Retinal vs Retinol: What Is the Difference and Which Is Right for Your

Retinal vs Retinol: What Is the Difference and Which Is Right for Your Skin?

13 days ago By Omorovicza

Vitamin A is one of the most researched ingredients in skincare, celebrated for its ability to refine texture, smooth fine lines, and support a radiant, more even complexion. Yet within the world of Vitamin A, two names often spark confusion: Retinal and Retinol. While they sound similar, their impact on the skin can be remarkably different.

To work its magic, Vitamin A must convert into Retinoic Acid, the active form the skin can directly use. This conversion process determines how quickly and effectively results appear.

Retinol must convert twice before becoming Retinoic Acid.
Retinal is one step closer, requiring only a single conversion.

This seemingly small difference has significant implications for efficacy and skin tolerance.

Why Retinal Is 11x More Effective

Because Retinal sits closer to the skin’s natural active state, it is recognised and used more efficiently. In fact, research shows that a much smaller dose of Retinal is needed to deliver results equivalent to Retinol.

This efficiency means Retinal can deliver visible improvements 11x faster, while using a lower concentration.

Does Higher Potency Mean More Irritation?

Traditionally, stepping up to stronger Vitamin A derivatives has meant an increased risk of dryness, redness, or sensitivity. However, modern formulations have changed what’s possible.

Encapsulation protects Retinal, enhancing penetration while releasing it gradually to minimise disruption. This creates a more comfortable experience for even those easing into Vitamin A for the first time.

How Retinal Works in Midnight Renewal

NEW & IMPROVED

In Midnight Renewal, encapsulated Retinal works synergistically with our Healing Concentrate™ to strengthen the skin’s barrier while reducing visible signs of ageing. The formula delivers fast-acting, clinically proven results without the typical irritation associated with traditional Retinol use.

Midnight Renewal is clinically proven to...

Decrease wrinkles by up to -28% after one use*
Increase skin firmness by up to +44% in 4 weeks*
Increase skin elasticity by up to +25% in 4 weeks*

*Results from an independent in-vivo trial completed over 4 weeks on 20 volunteers aged 46–65.

Retinal vs Retinol: Which Should You Choose?

If you’re new to Vitamin A or have previously found Retinol too disruptive, Retinal offers a more advanced, efficient alternative. Because it requires fewer conversions, it acts more quickly and at lower doses, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking potent results with refined tolerance.

Both Retinal and Retinol are proven, effective forms of Vitamin A. The difference lies in how quickly they get to work and how comfortably your skin adapts. Thanks to next-generation encapsulation and the soothing, strengthening power of the Healing Concentrate™, Midnight Renewal allows you to experience the full potential of Retinal in a gentle yet transformative way.