Retinol vs Retinal: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Use?
Retinoids are one of the few powerhouse ingredients proven to change the skin long-term, not just offer a temporary glow. But with terms like retinol, retinal, retinoid and retinaldehyde, it is easy to get confused. Here is the simple breakdown.
WHAT IS VITAMIN A?
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient that supports healthy skin by encouraging cell turnover, strengthening the skin barrier and improving texture and tone. In skincare, vitamin A appears in several forms, collectively known as retinoids. These include retinol, retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, and prescription-strength retinoic acid. All forms must convert into retinoic acid to become active, and the closer they are to this active form, the faster they tend to work. Understanding these differences helps you choose the right vitamin A for your routine.
WHY RETINOIDS WORK SO WELL
Retinoids are highly effective because they boost cellular turnover and support collagen production. This helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, uneven tone, pigmentation and breakouts. Retinoids are naturally yellow due to the way their molecules interact with light, which is completely normal. Slight colour changes can happen as the ingredient oxidises, but this does not affect its performance. More bioavailable retinoids often deliver quicker results, although they may also cause more irritation, so choosing the right strength for your skin is important.
WHAT IS RETINOL?
Retinol is the most common over-the-counter retinoid and a great option for beginners. It goes through two conversion steps before becoming active in the skin, creating a gentler and more gradual effect. This makes it suitable for those who are new to vitamin A or have easily irritated skin. A temporary yellow tint on the skin is unlikely, but if it does appear, it fades quickly. Allowing the product to absorb fully before bed can help avoid transfer onto bedding.
WHAT IS RETINAL, ALSO CALLED RETINALDEHYDE?
Retinal is one step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, which makes it stronger and usually faster acting. It can deliver more visible improvements in tone and texture and is often a good progression once you have built tolerance with retinol. Although more potent, any initial purging or irritation is usually mild and temporary.
WHEN WILL YOU SEE RESULTS?
Smoother-looking skin can begin to appear after around one week. More noticeable changes usually appear after four weeks, with optimal results visible around the twelve-week mark. Consistency is key.
WHICH RETINOID SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
If you are new to retinoids, a beginner-strength retinol is often the best starting point. If you want stronger or quicker results, or you have already adjusted to retinol, retinaldehyde is a natural next step. Those with sensitive skin should start slowly, buffer with hydrating products and increase usage gradually.
WHAT TO USE WITH RETINOIDS?
Retinoids perform best when paired with supportive skincare. Using a gentle cleanser, such as our Milk Cleanser, incorporating a hydrating serum such as our Exosome Hydro-Glow Complex, and choosing a barrier-boosting moisturiser can help maintain comfort and reduce irritation, such as the Bio-Active Ceramide Moisturiser. A broad-spectrum SPF every morning is essential, as it protects the skin and supports long-term results.
SPF: THE NON-NEGOTIABLE STEP
Retinoids can increase sun sensitivity, which is why daily SPF is vital for maintaining results and reducing the chance of irritation.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Retinol is gentler and gradual, while retinal is faster and more potent. Whichever form you choose, consistent use and daily SPF are the foundation of long-term success.
