Retinal vs retinol: what is the difference?

Both can help improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven skin texture. Results depend on the concentration, formulation, stability and how consistently your skin tolerates the product. The conversion pathway alone cannot predict your results.

There is no dependable universal rule that one percentage of retinal equals another percentage of retinol. Comparing the numbers on two bottles without considering the formulation can be misleading.

Choose a low-strength formula you can introduce comfortably rather than the strongest available option. Someone new to vitamin A may prefer a gentle retinol or a low-strength retinal. Reactive skin may need a simpler routine before either.

Our doctor and pharmacist-led approach puts tolerance ahead of escalation. A well-tolerated routine is more useful than repeatedly stopping a stronger product because it irritates your skin.

Follow the product directions. Start on a small number of evenings each week, apply to dry skin and use a moisturiser. Increase only if comfortable. Avoid starting exfoliating acids at the same time, and keep daily broad-spectrum SPF in your morning routine.

Do not use retinal and retinol together to speed up progress. If you have persistent burning, redness or peeling, stop and seek advice rather than treating irritation as proof that it is working.

Avoid cosmetic retinoids during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. If breastfeeding, ask your clinician before using them. Product guidance is not a diagnosis or a substitute for medical advice.