Simplify your retinoid selection with AMCOL HBS’s advanced portfolio

Young woman applying moisturizer on the body at home

Struggling to choose the right retinol?

Not sure which retinoid is right for your formulation? Let us help simplify your selection process. Our partners at AMCOL HBS offer a comprehensive portfolio of retinoids - including both retinols and retinals - featuring advanced delivery technologies
designed for stability, efficacy and innovative product positioning.
Explore the full range to find the ideal ingredient for your next personal care formulation.

Retinol vs. Retinal

Both retinol and retinal turn into retinoic acid through help from enzymes in keratinocytes Retinal (retinaldehyde) is one conversion step removed from becoming retinoic acid, where retinol requires two conversion steps.
Retinol --> Retinal --> Retinoic Acid
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What makes AMCOL HBS Retinoids different?

AMCOL HBS’ innovative entrapment technology offers a unique solution for long-lasting active delivery. By entrapping retinoids within a specialized particle structure, the technology enables slow, controlled release onto the skin—prolonging efficacy while minimizing irritation. This approach also enhances the stability of retinoids, both as raw materials and within finished formulations.

Benefits of Retinoids

  • Increases procollagen production
  • Increases cellular proliferation and turnover
  • Protects Langerhans cells from UV depletion
  • Reduces age spots
  • Improves evenness of skin tone
  • Reduces fine lines and wrinkles

Portfolio

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MICROSPONGE®

Delivery system designed to entrap retinol deep within its matrix, shielding it from light and oxygen for enhanced stability. Upon application, the retinoid is gradually released through friction and diffusion, enabling extended delivery to the skin while minimizing irritation typically associated with retinoid use. This advanced technology also features an integrated antioxidant system to prevent degradation and allows for easy formulation without the need for specialized processing.
  • MICROSPONGE® N 720TRE
    INCI: Cellulose (and) Retinol (and) polysorbate 20 (and) Tocopherol
    Retinol Concentration: 20%
  • MICROSPONGE® N 720TRA
    INCI: Cellulose (and) Retinal (and) Tocopherol
    Retinal Concentration: 20%
  • RetinEZ®
    Easy to use delivery system that does not require inert atmosphere or yellow light. Provides sustained release and reduce irritation. BHA/BHT Free.
    INCI: Cellulose (and) Retinol (and) Polysorbate 20 (and) Ascorbic Acid (and) Tocopherol
    Retinol Concentration: 10%
  • MICROSPONGE® C116A
    INCI: Retinol (and) Methyl Methacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer (and) Tocopherol Acetate (and) Ascorbic Acid (and) Disodium EDTA (and) Propyl Gallate (and) BHT
    Retinol Concentration: 23%
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Poly-Pore®

A multifunctional delivery system developed to enhance retinol stability and minimize skin irritation. This BHA-free technology eliminates the need for a California Prop 65 warning label and incorporates Tocopherol (Vitamin E) to further support retinol stability.
  • Poly-Pore® 120 TRE
    INCI: Allyl Methacrylates Crosspolymer (and) Polysorbate 20 (and) Retinol (and) Tocopherol
    Retinol Concentration: 20%
  • Poly-PORE® 520RA
    INCI: Retinal (and) Methyl Methacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer (and) BHT
    Retinal Concentration: 20%
  • Retinal CT50 – BHA/BHT Free
    INCI: Retinol (and) Polysorbate 20 (and) Tocopherol
    Retinol Concentration: 50%
  • Retinal C50 – BHA Free
    INCI: Retinol (and) Polysorbate 20 (and) BHT
    Retinal Concentration: 50%

Selection Guide

California Prop 65 Compliant
  • Poly-Pore® 120 TRE
  • Poly-Pore® 520RA
  • Retinal C50
  • Retinal CT50
  • RetinEZ®
Sustained Release
  • RetinEZ®
  • MICROSPONGE® N 720TRE
  • MICROSPONGE® N 720TRA
  • MICROSPONGE® C116A
  • Poly-Pore® 120 TRE
  • Poly-Pore® 520RA
Simple Processing Requirements
  • RetinEZ®

Get in touch

Choosing the right retinoid doesn’t have to be complicated. Our partners at AMCOL HBS offer a versatile portfolio of high-performance retinoids - featuring both retinols and retinals - designed to meet a wide range of formulation needs in personal care.
With innovative entrapment technology, AMCOL HBS delivers more than just actives. Their advanced delivery systems encapsulate retinoids within a specialized particle matrix, allowing for slow, controlled release onto the skin.
The result?
Prolonged efficacy, reduced irritation, and enhanced ingredient stability - both in raw form and in finished products. Whether you're creating a gentle daily treatment or a high- performance anti-aging formula, AMCOL HBS provides the tools to build stable, effective and innovative retinoid-based products.
Explore the full portfolio and discover your ideal solution.