Retinal vs Retinol: A Beginner's Guide to Vitamin A Skincare
Ingredient guide · Al Mahara · Updated 1 Nov 2026
Retinoids are forms of vitamin A. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains that the first, tretinoin, was approved in the US as a prescription acne treatment in 1971, and dermatologists soon noticed it also improved skin tone and fine lines.
Over-the-counter skincare uses gentler forms — mainly retinol and retinal. Here is how they differ and how to start. Sources are linked at the end.
Retinol, retinal and prescription retinoids
Skin has to convert vitamin A into retinoic acid, the active form, before it works. Retinol takes two conversion steps; retinal (retinaldehyde) is one step closer. Prescription retinoids such as tretinoin are already in the active form, which makes them stronger.
Be aware that clinical evidence for over-the-counter retinol and retinal is much thinner than for prescription retinoids, as a review in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology points out.
Who it suits — and who should avoid it
The AAD says a retinoid product is a good option for mild acne, mild uneven pigmentation, or mild fine lines and wrinkles.
People with skin allergies, dryness or a lot of redness are probably not good candidates, according to the AAD. Don't use retinol if you're pregnant or breastfeeding.
How to start
Some irritation, such as dryness or flaking, is common at first; the AAD notes that ingredients like retinol can irritate skin, particularly sensitive skin.
- Use it at night only, as the AAD suggests for retinol.
- Start with a low strength, such as a 0.1% retinol, on a few nights a week, and use it more often only if your skin stays comfortable.
- If it stings, wash your face and wait about 30 minutes before applying it; the AAD suggests this to reduce irritation.
- Follow with moisturiser, and don't use acids or other strong actives on the same night.
- Wear sunscreen every morning.
Stepping up
Once your skin is comfortable, you can move to a higher-strength retinol or a retinal product. Go up one step at a time and keep using it only at night.
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Sources
Product facts are taken from these pages and our product listings. This is a product guide, not a personal review.
- American Academy of Dermatology — Retinoid or retinol?
- American Academy of Dermatology — What can treat large facial pores?
- American Academy of Dermatology — How to test skin care products
- Levin & Momin — How much do we really know about our favorite cosmeceutical ingredients? (J Clin Aesthet Dermatol, 2010)