Retinol vs Retinal: What's the difference?

The vitamin A family explained

Vitamin A is a powerhouse ingredient for smoother, clearer, and more youthful-looking skin. Here is a breakdown of the different types of vitamin A:

• Retinyl Esters: The most gentle and stable form. Great for beginners, but slow to convert into the active form.
• Retinol: The most common over-the-counter form. Converts into retinal, then into retinoic acid (the active form your skin can use).
• Retinal (Retinaldehyde): One step closer to active retinoic acid, so it works faster than retinol.
• Retinoic Acid: The purest, most potent form (also known as tretinoin or Retin-A). Available by prescription and highly effective, but often irritating.

What are the benefits of retinol

Retinol works by accelerating skin cell turnover, helping to shed dull, dead skin cells and reveal a fresher, smoother complexion. It brightens lacklustre skin, softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and keeps pores clear by preventing the build-up of oil and debris. Over time, it helps to refine rough texture, even out skin tone, minimise the look of pores, and fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, leaving skin clearer, brighter, and more balanced

SHOP RETINOL

What are the benefits of retinal

Retinal delivers all the benefits of retinol: think smoother skin, fewer breakouts, and improved tone but with faster results and less irritation. Up to 20x more potent, it converts directly to retinoic acid, making it both more effective and more skin-friendly. It also has antibacterial properties and helps clear pores, making it particularly well-suited to breakout-prone skin.* *Data source: Hydroxysomes® Retinal by Laboratory Skin Care® ingredient dossier

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Want to learn more about Facetheory's Retinal?

Get to know Retinal Supreme Multicream—our vitamin A powerhouse, designed to deliver real results without the drama.

Retinal Supreme MultiCream is a do-it-all night cream designed to simplify your routine without compromising on results. Powered by retinaldehyde -20x more effective than retinol and just one step away from prescription-strength retinoic acid—this multitasking formula visibly reduces signs of ageing, evens tone, smooths texture, and boosts glow in a single step.

Unlike harsher retinoids, this one is buffered with a blend of hyaluronic acid and glycerin to help hydrate and support the skin barrier. Niacinamide and vitamin C round out the formula for a clinically complete, irritation-conscious cream that delivers everything your skin needs—without the flakes, redness, or downtime.

Whether you’re upgrading from peptides or retinol, or just want one product to tackle tone, texture, fine lines, and dullness—this retinal treatment is designed to meet your skin where it’s at, and move it forward.

How should I use retinal in my routine?

Choose the right strength of Retinal Supreme MultiCream for your skin: 0.05% is ideal for beginners or those with sensitive skin, 0.1% is perfect for experienced retinoid users, and 0.2% is our highest strength—best for advanced users with a well-established routine. Apply in the evening after cleansing and toning, starting 2–3 times a week and increasing as your skin adjusts. Always follow with SPF the next morning, as retinal can increase sun sensitivity. This product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalised advice.

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