Your Retinol Might Be Cooked. Here's Why Retinal Fits SA Bathrooms.
By Michael C. · Written and reviewed by Michael C.
Retinoids · Published 2026-09-06 · 9 min read · 1069 words · Updated 2026-09-12
Heat and light degrade vitamin A. Retinal is one step closer to the active form — if you store it, dose it slowly, and wear SPF the next morning.
Key takeaways
- Heat and light degrade retinoids stored in warm South African bathrooms.
- Retinal converts in one step and often tolerates better when introduced slowly.
- Always pair night vitamin A with morning SPF to avoid trading texture for pigment.
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Source: DermNet / established retinoid conversion science (https://dermnetnz.org/)
Cover image: Unsplash — credit