This comparison is popular, but they serve different roles and have different evidence strength.\n\nRetinol (a vitamin A derivative) has stronger, long-established evidence for increasing cell turnover, supporting collagen, and improving acne/comedones—at the cost of irritation, dryness, and sun sensitivity. Retinoids are generally avoided in pregnancy.\n\nResveratrol is primarily an antioxidant/anti-inflammatory support ingredient. It can be a calming, supportive layer—especially for sensitive skin—and is used in formulas aiming to reduce photoaging-related oxidative stress. It should not be expected to deliver the same “skin remodeling” effect as retinol.\n\nA practical strategy: build barrier tolerance first (resveratrol/niacinamide), then introduce retinol for pigment/lines/comedones; consider alternating nights if combining.\n\nBottom line: the right choice depends on your goal and tolerance.