# #171) We have to talk about this again: RETINOL VS RETINAL

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/chemist-confessions-880199/171-we-have-to-talk-about-this-again-retinol-vs-retinal
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/chemist-confessions-880199/171-we-have-to-talk-about-this-again-retinol-vs-retinal.md
Podcast: [Chemist Confessions](https://stenobird.com/podcast/chemist-confessions-880199)
Published: 2026-04-01T08:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://chemistconfessions.podbean.com/e/171-we-have-to-talk-about-this-again-retinol-vs-retinal/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/49vq9p4zt3e9d3qv/CC_EP171_FINALE7ejqa.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/chemist-confessions-880199/episodes/171-we-have-to-talk-about-this-again-retinol-vs-retinal
Duration seconds: 2216

## Resource

We are diving back into the "rumor mill" of the retinoid world! Is Retinal actually better than Retinol, or is it just better marketing?In this episode, we revisit the Retinol vs. Retinal debate with new 2026 data. We break down what the evidence says about the retinoid conversion pathway into retinoic acid. We look at the latest clinical evidence to help you decide if it’s time to switch your anti-aging active or stay the course with your current skincare routine. Episode Timestamps0:00 - Intro: Revisiting the Retinoid Rumor Mill1:34 - Why Retinal (Retinaldehyde) is Growing in Popularity2:01 - The Science of Retinoic Acid Conversion Steps5:30 - What the Data Shows (Retinol vs. Retinal ex vivo Conversion)9:15 - Retinal vs. Retinol: Potency & Efficacy Realities14:40 - Is Retinal Actually Gentler? (Irritation & Skin Barrier)18:20 - Debunking High-Concentration Retinoid Myths23:55 - Reviewing Recent Retinal Product Launches28:10 - How to Choose: Retinol or Retinal for your Skin Type?36:22 - Final Verdict: Should You Switch Your Active? Resources & Mentions Retinal vs Retinol on the CC Blog: https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/retinal-is-it-better-than-retinolRetinol vs Tretinoin: https://chemistconfessions.com/blogs/tretinoin-vs-retinolFollow us on IG : @chemist.confessions #chemistconfessions #retinal #retinol #skincarescience #antiaging #retinaldehyde #skincareroutine

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