Retinol/Retinal

What is the difference?

• Retinol has to be converted by the skin in several steps. It works more gradually and is a good choice to begin with, such as the Black Rice Night Knight Retinol Serum by Haruharu Wonder or the Retinol 0.3% + Niacin Renewing Serum by Anua.
• Retinal is one step closer to the active form. It generally works faster but suits skin that is already used to it, such as the Retinol Retinal 2000 NAD+ Serum by Purito.
• Eye area: dedicated formulas, such as the Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal by Beauty of Joseon. See also our eye care.

How to start

Apply it in the evening, on dry skin, two to three times a week for the first few weeks, then increase if your skin tolerates it. Tightness or light flaking at the start is common: space out applications and rely on a soothing cream.

Precautions

• Sunscreen every morning is essential; see our sun protection.
• Avoid combining it with exfoliating acids on the same evening.
• Retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding: ask a healthcare professional for advice.

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