If there’s one ingredient that skincare experts always come back to, it’s retinoids. Medical providers recommend them for everything from softening fine lines to clearing breakouts and evening skin tone. Retinoids are one of the most effective skincare ingredients for healthier, more radiant skin.
Here’s the thing: not all retinoids are made the same. Retinoids can come in various forms and strengths, such as retinol, retinal, or even prescription options like tretinoin. So what sets them apart? Let’s walk through it.
What Are Retinoids?
At their core, retinoids are a form of vitamin A. They help speed up how quickly your skin sheds old cells and produces new ones, which means smoother texture, brighter tone, and fewer clogged pores. Over time, this can help stop breakouts, fade dark spots, and soften fine lines and wrinkles.
Retinol vs. Retinal vs. Tretinoin
One of the most common questions people ask is: “What’s the difference between retinal, retinol, and tretinoin?” The answer is they are all a form of vitamin A, but their strength and how fast they work are different.
Retinol
The most common over-the-counter retinoid. It’s effective at restoring the skin, but it isn’t as strong as other forms of retinoids, so it can take longer to see results.
Retinal
Slightly stronger than retinol, retinal works faster to deliver visible results like smoother texture and fewer fine lines.
Tretinoin
There’s a reason the strongest retinoid is only available via prescription. While it works faster than retinol and retinal, skin irritation is more common, especially in the beginning. Make sure to consult with your provider to get the most out of your prescription.
Retinol Cream and Retinol Serum
If you’re dipping your toes into retinoids, retinol is usually the place to start. It’s effective, but gentler than prescription-strength options. Deciding between retinol cream and retinol serum is mainly based off of personal preference, but both can improve skin texture, fine lines, and skin appearance.
Your skin type, goals, and tolerance should guide which type of retinoid you choose. At Skin Clique, our providers take the guesswork out of choosing the right retinoid for your skin. You’ll get personalized guidance and access to prescription formulas if you need them. Book a consultation today.
Expert Approved Retinoids
Our experts have handpicked a collection of retinols and retinal's designed to deliver visible results while staying gentle on your skin. From smoothing fine lines to improving texture and tone, these retinoids will help you achieve radiant skin.
ZO Retinol Skin Brightener 0.5%
Get ready for a brighter, smoother complexion with Retinol Skin Brightener 0.5%. This powerhouse from ZO Skin Health is designed to quickly even out skin tone and reveal clearer, glowing skin you’ll love. Also available in 0.25% and 1.0%.
ZO Radical Night Repair
Wake up to better skin with the ZO Skin Health Radical Night Repair. This anti-aging treatment is formulated with 1% retinol to smooth texture, soften fine lines, and give your skin a brighter, more refreshed look by morning.
Hydrinity Retaxome Retinal Hydrator
Retinal just got a serious upgrade. This next-generation formula pairs powerful retinal with skin-quenching hyaluronic acid to smooth fine lines, boost hydration, and calm visible redness. Unlike traditional retinal's, this one is gentle enough for all skin types and can be used nightly from day one.
Skinbetter AlphaRet Overnight Cream
Wake up to smoother, brighter, more refreshed skin with the Skinbetter AlphaRet Overnight Cream. This award-winning treatment combines retinoid and lactic acid to deliver visible results with less irritation than traditional retinol. It works while you sleep so you can wake up with less fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
How to Use Retinoids
Retinoids often get a reputation for causing a long adjustment period, but it doesn’t have to be that way. These simple steps can help your skin ease into using retinoids comfortably.
- Apply retinoid at night. Sunlight can break down retinoids, which can make your skin sensitive to the sun.
- Start slow. Use retinoids two to three nights a week for the first two weeks, then increase as your skin adjusts. With Skinbetter’s Retaxome and Alpharet there is no adjustment period and you can use every night right out of the gate!
- Use moisturizer. If your skin is sensitive, you can try sandwiching with moisturizer (apply before and after).
Can You Use Retinoids While Pregnant?
Retinoids should not be used while pregnant or breastfeeding. Stick to products that still help with cell turnover like the Epionce Lytic Tx.
Achieve Healthy, Glowing Skin with Retinoids
Retinoids are amazing at reducing signs of aging, clearing breakouts, and improving overall complexion. Whether you’re starting with an over-the-counter retinol serum or, trying a stronger retinal, or using prescription tretinoin, these vitamin A powerhouses can transform your skin with consistent use. Pair them with a balanced skincare routine, including moisturizer, sunscreen, and targeted treatments, for the best results. Consult your provider to find the formula that’s right for your skin type and goals.
