Face Reality Retinal B3 Serum delivers a microencapsulated form of retinaldehyde (0.1%) paired with niacinamide to gently resurface skin, clear congestion, and visibly improve tone and texture. Retinaldehyde is one step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, which means it converts more efficiently in the skin, yet the encapsulation technology in this formula releases it gradually to minimize the irritation often associated with vitamin A. This makes it an ideal entry point for anyone new to retinoids or anyone managing acne-prone skin that can't tolerate aggressive treatments.

Key Benefits

Clears Breakouts and Blackheads Without Harsh Side Effects Microencapsulated retinaldehyde (0.1%) accelerates cell turnover to keep pores clear of the buildup that leads to breakouts, while the slow-release delivery helps prevent the flaking and redness that can come with traditional retinoids.

Brightens and Evens Skin Tone Niacinamide works alongside glycolic acid to interrupt excess melanin production and gently dissolve dull surface cells, helping fade post-acne marks and restore a more uniform complexion.

Calms Redness and Reduces Skin Reactivity Mirabilis jalapa extract (Pacifeel) and honeysuckle flower extracts soothe inflammation and lower the skin's sensitivity threshold, so the resurfacing process stays comfortable even for reactive skin types.

Controls Excess Oil Cloudberry seed oil helps regulate sebum without stripping moisture, supporting a balanced, less congested complexion over time.

Smooths Fine Lines and Refines Texture Retinaldehyde stimulates collagen synthesis while glycolic acid smooths rough, uneven texture, giving skin a noticeably refined feel with continued use.

If you're dealing with non-inflamed acne, persistent blackheads, or post-breakout discoloration and you want the benefits of a retinoid without the aggressive adjustment period, this serum was built for your routine. It's especially well suited for skin that has never used a vitamin A product before or skin that has reacted poorly to stronger retinoids in the past.

It also works well for anyone focused on improving overall texture, reducing early fine lines, and creating a more even skin tone. If your primary concerns are cystic or deeply inflamed acne, a different approach may be more effective. Not sure where to start? Book a free skincare consultation with one of our estheticians.

Start by using this serum every other night for the first two weeks, then gradually increase to nightly use. This gives your skin time to acclimate to the retinaldehyde without triggering unnecessary dryness or sensitivity, and you'll get better long-term results by building tolerance steadily.

Apply: After cleansing and toning, dispense 1 pump and smooth evenly over face, neck, and chest.

Technique: Follow with your moisturizer. If layering under a benzoyl peroxide product, allow 15 minutes for the serum to absorb before applying the next step. This serum can also be layered over any Face Reality mandelic or glycolic serum.

Frequency: Use in your PM routine. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF in the morning when using this product, as retinaldehyde increases photosensitivity.