Retinol and retinal belong to the same family, but they are not the same, and the difference decides which your skin should use.

All vitamin A converts into retinoic acid, the form your skin uses. Retinol takes two steps to get there. Retinal takes one, which makes it faster to act.

Neither is better. Retinol is where to start if you are new to vitamin A or your skin runs sensitive. Retinal is the step up when skin is ready, and the right formula lets you take it without the irritation.

Whichever you choose, three rules hold. Start slowly. Always moisturise. SPF every morning.

Dr Ellie Sateei
Cosmetic Doctor