A transformative renewal serum that blends powerful skincare actives with nourishing botanicals to boost clarity and breathe youthful vitality into the skin. Formulated with low-irritation HPR retinoids, Aqua A gently promotes cellular turnover to help clear breakouts and smooth fine lines, giving the complexion a lit-from-within glow. Plumping ceramides strengthen the skin barrier and improve elasticity, while its potent cocktail of botanical antioxidants and marine superfoods revitalize, tone and protect. 

Apply an even layer to freshly cleansed skin, PM only. Follow with Mahina Elixir or Bless Balm. Retinoids may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so don’t forget your daily SPF!

For new retinoid users: Use Aqua A every other night for the first few weeks to see how your skin acclimates before building up to daily use. 

• Ideal for all skin types
• Complete complexion renewal for a youthful glow
• Reduces appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Boosts plumpness and elasticity
• Clarifies and balances tone
• Strengthens skin and improves resilience

Leahlani Skincare products are made fresh in small batches from high-performing organic, wildcrafted, and local Hawaiian ingredients. They are 100% cruelty free, and contain no synthetic dyes or fragrances.

Aqua A Frequently Asked Questions

How often can I use Aqua A?

Aqua A is gentle enough to be used daily, in your PM routine. If you’re new to retinoids, we recommend using Aqua A every other night for the first few weeks to see how your skin acclimates before building up to daily use.

Why do I have to check with my healthcare provider if I can use Aqua A?

This is only recommended if you are pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

What percentage of retinoid is in Aqua A?

Our Retinoid is a 2% concentration composed of a solubilized blend of 10% active and 90% solvent (to help boost performance and enhance delivery), providing 0.2% active HPR (Retinoid). 

What is HPR retinoid?

The HPR retinoid in Aqua A is a gentle, effective form of Vitamin A that is more bioavailable and less irritating than previous generations of topical retinoids. HPR retinoid, or hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) is a unique derivative of retinoic acid. Unlike retinol, which requires many steps to convert into retinoic acid, HPR works directly in the skin — minimizing side effects like inflammation, redness, discomfort and sensitivity. HPR is also much more stable than other forms of Vitamin A and has been shown to remain effective in the skin for up to 15 hours! 

What’s the difference between retinoid and retinol?

'Retinoid' is a blanket term for a family of natural and synthetic Vitamin A derivatives capable of binding to the skin’s retinoid receptors. Our skin only uses the active form of Vitamin A — retinoic acid. For retinoic acid to work its magic to turn the clock back on our skin, it must first bind to the retinoid receptors in our body using multiple conversion steps through a process generated by enzymes. The HPR retinoid in Aqua A is unique in that it binds directly with retinoid receptors without needing metabolic breakdown, offering less irritation while providing delivering gentle, safe, and effective retinoid benefits.

Why is Aqua A blue?

Aqua A contains three gorgeous blue botanicals that give it its unique color: Blue Spirulina, Blue Tansy, and Rainforest Blue Essential Oil. Each individual ingredient has its own unique skin benefits.

Why does the color vary in my Aqua A?

Because we craft our skincare from fresh ingredients, there can sometimes be variations in appearance from batch to batch due to seasonal changes that occur in nature. This is especially relevant with organic and cold-pressed beauty oils. Though there may be slight variations in scent, texture, and color from batch to batch, this does not impact the efficacy of the product.

Should I shake up my Aqua A to blend the ingredients?

Sometimes the blue spirulina powder in our formula settles at the bottom of the jar — this is completely normal and no cause for concern. If you’re noticing separation, simply give your jar a gentle shake to redistribute.

Will I purge with Aqua A?

It is normal for skin to go through a purging process when introduced to a retinoid. This will vary from person to person. If it does occur, do not be alarmed. 

Should I stop Aqua A if I start breaking out?

We recommend to use Aqua A for a total of three months to begin seeing results. Slight purging may occur, but should not last longer than a couple of weeks. 

Will Aqua A dry out my skin like other retinols?

Thanks to the gentle nature of HPR Retinoid, there should be little to no irritation or dryness when using Aqua A. Her formula contains an abundance of moisturizing and replenishing ingredients such as ceramides, kakadu plum, sea caviar that will provide ample moisture to the skin. 

Can I expect any side effects regarding my skin like rashes, itchiness or sensitivity?

It’s very unlikely! One of the main reasons we chose HPR Retinoids in our formula is because it binds directly with retinoid receptors without needing metabolic breakdown — causing less irritation while providing a gentle, safe, and effective retinoid. 

How can I avoid any skin irritation while using Aqua A?

Little to no irritation should occur when using Aqua A. If you are new to a retinoid, we recommend using it every other night for the first few weeks to see how your skin acclimates before building up to daily use. If you have very sensitive skin, you can try the buffering technique by applying a lightweight oil to the skin before applying Aqua A. Aloha Ambrosia is the perfect oil to use if you want to try this technique; she is lighter than our other beauty oils and provides the ideal layer of moisture. The sequence would then be to cleanse, tone, let the skin dry, and apply your Aloha Ambrosia first, followed by Aqua A.

Are there any products or ingredients that I should avoid while using Aqua A?

No

Can I use any formula in the Leahlani line while using Aqua A?

Absolutely! 

Why can’t I use retinoids while pregnant or breastfeeding?

More scientific data is needed to ensure the safety of using Retinoids while pregnant. Because of this, we recommend connecting with your healthcare provider should you have any questions or concerns about using Aqua A while pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

How does Aqua A reduce fine lines and wrinkles?

Retinoic acid binds to the retinoid receptors in our bodies, normalizing cellular renewal and cellular repair processes. Once bound, it works its magic to help boost cellular turnover and decrease the effects of UV-induced skin damage. The ceramides in Aqua A also help to replenish and strengthen the skin barrier and protect from photo damage, supporting maintenance of the natural collagen, elasticity and structural proteins that give skin a youthful appearance. Aqua A also contains an amino acid-rich blend of superfood spirulina and green caviar oil that firms, conditions and revitalizes the skin, decreasing inflammation while combating premature aging. 

Can I use Aqua A daily?

Yes, use 1x daily in the evening.

Why can’t I use Aqua A in the morning?

Because Retinoids may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, we recommend using PM only — and make sure to wear a daily SPF!

Can I use Aqua A morning and night?

Because Retinoids may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, we recommend using PM only — and make sure to wear a daily SPF!

Will retinoids damage my skin?

HPR Retinoid is dermatologically tested to offer less irritation potential than retinol, providing a gentle, safe and effective anti-aging retinoid — reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a younger appearance while increasing skin elasticity for firmer, smoother skin texture.

Can anyone use Aqua A?

Aqua A can be used on all skin types, from the teenage years on.

At what age should I start incorporating Aqua A?

We recommend introducing Aqua A into your ritual anywhere from your mid-20’s +. It is perfectly safe for use on skin 12+, it just depends on the individual.

How long will it take to see results?

While results can be felt immediately (your skin will feel smoother and softer than ever), results can be seen as soon as 14 days. The full results will be seen around 90 days.

What exactly does Aqua A do?

-Reduces fine lines and wrinkles while slowing new wrinkle development

-Improves breakouts, reduces pore size and promotes clarity

-Helps increase collagen and elastin for greater skin suppleness 

-Helps fade hyperpigmentation and dark spots

-Plumps skin and boosts hydration 

-Improves skin’s overall texture and radiance

Who should use Aqua A?

Anyone who is seeking to turn back the clock on their skin for a more youthful and radiant complexion and overall glow.

If I have a darker skin tone, can I still use Aqua A?

Absolutely! Just make sure to pair it with a daily SPF to protect the skin.

Can all skin tones use Aqua A?

Yes

Can all skin types use Aqua A?

Yes

How do I incorporate Aqua A into my routine?

Apply to clean, dry skin in the PM. Then follow it up with your serums, elixirs, and moisturizers.

How should I ‘patch test’ Aqua A?

Apply the product to a small patch of skin where you are unlikely to accidentally wash or rub it away. Leave the product on for the same amount of time you would leave it on the skin in general. If no irritation occurs, proceed to use as directed.

Can I use Vitamin C and Aqua A together?

Yes, absolutely. Use your Vitamin C in the AM and Aqua A in the PM.

How should I incorporate Vitamin C into my routine while using Aqua A?

For best results, we recommend using your Vitamin C products in the morning and your Aqua A in the evening.

Can I still exfoliate while using Aqua A?

The short answer is yes — but this will vary depending on your individual skin type. When beginning to use Aqua, we recommend exfoliating on the days that you are not using Aqua A. 

Can I still get facials or peels while using Aqua A?

Absolutely! Just be sure to share your skincare ritual with your esthetician before treatment.

Why do I have to use sunscreen while using Aqua A?

Retinoids may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so daily SPF is recommended while using Aqua A.

Why is Aqua A different from other retinols/retionoids?

Aqua A is formulated with HPR retinoid — a gentle, effective form of Vitamin A that is more bioavailable and less irritating than previous generations of topical retinoids. HPR retinoid, or hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) is a unique derivative of retinoic acid. Unlike retinol, which requires many steps to convert into retinoic acid, HPR works directly in the skin — minimizing side effects like inflammation, redness, discomfort and sensitivity.

How do I use Aqua A?

Apply an even layer to freshly cleansed skin, PM only. Follow with your favorite moisturizer. 

How should I apply Aqua A?

Apply one full pump to your palm, emulsify between your fingertips and massage into clean, dry skin. Apply to face, neck, and decolletage, avoiding eye area. 

Should my face be damp when applying Aqua A?

We recommend applying Aqua A to dry skin only.

How much Aqua A should I apply?

One full pump is enough for face, neck, and decolletage. 

Can I apply Aqua A to my neck/decolletage?

Absolutely!

My teenage daughter has acne, can she use Aqua A?

Yes, absolutely.