Retinol vs Retinal: Which Is Best For Your Skin?

It feels like not a day goes by without a new buzzy skin care ingredient popping up, sending beauty-lovers into overdrive. And while those of us devoted to skin care products have been familiar with the active ingredient retinol for a while, I’m starting to see more and more products made with retinal, and have been curious to learn what, if any, differences there are between these two ingredients. It turns out retinal is stronger and works faster than retinol to turn over skin cells, according to Dr. Deanne Mraz, a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology in Connecticut and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. “When it comes to skincare,” Mraz said, “consistency is key for efficacy, and it’s a matter of finding what works best for your skin — which can change seasonally and based on hormonal fluctuations.” Mraz believes that all skin types can benefit from increased skin cell turnover, but it’s important to find the right strength product and accompanying skin care. As always, be sure to check with your doctor if you are using prescription medications to manage any skin conditions, or if you’re in an active rosacea or psoriasis flareup, before using products with retinol or retinal.