Retinol Vs. Retinoid: What's The Difference?

You’re looking for anti-aging skincare products when you come across the ingredient retinol. But after doing more digging, you discover retinoids, which have very similar benefits. Now you’re scratching your head, wondering if someone made a typo, or if there’s really a difference between retinol and retinoid.

If that has ever happened to you, you’re not alone. Plenty of people think the terms “retinol” and “retinoid” can be used interchangeably when they don’t mean the same thing — not always, anyway. Let’s dive into retinol vs. retinoid so you can decide which ingredient is right for you.

Retinol vs. Retinoid

Is retinol the same as retinoid? Not exactly. Let us explain.

Retinoid is a catch-all term for compounds that are derived from Vitamin A. This means that retinoids can come in the form of tretinoin (the first retinoid “invented”), tazarotene, retinaldehyde, and many more.

Retinoids can also come in the form of retinol, which is what most consumers are familiar with. What sets retinol apart is that it contains a lower concentration, meaning it’s gentler than retinoids.

Put simply, retinol is a retinoid, and retinoids can include retinol. But more commonly, when people talk about “retinoids”, they mean prescription retinoids (meaning all retinoids but retinol). Meanwhile, “retinol” refers to the over-the-counter version of retinoids. If that made your head spin, keep reading for a more detailed explanation.

What’s The Difference Between Retinol And Retinoid?

Whether you use a retinoid or retinol, each contains the active ingredient called retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A. Retinoic acid is what your skin needs to repair and renew cells. Retinoids are more concentrated, so they pack a more powerful punch of retinoic acid. Since retinol isn’t as concentrated, it still has to convert into retinoic acid for it to be effective. This makes it weaker but more tolerable.

When using retinol, you likely won’t see results for up to 6 months or more. This is because the amount of retinoic acid absorbed by the skin is reduced, so skin cells will renew slowly. Retinoids such as tretinoin and isotretinoin contain pure retinoic acid, so chances are, you’ll see results within weeks of use.

When it comes to benefits, both retinoids and retinol can be used to treat a wide range of skin concerns such as acne, wrinkles, and other signs of skin aging. Studies have also shown that retinoids can be used to treat psoriasis, a condition that causes scaly patches to develop on the skin. Basically, you will reap the same benefits whichever you choose, but it’ll take you a little longer to see results if you use retinol.

Since retinoids are more potent than retinol, they may only be available by prescription. Retinol is available over-the-counter, so you won’t need your doctor’s go signal to buy it. (But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consult them — it would still be best to consult your doctor to ensure retinol won’t have any side effects, especially if you have sensitive skin).

What Are The Benefits Of Retinoid Or Retinol?

Now that you know what the difference between retinol and retinoid is, let’s take a look at what it can do for you:

Unclogs pores. Did you know that retinoids were initially used to treat acne, not to get rid of the signs of skin aging? Retinoids can unclog pores and curb oil production, so you can say goodbye to breakouts.
Fights skin aging. Retinol and retinoids are the go-to ingredients for increasing collagen, which is what keeps your skin strong and wrinkle-free, among many things. Collagen degradation can start as early as your 20s, so that’s a good time to start adding retinoid or retinol to your routine.
Improves skin tone. Vitamin A derivatives can remove dead skin cells to reveal more even-toned skin. That said, retinoids work wonders when it comes to reducing discoloration.

How To Add A Retinoid To Your Routine

Whether you decide to use a retinoid or retinol, here are a few tips to make sure you get the most out of this ingredient:

1. Integrate it gradually

Some products can be added to your skincare routine whenever you want, but with retinoid or retinol, you have to take it slow. Retinoids in particular are incredibly potent, so your skin may not be able to tolerate them immediately. Begin by using retinoid or retinol once or twice a week to allow your skin to get used to it, and then work it up to every other day. Once your skin can handle it, you can include the product in your daily routine. Note that you shouldn’t apply it more than five times per week as this can lead to irritation.

2. Be Mindful Of The Sun

Retinoids or retinol increases your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, so you should only use it in the evening. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 during the day to protect your skin from premature aging. And since retinoids can break down in the sun, be careful where you put your products. Always store retinoid or retinol in a cool, dry place away from any windows.

3. Pay Attention To The Side Effects

Certain side effects such as dryness and redness come with retinoid or retinol use. But if you notice any burning or flaking, this anti-aging ingredient may not be for you. Don’t worry — retinoids aren’t the only anti-aging ingredients out there. You can also consider vitamin C, niacinamide, and salicylic acid.

4. Don’t Forget To Moisturize

Retinoids can be drying, so be sure to keep your skin hydrated! Pair a retinoid with a moisturizer such as the Personalized Day Moisturizer to reduce the dryness it’s bound to cause. Sandwiching a retinoid between two layers of moisturizer is also a great way to down the product’s potency.

5. Use Products Formulated For The Eyes

As a rule of thumb, the products you use on your face shouldn’t be the same products you use around your eyes. Choose a product specifically formulated for the under-eye area, such as an eye cream. Retinol meant for your face may be too intense for your under-eye area.

6. Don’t Mix Retinol With Certain Products

Not all ingredients work well together. Retinol, for example, can’t mix with vitamin C, AHA/BHA acids, and benzoyl peroxide. Choose formulas that complement each other, or else you won’t see results.

Should You Use Retinoid Or Retinol?

Starting with retinol is a great way to ease into the world of retinoids. You may not be able to tolerate strong doses of retinoids right away, which is why it’s always a good idea to start with something gentler. Retinol suits most skin types and it can already improve your skin's appearance, even in low concentrations. Although you’ll have to be patient with retinol, the wait will be worth it. You can always consult a skincare professional if you think your skin needs something stronger.

However, if you have chronic skin conditions such as rosacea or eczema, proceed with caution. Retinoids (including retinol) can do more harm than good if you have problematic skin, so it’s best to consult a board-certified dermatologist before introducing new products to your routine.

Ready To Add Retinol To Your Routine?

Adding retinol to your routine can be tricky because certain products can cancel each other out. The good news is that with our Skin Quiz, you don’t need to figure that out yourself. With our help, you can create a complete skincare system with clean ingredients that work well with retinol. Or, if you’re looking for retinol that’s safe to use around the eyes, set your sights on our Personalized Eye Cream Duo. Not only can it fight the signs of skin aging, but it can also combat other skin concerns.

It takes only three minutes to make a retinol-infused formula that suits your skin. Take our Skin Quiz so you can see for yourself why retinol is considered the king of skincare ingredients.

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