder of AlphaRet's ingredient list. The formulation includes glycolic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, squalane, ceramides, peptides, and ubiquinone (CoQ10). Dr. Dray jokes that these are staple compounds she highlights in "99.9% of any video" she produces because they are ubiquitous across modern cosmetic formulations. While not rare or proprietary, these ingredients are biologically potent in their own right and can easily account for the clinical improvements seen in the study.

A deeply hydrating formulation rich in humectants, emollient squalane, and barrier-replenishing ceramides rapidly increases the water content of the epidermis. Plumping dehydrated skin immediately blurs fine lines and reduces the visibility of surface wrinkles—giving the optical illusion of structural rejuvenation without inducing a single strand of new collagen synthesis. Moreover, individual actives in the blend address photoaging independently: - **Glycolic Acid:** Gently dissolves desmosomes to resurface rough skin texture and accelerate exfoliation. - **Niacinamide:** Well-documented to fade hyperpigmented dark spots, soothe cutaneous redness, optimize the epidermal moisture barrier, and visibly minimize enlarged pores. - **Ubiquinone (CoQ10):** Delivers antioxidant defense against ongoing oxidative environmental stress.

Because every single one of these observed improvements can be explained by the supporting ingredients, one cannot scientifically credit ethyl lactyl retinoate with the results. There is no published proof confirming that the expected hydrolysis reaction actually occurred in the skin, that free retinoic acid reached dermal fibroblasts, or that the treatment measurably thickened dermal collagen as assessed by biopsy. Conflating the surface hydration benefits of a high-end cosmetic cream with the biological collagen-building power of a verified retinoid is a completely unwarranted leap.

[09:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=562s) The Problem with Multi-Ingredient Formulas and What Evidence Is Missing

The supporting ingredients in Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream can certainly improve the visible signs of sun damage, but these same ingredients are widely available across thousands of products already on the market. Looking at the finished cosmetic formula, Dr. Dray questions how AlphaRet can claim to offer anything truly unique compared to a "run-of-the-mill garden variety niacinamide-containing moisturizer." She remains unconvinced that the formulation delivers results above and beyond what a consumer can achieve with a basic, well-formulated facial moisturizer.

To prove that AlphaRet’s proprietary conjugate, ethyl lactyl retinoate, is truly special, Dr. Dray explains what clinical evidence she would need to see: - **Mechanistic and histological proof:** Clear data demonstrating that ethyl lactyl retinoate is as mechanistically effective as established forms of topical vitamin A, including dermal studies showing improvements in collagen at the histological level. - **Vehicle-controlled trials:** A split study testing the finished cream formula *with* ethyl lactyl retinoate against the exact same cream *without* it, isolating whether the retinoic acid conjugate is penetrating the skin and driving clinical improvement independently of the moisturizing base and co-actives. - **Tolerability benchmarking:** Rigorous head-to-head testing against established, low-irritation retinoids like adapalene to substantiate claims of superior tolerability.

[10:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=642s) Does That Mean AlphaRet Is a Scam?

Dr. Dray clarifies that pointing out these gaps in the literature does not mean she believes AlphaRet is an ineffective product or a scam. As a dermatologist who tests skincare products firsthand—noting that she has tried AlphaRet herself—her responsibility is evaluating whether a product justifies asking consumers to spend their hard-earned money.

In the case of AlphaRet, the existing evidence simply does not demonstrate that the product delivers unique clinical benefits that justify its premium luxury price tag over standard, accessible alternatives.

[11:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=673s) Proven, Cost-Effective Alternatives for Sun Damage and Anti-Aging

For someone seeking the visible anti-aging and photodamage benefits of topical vitamin A without the severe irritation associated with prescription tretinoin, Dr. Dray outlines far more sensible starting points:

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: Recommended Low-Irritation Vitamin A Pathways accDescr: Flowchart showing over-the-counter options for photodamage with less irritation than tretinoin.

Start["Goal: Treat Sun Damage with Minimal Irritation"] --> Med["Standardized Medication Route"] Start --> Cosm["Cosmetic Retinoid Route"]

Med --> Adap["Adapalene (0.1% OTC)"] Adap --> AdapPros["• Inexpensive generic options<br>• Established collagen data<br>• Single active: predictable tolerance"]

Cosm --> Ret["Retinol or Retinaldehyde"] Ret --> RetPros["• Slower conversion pathway<br>• Significantly less irritation<br>• Wide variety of price points"] ```

Dr. Dray’s primary recommendation is over-the-counter adapalene. Although primarily sold as an acne medication (such as branded Differin gel or generic store equivalents), adapalene is a genuine retinoid with robust scientific literature confirming that it stimulates collagen synthesis at the histological level. Because adapalene is a regulated drug rather than a cosmetic, its formulations are standardized without distracting proprietary blends. If a patient experiences peeling or redness with adapalene, they know the reaction is caused directly by the retinoid itself, rather than an ambiguous blend of botanical extracts, alpha hydroxy acids, or niacinamide.

For those preferring cosmetic alternatives, retinol and retinaldehyde represent logical choices. Although they convert more slowly to retinoic acid and take longer to show visible results, they are notoriously gentle and available at a fraction of AlphaRet's cost (despite some high-end cosmetic serums also carrying inflated prices).

[12:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=767s) Scrutinizing the "Less Irritation" Claim and Final Verdict

Dr. Dray remains skeptical of marketing claims asserting that AlphaRet is inherently less irritating than alternative retinoids. The manufacturer's research did not test the formula across the broader landscape of retinoid options, including various formulations of tretinoin, tazarotene, adapalene, or over-the-counter retinols and retinaldehydes.

While Dr. Dray acknowledges that it would be completely unreasonable to expect a company to test against every single cosmetic retinol product launched onto the market, the claim of superior gentleness remains unproven when compared to accessible options like adapalene. In closing, she invites viewers to share whether AlphaRet has served as a "holy grail" staple in their personal routines or if other forms of topical vitamin A have produced better outcomes, before signing off with her trademark reminder to wear sunscreen and subscribe.

## Notable quotes > [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=0s) Who wouldn't want that? I'm sure you'd pay well over $100 for an ounce. — Dr. Dray

> [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=0s) the real test is not what happens in a petri dish or with "Bunsen burner type stuff"—it is what rigorous human trials demonstrate on living patients. — Dr. Dray

> [02:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=143s) Prescription tretinoin remains the historical gold standard for clearing sunspots, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and kickstarting collagen production. — Dr. Dray

> [03:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=238s) There is no way to know whether the clinical improvements stemmed from the proprietary conjugate, the exfoliating acids in the cleanser, or the strict daily use of an SPF 50+ sunscreen—an intervention proven all on its own to reverse visible signs of photoaging. — Dr. Dray

> [05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) Without a vehicle blank, it is impossible to determine how much of the cosmetic improvement came from the conjugate versus the rich moisturizing base. — Dr. Dray

> [05:39](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=339s) The AlphaRet trial demonstrates that the finished cream moisturizes effectively and improves surface appearance, but it provides zero biopsy evidence that ethyl lactyl retinoate penetrates tissue to stimulate new structural collagen. — Dr. Dray

> [07:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=456s) Plumping dehydrated skin immediately blurs fine lines and reduces the visibility of surface wrinkles—giving the optical illusion of structural rejuvenation without inducing a single strand of new collagen synthesis. — Dr. Dray

> [07:36](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=456s) Conflating the surface hydration benefits of a high-end cosmetic cream with the biological collagen-building power of a verified retinoid is a completely unwarranted leap. — Dr. Dray

> [09:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=562s) run-of-the-mill garden variety niacinamide-containing moisturizer — Dr. Dray

> [10:42](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=642s) In the case of AlphaRet, the existing evidence simply does not demonstrate that the product delivers unique clinical benefits that justify its premium luxury price tag over standard, accessible alternatives. — Dr. Dray

> [11:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvM8ZhrSa7A&t=673s) Because adapalene is a regulated drug rather than a cosmetic, its formulations are standardized without distracting proprietary blends. — Dr. Dray

## Mentioned Dr. Dray, Skinbetter Science, Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream, Ethyl lactyl retinoate, Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene, Trifarotene, Retinol, Retinaldehyde, Differin, Lactic acid, Glycolic acid, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, Squalane, Ceramides, Peptides, Ubiquinone (CoQ10), Salicylic acid

## Video description Is Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream worth the hype? In this video, dermatologist Dr. Dray reviews AlphaRet and examines the science behind its proprietary retinoid, ethyl lactyl retinoate. Does this innovative retinoid actually deliver the anti-aging benefits of tretinoin with less irritation, or is the evidence less convincing than the marketing suggests?

Dr. Dray breaks down the clinical research on AlphaRet, including studies evaluating its effects on fine lines, wrinkles, skin texture, pigmentation, and tolerability. She explains how ethyl lactyl retinoate is thought to work, what the published research actually demonstrates, and why improvements from a finished skincare product do not necessarily prove that its featured active ingredient is responsible.

This review also compares the evidence for ethyl lactyl retinoate with established retinoids, including tretinoin, tazarotene, adapalene, retinol, and retinaldehyde. Learn what the research tells us about retinoid effectiveness, collagen stimulation, photoaging, and irritation, and what additional studies would help establish the benefits of AlphaRet's proprietary ingredient.

Is AlphaRet a proven alternative to tretinoin? Find out what the science supports and what remains uncertain in this dermatologist's evidence-based review.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 Introduction 0:52 What Is AlphaRet? 2:23 Why Retinoids Are So Interesting for Anti-Aging 3:58 What Is the Evidence for Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate? 5:39 The AlphaRet Overnight Cream Study 7:36 Why the Other Ingredients Matter 9:49 What Would Convince Me? 10:42 Does That Mean AlphaRet Doesn't Work? 11:13 What Would I Choose for Anti-Aging? 12:47 What About the Irritation Claim? 13:19 My Bottom Line

#AlphaRet #SkinbetterScience #Retinoids #Tretinoin #Retinol #AntiAgingSkincare #Dermatologist #SkincareReview #Photoaging #Drdray

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中文简报

Skinbetter AlphaRet 测评：它真的比维A酸更好吗？ Dr. Dray 深入审视了 Skinbetter Science 旗下 AlphaRet 晚霜及其专利活性成分乳酰维A酸乙酯（ethyl lactyl retinoate）背后的科学依据。她评估了已发表的临床试验，指出其中存在关键的方法学缺陷，例如缺乏赋形剂对照组，且缺少能证明其确实促进胶原蛋白生成的组织学活检数据。此外她解释道，该产品肉眼可见的美容功效完全可以归因于甘醇酸、烟酰胺以及长效保湿成分等辅佐成分，而非该维A类共聚物本身。尽管她澄清 AlphaRet 绝非骗局、且确实是一款有效的保湿霜，但她得出结论认为，相较于非处方阿达帕林、视黄醛或视黄醇等经过充分验证且性价比高的选择，其高昂的定价难以让人信服。 Skinbetter Science 以乳酰维A酸乙酯（乳酸与维A酸的结合物）为核心宣传 AlphaRet，但目前的临床研究尚未通过药效学测试证实该分子能在人体组织中成功裂解为活性维A酸。 (3:58) 虽然一项为期12周的半脸对比临床试验发现，AlphaRet 改善细纹和色素沉着的效果优异，且耐受性高于0.025% tretinoin或1%视黄醇，但该研究缺少赋形剂对照组，也没有活检数据来证实真皮胶原蛋白的合成。 (5:39) AlphaRet 的配方包含烟酰胺、甘醇酸、角鲨烷和神经酰胺等公认的活性成分，无需依赖其专研维A类结合物，这些成分本身就能带来充盈表皮、修护屏障和改善色素沉着的效果。 (7:36) 对于希望获得维A类功效同时最大程度减少刺激的人群，Dr. Dray 建议选择非处方0.1%阿达帕林或护肤级视黄醇/视黄醛，它们是具有标准化配方且经活检证实具备胶原蛋白刺激功效的高性价比选择。 (11:13)

Reading summary

Dermatologist Dr Dray assesses Skinbetter Science’s AlphaRet Overnight Cream, questioning whether its proprietary molecule, ethyl lactyl retinoate, matches prescription retinoids in stimulating collagen synthesis. She argues that existing clinical studies fail to isolate the active conjugate from confounding ingredients, leaving claims of superior tolerability and anti-aging efficacy scientifically unproven. The Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate Hypothesis (0:00) AlphaRet centers on ethyl lactyl retinoate, a proprietary hybrid conjugate chemically linking retinoic acid with lactic acid. The theoretical rationale, proposed in a 2015 paper, suggests that after penetrating the stratum corneum, enzymatic hydrolysis gradually cleaves the chemical bond, releasing both an exfoliating alpha hydroxy acid and active retinoic acid. This metered delivery is intended to minimize the peeling and dryness typical of active retinoids like tretinoin while retaining anti-aging benefits. Dr Dray emphasizes that this time-release mechanism remains an unverified hypothesis rather than an established biological fact. The foundational 2015 clinical paper evaluated 25 women over an 8-week regimen consisting of an exfoliating cleanser, a 0.1% conjugate serum, and an SPF 50+ sunscreen. Because daily sunscreen and exfoliating acids independently reduce photodamage, the study design failed to isolate whether reported improvements in dyschromia, surface flaking, and skin dryness stemmed from the conjugate or the surrounding regimen. Limitations in Split-Face Trial Methodology (5:39) A 12-week randomized split-face trial evaluated AlphaRet against 1% retinol or 0.025% tretinoin cream across 47 completing subjects aged 30 to 65. The study reported that AlphaRet visibly improved fine lines, deep wrinkles, dyschromia, erythema, and pore size with significantly fewer adverse effects than both comparators. Dr Dray notes that the trial evaluated a finished cosmetic formulation rather than an isolated active ingredient and lacked a critical vehicle control—an identical cream base lacking ethyl lactyl retinoate. Without a vehicle blank, researchers cannot determine whether cosmetic improvements were driven by the conjugate or by the moisturizing base. Furthermore, unlike tretinoin, which possesses extensive punch-biopsy data confirming cellular retinoic acid receptor binding and fibroblast stimulation, the AlphaRet study relied exclusively on surface visual scoring without histological proof of dermal collagen production. Confounding Ingredients and Optical Plumping (7:36) Beyond the conjugate, AlphaRet incorporates a wide array of functional skincare ingredients, including glycolic acid, niacinamide, squalane, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, peptides, and ubiquinone (CoQ10). Dr Dray explains that these standard cosmetic compounds can easily account for the trial's visible results on their own. Glycolic acid accelerates exfoliation through desmosome breakdown, while niacinamide is clinically documented to fade hyperpigmentation, reduce redness, support barrier function, and refine pore appearance. Additionally, the formula’s humectants and emollients rapidly increase epidermal water content. Hydrating and plumping dehydrated skin temporarily reduces the depth of fine lines and surface wrinkles, creating an optical illusion of rejuvenation without inducing new structural collagen. Because these improvements can be achieved with widely available moisturizers, Dr Dray argues that conflating surface hydration with true retinoid biological activity is scientifically unwarranted. Established and Accessible Vitamin A Alternatives (11:13) Rather than investing in a luxury cream costing well over $100 per ounce, Dr Dray outlines established, cost-effective options for consumers seeking retinoid efficacy with minimal irritation. Her primary recommendation is over-the-counter 0.1% adapalene. Although marketed for acne, adapalene is a regulated retinoid supported by robust histological literature demonstrating dermal collagen synthesis. As a single-ingredient drug, generic or branded adapalene eliminates the ambiguity of proprietary blends, allowing users to accurately identify cutaneous reactions. For individuals preferring cosmetic formulations, prodrugs such as retinol and retinaldehyde offer predictable, clinically validated results at varied price points. Dr Dray also challenges the marketing claim that AlphaRet is inherently gentler than alternative retinoids, noting that manufacturer studies never benchmarked the product against gentler prescription options like adapalene or the broader landscape of modern cosmetic retinoids. Dr Dray concludes that while AlphaRet is not an ineffective product, current research lacks the vehicle-controlled and histological evidence required to prove that ethyl lactyl retinoate delivers unique anti-aging advantages over standard moisturizers and affordable retinoids.

Source quotes

[0:00] Dr. Dray: Who wouldn't want that? I'm sure you'd pay well over $100 for an ounce. [0:00] Dr. Dray: the real test is not what happens in a petri dish or with "Bunsen burner type stuff"—it is what rigorous human trials demonstrate on living patients. [2:23] Dr. Dray: Prescription tretinoin remains the historical gold standard for clearing sunspots, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, and kickstarting collagen production. [3:58] Dr. Dray: There is no way to know whether the clinical improvements stemmed from the proprietary conjugate, the exfoliating acids in the cleanser, or the strict daily use of an SPF 50+ sunscreen—an intervention proven all on its own to reverse visible signs of photoaging. [5:39] Dr. Dray: Without a vehicle blank, it is impossible to determine how much of the cosmetic improvement came from the conjugate versus the rich moisturizing base. [5:39] Dr. Dray: The AlphaRet trial demonstrates that the finished cream moisturizes effectively and improves surface appearance, but it provides zero biopsy evidence that ethyl lactyl retinoate penetrates tissue to stimulate new structural collagen. [7:36] Dr. Dray: Plumping dehydrated skin immediately blurs fine lines and reduces the visibility of surface wrinkles—giving the optical illusion of structural rejuvenation without inducing a single strand of new collagen synthesis. [7:36] Dr. Dray: Conflating the surface hydration benefits of a high-end cosmetic cream with the biological collagen-building power of a verified retinoid is a completely unwarranted leap. [9:22] Dr. Dray: run-of-the-mill garden variety niacinamide-containing moisturizer [10:42] Dr. Dray: In the case of AlphaRet, the existing evidence simply does not demonstrate that the product delivers unique clinical benefits that justify its premium luxury price tag over standard, accessible alternatives. [11:13] Dr. Dray: Because adapalene is a regulated drug rather than a cosmetic, its formulations are standardized without distracting proprietary blends.

Original transcript

[0:00] Well, hey guys. Welcome back. If you're [0:01] new here, I'm Dr. Dray. I'm a [0:03] board-certified dermatologist. If you've [0:05] been looking for a retinol that can [0:08] offer some of the same anti-aging [0:09] benefits as tretinoin, but with [0:11] significantly less irritation, there's a [0:13] good chance you have come across Skin [0:15] Better Science's AlphaRet Overnight [0:18] Cream. The idea here is that AlphaRet [0:20] contains a proprietary form of topical [0:23] vitamin A called ethyl lactyl retinoate. [0:26] This combines retinoic acid with lactic [0:29] acid, an alpha hydroxy acid. And [0:31] allegedly, this ingredient offers the [0:34] same benefits as a topical retinoid, but [0:36] without all the irritation. But, how [0:38] much evidence is there that ethyl lactyl [0:41] retinoate actually does what a topical [0:44] retinoid or cosmetic retinol or [0:46] retinaldehyde can do in terms of [0:48] improving the signs of skin aging, [0:50] including improving collagen production. [0:52] Aside from the ethyl lactyl retinoate, [0:55] the AlphaRet Overnight Cream contains a [0:57] variety of different ingredients that [0:59] also can offer benefits for the skin. [1:01] There's glycolic acid, niacinamide, [1:03] squalane, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, [1:06] even peptides. But, the ingredient that [1:08] they market this product around or some [1:11] of the benefits which are ascribed to [1:13] said ingredient is going to be that [1:14] ethyl lactyl retinoate. The idea is to [1:17] chemically link lactic acid to retinoic [1:20] acid such that upon penetration into the [1:23] skin, the conjugate is hydrolyzed, [1:25] allowing for release of the retinoic [1:27] acid over time. And a 2015 paper [1:30] describes this ingredient, proposing [1:32] that it delivers both alpha hydroxy [1:34] acid, namely lactic acid, and retinoic [1:36] acid. Once the ingredients get in the [1:38] skin, hydrolysis-based breaking apart of [1:41] that conjugate is thought to release the [1:43] two ingredients into the skin. [1:44] Conceptually, you have something really [1:45] interesting. Retinoid plus lactic acid, [1:48] another evidence-based ingredient for [1:50] improving the visible signs of skin [1:51] aging. Join them together, allow them to [1:54] slowly release once they get in, and [1:55] boom, you've got two ingredients slowly [1:59] released in the skin, potentially [2:01] offsetting the dryness and irritation [2:03] while delivering the anti-aging effects. [2:05] Who wouldn't want that? I'm sure you'd [2:06] pay well over $100 for an ounce. The [2:09] hypothesis is interesting, but that's [2:11] the keyword, hypothesis. What does the [2:13] clinical data actually show? Like, we're [2:15] not talking cells in a dish, Bunsen [2:17] burner type stuff. We're talking, what [2:19] does the actual human evidence show on [2:22] real patients? Why do people care about [2:24] topical vitamin A in the first place? [2:26] Retinoids are some of the best topical [2:27] ingredients studied for improving the [2:29] visible signs of skin aging, namely [2:31] topical tretinoin, a prescription [2:33] medication. And while this ingredient [2:35] medication is well established to [2:38] improve the visible signs of skin aging [2:40] like sun spots, fine lines, wrinkles, [2:42] and improve collagen production, this [2:45] ingredient is notoriously drying and [2:47] irritating, and some people simply don't [2:48] tolerate it. But, it's in its active [2:50] form, meaning it's not a prodrug, so [2:53] your skin doesn't have to do anything to [2:54] it. It's ready to go. And there are [2:56] newer generations of prescription [2:58] retinoids that likewise have data behind [3:01] them for improving the visible signs of [3:03] skin aging. They're not as old, meaning [3:04] they haven't been around as long as [3:06] tretinoin, but they have good evidence. [3:08] And these include tazarotene and [3:10] adapalene. And one would probably assume [3:12] that trifarotene likewise can deliver [3:14] these effects as well, but given how new [3:16] it is, we don't really have any studies [3:18] on trifarotene for anti-aging. Suffice [3:20] it to say, they all can work to improve [3:23] the signs of aging skin. But, many of [3:25] them do come with the side effects of [3:27] irritation. You also have the cosmetic [3:29] forms, retinol and retinaldehyde. These [3:32] likewise can help improve the signs of [3:34] skin aging. They have objective evidence [3:36] that they can be as good as the [3:38] prescription stuff, but with less [3:40] irritation. Why? Well, in contrast to [3:42] the prescription stuff, these are [3:43] actually prodrugs, so your skin has to [3:45] do a little bit of work on them in order [3:47] for them to get into their active state. [3:48] But, that happens, albeit It a little [3:50] bit longer to see results, but it [3:52] certainly can lead to improvements that [3:55] are meaningful in the signs of skin [3:57] aging. Given what we know about cosmetic [3:59] retinol and retinaldehyde, the prodrugs, [4:01] the idea of a new prodrug of retinoic [4:04] acid that could be used in a cosmetic [4:06] that would be a just as effective [4:08] potentially, but less irritating, that [4:10] is something that is easy to come around [4:13] to. Back in 2015, the paper describing [4:15] the alpha hydroxy acid retinoic acid [4:17] conjugate involved 25 women with [4:20] moderate sun damage. They actually used [4:22] a three-product regimen, a cleanser [4:24] containing lactic acid and salicylic [4:26] acid, and a serum containing 0.1% of the [4:30] lactic acid retinoic acid conjugate. And [4:33] they also had them use an SPF 50+ [4:35] sunscreen. And after the 8 weeks, the [4:37] investigators reported an improvement in [4:40] photodamage, sun damage, as well as [4:42] dryness, flaking, dyschromia, which is [4:44] basically uneven skin tone, [4:46] hyperpigmentation, and the overall [4:48] appearance of the skin. These products [4:50] were well tolerated, which is [4:52] interesting. It doesn't isolate the [4:53] observed clinical improvements just to [4:56] the ethyl lactyl retinoate versus all of [4:59] the other ingredients. It doesn't [5:00] demonstrate that the benefits observed [5:03] were specifically caused by this [5:05] conjugate. The authors themselves [5:06] describe the mechanism as a proposed [5:09] hydrolysis-based release of the lactic [5:12] acid and retinoic acid in a time-release [5:14] mechanism. But this is important to know [5:16] about because proposed but not proven, [5:20] you know, then that kind of takes away [5:22] some of the hype behind this particular [5:24] ingredient. While a product containing [5:26] this ingredient shows promise for [5:28] improving the signs of skin aging, we [5:30] don't know if it was actually the [5:31] ingredient or the fact that these people [5:34] were using, I don't know, an SPF 50 [5:35] sunscreen, which has been known to [5:37] improve the visible signs of skin aging. [5:39] But there's another study that's [5:41] probably even more relevant to the [5:42] Alpha-Ret Overnight Cream. This was a [5:44] 12-week split-face study. It was a [5:46] randomized trial involving 48 women. [5:49] They ranged in age between 30 and 65 [5:51] years of age, which that's quite a a [5:53] spectrum of potential accumulation of [5:55] sun damage. When you've been on the [5:57] planet 30 years versus 65 years, 65 [6:01] you're going to accumulate a lot more [6:03] surface damage. Nonetheless, 47 actually [6:05] completed the study and one side of the [6:07] face received AlphaRet while the other [6:09] side received either 1% retinol or [6:12] 0.025% [6:13] tretinoin. The results actually sound [6:15] pretty impressive. So, the AlphaRet did [6:18] in fact improve fine lines and wrinkles, [6:20] dyschromia, skin tone, redness, and pore [6:23] size. Goals. And it was better tolerated [6:26] as they suggest than either the retinol, [6:29] which is a cosmetic, or tretinoin. So, [6:31] you might look at the study and say, [6:32] "Well, there you go. AlphaRet works and [6:35] it's less irritating. Sign me up." But, [6:37] you need to look very carefully at the [6:39] overall study design because what [6:41] exactly is the control group here? [6:43] Because here's the thing, there was not [6:45] an identical AlphaRet cream with the [6:48] ethyl lactyl retinoate removed to allow [6:50] you to assess to what extent this was [6:53] actually related to the conjugate. We [6:55] don't have biopsy studies looking at [6:57] collagen production with this ingredient [7:00] in comparison to the others, which have [7:02] been shown to improve collagen [7:03] production. That is a mechanism there. [7:05] That's a biological outcome that a lot [7:08] of people are seeking from their [7:09] cosmetic ingredients whether they know [7:11] it or not. Because it's one thing to say [7:13] that a product effectively moisturizes [7:15] the skin, it's another to say that the [7:17] ingredient in a product can effectively [7:19] get into the skin, bind to the [7:21] appropriate receptors to lead to an [7:23] improvement in collagen production [7:25] somewhere down the line. While it can [7:27] tell us that the AlphaRet overnight [7:29] cream performed well in comparison to a [7:31] cosmetic retinol and tretinoin, it can't [7:33] really tell you how much of that effect [7:35] came from the ethyl lactyl retinoate. [7:37] And again, let's take a look at some of [7:38] the other things in the AlphaRet [7:40] overnight cream. You have glycolic acid, [7:42] niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, squalane, [7:44] ceramides, peptides. Oh, and ubiquinone, [7:46] otherwise known as CoQ10, an [7:48] antioxidant. So, many of these [7:50] ingredients, you want to know what they [7:51] can do? They can improve the moisture [7:53] content in the skin, which is going to [7:55] make the visible signs of sun damage a [7:57] lot less obvious, including wrinkles [7:59] through improved hydration. Doesn't [8:01] necessarily happen, however, because [8:03] there was collagen improvement. And [8:05] these aren't meaningless ingredients. I [8:07] talk about them in 99.9% of any video [8:11] that I do talking about any product, [8:13] because niacinamide, [8:15] as many of you are aware, is widely [8:17] available in skin care products, as is [8:19] hyaluronic acid, as are ceramides, as [8:21] are peptides. These are not super novel [8:24] ingredients. Everybody's got creams with [8:26] this stuff in them. And several of these [8:28] ingredients can independently improve [8:30] the appearance of sun damage. Glycolic [8:32] acid, for example, can improve surface [8:34] texture. Niacinamide is good for dark [8:36] spots, redness, the moisture barrier, [8:38] which ultimately is going to help [8:39] diminish those little dehydration [8:40] wrinkles, as well as pore size. Observed [8:43] improvements with this product can be [8:46] ascribed to any number of these other [8:48] ingredients. What we cannot say, [8:50] however, is that the ethyl lactyl [8:52] retinoate in the AlphaRet overnight [8:54] cream actually had that hydrolysis [8:57] reaction occur, with high release of [8:59] retinoic acid and lactic acid [9:01] effectively into the skin, and that [9:03] collagen production was stimulated from [9:05] fibroblasts, and that you had a [9:07] measurable improvement in the thickness [9:10] of the dermis and dermal collagen [9:12] quality as assessed by biopsy, because [9:15] those things were not done. So, that's [9:17] an entirely different claim. The reason [9:19] I draw your attention to that is [9:20] because, like I pointed out, all of [9:22] those other ingredients in the cream can [9:24] definitely lead to you improvements in [9:26] the appearance of sun damage, but those [9:29] are widely available in a variety of [9:31] creams. So, in other words, thinking [9:33] that the AlphaRet overnight cream is [9:35] offering you something unique in [9:36] comparison to any other of the uh [9:39] thousands of products on the market with [9:41] any number of combinations of these [9:43] other ingredients. How is this any [9:44] different than any other run-of-the-mill [9:47] garden variety niacinamide-containing [9:49] moisturizer? I'm not convinced that it [9:51] offers anything above and beyond what [9:53] you can get from a basic facial [9:55] moisturizer. I'd like to see more [9:57] evidence that the conjugate actually is [10:00] as effective mechanistically as some of [10:03] these other forms of topical vitamin A. [10:06] I would also like to see evidence that [10:07] it is in fact less irritating than [10:10] something like adapalene, which you can [10:12] buy over the counter for much less and [10:14] is notoriously one of the least [10:16] irritating topical retinoids and it's [10:18] actually a medication, it's not a [10:19] cosmetic, but it's got evidence to that [10:22] it improves collagen on the histological [10:24] level. It would take also in a study [10:27] where they were looking at this cream [10:29] with ethyl lactyl retinoate and without. [10:33] So, we could kind of assess, okay, is [10:35] that retinoic acid conjugate actually [10:37] getting in and doing something [10:39] effective? I'd like to see more dermal [10:42] uh studies as well. So, does that mean [10:43] this product doesn't work, it's a scam? [10:46] No, I'm not saying it doesn't work. I'm [10:48] just saying that as someone who [10:49] recommends products, tests them out, [10:51] which I have tried this as a side note, [10:53] tries out products and then recommends [10:54] them to you guys to go and spend your [10:56] money on, it's not enough for me to [10:58] recommend this product to you guys for [11:01] the price point given the fact that I [11:03] haven't seen anything that convinces me [11:06] that this offers anything to justify [11:08] said price point and that it is [11:10] necessarily unique above and beyond what [11:12] you get um from other products. If [11:14] someone wanted to try a form of topical [11:17] vitamin A that can improve the [11:19] appearance of sun damage, but with much [11:21] less irritation than tretinoin, I would [11:24] actually start with considering the [11:27] over-the-counter acne medication or it's [11:29] over the counter here, it's an actual [11:31] retinoid again with data behind it is [11:33] adapalene. And I would also consider the [11:36] cosmetic forms of vitamin A, which take [11:38] a little bit more time to work, but are [11:40] likewise less irritating. Retinol, [11:42] retinaldehyde, I think those would be [11:43] much more reasonable starting points, a [11:45] fraction of the price, depending on the [11:48] retinol or retinaldehyde product, I [11:50] should say, because some of those are [11:51] objectively very expensive, as well. [11:53] But, adapalene is pretty inexpensive, [11:56] and because it's a medication, there's [11:57] not a lot of variation, like you're not [12:00] going to find an adapalene with [12:02] niacinamide, glycolic acid sprinkled in, [12:04] so you're like, "Oh, I don't know. [12:06] No. Uh it's a medication, so it's a very [12:09] standardized thing. In other words, you [12:10] can get the generic brand version of [12:13] adapalene over the counter. You don't [12:14] necessarily have to get the name brand [12:16] Differin gel, although that's great, [12:18] too. Um and it's still pretty reasonably [12:20] priced, but what you see is what you [12:22] get. You know that if it doesn't work [12:24] out for you, you're not happy with it, [12:25] it causes irritation for you, or [12:27] whatever, you know it's a you versus [12:28] adapalene thing that's truly not working [12:31] out, versus you and any number of the [12:34] ingredients that are also potentially [12:37] playing a role in the formula, cuz [12:39] that's the active ingredient. There are [12:41] no other active ingredients. There are [12:42] inactive ingredients, which could [12:43] irritate your skin, but uh it's it's a [12:46] more standardized formula. I'm not sure [12:48] the irritation claim of less irritation [12:51] fully holds up, because they didn't [12:53] really compare it to all available forms [12:56] of tretinoin, let alone tazarotene, [12:58] adapalene, or the retinols, [13:00] retinaldehydes. I mean, in their [13:01] defense, how could you compare it to [13:03] every single retinol product out there? [13:05] Because every time we blink, we're going [13:06] to get two or three new ones every [13:08] fraction of a second being launched. So, [13:10] that's just really, you know, [13:12] unreasonable to expect. But, at any [13:14] rate, I'm not convinced that it's [13:15] necessarily less irritating in [13:17] comparison to, say, adapalene. Let me [13:20] know in the comments, is this a holy [13:21] grail product for you? Is it one that [13:23] you can't live without? Do you find it [13:25] to be more effective than other forms of [13:28] topical vitamin A that you have tried, [13:30] let us know in the comments. But, I hope [13:31] you all enjoyed today's video. If so, [13:33] give it a thumbs up, share it with your [13:34] friends, and as always, don't forget [13:36] sunscreen and subscribe. I'll talk to [13:37] you guys tomorrow. Bye. [13:53] >> [music]