Retinol vs Retinal: What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Use?
Both are powerful retinoids (vitamin A derivatives) proven to transform skin, but retinal (also known as retinaldehyde) works faster than retinol due to fewer conversion steps. Whether you're new to retinoids or looking to upgrade your routine, understanding these vitamin A ingredients helps you make informed choices about your skincare. Here's everything you need to know about retinol vs retinal, including which one suits your skin type and goals.
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 (Retinaldehyde)? How Does it Work?
Retinal, also called retinaldehyde, is a vitamin A derivative that's one conversion step away from retinoic acid—the active form your skin actually uses. This makes retinal more potent than retinol, which needs two conversion steps.
How retinal works:
• Converts directly to retinoic acid (the "active" vitamin A)
• Stimulates cellular turnover more efficiently than retinol
• Increases collagen production
• Helps improve skin texture and reduce signs of ageing
The key advantage: Because retinaldehyde requires fewer conversion steps, many people see results 2-4 weeks faster than with retinol. However, this also means it can be more irritating for sensitive skin types.
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
Can You Use Other Ingredients with Retinoids?
One of the most common questions about retinoids is what you can safely combine them with. The good news? Most ingredients play well with retinoids when used thoughtfully.
Retinoids + Niacinamide: Perfect Partners
Can you use niacinamide with retinol? Absolutely. Niacinamide actually helps reduce retinoid irritation whilst providing its own benefits like reducing redness and regulating oil production.
How to use together: Apply niacinamide serum first, wait a few minutes, then apply your retinoid. Try our 20% Niacinamide for maximum compatibility.
Retinoids + Hyaluronic Acid: Hydration Heroes
Can you use hyaluronic acid with retinol? This is an ideal combination. Hyaluronic acid provides essential hydration that helps counteract any dryness from retinoids.
Application tip: Use hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin, then follow with your retinoid. Our Hyaluronic Acid Serum works beautifully under retinoids.
Retinoids + Vitamin C: Timing Matters
Can you use vitamin C with retinol? Yes, but timing is key. These ingredients can potentially irritate when used together, so separate them.
Best practice: Use vitamin C (like our 15% Vitamin C + EGF Serum) in your morning routine, and save retinoids for evening. Both ingredients are more stable this way.
Retinoids + AHAs/BHAs: Start Slowly
Combining retinoids with acids like glycolic or salicylic acid can enhance results but may increase irritation. Start by using them on alternating nights, gradually building tolerance.
Remember: Always introduce new combinations slowly. Your skin needs time to adapt to powerful actives.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is retinal stronger than retinol?
Yes, retinal is generally stronger than retinol because it converts to retinoic acid in one step instead of two. This means it works faster but can also be more irritating for sensitive skin.
Which is better: retinol or retinal?
Neither is inherently "better"—it depends on your skin type and experience. Retinol is ideal for beginners or sensitive skin, whilst retinal suits those wanting faster results who can tolerate stronger actives.
How long does retinal take to work?
Most people see initial improvements in 4-8 weeks with retinal, compared to 6-12 weeks with retinol. However, significant anti-ageing results typically take 3-6 months with consistent use.
Can I switch from retinol to retinal?
Yes, but treat retinal as a new ingredient. Start with less frequent use (1-2 times per week) even if you use retinol nightly. Your skin needs time to adjust to the increased potency.
Do retinol and retinal have the same side effects?
Both can cause initial dryness, peeling, and sensitivity, but retinal may produce these effects more quickly or intensely. Always start slowly and build tolerance gradually.
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.
