Retinol, retinal, HPR: similar names, what's the difference?
Shopping for retinoids gets confusing because the names are so close. Here's what skincare communities usually summarize.
The basics
- The form that actually acts in skin is described as retinoic acid
- Most cosmetic retinoids convert to retinoic acid in the skin through one or more steps. The general explanation: more steps, gentler but slower
Common types
- Retinyl palmitate: the most steps. Gentle, but many find the effect subtle
- Retinol: the mainstream option, with lots of research and products
- Retinal (retinaldehyde): one step closer than retinol, often described as faster, with irritation reports to match
- HPR (hydroxypinacolone retinoate): an ester form many beginners pick because it's said to be less irritating
Tips for choosing
- Concentration, formula and frequency often matter more than the name
- Many people start every other night or a few nights a week
- Prescription retinoids like tretinoin require a doctor
Which retinoid did you start with, and how did your skin adjust?
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