AlphaRet is a unique retinoid that combines a retinoid (retinoic acid) with an AHA (lactic acid). Retinoids help increase skin cell turnover, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone, while supporting healthier, younger looking skin.

Yes! AlphaRet’s breakthrough combination of a retinoid and an AHA can be used nightly. Each AlphaRet formula addresses the tolerability vs. efficacy tradeoff of traditional retinoids. AlphaRet formulations also contain hydrating and soothing ingredients, to help rejuvenate the appearance of the skin while providing the skin with much needed moisture and barrier support.

AlphaRet Overnight Cream, Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream and AlphaRet Clearing Serum are often recommended to use in the evening after applying Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum, which contains 19 antioxidants, including Vitamin C. Fun fact: AlphaRet Overnight Cream and Intensive AlphaRet Overnight Cream both contain Vitamin C (THD Ascorbate) in their formulas!

Not at all. Traditional retinoids may cause irritation, but AlphaRet Technology combines two gold standard ingredients - an alpha hydroxy acid (lactic acid) and a retinoid for efficient skin rejuvenation that is gentle enough to use overnight, every night. AlphaRet helps with cell turnover with little to no irritation, while hydrating and soothing the skin, so patients can experience both remarkable efficacy and tolerability.

A lesser-known limitation of traditional retinoids is the fact that they are difficult to incorporate with other skin rejuvenating ingredients such as alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids and peptides into a robust formula. There can be pH and formulation stability issues between retinoids and acidic ingredients which makes it difficult to combine both. There is also an increased risk of irritation with many retinoids and other active ingredients which may prevent consistent usage. AlphaRet formulas are specifically formulated with alpha and beta hydroxy acids as well as peptides and other hydrating and soothing ingredients and can safely be used by all skin types.

We always recommend that you consult with your treatment provider to determine which skinbetter science products, if any, are appropriate for your unique skin type and concerns.

When choosing a retinoid (like retinol), it’s best to consult your medical provider to determine which retinoid is best for your unique skin type and concerns and at what age you should begin usage.

Tretinoin and Retinol are in a class of ingredients called Retinoids (Vitamin A).  You do not need to use both at the same time, and your medical provider can recommend which Retinoid is the most appropriate for you according to your unique skin care needs and concerns.

Use AlphaRet Overnight Cream at night, after cleansing and once your skin is clean and dry. Apply a thin, even layer to the face, avoiding the eye area. Then continue with the rest of your nighttime routine. Pro Tip: With retinoid use, we always suggest daytime usage of a high-performance, mineral-based, broad-spectrum sunscreen like sunbetter with Advanced Mineral Protection.

Retinoid is an umbrella term for all Vitamin A derivatives. This includes esters, retinol, retinaldehyde, Tretinoin, and AlphaRet!

Retinoids (like retinol) help to increase cell turnover and with that, some patients may experience a period of congestion which generally subsides with continued use.  We recommend consulting with your medical provider to discuss your individual skin care needs and any potential skin responses when using a Retinoid.