Ingredient library / Vitamin A derivative
Retinol and retinal.
Also on labels as: Retinoids · Retinaldehyde · Retinal · Retinol · Vitamin A
Quick answer
What is retinol and retinal?
Retinol and retinal (retinaldehyde) are vitamin A derivatives used in evening skincare. They are among the best-studied ingredients for the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and tone. Retinal is one conversion step closer to the active form than retinol. Both can irritate at first, so build up slowly.
What it does
- Speeds up skin cell turnover, which can refine the look of texture
- Associated with improvements in the appearance of fine lines with regular use over months
- Can help skin look more even in tone
Who it suits
Adults concerned with texture, fine lines or uneven tone who can commit to gradual introduction and daily sunscreen. Very sensitive skin may do better with low strengths or advice from a pharmacist.
How to use it
- Use in the evening only, on dry skin, after cleansing
- Start two or three nights a week and increase as tolerated
- Begin with the lowest strength in a range and step up slowly
- Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning
Take care
- Dryness, flaking and stinging are common in the first weeks
- Do not use if pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding without medical advice
- Avoid using on the same night as exfoliating acids until your skin tolerates both
What it pairs with
Pairs well with moisturisers containing ceramides or hyaluronic acid. Keep exfoliating acids and vitamin C for different times of day unless a product is formulated to combine them.
General information, not medical advice. For a skin condition, pregnancy or persistent irritation, speak to a pharmacist, GP or dermatologist.
In the catalogue
Products listing retinol and retinal.
Medik8 · Skin prep
Crystal Retinal
An evening treatment with a clear strength ladder — kept to night routines so daytime base sits on settled skin.
The Ordinary · Skin prep
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
A high-strength evening step for experienced users — not a product to introduce in the week before a shoot.
La Roche-Posay · Skin prep
0.3% Retinol + Vitamin B3 Serum
A measured evening retinol at the 0.3% level — a night-routine treatment, kept apart from daytime base.
Geek & Gorgeous · Skin prep
A-Game 10
The fragrance-free retinal option — a simple evening layer for readers who want the treatment without scent.
Read further
Sources.
Retinol and retinal, answered
What is the difference between retinol and retinal?
- Both are converted in the skin to retinoic acid. Retinal (retinaldehyde) needs one conversion step; retinol needs two. Strengths are therefore not directly comparable between the two.
How long does retinol take to work?
- Clinical studies of retinoids typically measure changes in the appearance of fine lines and texture over three to six months of regular use.
Can I use retinol when pregnant?
- Retinoids are generally avoided during pregnancy. Speak to a doctor, midwife or pharmacist about any skincare you use while pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding.