Retinal vs Retinol: differences, which is better and the natural alternative

What is retinol?

Retinol is the most well-known vitamin A derivative and the most widely used in cosmetics. When you apply it, your skin transforms it in two steps: first into retinal, and then into retinoic acid, which is the molecule that actually "tells" the skin to renew itself, produce collagen, and even out skin tone.

This double step has a consequence: it loses strength along the way. Retinol works, but more slowly and gently. It's a good entry point into the world of retinoids, especially if you've never used vitamin A before.

What is retinal (retinaldehyde)?

Retinal, or retinaldehyde, is one step ahead of retinol in the conversion chain. Your skin only needs one more transformation to convert it into retinoic acid, so the effect is more direct and faster.

The interesting thing is that, despite being considerably more potent, studies show that retinal is better tolerated than one would expect given its strength: its irritation level is closer to that of retinol than to tretinoin (the prescription retinoid). This is why more and more anti-aging and anti-acne formulas are choosing it.

Retinal vs retinol: comparative table

Which one is better for you?

There's no universal winner; it depends on your skin and your goal:

• Never used vitamin A: Start with retinol at a low concentration, 2–3 nights a week, to allow your skin to adjust.
• Want faster results for wrinkles, texture, or dark spots and already tolerate retinol well: retinal will give you more, sooner.
• Sensitive or reactive skin: Retinal may surprise you with its good tolerance, but introduce it slowly. And if you want to completely avoid any risk of irritation, keep reading.

The natural alternative: bakuchiol

At Biovardi, we advocate for natural and toxin-free cosmetics, so here's the part almost no one tells you: there's a plant-based active ingredient that mimics many of the benefits of retinoids without their side effects. It's bakuchiol, extracted from the Psoralea corylifolia plant.

Bakuchiol helps improve firmness, fine lines, and tone, but it doesn't irritate, dry out, or increase photosensitivity like retinol and retinal do. This is why it's the favorite option for sensitive skin, pregnant women (always consulting your doctor), and those who prefer naturally derived formulas.

Bakuchiol Serum — Esse Skincare

The "natural retinol": firmness and fine lines without irritation or photosensitivity. Suitable for sensitive skin.

View bakuchiol serum

If you want to delve deeper, we cover it in our article Bakuchiol: the "natural retinol" that cares for your skin without irritating it.

How to introduce a retinoid without irritating your skin

1. Start slowly: 2 nights a week for the first two weeks and gradually increase.
2. Apply at night and on dry skin, after cleansing.
3. Follow with hydration: a restorative cream minimizes initial flaking.
4. Sun protection every morning, without exception. Retinoids increase sun sensitivity; without SPF, you lose all the benefits gained.
5. Be consistent: real results are seen after 8–12 weeks of continuous use.

Important precautions

Neither retinol nor retinal are recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It's also not advisable to combine them in the same routine with potent exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA) or pure vitamin C without careful consideration, as this can irritate the skin. If you have any doubts, or if you have a dermatological condition, consult your dermatologist or pharmacist before incorporating them.

Frequently asked questions