Retinal: what it is, what it is for and what is the difference with retinol

You may be familiar with the term retinol for skin care and treatments. However, recently a component with a very similar name has emerged, but with many more benefits and effectiveness when it comes to treating sensitive skin. This is retinal, a derivative of vitamin A that is much more powerful and suitable for age conditions or skin spots. If you want to know more, in this new article we tell you everything about what retinal is, what it is for and what the difference is with retinol .

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What is retinal

Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is an active form of vitamin A that is used in skin care products for its notable benefits. Unlike retinol, which needs to be converted into retinoic acid by the skin before being used, retinal is directly usable by the skin. This means it is more powerful and can deliver faster, more visible results compared to retinol .

Retinal is an effective and powerful ingredient in skin care that offers a wide range of benefits, from wrinkle reduction to treating acne and hyperpigmentation. However, it is important to use it with caution and follow the product instructions to minimize any irritation or unwanted side effects. If you have any concerns or experience an adverse reaction, consult a dermatologist for additional guidance.

You may be interested in this article about Vitamin A for the skin: benefits, foods and how to take it.

What is retinal used for?

Today, retinal is a component found in a multitude of facial treatments and care. If you want to know all its benefits, below we detail some of its main uses:

• Reduced wrinkles and fine lines: Retinal stimulates collagen production, which helps smooth wrinkles and fine lines, and improves skin firmness and elasticity.
• Acne treatment: Thanks to its exfoliating and anti-inflammatory properties, retinal can help unclog pores, reduce sebum production, and prevent the formation of new acne breakouts.
• Lightening dark spots and hyperpigmentation: Retinal acts on the excessive production of melanin in the skin, which helps fade dark spots, acne scars and hyperpigmentation.
• Improved skin texture and complexion: By promoting cell renewal, retinal smoothes skin texture, improves skin tone, and provides a more radiant, even complexion.

How to apply retinal

If you are thinking about starting some type of self-care treatment, you should keep in mind that proper application of retinal is essential to maximize its benefits and minimize any potential irritation. Follow these steps for an effective application:

• Clean and dry your skin: Before applying retinal, be sure to gently cleanse your face to remove makeup, dirt, and excess oil. Dry the skin completely with a soft towel.
• Apply a small amount: Use a small amount of product, about the size of a pea, and distribute it evenly over the skin. Avoid the area around the eyes and lips, as the skin in these areas tends to be more sensitive.
• Space out the application: If this is your first time using retinal, start by applying it only a few times a week and gradually increase the frequency as your skin gets used to the product. This helps prevent irritation and excessive dryness.
• Use sunscreen: Because retinal can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, it is crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during the day to protect your skin from sun damage and prevent hyperpigmentation.

Side effects of retinal

While retinal is generally safe for most people, some people may experience mild side effects early in use , which may include redness, especially during the first few weeks of use, as well as peeling or dryness. Some people may experience dryness, peeling, or a tight feeling of the skin.

These side effects are usually temporary and decrease as the skin adapts to the product. However, if you experience persistent or severe irritation, you should discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.

Difference between retinal and retinol

Although retinal and retinol are derivatives of vitamin A and share similar skin benefits, there are some key differences between them:

• Potency: Retinal is more potent than retinol and converts to retinoic acid more quickly in the skin, meaning it can provide faster, more visible results.
• Irritation: Due to its potency, retinal may be more irritating to sensitive skin than retinol. It is important to start with a lower concentration and gradually increase the frequency of use to avoid irritation.
• Stability: Retinal is more stable than retinol and has a longer shelf life, meaning it can remain active in skincare products for longer without degrading.

Now that you know what retinal is and what it is for, you may also be interested in learning about these other compounds such as Mandelic Acid: what it is and what it is for and Niacinamide: what it is for and how to use it .

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