Retinoid, Cell-Communicating Ingredient

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate

Hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) is a next-generation retinoid ester that, unlike retinol or retinyl palmitate, does not require metabolic conversion by the skin — it binds directly to retinoid receptors in skin cells. This direct-acting mechanism means it can deliver retinoid benefits with significantly lower irritation than traditional retinol. In vitro research has shown HPR achieves greater gene transcription activity than retinol and retinyl palmitate at equivalent concentrations.