Retinol and retinoid are two confusing terms, especially for skincare newbies trying to get into the clear skin game. While sometimes used interchangeably, retinol and retinoid do not necessarily mean the same thing and in today’s article, we will be clarifying the difference to help you pick the right active for your skin.
Retinol Vs Retinoid
Retinoid(s) is an umbrella term used to refer to vitamin A derivatives or actives that function like vitamin A and are used in skincare to address skin concerns such as anti-aging, hyperpigmentation, acne, rosacea, etc. In its original form, vitamin A or retinoic acid is effective against these conditions. However, pure retinoic acid is unstable and oxidizes when exposed to light and air. It also causes significant side effects like skin dryness, peeling, redness, irritations, etc. Vitamin A derivates, on the other hand, are more stable (albeit weaker) and get converted into retinoic acid by retinoic acid receptors present in the skin.
Retinol is a type of retinoid and by far the most popular of all available over the counter for improving signs of premature aging, mild acne, hyperpigmentation, and skin texture irregularities. Although it is less effective than retinoic acid, it still presents the risk of peeling (purging).
Which Retinoid Should You Choose for Your Skin?
Before picking a retinoid treatment it is important to understand that not all retinoids are equal. Depending on their strength, the condition you are trying to tackle, and your skin’s tolerance, one retinoid may be suitable over another. Here is a quick breakdown of all retinoids in order of potency.
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
Targets: Severe cystic and nodular acne
Conversion: None (oral retinoic acid)
Notes: Most potent; prescription-only for severe cases, reducing oil production and inflammation.
Tazarotene
Targets: Acne, psoriasis, photo-aging
Conversion: Converts to tazarotene acid, which binds to retinoic acid receptors
Notes: Potent prescription retinoid, effective for cell turnover and inflammation.
Trifarotene
Targets: Mild to moderate acne (face and body), photo-aging
Conversion: None; binds specifically to RAR-γ receptors
Notes: Newest prescription retinoid, with high affinity for certain receptors, suitable for body and face acne.
Tretinoin (Retin-A)
Targets: Acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles
Conversion: None (topical retinoic acid)
Notes: Prescription-strength, effective for cell renewal and anti-aging.
Adapalene
Targets: Acne, comedonal and inflammatory acne, mild photoaging
Conversion: None; binds to beta and gamma retinoic acid receptors
Notes: Less irritating, available OTC at lower concentrations (0.1%), suitable for acne-prone and sensitive skin.
Retinal (Retinaldehyde)
Targets: Mild to moderate acne, early signs of aging
Conversion: 1 step to retinoic acid
Notes: Potent OTC option, effective for anti-aging and acne with minimal irritation.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (Granactive Retinoid)
Targets: Fine lines, skin texture, uneven tone
Conversion: None; binds directly to retinoic acid receptors
Notes: Gentle, less irritating, ideal for sensitive skin and early signs of aging.
Retinol
Targets: Early signs of aging, mild acne, texture irregularities
Conversion: 2 steps to retinoic acid (first to retinal, then to retinoic acid)
Notes: Common OTC retinoid, moderately potent, promotes cell turnover and texture improvements.
Retinyl Retinoate
Targets: Fine lines, hyperpigmentation, mild photo-aging
Conversion: 2 steps to retinoic acid
Notes: Mild and gradual anti-aging effects, suitable for sensitive skin.
Retinyl Propionate
Targets: Preventative anti-aging, uneven skin texture
Conversion: 3 steps to retinoic acid
Notes: Mild retinoid ester, gentle on the skin, suitable for beginners.
Retinyl Linoleate
Targets: Preventative anti-aging, skin hydration
Conversion: 3 steps to retinoic acid
Notes: Retinoid ester combined with linoleic acid for added hydration; gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
Retinyl Acetate
Targets: Preventative anti-aging, skin tone maintenance
Conversion: 3 steps to retinoic acid
Notes: Mild retinoid ester, commonly used in low-potency anti-aging products, is suitable for maintenance.
Retinyl Palmitate
Targets: Preventative anti-aging, skin smoothing
Conversion: 3 steps to retinoic acid
Notes: Mildest form, ideal for beginners and those with sensitive skin.
What’s The Difference Between Retinol And Tretinoin?
Tretinoin and retinol are the most popular retinoids both in terms of hype and scientific research. While the former is a prescription-strength retinoid, the latter is easily available in skincare products over the counter.
Both actives are used in the treatment of acne, hyperpigmentation and aging but the
main difference lies in their potency. Tretinoin is pure retinoic acid that is mostly used to treat very severe and stubborn forms of acne. While very effective it presents a high risk of irritation as such should not be taken without medical supervision.
Retinol on the other is weaker (but still effective) requiring two steps to convert into retinoic acid. Retinol will take a longer time to deliver results than tretinoin, but the skin will tolerate it better. Although less potent than tretinoin, as far as over-the-counter retinoid treatments go retinol records the most potential for irritation. Nonetheless, new technologies like encapsulation or gentle formulations can help mitigate skin purging or irritation.
Which Is Better Between The Ordinary’s Retinol 1% In Squalane And Retinoid (Granactive 2%)?
The Ordinary is among the most popular brands to offer a wide selection of retinoid-based serums for various use cases. Two that stand out are the Retinol 1% in Squalane and Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion. If you are looking into getting a new retinoid here is a comparison of these two products to guide your choice.
Retinol 1% In Squalane:
Ideal for individuals with prior retinol experience seeking to address advanced signs of aging, such as deep wrinkles and significant hyperpigmentation.
Effectiveness: Contains 1% pure retinol, a potent form of vitamin A that promotes cell turnover, addressing fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
Texture: Oil-based serum with a lightweight consistency, suitable for most skin types.
Irritation: High retinol concentrations can cause dryness, redness, and peeling, especially for those new to retinoids.
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion:
Suitable for those new to retinoids or with sensitive skin, aiming to improve skin texture, fine lines, and mild pigmentation issues with minimal irritation.
Effectiveness: Features 0.2% hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR), a retinoic acid ester that doesn't require conversion in the skin, offering similar benefits to retinol with potentially less irritation.
Texture: Emulsion with a creamy, hydrating feel, making it suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin.
Irritation: Generally causes less irritation compared to traditional retinol, making it more suitable for beginners or those with sensitive skin.
Is 2% Granactive Retinoid Stronger Than 1% Retinol?
The strength comparison between 2% Granactive Retinoid and 1% Retinol isn't straightforward due to their different mechanisms.
Retinol requires conversion to retinoic acid in the skin, undergoing two steps, which can reduce its potency and increase the potential for irritation. It is most effective in promoting cell turnover and collagen production but may cause dryness and peeling, especially at higher concentrations. For those seeking potent anti-aging effects and who have previously tolerated retinoids, Retinol 1% in Squalane may be appropriate.
Granactive Retinoid (HPR) directly binds to retinoid receptors without conversion, potentially offering similar benefits with less irritation. HPR provides comparable anti-aging benefits with a lower risk of irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Individuals with sensitive skin or new to retinoids should consider starting with Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion to minimize potential irritation.
What Not To Mix With Granactive Retinoid
Certain ingredients can interact negatively with Granactive Retinoid, leading to irritation or reduced efficacy. Combining these actives can lead to increased skin irritation, redness, and peeling. Some combinations may even reduce the stability and efficacy of the retinoid. Ingredients to avoid include:
Exfoliating acids like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) can increase skin sensitivity when used with retinoids.
Pure Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) may destabilize retinoids and irritate them.
Benzoyl Peroxide can oxidize retinoids, diminishing their effectiveness.
Building a Skincare Routine Around Granactive Retinoid:
Here is what a simple skincare routine with a granactive retinoid treatment can look like.
Evening Routine:
Cleanse using a gentle, non-irritating cleanser to remove impurities.
Apply Granactive Retinoid serum after cleansing, apply the retinoid to dry skin.
Follow with a hydrating, fragrance-free moisturizer to support the skin barrier.
Morning Routine:
Cleanse with a mild face wash to prepare for the day.
Apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer.
Protect your skin using a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) to protect retinoid-treated skin from UV damage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retinol Vs Retinoid
What’s The Difference Between Retinoid And Retinol?
Retinoids are a broader category of Vitamin A derivatives, while retinol is a specific, milder form. Retinoids generally work faster but may cause more irritation than over-the-counter retinol.
Which Is Better Between Retinol Vs Retinoid?
If you’re new to Vitamin A and trying to choose between retinol vs retinoid, retinol offers gentle and gradual results with minimal irritation. Retinoids, however, are more potent, and ideal for faster results but often require a prescription and skin adjustment.
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