11/07/2026
Vitamin A - part of my nighttime skin care stack~ lets break it down!
Retinol and retinal (retinaldehyde) are both over-the-counter vitamin A derivatives (retinoids), but they differ in how many conversion steps they require inside the skin to become active retinoic acid.
The Conversion Pathway
• Retinol: Requires two conversion steps (Retinol → Retinal → Retinoic Acid). This slower, more gradual process makes it gentler on the skin.
• Retinal: Requires only one conversion step (Retinal → Retinoic Acid). Because it is closer to the active form, it works much faster.
How to Choose
• Choose retinol if you are new to vitamin A, have easily irritated or sensitive skin, or prefer a wider and more budget-friendly selection of starter formulas.
• Choose retinal if your skin already tolerates retinoids well, you want faster anti-aging or smoothing effects, or you are targeting breakouts and stubborn texture.
If you want to discuss it further- just message me!!!! I love talking skincare and hearing about your experiences!!!!
photo credit-Pintrest