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Retinol vs Retinal: What’s the Difference?
The Science of Vitamin A, Simplified
If you’re serious about skin transformation—smoother texture, fewer lines, a more even tone—Vitamin A is non-negotiable. But with so many different versions, it’s easy to get lost in the jargon. Retinol? Retinal? Aren’t they just different names for the same thing?
Not quite. While both are part of the retinoid family, they don’t work at the same speed or intensity. And when it comes to results, efficiency matters.
At Rejuvaus, we’ve always used the gold standard—a slow-release, encapsulated form of retinaldehyde—in our Repair & Refine ABC Serum because it delivers superior results without the irritation. Here’s why.
Retinol: The Slow Burn
Retinol is one of the most well-known forms of Vitamin A. It’s effective, but it takes its time. That’s because it has to go through a two-step conversion in the skin before it becomes retinoic acid—the bioactive form that actually gets to work.
✔️ Retinol → Retinal (Retinaldehyde) → Retinoic Acid.
Each step in this process dilutes its potency, meaning results take longer. That’s why retinol can require months of consistent use before visible changes appear.
Retinal: The Smarter Choice
Retinal (aka retinaldehyde) is just one step away from retinoic acid, making it far more efficient. It converts quickly, delivers results faster, and is clinically proven to stimulate collagen, fade pigmentation, and clear breakouts more effectively than retinol—all while being gentler on the skin.
✔️ Retinal (Retinaldehyde) → Retinoic Acid
Faster conversion = faster results.
Why We Use Encapsulated Retinaldehyde in Repair & Refine ABC Serum
Not all retinal is created equal. That’s why we’ve always used a slow-release, encapsulated form of retinaldehyde in our Repair & Refine ABC Serum—so you get all the benefits without the irritation. Our advanced encapsulation technology allows retinaldehyde to be delivered gradually into the skin, mimicking your skin’s natural processes while reducing sensitivity and dryness.
5 Ways Retinal Outperforms Retinol
Faster, More Effective Results
Retinal is just one step away from retinoic acid, making it far more potent than retinol.
Encapsulation = Less Irritation
Our slow-release retinaldehyde delivers results without the harsh side effects of traditional retinoids.
Stimulates Collagen & Skin Renewal
Works on fine lines, pigmentation, breakouts, and skin texture all at once.
Safe for Daytime Use
Unlike retinol, our retinaldehyde is stable enough to use during the day (just don’t skip SPF).
Clears Breakouts Faster
Retinal’s antibacterial properties help reduce acne, unclog pores, and prevent future breakouts.
Pregnancy-Safe
Unlike many other Vitamin A derivatives, encapsulated retinaldehyde is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The Verdict? Retinal Wins.
Retinol may be the household name, but encapsulated retinaldehyde is the next-generation solution. It works harder, faster, and smarter—without the irritation that gives traditional retinoids a bad reputation.
That’s why we’ve always used a slow-release, encapsulated form of retinaldehyde in Repair & Refine ABC Serum—because results should be powerful, not punishing.
Ready for next-level Vitamin A? Your skin will thank you.
Looking for Skincare That Delivers?
Experience the power of professional-grade skincare with Rejuvaus—where every ingredient is chosen for its potency, performance, and ability to transform your skin.
DOCTOR GARRY CUSSELL
Since 2000, Rejuvenation Clinics of Australia has been pioneering advances in skin treatment, innovation, and therapy globally.
But for our founder and acclaimed skin specialist, Dr. Garry Cussell, there was always one innovation missing.
Even the most premium cosmeceuticals failed to deliver the kind of high-performing active ingredients needed to achieve and maintain the level of results he knew were possible.
After almost a decade of R&D, testing, and refinement, no expense has been spared creating the current Rejuvaus range. Prioritising results over profit. Always.
45
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
67,000
APPOINTMENTS
46,000
TREATMENTS
16,000
PATIENTS
