Retinal Shot Tightening Serum – Liposomized Retinol, 15ml

This high-performance tightening serum features retinal (retinaldehyde) — the most potent cosmetically available form of Vitamin A, significantly stronger than standard retinol — delivered through an advanced liposome encapsulation system designed for a gentler, more gradual release. The liposome delivery helps support a more comfortable experience while allowing the retinal to work effectively at the skin's surface, visibly reducing the appearance of wrinkles, refining skin texture, and supporting a firmer, tighter-looking complexion. A concentrated 15ml treatment serum best suited to those already familiar with retinoid formulas.

Best For

• Use area: Face and neck
• Skin type: Normal, combination, and oily skin; those experienced with retinoids
• Skin concern: Wrinkles, loss of firmness, uneven skin texture, dullness, skin laxity
• Routine step: Active treatment serum — PM use only; apply after cleansing, before moisturiser

Key Benefits

• Visibly reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines with consistent use
• Supports a noticeably firmer, tighter-looking complexion over time
• Liposome delivery system supports a gentler, more gradual release of retinal actives
• Refines skin texture and supports a smoother, more even-looking surface

Hero Ingredients

• Retinal (Retinaldehyde) — A direct Vitamin A derivative that is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, making it notably more potent; helps visibly reduce the look of wrinkles and support a smoother, firmer-looking complexion
• Liposomized Retinol — Retinol encapsulated in liposomes for a time-released, gentler delivery to skin; complements the retinal to support gradual visible renewal of skin's appearance over time
• Skin-Barrier Supporting Actives — Help counterbalance the intensity of retinal to keep skin looking comfortable and supported during the adjustment period

How to Use

1. Use in the PM only. Begin with once or twice per week and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts over several weeks.
2. Apply to clean, dry skin — wait at least 10 minutes after cleansing to ensure skin is completely dry before applying, which helps minimise sensitivity.
3. Dispense 1–2 drops (a small amount goes a long way) and press gently across the face and neck, avoiding the immediate eye area.
4. Follow immediately with a nourishing moisturiser to support the skin barrier during adjustment. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher the following morning.

When to Use

PM use only. Never apply in the morning — retinal degrades in UV light and increases sun sensitivity. Begin with 1–2 applications per week, increasing to 3–4 nights per week only once your skin has comfortably adjusted over 4–6 weeks. Consistent nightly SPF the following day is non-negotiable when using any retinoid. Not recommended for use during pregnancy or nursing without prior guidance from a healthcare professional.

Texture / Format / Size

A concentrated, smooth serum in a compact 15ml treatment size — this is an intensive active, and a little goes a long way. The texture is lightweight and glides easily across skin, absorbing without feeling heavy. The small 15ml format is designed as a precision treatment rather than a full-size daily serum, making it ideal for targeted use. TSA-compliant and travel-friendly. At 1–2 drops per application used 3 nights per week, a 15ml bottle provides approximately 8–12 weeks of use. Store away from direct light to preserve retinal stability.

Warnings & Patch Test

• For external use only. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
• Perform a patch test on the inner wrist 24 hours before first full use.
• Discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional if irritation persists.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning when using this product — retinal significantly increases sun sensitivity.
• Avoid combining with strong exfoliating acids (AHAs, BHAs, PHAs) unless your skin is well-adjusted to both and they are tolerated together. If in doubt, alternate nights.
• Not recommended during pregnancy or nursing without guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Retinal is a Vitamin A derivative; consult your doctor or midwife before use.
• Retinal is more potent than retinol. Start slowly, use sparingly, and allow your skin a full adjustment period before increasing frequency.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct light. Do not store in a bathroom with high humidity.
• Cosmetic product only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between retinal and retinol?
Both are forms of Vitamin A used in cosmetic skincare. Retinol must convert twice in the skin before becoming active, while retinal (retinaldehyde) requires only one conversion — making it considerably more potent than retinol at equivalent concentrations. This means retinal can deliver a more visible result, but also requires a careful, gradual introduction to avoid over-sensitising the skin.

What does "liposomized" mean and why does it matter?
Liposomization is a delivery method where the active ingredient (in this case, retinol) is encapsulated inside microscopic lipid spheres called liposomes. This allows for a more gradual, time-released delivery of the retinoid to skin, which can support a more comfortable experience compared to standard unencapsulated formulas — particularly important with potent Vitamin A actives.

Why is this product only 15ml?
This serum is formulated as an intensive active treatment, not a high-volume everyday moisturiser. With retinal, you use a very small amount (1–2 drops) 1–3 nights per week. A 15ml bottle at this usage rate provides approximately 8–12 weeks of treatment — making it a cost-effective and purposefully sized active-step product.

Can I use this every night?
Not immediately. Retinal is significantly more potent than retinol and requires a genuine adjustment period. Start with once or twice per week for the first 3–4 weeks, then slowly increase frequency only if your skin shows no signs of excessive dryness, redness, or sensitivity. Many experienced retinoid users find that 3–4 nights per week is the ideal frequency for long-term, comfortable use.

Is this suitable for beginners to retinoids?
This formula is best suited to those with some prior experience using retinol or other retinoid products. If you are completely new to Vitamin A skincare, we recommend starting with a lower-potency retinol formula first to allow your skin to build its tolerance before graduating to a retinal product.

Complete Your Routine

Support your retinal regimen with these targeted routine partners:

• Shop all skincare at Canvia
• Retinol Collagen Moisturiser Cream
• Snake Venom Peptide Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream – Firming Formula