Dermatologists adore retinol’s ability to increase skin cell turnover and stimulate the creation of collagen, the fiber in skin that maintains it tight and smooth. It’s as near as it comes to a one-stop shop for topical skin care products. Its effectiveness is also supported by a wealth of data. However, retinal, which is a member of the class of substances known as retinoids, which also contains retinol, may be able to outperform it. Retinaldehyde, short for retinaldehyde, is even more potent than retinol and has a comparable capacity to even out skin tone, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, clear up breakouts, and smooth out skin texture.
According to Dr. Gloria Lin, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology in New York City, retinoid derivatives are vitamin A that can be used to treat acne, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Retinal is the most effective of these, she says, but there are several over-the-counter alternatives at a lesser dosage. Some are only accessible with a prescription (sometimes grouped under the word “retinoids”).
GO Ahead and SkipHow did I choose the best retinal products? What is retinal? How can I shop for retinal products? Why should I trust NBC Select?
Selected.
-
Best overallYouth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
$undefined$72.00Sephora
Learn more
-
Editor s pickSkinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
$undefined$140.00Laz Skincare
Learn more
-
Best budget pickE.l.f. Youth Busting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum
$undefined$22.00Amazon
Learn more
-
Best for beginnersNaturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%
$undefined$31.99Amazon
Learn more
How I picked the best retinal product
According to our specialists, retinal solutions can address hyperpigmentation, acne, wrinkles, and a range of skin issues, including uneven texture and blocked pores. They advised taking into account the following elements when looking for retinal products:
-
Concentration
: The concentration of retinal can vary, with the lower end starting at 0.05% and going up to 1%. -
Additional ingredients
: Retinal is often paired with soothing and moisturizing ingredients to offset any potential for dryness or irritation. -
Delivery system
: Some retinal formulas are encapsulated, meaning it s housed in a capsule that dissolves after you apply them to skin, which may reduce irritation at the skin s surface and keep the ingredient stable.
Related
How often you should actually exfoliate and the best way to do it, according to derms
Would you want more from NBC Select?Shop more wisely by subscribing to our newsletter, The Selection.
The best retinal products
Your skin type and retinoid experience will determine which retinal product is best for you. We have listed top-rated face serums and creams below that can assist with breakouts, fine lines, wrinkles, and more. In order to reduce the possibility of irritation, all of the products on the list are balanced with hydrating ingredients, and many are fragrance-free.
Best overall:
Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
- Improves dull skin
- Lightweight
- Reinforces skin barrier
- Higher price point
According to Lin and Jacobs, this fragrance-free serum works well for the majority of skin types. According to Lin, in addition to being cruelty-free and vegan, it also includes 0.15% retinal, niacinamide, and ceramides to help nourish the skin. The brand claims that when combined, these substances can balance out skin tone and reduce fine wrinkles.
Best budget pick:
E.l.f. Youth Busting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum
E.l.f. Youth Busting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum
- Free of common irritants
- Smooths skin
- Reduces the look of fine lines
- Potent formula
This face serum, which is meant to be used overnight, contains two retinoids: 0.06% retinal and 1% granactive retinoid. Dr. Michael Jacobs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor of dermatology at Weill-Cornell Medical College, likes this fragrance-free formula since it s infused withhyaluronic acidfor hydration, he says. According to the manufacturer, it also contains antioxidants to help brighten skin even more.
Most versatile:
Allies of Skin Retinal & Peptides Repair Night Cream
Allies of Skin Retinal & Peptides Repair Night Cream
- Comes in two concentrations
- Smooths skin
- Improves tone and texture
- Higher price point
This fragrance-free night lotion contains antioxidants, peptides, and botanical oils in addition to a proprietary, encapsulated version of retinal (at a concentration of 0.05%). According to Jacobs, he enjoys this specific component combination since it simultaneously hydrates, protects, and renews the skin. Lin, who also likes the product, claims that it applies nicely and is mild.
Editor s pick:
Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
- Fast acting
- Moisturizing
- Free of common irritants
- Higher price point
This product, which comes expert recommended in our guide todermatologists skin care routines, pairs retinaldehyde withalpha hydroxy acidsfor a two-pronged approach to treating fine lines and dark spots, according toDr. Julie Russak, board-certified dermatologist in New York City. She claims that because it combines the advantages of exfoliation and retinal treatment, it is an exceptional option for treating several skin issues with a single product. I ve also personally found it to help control my hormonal breakouts while smoothing the texture of my skin, making it a must-have in my own routine.
Best splurge:
Isdin Retinal Advanced Dual-Phase Night Serum
Isdin Retinal Advanced Dual-Phase Night Serum
- Suitable for all skin types
- Gentle formula
- Improves tone and texture
- Most expensive on our list
- Not pregnancy-safe
According to Russak, this night serum is a fantastic choice for anyone who wish to address wrinkles and fine lines. When introduced gradually into your evening routine, it aims to reveal smoother and revitalized skin, she says. It also has a proprietary soothing complex, which includes niacinamide, to keep skin calm and hydrated, according to the brand.
Most gentle:
Peach & Lily Retinal for All Renewing Serum
Peach & Lily Retinal for All Renewing Serum
- Reduces dark spots
- Suitable for all skin types
- Helps the skin barrier
- Nothing to note at this time
Lin says she enjoys this Korean skin care line because it emphasizes preventative care and mild ingredients. According to Lin, the 0.1% retinal as well as ceramides and ectoin in this serum are particularly beneficial because they have been shown in studies to reduce inflammation brought on by retinoids. I
Best for beginners:
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%
- Improves tone and texture
- Firms the skin
- Reduces the look of fine lines
- Nothing to note at this time
Since this serum has a relatively low concentration of 0.05% retinal, it s beginner-friendly, says Lin. Plus, because of its unique cream serum texture, it is easy to apply, she says. The retinal is encapsulated to ensure it doesn t break down (and thus lose efficacy) while en route to skin s deeper layers, according to the brand. The fragrance-free formula also containsvitamin Eand apricot kernel oil to moisturize skin.
Best for sensitive skin:
Av ne Retrinal 0.1 Intensive Cream
Av ne Retrinal 0.1 Intensive Cream
- Plumps skin
- Has antioxidant protection
- Improves deep fine lines
- Higher price point
Lin likes this cream not only because it comes in two strengths (0.05% and 0.1%), allowing users to graduate to a higher percentage as their skin adjusts, but also because it s fragrance-free, which she says may be better for sensitive skin types. Plus, it is formulated with thermal spring water to help reduce the irritation, along with vitamin E and peptides to soothe and brighten skin, she says.
Best for mature skin:
Murad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
Murad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
- Improves deep fine lines
- Moisturizing
- Available in multiple sizes
- Potent formula
Designed to target sagging and deep wrinkles, this serum uses an encapsulated form of retinal as well as oat lipids and alpha glucan (to moisturize) and botanical ingredients, including kangaroo paw flower and olive leaf extract (to improve saggy skin). It can also be used on the neck to help lift and smooth sagging skin, according to the brand. It has a 4.9-star average rating from over 600 reviews on Sephora.
Best for dull skin:
The Ordinary Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
The OrdinaryRetinal 0.2% Emulsion
- Lower price point
- Improves skin luminosity
- Reduces the look of fine lines
- Potent formula
- Can leave slight color residue
This serum-like retinal, which has a 4.3-star average rating from over 900 reviews at Ulta, combats fine lines and the loss of firmness and elasticity, according to the brand. Reviewers say, their skin has a brighter appearance, smoother texture and a more even tone (including the fading of dark spots) after consistent nightly use. Plus, they appreciate that the serum doesn t cause any dryness, discomfort or tightness in their skin.
Best for acne-prone skin:
Paula s Choice Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment
Paula s Choice Pro Retinaldehyde Dual-Retinoid Treatment
- Gentle release formula
- Clears skin
- Suitable for all skin types
- Not pregnancy-safe
This creamy overnight treatment is excellent for those looking to decrease fine lines, enlarged pores, dark spots, uneven tone and texture, according to the brand. Besides retinaldehyde, it also has jojoba seed oil and adapinoid (an oil-soluble retinoid) to soothe the skin and combat acne triggers. You can use this with your nighttime moisturizer or apply it before your moisturizer to minimize potential dryness and irritation, according to Paula s Choice. It has a 4.9-star average rating from over 580 reviews at Sephora.
Related
The dos and don ts of using salicylic acid in your skincare routine
What is retinal?
Retinal, or retinaldehyde, is a derivative of vitamin A and delivers results more quickly than retinol (as well as other over-the-counter retinoids). It is considered the most effective retinoid in over-the-counter [skin care products], says Jacobs.
Because it s weaker than prescription-level retinoids, retinal is a good option though for those who cannot tolerate the prescription tretinoin, but want to see more benefits than with just plain retinol, says Lin. (Tretinoin is a form of retinoic acid, which makes it more powerful and therefore only available with a prescription.) Additionally, it s easier to access, as it doesn t require a trip to the dermatologist.
Finally, retinal also offers a middle ground for those looking to amplify the benefits of their retinoid. Some people may want to work their way up from retinol to retinal and then to a prescription tretinoin depending on their skin type, says Lin. It can be a way to step up your skin care regimen over time.
How to shop for retinal products
When searching for retinal products, our experts advise looking at the concentration. Start with a lower concentration of retinal and gradually increase usage as your skin adjusts, says Russak. That s because retinoids, in both prescription and over-the-counter products, can leave skin dry, flaky or irritated.
Your skin type and your history with retinoids can help guide you to the right concentration of retinal. On the lower end, you may find concentrations around 0.05%, while higher strengths have up to 0.1% retinal. If your skin is naturallydryorsensitive, consider trying a retinol first, since it s less powerful than retinal. If you can tolerate that, then you could move up to the lower strength retinal, says Lin. Meanwhile, if you have more oily skin, you can potentially start with a higher strength retinal, like 0.1%, and then increase it over time (or move up to a prescription-level retinoid) if tolerated, she says. The same goes for those who are currently using retinol without any side effects.
That said, individual tolerability can vary, and some people may still experience sensitivity or irritation when using retinal, says Russak. The formulation can also play a role; some ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid and ceramides (that are both hydrating), can help balance the inherent drying properties of retinal. Plus certain technologies such as encapsulating the retinal can also minimize side effects.Researchshows that encapsulation, which slowly releases the retinal over time, is a good way to keep retinal stable and avoid irritation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Like all retinoids, retinal offers a multitude of benefits for skin. Retinoids help increase the natural skin cell turnover to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, Lin says. They ve also been found to treat acne and even out skin tone, thus reducing hyperpigmentation.
As a result, products containing retinal can benefit a wide range of individuals, particularly those who are concerned with aging skin, acne, uneven skin tone and texture irregularities, says Russak. The below groups would benefit most from using a retinal product in their routine, she says.
- People who want to address signs of aging, like wrinkles and fine lines
- People who want to clear and prevent breakouts
-
People who want to improve skin tone and reduce
hyperpigmentation
and acne scars
- People who want overall skin rejuvenation and a healthier complexion
They re both types of retinoids, but they re not the same thing. The main difference lies in their chemical structures and how they interact with the skin, Russak says. In your skin, retinol needs to convert into retinal before it can further convert into retinoic acid, which is the active form that delivers benefits. Retinal, on the other hand, only needs to convert once to become retinoic acid.
The extra conversion needed by retinol ultimately weakens it, according to Jacobs. As a result, it takes longer to work. Meanwhile, retinal can potentially deliver quicker and more noticeable results in terms of improving skin texture, reducing wrinkles and addressing other skin concerns, says Russak.
While it may seem reasonable that the more potent ingredient, retinal, would have a higher risk of irritation, that s not actually the case. According to recent research, retinal is actually better tolerated by skin compared to retinol, says Russak. Since it requires fewer conversions in skin, that results in potentially fewer side effects such as irritation and dryness, she says.
That said, individual tolerance can vary, so it s possible to still experience sensitivity when using a retinal product. For that reason, some people with facialeczemaorrosaceamay find that retinoids worsen their condition; in that case, you should avoid using them, says Lin.
Retinal may require an acclimation period when first incorporating it into your skincare routine, Russak says. For that reason, she recommends starting with a lower concentration of retinal, with the option of gradually increasing it as your skin adjusts.
Retinal, as with all retinoids, have some contraindications; for instance, they re not safe duringpregnancyand breastfeeding. And for those who already have an extensiveskin care routinefor example, one that includes exfoliating acids like alpha hydroxy acid, beta hydroxy acid and poly hydroxy acid retinoids, including retinal, might be hard to tolerate, says Lin. Consider using those once weekly and taking a break from the retinoid that night if you want to incorporate both into your regimen, she says.
Meet our experts
At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and without undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
-
Dr. Gloria Lin
, MD, FAAD, is dermatologist with the Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City. She has special interests in the treatment of skin cancer, psoriasis and atopic dermatitis among others.
-
Dr. Michael Jacobs
, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical associate professor of dermatology at Weill-Cornell Medical College. In addition to practicing both medical and cosmetic dermatology, his research interests include the treatment of melanoma.
-
Dr. Julie Russak
, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital.
Why trust NBC Select?
I am afreelance beauty writer and editorwho has been covering beauty and health for more than a decade, including topics like skin care ingredients and sun protection. For this article, I spoke to three dermatologists to narrow down the retinal products to shop this year, and highlighted their recommendations for the best options to consider.
Catch up on NBC Select s in-depth coverage ofpersonal finance,tech and tools,wellnessand more, and follow us onFacebook,Instagram,TwitterandTikTokto stay up to date.
Note: Every piece of content is rigorously reviewed by our team of experienced writers and editors to ensure its accuracy. Our writers use credible sources and adhere to strict fact-checking protocols to verify all claims and data before publication. If an error is identified, we promptly correct it and strive for transparency in all updates, feel free to reach out to us via email. We appreciate your trust and support!