Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Woman & Home
Woman & Home
Lifestyle
Rebecca Fearn

MYSTERIOUS: Confused between retinol vs retinal our simple guide will help you choose - You Need To See This

Close up image of woman's hands as she applies cream on the back of one of them, in a white frame against a dusky pink watercolour-style background.

Retinol is an ingredient you likely will have heard plenty about. Known for its ability to 'turn back time' and touted as a gold standard skincare hero, the vitamin A derivative encourages collagen production and increases cell turnover to unveil brighter, fresher and more youthful-looking skin. It also works well with acne-prone skin, as it’s brilliant for treating breakouts.

However, lately a new – albeit very similar – ingredient has been shining just a little brighter: retinal (with an "a"). But what exactly is the difference between the best retinol creams and those with retinal, and which one should you be investing in for clearer, smoother-looking skin? Ahead, the experts will explain...

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.