FAQ
Retinal vs. Retinol: What’s the difference?
“Retinal and retinol are both vitamin A derivatives, but retinal is one step closer to retinoic acid, the active form used by the skin, which means it works faster and is usually more potent than retinol,” says Dr. Levitt. Retinol requires two conversions in the skin to activate, whereas retinal requires only one conversion, often resulting in faster results when smoothing fine lines, improving texture, and fading dark spots. That said, “Retinal can be a bit harsh, so it’s usually recommended for people who have built up some tolerance to retinoids,” he says.
Is it better to use retinol or retinal?
it depends. “If you have sensitive skin or are new to retinoids, retinol is the best place to start,” says Dr. Berry. “If you’re already well tolerated by retinol, or if you’re targeting deeper wrinkles, pigmentation, or acne, retinal can provide faster, more noticeable results with less irritation than prescription-strength options.”
meet an expert
Sonia Badresia Bansal, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in Danville, CA, RealSelf expert Asmi Berry, MD, board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, Whitney Hovenick, MD, board-certified dermatologist based in Reno, NV, Spooge co-founder Cheryl Kercher, MD, Center Aesthetic & Dermatology board-certified dermatologist Noah Levitt, M.D., board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, Connecticut physician Patricia Oetakin, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Epiphany Dermatology, based in Newnan and Stockbridge, Georgia;
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We check ingredients, scrutinize brand claims and, when appropriate, research peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing every product included in each review, we rely on experts in fields such as dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine to help vet ingredients and formulations.
For our list of the best retina serums, we considered each product’s performance across five key categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product experience. All products have been judged outstanding in each category by our editorial team of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, in addition to special consideration by dermatologists. To learn more about our reporting and testing process, please visit our complete review process and methodology page. If you are interested in our reporting, please see our full review process and methodology page.
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Welcome to the wonderful world of retinoids. I’m sure you’ll love it.
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