Retinal and retinol are both retinoids, a type of vitamin A. Before your skin can use either, it has to convert them into retinoic acid. Retinal is already one step closer to this, meaning it tends to work faster than retinol. 

Both do the same job: they smooth texture, soften the look of fine lines and wrinkles, and visibly fade dark spots. But because retinal is one step ahead, it’s used in much smaller amounts, so don’t be put off if a retinal serum shows a lower percentage than a retinol one.

Retinol vs Retinal

Retinol

Description: A form of vitamin A that converts twice before the skin can use it

Strength: Around 0.1% to 1%

Suitability: First-timers on low strength and regular users on higher strength

How it feels: Some dryness or flaking at first. Settles as your skin adjusts

Results: Smoother texture in a few weeks. Lines improved over a few months.

If you’ve never used a retinoid before, look for the lowest strength or words like “beginner” or “starter” somewhere on the label, as these formulas release vitamin A gently. As a guide, that’s around 0.25% to 0.5% for retinol and 0.01% to 0.03% for retinal (there’s no race to start on the highest).

Sensitive Skin

Do you struggle with sensitive skin? If it can get easily irritated, then your approach to retinoids should be taken carefully. Do a patch test first on your inner arm before applying, and always choose beginner retinol or the lowest-strength retinal. Keep an eye out for redness that doesn’t settle, and if it does appear, then go back to fewer nights a week until your skin feels comfortable again.

Fine lines

Pigmentation

Both retinol and retinal can help improve the appearance of dark spots or uneven tone by encouraging skin cell turnover and bringing out a brighter-looking complexion. Read more in our guide to the best ingredients for hyperpigmentation.

Dry Skin

Already using retinol and want more?

Can you use retinol and retinal together?

No, not in the same routine. Both convert into retinoic acid, so layering them doubles the chances of irritation rather than faster or better results. 

If you’re moving from retinol to retinal, finish your retinol first and gradually introduce retinal two nights a week in your evening routine. Even if your skin was happy with nightly retinol, it’s the best way to keep it that way!

How to begin your retinol or retinal routine without irritation

Introduce retinoids with a low strength and build up incrementally. Start with two evenings a week for a fortnight, moving to every other night for the next two weeks and nightly after that (if your skin feels comfortable). Increasing the frequency slowly can allow time to adjust and hopefully prevent redness.

Your nighttime routine should look something like this: After cleansing to remove the buildup throughout the day, let your face fully dry and apply a pea-sized amount of product to cover the face and neck. Follow this with a thick and nourishing moisturiser before you head to bed. This will help support your skin barrier and keep it hydrated.

Don’t forget to always wear SPF as soon as you start introducing retinol or retinal. Your skin can become more susceptible to the sun’s UV rays, so you must protect it. If you’re looking for your next SPF BFF read our protection edit.