Years ago, retinol became the most famous ingredient in the world of anti-wrinkle cosmetics. It is a compound derived from vitamin A that can be applied to the skin to address wrinkles and spots, while contributing to the improvement of skin texture and appearance.
When we were all beginning to know the benefits of Retinol, a cousin has appeared that has become a trend: we are talking about retinal. That's why now we ask ourselves: Retinol or retinal?
Although both are intended to reduce the effects of aging, they have differences in their properties, which in turn determines the type of skin for which their use is recommended.
At El Comprador de La Vanguardia we want to clarify this doubt and, therefore, we tell you what they are, how they act on the skin, and for whom they are most suitable. Take note and choose if your daily beauty ritual should include retinol or retinal.
The main difference between retinol and retinal in cosmetics lies in their form and potency. Both are compounds derived from vitamin A, but they have different characteristics.
Retino, also known as retinoldehyde or vitamin A1, helps treat wrinkles, fine lines, skin blemishes and improves texture. However, it is less potent than retinal because it requires enzymatic conversion in the skin to become retinoic acid, which is the active form that benefits the skin. In its favor we can say that it is less irritating than retinal and therefore makes it suitable for most people, especially those who are starting out with vitamin A products.
Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is found in higher quality or prescription skin care products. Its advantage is that it offers faster and more effective results in reducing wrinkles, spots and improving skin texture. On the other hand, it can be more irritating and cause redness or peeling of the skin.
We advise you to opt for retinol if you are over 40 years old and want to prevent or treat the first wrinkles and skin spots.
You should choose retinal if you are over 50 years old and want a very effective product against wrinkles. In addition, it is also recommended for people who suffer from acne and those who have very oily skin.
This serum from the Sesderma brand is a powerful anti-aging elixir that not only prevents, but also corrects the signs of aging, such as expression lines, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity, luminosity and firmness in the skin.
Its formulation brings together retinoids, hyaluronic acid, growth factor TGF-B2, peptides, zinc and antioxidants, which provides gentle exfoliation, improving the texture and tone of the skin without causing irritation. Additionally, it promotes deep hydration.
The prestigious brand specialized in anti-blemish products, Bella Aurora, has in its catalog this anti-wrinkle serum with great firming and retexturizing properties.
Its formulation is based on the combination of retinol and bakuchiol. While retinol is responsible for reducing wrinkles and blurring expression lines, bakuchiol enhances anti-aging effectiveness with greater skin tolerance.
Likewise, the formula is enriched with collagen-stimulating peptides, which improves skin elasticity and reduces signs of aging on the face over time.
RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream is a high-potency anti-wrinkle treatment that rejuvenates the skin.
Its formula nourishes and hydrates the skin for 24 hours, while smoothing expression lines and wrinkles. In just one week, skin looks smoother and more radiant. In four weeks, expression lines appear less pronounced, and in eight weeks, noticeable wrinkles are visibly reduced.
This formula is enriched with pure RoC Retinol, which effectively combats aging, and hydrating hyaluronic acid to revitalize the appearance of the skin.
Isdin's Biphasic Night Serum is a powerful solution for skin renewal. Its innovative formula with retinaldehyde visibly reduces wrinkles and expression lines, providing smoother, more uniform and rejuvenated skin.
In addition to combating the signs of aging, this serum repairs, hydrates and soothes the skin, minimizing the dryness commonly associated with retinoids.
Its ingredients include retinaldehyde, bakuchiol, Vit-A-Tech, melatonin and a calming complex with niacinamide. It is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive ones, who are looking for a younger appearance.
The Sensilis Pure Age Perfection Retinal serum is a specialized treatment for sensitive and oily acne-prone skin.
Its oil-free formula contains 5% encapsulated retinal that effectively redensifies and perfects oily skin by stimulating collagen synthesis. In addition, it incorporates organic silicon and prebiotics to maintain the balance of the skin microbiota, promoting healthy and balanced skin.
It promises a 69% increase in collagen synthesis in 48 hours, 40% greater skin density and a 50% reduction in blemishes in one month.
Medik8 Crystal 1 Retinal Serum is an overnight vitamin A treatment, containing 0.01% retinaldehyde, a gentle concentration ideal for increasing collagen production and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
This fast-absorbing serum combines retinaldehyde with vitamin E and hyaluronic acid to prevent dryness and address signs of premature aging. It stands out for its speed, being 11 times faster than retinol, and its results comparable to retinoic acid, but without causing irritation.
Plus, it's clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It is a wise choice for blemish-prone skin, as retinaldehyde is the only directly antibacterial form of vitamin A.
*Prices updated on October 19, 2023
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