Menopause brings a series of hormonal changes that affect not only general health but also the skin. The decrease in estrogen can result in thinner, drier skin prone to wrinkles. In this context, retinoids such as retinol and retinal stand out as key ingredients in skincare to counteract these effects. But what is the difference between them, and which is more effective for mature skin in menopause? How do you choose? How do you include them in your routine?
What are Retinol and Retinal?
Retinol and retinal are forms of vitamin A known for their ability to improve the appearance of the skin by stimulating cell renewal and collagen production. Both substances belong to the retinoid family, which also includes retinoic acid (tretinoin), a more potent treatment available only by prescription.
- Retinol: A widely used over-the-counter retinoid in skincare products. Once applied, retinol converts to retinal and then to retinoic acid in the skin, allowing it to exert its beneficial effects.
- Retinal: Also known as retinaldehyde, it is an intermediate form in the conversion of retinol to retinoic acid. Retinal is more potent than retinol because it requires only one conversion to become retinoic acid.
Key Differences Between Retinol and Retinal
Potency and Efficacy:
- Retinol: Requires two conversions (from retinol to retinal, then from retinal to retinoic acid) to be effective. This gradual conversion makes retinol less potent but also less irritating.
- Retinal: Requires only one conversion to become retinoic acid, making it more potent and effective in a shorter time. Studies have shown its efficacy in improving skin texture and tone more quickly than retinol.
Skin Tolerance:
- Retinol: Due to its slower conversion, retinol is generally better tolerated, causing less irritation and dryness, which is important for more sensitive skin, especially in menopausal women who may already be dealing with dry and thin skin.
- Retinal: Although more potent, it can be more irritating, especially at the beginning of the treatment. However, many retinal products include soothing ingredients to mitigate these effects.
Results and Time of Action:
- In both cases, changes in the skin will be noticeable around 4-6 weeks from the start of treatment, particularly in improving texture and even skin tone.
Recommendations for Starting to Use Retinol or Retinal
- Start with Low Concentrations: Opt for products with low concentrations (for retinol, we recommend 0.25% or 0.3%, and for retinal, even less) and gradually increase as you finish products.
- Usage Frequency: For the first 2 weeks, use it only two nights (e.g., Tuesday and Friday). Then increase to 3 nights and then to alternate nights. The idea is to gradually increase its use according to your skin's tolerance, not to irritate your face and peel your skin.... It’s not necessary to use it every night.
- Moisturization and Sun Protection: It is essential to protect your skin and reinforce it while using any type of retinoid. A good moisturizer to combat dryness and daily sunscreen application are necessary, as retinoids can increase sun sensitivity.
- Patience and Consistency: Results can take several weeks to become visible, so maintain a consistent routine.
- Combine with Soothing Products: On nights when you are not using retinoids, look for products that include ingredients like niacinamide or ceramides to reduce potential irritation.
- Listen to Your Skin: If you experience irritation, reduce the frequency of use and give your skin time to adapt. Don’t be reckless and increase the frequency because you will peel and your face will turn red...
- Sun Protection: Don’t forget… if you don’t use sunscreen, it doesn’t matter if you use retinoids or holy water; nothing will work if you don’t use sunscreen.
Which is Best for Menopausal Skin?
The choice between retinol and retinal depends on various individual factors, including skin sensitivity, personal tolerance, and specific skincare goals.
- For Sensitive Skin: Retinol may be the best option due to its lower potential for irritation. Women in menopause who experience dryness and sensitivity may benefit from its gentler action.
- For Normal Skin: I would go directly to a low-concentration retinal product. Recent studies indicate that retinal is up to 11 times more potent than retinol and not as irritating as previously thought. Retinal is ideal for treating deep wrinkles and improving skin texture more effectively.
Both retinol and retinal offer significant benefits for menopausal skin. The key is to choose the product that best suits individual needs and skin type, considering the final formula. It is always advisable to start with low concentrations and gradually increase usage frequency to minimize irritation. Seriously, take it easy; here, "more is better" does not apply. It's better to go slowly and allow your skin to adjust to these active ingredients.