I love taking care of my skin, but my skincare routine is quite simple. In the morning, I use a vitamin C serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen. At night, I have been using retinol along with my favourite moisturiser, Vienna Skincare, for five years. But about a month ago, I decided to switch things up and try retinal instead. Retinal is the stronger, faster-acting cousin of retinol, and it promises to smooth wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. As I’m 62 and have some fine lines but still good elasticity, I was curious to see if it could make a difference.
Choosing the right retinal product wasn’t easy! I did my research, tested different formulas, and compared the results. Now, I’m sharing my personal experience with the best retinal serums for mature and dry skin so you don’t have to go through the same trial and error.
Retinal – What It Is and How It Works on the Skin
Retinal (or retinaldehyde) is an advanced form of vitamin A, known as one of the most powerful anti-ageing ingredients. What makes it stand out? It converts directly into retinoic acid, making it more effective and faster-acting than traditional retinol. It speeds up cell renewal, smoothens wrinkles, improves skin texture, and evens out tone. Plus, it has antimicrobial properties—so if you deal with breakouts as well as signs of ageing, it’s a great choice.
I noticed a difference quite quickly with retinal compared to retinol. My skin looked brighter and felt smoother in just a few weeks. That said, it’s also stronger, which means you have to be careful, especially if you’re new to vitamin A products. I started using it just twice a week and gradually increased the frequency. Moisturiser and sunscreen are non-negotiable when using retinal!
Choosing the Right Retinal Strength for You
Before diving in, it’s important to pick the right strength based on your skin’s experience with retinoids:
- Beginners / Sensitive Skin (0.05% – 0.06%) – If you’re new to retinal, start here. It’s strong enough to deliver anti-ageing benefits but gentle enough to minimise irritation.
- Intermediate Users (0.1%) – This is a great balance if you’ve used retinol before and want something stronger but still tolerable.
- Advanced Users (0.15% – 0.2%) – This is the highest over-the-counter strength and perfect if your skin is already used to retinoids. I’ve been using 0.2% and love the results, but it’s not for beginners!
My Top 7 Retinal Serums for Mature and Dry Skin
1. Medik8 Crystal Retinal 20 (0.2%)
Why I love it:
This was, hands down, the most effective retinal serum I tried. It’s packed with 0.2% stabilised retinal, plus hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerine to keep skin hydrated. My skin felt smoother within a few weeks, and I saw a real improvement in fine lines. It’s expensive, but if you want results, this is it.
Price: €125
Where to Buy?
Medik8 Official Website
Amazon EU
2. Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Cream
Why I love it:
If you have sensitive skin or are just starting with retinal, this is a great option. It’s creamy and soothing and contains hyaluronic acid, collagen precursors, and antioxidants. My skin felt hydrated and comfortable, with no irritation. The only downside? It’s hard to find in Europe!
Price: €150
Where to Buy?
This is the only online shop in Europe that I found Avène RetrinAL – Buy here
3. Allies of Skin 1A Retinal + Peptides
Why I love it:
This is a luxury retinal product with added peptides and niacinamide for extra hydration and barrier repair. It worked beautifully on my skin, keeping it firm and even-toned. It’s pricey, but if you want a retinal that also hydrates and soothes, this is worth considering.
Price: €100 – €145
Where to Buy?
Allies of Skin Official Website or on Amazon EU
4. Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 20
Why I love it:
This was my budget-friendly favourite! It contains 0.2% encapsulated retinal, absorbs quickly, and includes soothing ingredients like allantoin and panthenol. It delivered serious results at a fraction of the price of high-end brands. If you want an effective retinal without breaking the bank, this is the one.
Price: ~€22
Where to Buy?
Geek & Gorgeous website or on Amazon EU
5. Facetheory Multi-Crème Retinal Supreme 0.2%
Why I love it:
A high-strength retinal with added vitamin C for an extra brightening effect. It smoothed my skin and gave it a lovely glow. It’s almost half the price of Medik8, Avène, and Allies of Skin, so it’s great value for money.
Price: €69
Where to Buy?
Facetheory Official Store
6. Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum (0.02% Retinal + Ginseng)
Why I love it:
A gentle but effective retinal specifically for the eye area. If you have under-eye bags or fine lines, you’ll love this! It’s lightweight, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t irritate.
Price: ~€15
Where to Buy?
Beauty of Joseon website and Seukin Paris, a K-Beauty online store.
7. KSECRET – SEOUL 1988 Serum: Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng
Why I love it:
This was the most unique retinal I tried. With 2% encapsulated retinal and 58% black ginseng extract, it’s a powerhouse for anti-ageing. It felt lightweight, absorbed fast, and left my skin looking radiant.
Price: €17 – €35
Where to Buy?
seukinparis.com
mellowmorning.nl
How to Use Retinal Safely
- Start slow (2-3 times per week) and increase gradually.
- If irritation occurs, use the sandwich method (apply a moisturiser before and after retinal).
- Always apply at night, as retinal increases sun sensitivity.
- Use a rich moisturiser to prevent dryness (I swear by my Vienna Skincare cream!).
- Avoid strong actives like AHAs, BHAs, or benzoyl peroxide.
- Wear SPF 50 daily—no exceptions!
I hope this helps you find the perfect RETINAL! If you’ve tried any of these, let me know your thoughts.
Feature Image @notoriousmag