{"id":1106,"date":"2021-05-04T17:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-05-04T17:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/blog\/?p=1106"},"modified":"2026-07-30T02:05:04","modified_gmt":"2026-07-30T02:05:04","slug":"retinal-vs-retinol","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/","title":{"rendered":"Retinal vs. Retinol: What&#8217;s the Difference?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#Whats_the_difference_between_Retinal_vs_Retinol\" >What\u2019s the difference between Retinal vs Retinol?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#What_is_Retinol\" >What is Retinol?\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#What_is_Retinal\" >What is Retinal?\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#When_should_you_start_using_Retinol\" >When should you start using Retinol?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#Choosing_the_right_product_Retinal_vs_Retinol\" >Choosing the right product: Retinal vs Retinol<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#How_mature_is_your_skin\" >How mature is your skin?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#How_sensitive_is_your_skin\" >How sensitive is your skin?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#Are_you_also_dealing_with_acne\" >Are you also dealing with acne?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#Want_improved_skin_texture_and_tone\" >Want improved skin texture and tone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#Looking_for_fast_results\" >Looking for fast results?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#Prefer_a_particular_formula\" >Prefer a particular formula?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/doctors-notes\/retinal-vs-retinol\/#How_to_incorporate_retinoids%E2%80%AFinto_your_evening_skincare_routine\" >How to incorporate retinoids\u202finto your evening skincare routine\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_difference_between_Retinal_vs_Retinol\"><\/span>What\u2019s the difference between Retinal vs Retinol?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>You\u2019ve probably heard about Retinol, a form of Vitamin A that\u2019s one of the buzziest ingredients in an anti-aging skincare routine. You may also know about the genre of Retinoids, otherwise known as Vitamin A derivatives, in other forms. Retinoids are the dermatological gold standard for anti-aging. They are a class of Vitamin A chemical compounds or are chemically related to it, that is, derived from it. Vitamin A includes retinol, retinal, and provitamin A carotenoids.<\/p>\n<p>In this blog post, we\u2019ll discuss Retinol and Retinal\u2014used in some of our best-selling formulations, how each of these skincare products varies and which is right for your skin.<\/p>\n<p>Retinol is a form of Vitamin A and falls under the Retinoid category, like Retinal. Retinol skincare offers one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients. Retinol is proven to dramatically speed up natural skin cell renewal. It also helps skin to boost its own natural collagen production and reduce the look of lines and wrinkles\u2014and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/blog\/pro-tips\/how-to-prevent-dark-spots\/\">prevent dark spots<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Retinol\"><\/span><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW85877814 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW85877814 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">What is <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW85877814 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Retinol<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW85877814 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW85877814 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:2,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Retinol skincare offers one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients. Retinol is proven to dramatically speed up natural skin cell renewal. It also helps skin to boost its own natural collagen production and reduce the look of lines and wrinkles\u2014and prevent dark spots.<\/p>\n<p>When it comes to retinol in skincare, you\u2019re probably wondering how long will it take for you to see visible results with regular use. The key is consistency, consistency, consistency! This ingredient provides impressive results, though they do take a little time and dedication. Retinol shouldn\u2019t be combined with other <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/blog\/science-of-skincare\/what-is-an-active-ingredient-in-skincare\/\">active ingredients<\/a>. When you use Retinol skincare products, you should wear sunscreen during the day. Retinol is a great choice for impressive anti-aging results, even if it takes a little time and dedication.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Retinal\"><\/span><span class=\"TextRun Highlight SCXW202197147 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202197147 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">What is <\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202197147 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">Retinal<\/span><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW202197147 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"heading 2\">?<\/span><\/span><span class=\"EOP SCXW202197147 BCX0\" data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134233117&quot;:true,&quot;134233118&quot;:true,&quot;201341983&quot;:2,&quot;335559740&quot;:360}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are a few different forms of Vitamin A, or retinoids. The first is retinoic acid, or Retin-A, which is a prescription drug. Tretinoin is the generic form of Retin-A. There\u2019s the aforementioned Retinol, which is 20 times less potent than retinoic acid and while less irritating than retinoic acid, sometimes people still react to it. Retinol cream is the most common form of this type of Vitamin A, although it can also be found in a serum or oil format. Last, there\u2019s Retinal, which is a thousand times more effective at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/skincare-guides\/deep-dive-the-biology-of-collagen\/\">stimulating collagen<\/a> production than retinol, yet it&#8217;s gentler on your skin.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_should_you_start_using_Retinol\"><\/span>When should you start using Retinol?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To address acne, begin incorporating Retinol into your skincare routine in your early 20s. For anti-aging benefits, add Retinol into your skincare regimen in your late 20s or early 30s.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choosing_the_right_product_Retinal_vs_Retinol\"><\/span>Choosing the right product: Retinal vs Retinol<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When choosing the best Retinoid for your skin, retinal or retinol, it depends on a couple of factors. Ask yourself two main questions about your skin\u2019s maturity and sensitivity.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_mature_is_your_skin\"><\/span>How mature is your skin?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Which formula is better for older skin? If your skin is on the mature side of the spectrum, you\u2019ll want to try a Retinal formula. As mentioned above, this ingredient is a thousand times more effective at stimulating collagen production than retinol\u2014yet it&#8217;s gentler on your skin.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_sensitive_is_your_skin\"><\/span>How sensitive is your skin?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you have <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/pro-tips\/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-sensitive-skin\/\">sensitive skin<\/a>, you\u2019ll want to go the Retinal route, as Retinol is a bit harder on the skin. There\u2019s less of a chance of irritation with Retinal than Retinol if you\u2019re unsure which one to choose.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Are_you_also_dealing_with_acne\"><\/span>Are you also dealing with acne?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>With continued use, Retinal fights bacteria that causes acne, breakouts and clogged pores. It is the only retinoid that has these blemish-fighting abilities. The result? A less congested and more radiant complexion.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Want_improved_skin_texture_and_tone\"><\/span>Want improved skin texture and tone?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Retinal and retinol both work to balance skin tone and smooth the overall surface. They are also both gentle on the skin while offering optimal exfoliating qualities.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Looking_for_fast_results\"><\/span>Looking for fast results?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Go for Retinal, which is closer in form to retinoic acid (purest form) whereas Retinol is less potent. The greater the potency, the faster you can expect results.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Prefer_a_particular_formula\"><\/span>Prefer a particular formula?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you opt for serums over gels, or prefer certain vehicles to deliver your ingredients, this can affect the potency of the Retinal or Retinol.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_incorporate_retinoids%E2%80%AFinto_your_evening_skincare_routine\"><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW139328993 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139328993 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"Normal (Web)\">How to incorporate retinoids\u202finto your evening skincare routine<\/span><\/span><span class=\"TextRun SCXW139328993 BCX0\" lang=\"EN-US\" xml:lang=\"EN-US\" data-contrast=\"none\"><span class=\"NormalTextRun SCXW139328993 BCX0\" data-ccp-parastyle=\"Normal (Web)\">\u00a0<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Retinoids are an integral part of any <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/shop\/redefine-regimen\/p\/HAAGR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">anti-aging skincare<\/a> routine. You want to avoid using other active ingredients in your skincare regimen at night while you\u2019re on a Retinal or Retinol program.<\/p>\n<p>Start your evening <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rodanandfields.com\/en-us\/blog\/skincare-guides\/find-your-best-skincare-routine\/\">skincare routine<\/a> with a cleanser and toner. Then, apply your retinoid.<\/p>\n<p>Feeling like your skin is a little more dry than usual? Address dryness by applying a moisturizer on top of your retinoid. Then, apply your eye cream and it\u2019s off to bed.<\/p>\n<p>See you and your beautiful skin in the morning!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What\u2019s the difference between Retinal vs Retinol? You\u2019ve probably heard about Retinol, a form of Vitamin A that\u2019s one of the buzziest ingredients in an anti-aging skincare routine. You may also know about the genre of Retinoids, otherwise known as Vitamin A derivatives, in other forms. Retinoids are the dermatological gold standard for anti-aging. They&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1107,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"","_kad_post_title":"","_kad_post_layout":"","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"_kad_post_classname":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[25,24,66],"class_list":["post-1106","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-doctors-notes","tag-redefine","tag-retinal","tag-retinol"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Retinal vs. Retinol: What&#039;s the Difference?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Is retinol or retinal right for you? 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