Benzoyl Peroxide vs Retinal
Both target acne. Here's how they differ, and whether you should pick one or use both.
| Benzoyl Peroxide | Retinal | |
|---|---|---|
| Main job | Acne | Aging, acne, texture and pigmentation |
| Typical strength | 2.5% – 5% | 0.05% – 0.2% |
| Best time | AM/PM | PM |
| Irritation | ||
| Best for | Oily And Combination | Normal, Oily, Combination And Dry |
| Pregnancy | Ask | Avoid |
| Price in India | ₹150 – ₹800 | ₹900 – ₹3,000 |
The verdict
Both are similarly gentle. Choose based on your main goal: Benzoyl Peroxide for acne, Retinal for aging, acne, texture and pigmentation.
Using both? Don't mix Benzoyl peroxide is an oxidiser that can break down retinol before it has a chance to work, and together they are very drying. Use benzoyl peroxide in the morning (or as a wash) and the retinoid at night. How to layer them →
Benzoyl Peroxide in short
It kills acne-causing bacteria (C. acnes) by releasing oxygen into the pore. It works fast on inflamed pimples, but it is drying and can bleach towels and pillowcases.
Retinal in short
Retinaldehyde is one conversion step closer to retinoic acid than retinol, so it works faster than retinol while usually being gentler than tretinoin. It also has a mild antibacterial effect useful for acne.
Not sure which fits your skin?
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