Retinal vs Retinol – What's the Difference?
Vitamin A is one of the most powerful ingredients in skincare products. It's known for its powerful effects, helping to renew skin, reduce fine lines, and create a more even, radiant complexion.
Within this category you often hear two names: Retinol and Retinal (Retinaldehyde).
Although they look very similar, there are important differences, especially in operation, power and speed.
The difference between Retinol and Retinal
Retinol is a commonly used ingredient that still needs to be converted into retinal in the skin. It is then converted again into retinoic acid (vitamin A acid). This latter is the active form that truly has an effect on the skin.
So Retinal (Retinaldehyde) is one step closer to Retinoic Acid, meaning it works faster and more effectively, without the need for a prescription.
In short:
Retinal = more powerful, faster results, but with less chance of irritation than pure retinoic acid.
How Retinal Works on the Skin
Retinal stimulates cell renewal and collagen production, which:
- fine lines and wrinkles fade
- reduce pigment spots and acne scars
- refine pores
- skin texture becomes smoother and more even
In addition, Retinal also has antibacterial properties, making it ideal for skin that is prone to blemishes or acne.
Product in the spotlight: Retinal Night Solution Serum 0.06
This month we put our star player in the spotlight:
Retinal Night Solution Serum 0.06 – a night serum that takes skin renewal to the next level.
This serum contains 0.06% retinaldehyde, a highly effective form of vitamin A and just one step removed from retinoic acid. The latter, by the way, is only available with a doctor's prescription. Our serum is also enriched with niacinamide (vitamin B3) and natural extracts that soothe and restore the skin overnight.
Perfect for:
- Impure or dull skin
- Fine lines and pigmentation
- Reduced elasticity
- Acne-prone skin
Key ingredients & their benefits
Retinaldehyde (Retinal)
Accelerates cell renewal, stimulates collagen and reduces pigmentation and blemishes.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Soothes redness, strengthens the skin barrier and evens out the complexion.
Squalane & Glycerin
Together they provide deep hydration and prevent moisture loss.
Aloe Vera & Sodium Hyaluronate
Softens and hydrates the skin, reducing dryness and irritation.
Magnolia Bark Extract & Arctostaphylos Uva Ursi (Bearberry)
Rich in antioxidants, protect against free radicals and have a brightening effect.
Grape extract (Vitis Vinifera)
Powerful antioxidant that helps restore skin structure.
Who is Retinal suitable for?
Retinal is suitable for:
- The experienced skincare user who is already familiar with retinol
- Anyone who wants to tackle signs of aging, pigmentation or acne
- Sensitive skin, thanks to the mild, soothing formula
How do you build Retinal into your routine?
1. Start slowly. Use the serum 2 to 3 times a week in the evening.
2. Apply to cleansed skin. Use 1-2 pumps for face and neck.
3. Then use a nourishing cream.
4. Always protect your skin during the day with SPF 30 or higher!
After 2-3 weeks you can gradually increase use to every other day, then you can use it daily, depending on your skin tolerance.
Please note: Some dryness or flaking at first is normal, as this means your skin is renewing itself.
In summary
Retinal is the next generation of vitamin A, more powerful than retinol but gentler than medical retinoids. It helps address signs of aging, pigmentation, and blemishes while renewing and strengthening your skin.