For brands →

What's new. What's true.

Science · Ingredients

Retinol, retinal, tretinoin: a ladder.

They all end up as the same active in your skin. The difference is how many steps it takes to get there, and how hard each one hits.

Well Aware Desk6 Nov 20264 min read

One destination

Your skin uses retinoic acid. Most over-the-counter retinoids have to be converted into it first:

Retinol → Retinal (retinaldehyde) → Retinoic acid

Each conversion step means a gentler, slower product. Fewer steps means faster results, and more potential irritation.

01Retinol: two steps away. The usual starting point.
02Retinal: one step away. Faster, still over the counter.
03Tretinoin: retinoic acid itself. Prescription only.

How to climb

  • Start low, a few nights a week, at night.
  • Expect some dryness or flaking at first. Moisturise.
  • Wear sunscreen every day; retinoids can make skin more sun-sensitive.
  • Move up only when your skin is comfortable.
Strongest isn’t smartest. Consistent is.

Who should wait

Retinoids are generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tretinoin needs a prescription in India; use it under a doctor’s guidance.

General guidance, not medical advice.