If you know, you glow: Retinol / Retinal edition
Your glow starts at night
In the world of skincare, knowledge really is power and glow. Retinol and retinal are two of the most effective ingredients for smoother, firmer and brighter skin. They help refine texture, soften fine lines and boost your natural radiance while you sleep. Whether you are new to vitamin A or ready to upgrade your routine, this guide will help you understand the difference and find your perfect match.
Retinol vs Retinal: what’s the difference
Retinol and retinal are both part of the vitamin A family, and they share one goal: to help your skin renew itself for a smoother, fresher and more radiant look. But even though they come from the same family, they behave a little differently once applied to your skin.
Retinol is the most well-known form of vitamin A in skincare. It needs to go through several conversion steps inside the skin before it becomes active retinoic acid, which is the form your cells can use. Because of this gradual process, retinol works gently and steadily. It helps stimulate collagen production, reduce the look of fine lines and improve overall skin tone without overwhelming sensitive skin. It is perfect for those just starting their vitamin A journey or anyone who wants consistent, long-term results with minimal irritation.
Retinal, also called retinaldehyde, is the next step up in potency. It only needs one conversion step to become retinoic acid, which means it works faster and can deliver visible results sooner. Retinal is known for smoothing rough texture, refining pores and boosting elasticity more quickly than traditional retinol. Despite being stronger, it is often well-tolerated thanks to new K-beauty formulations that combine retinal with soothing ingredients like Centella and panthenol.
In simple terms, think of retinol as the gentle teacher that helps your skin learn slowly and safely, while retinal is the advanced coach that delivers quicker progress once your skin is ready. Both reduce the appearance of fine lines, fade dullness and help restore that fresh, lit-from-within glow. Your choice depends on your skin goals, your tolerance and how experienced you are with active ingredients.
Why vitamin A at night is a skin game changer
Your skin’s natural renewal process peaks while you sleep, which is when retinol and retinal work their magic. These ingredients help to
- Support collagen production for firmer, smoother skin
- Improve texture and refine pores
- Boost radiance and even out skin tone
- Strengthen the skin barrier for a more resilient complexion
When paired with a nourishing moisturizer and daily SPF, retinol and retinal can completely transform the way your skin looks and feels.
How to introduce retinol or retinal into your routine
Start slow and listen to your skin. Use your product two or three times a week in the evening and increase gradually as your skin adjusts. Always follow with a hydrating cream to support the barrier and prevent dryness.
Because vitamin A can increase sun sensitivity, always apply sunscreen during the day. And remember, consistency is key. With the right routine and patience, results will follow.
Our retinol favorites
SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Retinol 0.2 Boosting Shot Ampoule
A gentle yet powerful ampoule with retinol, Centella and panthenol to smooth, strengthen and brighten. Infused with micro-spicules that boost absorption, it helps the active ingredients reach deeper layers of the skin for maximum results. Perfect for beginners or sensitive skin types who want visible improvement without irritation.
The Vita A Retinol Shot Tightening Serum
A targeted serum designed to lift and firm tired skin. Packed with vitamin A and nourishing antioxidants, it refines texture, improves elasticity and helps your complexion look smoother and more refreshed every morning.
Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum
This rejuvenating serum is your go-to for visible anti-aging results. It combines retinol, retinal and bakuchiol to reduce wrinkles, refine pores and bring back your natural glow while staying gentle enough for daily use.
Some By Mi Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream
A multi-tasking eye cream that targets fine lines, puffiness and dark circles in one step. The blend of retinol, retinal and peptides helps firm and brighten the delicate eye area for a smoother, more awake look.
Medi-Peel Reti A Reedle Shot 100
An innovative ampoule that uses micro reedle technology to enhance absorption of retinol and active ingredients. It helps refine texture, firm the skin and promote deep renewal for a visibly smoother, more radiant complexion.
Our retinal favorites
The Vita A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster
The viral retinal that beauty lovers can’t stop talking about. This fast-acting booster helps lift, firm and refine your skin with visible results in just a few uses. Powered by retinal and nourishing vitamins, it improves elasticity and smoothness while giving your complexion a radiant, healthy glow. Gentle enough for nightly use yet powerful enough to transform your skin.
Seoul 1988 Eye Cream Retinal Liposome + 4 Fermented Bean
A luxurious eye cream that blends retinal with fermented ingredients and peptides to smooth fine lines and strengthen the delicate skin around the eyes. Expect a nourished, refreshed and radiant look with every use.
Seoul 1988 Serum Retinal Liposome + 2 Black Ginseng
A deeply revitalizing serum powered by retinal liposomes and black ginseng extract. It works to restore firmness, reduce dullness and boost your skin’s natural glow for a visibly healthy, balanced complexion.
Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng + Retinal
An ultra-smoothing eye serum enriched with ginseng and retinal to firm, brighten and awaken tired eyes. It supports collagen production and leaves the eye area looking refreshed and youthful.
Abib PDRN Retinal Eye Patch Glow Jelly
Refreshing hydrogel eye patches infused with retinal and PDRN to brighten and smooth the under-eye area. They deliver instant hydration and radiance while improving elasticity over time.
Let’s glow together
Whether you choose retinol or retinal, what matters most is consistency and care. Support your skin with hydration, protection and patience. The glow will follow because when you know, you glow.
