Tretinoin vs. Retinol: Here's What You Really Need to Know
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Whether you’re new to retinoids or looking to refine your skincare routine, understanding the difference between tretinoin and retinol is essential. Both are vitamin A derivatives used to improve skin texture, fine lines, and acne—but how they work (and how your skin tolerates them) can be very different.
What Is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is a prescription-strength retinoid (also known as Retin-A) that works by speeding up cell turnover. It’s highly effective for improving skin texture, unclogging pores, and reducing the appearance of fine lines and pigmentation.
The downside? Tretinoin is known for causing irritation—redness, peeling, dryness—and with long-term use, may contribute to epidermal thinning , which can leave skin more fragile over time.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol is a gentler, over-the-counter alternative. Once applied, your skin converts it into retinoic acid, making it less intense but still effective over time.
It’s ideal for:
Sensitive or reactive skin
Gradual skin improvement
Long-term use without thinning the skin
Retinol offers visible results with less risk of irritation—especially when formulated correctly.
Why We Created
KH NightGlow
NightGlow is our gentle-but-potent retinol serum that works while you sleep to:
Refine texture
Smooth fine lines
Stimulate collagen production
Restore clarity without harsh side effects
It’s formulated with encapsulated retinol, calming hydrators, and antioxidants—making it ideal for nightly use, even on sensitive or aging skin.
Available in two different strengths: 50 and 100
50 has the strength of a 0.05% tretinoin
100 has the strength of a 0.10% tretinoin
Start with 50 and graduate to 100 when your skin becomes tolerant.
Nightglow + Prebiotic Peptide Serum = Power Duo
Apply KH Prebiotic Peptide Serum to clean damp skin so it binds extra water molecules and penetrates deeper, strengthening your barrier and locking in hydration.
Follow at night with KH NightGlow for targeted resurfacing and brightening while peptides keep skin soothed and balanced.
The duo works together to deliver a radiant, youthful glow.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to overdo it to see real results. If tretinoin feels too harsh—or you’re just starting out— retinol in NightGlow offers a smart, balanced way to support skin renewal for the long haul.
Shop our new duo KH NightGlow + Hydra-Lipid and explore our retinoid routine that works with your skin—not against it. The ultimate overnight glow.