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Pol J Cosmetol 2025, 28(3): 84-89pl  Retinoids in cosmetology - a comparative analysis of the efficacy of retinol and retinalMałgorzata Szczepanek 1/, Michalina Gosztyła 1/, Mateusz Koziej 2/ 1/ Student, Wydział Lekarski, Warszawski Uniwersytet Medyczny, Warszawa, Polska 2/ Katedra i Zakład Anatomii, Uniwersytet Jagielloński Collegium Medicum, Kraków, Polska Summary Retinol and retinal (retinaldehyde) represent first generation retinoids renowned for their scientifically documented anti-aging and regenerative efficacy. Both compounds are biologically inactive precursors that require intracellular oxidation into retinoic acid in order to activate nuclear RAR/RXR receptors. The therapeutic efficacy of these compounds is determined by their position within the metabolic pathway and the kinetics of their biotransformation in the skin tissue. The aim of this study is to provide a comparative analysis of the molecular mechanisms, therapeutic efficacy and safety profile of retinol and retinal. This study is a review article. The literature analysis was based on scientific publications from the years 2021-2026 available in the PubMed and Scopus databases. The search was conducted using keywords associated with the mechanism of action, efficacy and safety of topical retinoids. Retinol requires a two-step conversion to its active form, resulting in a slower onset of action and a requirement for higher concentrations. This increases the risk of inducing transient retinoid dermatitis. Retinaldehyde is a direct precursor to retinoic acid. It acts faster and more effectively at significantly lower concentrations while maintaining an optimal tolerance profile. A unique feature of retinal is its direct antibacterial activity against Cutibacterium acnes. Retinol and retinal exhibit effective, multidirectional effects on both the epidermis and dermis. Retinaldehyde is characterized by a faster onset of action and unique antibacterial properties. Detailed knowledge of the cellular pharmacokinetics and tolerability profile of these compounds enables individualized therapy and the reduction of adverse effects. Key words: retinoids, retinol, retinaldehyde, skin photoaging, anti-aging activity, skin tolerance, acne vulgaris |