{"id":8885,"date":"2026-03-12T08:49:25","date_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:49:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.isdin.com\/en-US\/blog\/?p=8885"},"modified":"2026-03-12T08:51:50","modified_gmt":"2026-03-12T08:51:50","slug":"complete-guide-to-retinal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.isdin.com\/us\/blog\/isdinnovation\/complete-guide-to-retinal\/","title":{"rendered":"Retinal (With an A): The Complete Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"Reading:<\/span> 6<\/span> minutes<\/span><\/span>\n

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While you might be familiar with retinol on your shelves and newsfeeds, retinal with an A<\/em> is a favorite of skincare professionals and dermatologists. But what makes retinal different from its well-known counterpart, retinol? And is it right for your skin?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We\u2019re joined by Martina Trabacchi, pharmacist and ISDIN Medical Communication Specialist, to unveil the facts behind its skincare benefits. Plus, discover how retinal works to fight against the visible signs of skin aging (if you\u2019re into that kind of thing).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let\u2019s get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What is retinal?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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THE BASICS<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

RETINALDEHYDE<\/strong>

WHAT <\/strong><\/mark>IT IS<\/strong><\/mark>:<\/strong> <\/mark>Retinoid (vitamin A derivative)

WHAT IT DOES: <\/strong><\/mark>This age-defying agent boosts skin turnover to help blur fine lines and redefine your skin's texture. 

WHO IT'S FOR:<\/strong> <\/mark>Depending on the formula, retinal can be gentle enough for all skin types. But it's best to start slow and consult your dermatologist. 

HOW TO USE IT:<\/strong> <\/mark>Topical retinal is ideally used in serums or moisturizers at night on clean, dry skin.

GOES WELL WITH:<\/strong> <\/mark>Hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, bakuchiol

DON\u2019T MIX WITH:<\/strong> <\/mark>Space out your vitamin C and retinoid products (stick to C in the morning and retinal at night). When it comes to glycolic acid, consider alternating nights using the skin cycling<\/a> method. 

TRY IT IN:<\/strong> <\/mark>Retinal Advanced<\/a>, Retinal Eyes<\/a>
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What are the skincare benefits of retinal?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Retinal is probably best known for its wrinkle-fighting capacity. But the ability to speed up the skin’s natural renewal process makes this hero ingredient quite the multitasker.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Here\u2019s what retinal can help with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n