RETINOL VS RETINAL: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Whether you're a skin care connoisseur or just getting to know the beauty space, the chances are you’ve probably heard of retinol (with an O) and retinal (with an A). And before you say it, no, they are not the same thing – but you’ll be forgiven for thinking that they are. Not only do they sound almost identical, but they both fall under the vitamin A family and promote the synthesis of collagen, too.
That being said, they are in fact two unique ingredients (we like to think of them as siblings rather than twins). Varying in benefits, behaviours and how they interact with the skin, it’s important to understand the difference between retinol and retinal and how to use them.
Not sure where to start? No worries, we’ve enlisted the help of the Chief Product Officer and Founding Partner at Medik8, Daniel Isaacs, to help us finally get to the bottom of the retinol vs retinal debate.
Science caps at the ready…
What Is Retinol?
As mentioned above, retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and belongs to the wider family of ingredients known as retinoids.
“Retinoids stimulate skin cell renewal and support collagen production – enhancing the skin’s radiance, texture and tone. Vitamin A travels through several stages known as the ‘vitamin A pathway’. When it is applied to the skin, retinol first converts to retinal, and then to retinoic acid. At this stage, the ingredients become ‘active’ and visible results begin to occur,” says Daniel.
Found in everything from lightweight serums to creams and face oils, retinol is available in a variety of formats and strengths. With consistent use, it can help improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven tone and dark spots, texture and blemishes.
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What Is Retinal?
On the other hand, while retinal (that’s short for retinaldehyde, FYI) is also a retinoid, it’s further along the vitamin A pathway than retinol.
“Just one conversion step away from becoming retinoic acid – which means it acts faster on the skin than retinol – retinal boasts other additional benefits, from smoothing fine lines to helping reduce redness and more. But as it degrades quickly and is very difficult to stabilise, it’s rare to find retinal products on the market that deliver truly noticeable results. That’s where Medik8’s breakthrough patented stabilisation system comes in” Daniel adds.
Because retinal is a less stable molecule, effective formulas require careful stabilisation and protective packaging. The concentration, delivery system and wider formula can all influence how an individual retinal product performs.
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What Are The Key Differences Between Retinol And Retinal?
Retinol and retinal are both topical vitamin A derivatives called retinoids. Retinol needs two conversion steps to become retinoic acid in the skin, while retinal needs one. That makes retinal a more direct option, but the best choice depends on the formula, strength, your skin and how well you tolerate it.
Now we know the definitions of these gold-standard ingredients, Daniel uncovers the key difference between retinol and retinal.
Retinal is the only retinoid with direct antibacterial properties and is more potent than retinol as it’s only one step away from retinoic acid – making it ideal for those with blemish-prone skin. Retinal products are more difficult to make. Why? Because retinal is an unstable molecule and can lose its potency if exposed to light. As such, it requires innovative stabilisation systems like Medik8’s renowned crystal encapsulation technology, that features a patented carrot seed oil complex and airless packaging. - Retinal doesn’t yet have as much clinical evidence and hasn’t been studied to the same extent as retinol.
- Retinal is a stronger retinoid that provides faster results.
While retinal sits closer to retinoic acid in the vitamin A pathway, the performance of a finished product also depends on its concentration, stability and delivery system. Retinol and retinal percentages should not be compared using a simple conversion, as a higher percentage does not automatically make one formula more suitable for your skin.
What Are The Side Effects Of Retinol And Retinal?
Like all retinoids, both retinol and retinal can have the potential to cause dryness and irritation if applied to skin that isn’t used to it. Therefore, Daniel recommends “introducing retinoid products gradually and slowly – increasing the strength over time. This way, the potential for irritation is minimised as your skin can naturally adapt to the molecule over time.”
“At Medik8, our retinoid products are carefully formulated to reduce the potential for discomfort. We use our Time Release Technology delivery system to gently release retinol or retinal into the skin, to avoid overwhelming it and to prolong the effects overnight,” adds Daniel.
If your skin feels uncomfortable, reduce how frequently you use your retinoid and focus on gentle, hydrating formulas. Persistent burning, swelling or significant irritation is a sign to stop using the product and seek professional advice.
Which Skin Types Should Use Retinal Over Retinol?
“The main reason someone might choose to go for a retinol product instead of retinal is if they prefer the format or texture – for example, we have a range of retinol serums which have an oil-based liquid texture. However, at Medik8 we recommend for everyone to use retinal as it’s a more potent form of vitamin A than retinol,” says Daniel.
Lower-strength retinal formulas may be suitable for beginners when introduced carefully, while experienced vitamin A users may choose to progress to a higher strength. Retinol remains an option for those who prefer its wider variety of textures, formats and concentrations.
For sensitive or easily irritated skin, the complete formula is especially important. Look for lower-strength products containing hydrating or barrier-supporting ingredients and introduce them gradually. If you have eczema, rosacea or another skin condition, consult a dermatologist or healthcare professional before adding a retinoid to your routine.
How Do You Pick The Best Retinal For Your Skin?
When it comes to selecting the best retinal-based skin care, there are a few key things to consider…
- Firstly, opt for a retinal collection that offers a choice of strengths, so you can build up your tolerance for stronger results.
Then, ensure it contains hydration-boosters such as hyaluronic acid, glycerine or plant oils. - Finish by checking that your chosen retinal comes in an air-tight pump dispenser that is opaque. This protects the retinal’s stability, as sun light can damage this.
Top Tips On How To Use Retinal Products
- Avoid using any other skin care products that contain vitamin A at the same time as this could overwhelm your skin and potentially cause sensitivity and irritation.
- For new users of retinal, gradually phase-in application to enable your skin to build up a tolerance and avoid any reactions. Use twice a week for the first two weeks, every other night for the next two weeks, then every night.
- Begin with products containing a lower percentage of retinal. Once your skin becomes used to this strength, move up to a higher concentration.
Only use retinal in the evening. Retinal is photosensitive, meaning that it becomes ineffective when exposed to UV rays and can cause irritation. However, an exception to this is Medik8's r-Retinoate Day & Night Serum. This formula is photostable and doesn’t break down when exposed to sunlight like other traditional forms of vitamin A. It can therefore be used both morning and night for effective visible results. If using r-Retinoate Day & Night in your morning routine, make sure to always follow with sunscreen. Retinal can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it is important that you use sunscreen with a high SPF the following morning to protect your complexion against the damaging and ageing effects of UV rays. Layer retinal with a deeply nourishing night cream that’s specially formulated to work alongside vitamin A. A case in point is Medik8's Advanced Night Restore, which helps minimise dryness and lock in the visible benefits of its retinal formulas.
When combining retinoids with exfoliating acids or other potent active ingredients, consider using them on alternate evenings to minimise the potential for irritation. Discover more in our guide to combining active ingredients.
Retinoid skin care should be avoided during pregnancy and when planning a pregnancy as a precaution. If you are breastfeeding, using prescription treatments or managing a skin condition, speak to a doctor, midwife or pharmacist before use.
Retinol Vs Retinal FAQs
Which One Is Better: Retinol Or Retinal?
While one isn't better than the other, as mentioned above, retinal is faster-acting than retinol, so it can be more effective, but also more irritating. Your ideal option will also depend on the formula, strength, texture and how well your skin tolerates it.
Which Is More Potent: Retinol Or Retinoid?
Retinol is a type of retinoid. “Retinoid” is the umbrella term for vitamin A derivatives, including retinyl esters, retinol, retinal and prescription options such as tretinoin. As retinoids include ingredients with different strengths and conversion pathways, the two terms cannot be compared directly.
Is 0.1% Retinal Effective?
Although it may seem surprising that such a small percentage can be effective, even 0.01% retinal has been used in skin care designed to improve the appearance of fine lines, pores and uneven texture.
A 0.1% retinal formula may be positioned for established vitamin A users, depending on the brand and delivery system. Always follow the individual product instructions rather than choosing a formula based on percentage alone.
Is Retinal Percentage The Same As Retinol Percentage?
No. Retinol and retinal are different ingredients, and their percentages cannot be converted using a simple formula. Concentration, stability, encapsulation and the complete formulation all influence how a product performs.
Can You Use Retinol And Retinal Together?
There is usually no need to use retinol and retinal together. Both ingredients follow the same vitamin A pathway, and layering them may increase the likelihood of dryness and irritation. Choose one retinoid and introduce it gradually.
So, there you have it. Now you know the main differences between retinol and retinal, it’s time to find the formula that best suits your skin and routine. Whichever vitamin A product you choose, introduce it gradually, support your skin with a nourishing moisturiser and follow with SPF the next morning.
Cult Beauty’s Senior SEO Copywriter, Trifonia started out in the industry when bold brows were just becoming a ‘thing’, and shares a passion for all things fashion and beauty. Currently embracing her curly girl journey (after endless years of straightening her strands), she is finally reverting to her natural ways! When Triffy isn’t busy testing out the latest curl-saving solutions, you’ll find her binging the latest reality TV show or on a long walk listening to her ever-evolving country music playlist.
