The 18 Best Retinol Products That Smooth Wrinkles and Fight Acne, According to Dermatologists
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Updated March 25, 2024: This article on the best retinol products was updated with new product selects after a round of testing, as well as more information on what to look for in retinol products and how to select the best formula for your skin type. Our editors are currently testing additional retinol face serums and creams from brands like The Ordinary and Sunday Riley for consideration in this expert-approved guide.
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Consider retinoids the superfoods of skin care. This category of skin care ingredients is second only to face sunscreen in wrinkle-fighting power, but the best retinol products do more than soften fine lines. These vitamin A derivatives also help to fight acne, refine texture, and fade dark spots, according to Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, dermatologist, Dr. Naana Boakye. To reap the maximum benefits, you need to use the best retinol products that work well with your skin, so you’re inclined to use it regularly.
Retinol is one of several vitamin A compounds — commonly called retinoids — you can find over the counter to treat aging skin, explains New York City dermatologist, Dr. Joshua Zeichner. Other ingredients in the retinoid family include retinaldehyde and retinyl esters; they all work similarly.
While these ingredients are cropping up all over the skin care market, they’re not quite new. The FDA approved a type of retinol as a topical acne treatment back in 1971, and you’ll find it in many of the best products for acne. Beyond treating breakouts, the best retinol products also increases collagen production and cell turnover, helping to smooth fine lines and fade discoloration. The main difference between the first iteration of retinoids and the ones we’re seeing in skin care products today is that the new formulas are gentler and more effective than ever.
Because retinol is a potent anti-aging ingredient that resurfaces skin, selecting one that works with your skin types is key. Those with sensitive skin will need a gentle retinol cream, while acne-prone skin types can handle more powerful formulas. Our editors researched the market and tested dozens of formulas to narrow down the best options on the market for different skin types and concerns, including the best retinol products recommended by dermatologists.
Top Retinol Products of 2024
Editor’s Choice: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Editor’s Choice: Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform Treatment Serum
Editor’s Choice: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Retinol Serum
Best for Beginners: Lilyana Naturals Retinol Cream
Best for Acne: Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol + HPR Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream
Best Alternative: Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Retinol Alternative Serum
Best Night Cream: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
Best Budget Serum: The Inkey List Retinol Anti-Aging Serum
Bliss Youth Got This Prevent-4 + Pure Retinol Advanced Skin Smoothing Serum
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Retinol Creams and Retinol Serums of 2024
Finding the right retinol product for you requires consideration of important factors like your skin type, any skin sensitivities, and whether or not you’ve used retinol before. What works best for someone with oily skin could overpower dry, sensitive skin types, and vice versa. Because of these factors and the variation in the retinol product category, our editors selected the below three retinol products as our editor’s picks instead of selecting one best overall retinol formula.
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream: Retinol serums are a popular format in the retinol product category, however night creams are a great entry point for beginners to try out the ingredient with minimal side effects. We rate Neutrogena’s formula as the best retinol night cream for wrinkles and one of the best retinols for sensitive skin — it effectively hydrates skin to decrease odds of peeling or dry patches, and it’s gentle enough to use nightly.
Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform Treatment Serum: Most retinol products take weeks to make a noticeable difference in skin texture and radiance, but Shani Darden’s formula impressed our testers with its near overnight results. The lactic acid in the formula is excellent for a quick glow-up, making it a great anti-aging serum to try ahead of a special event.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Retinol Serum: All skin types — but oily skin types in particular — will love L’Oréal’s retinol serum, which our testers say is the best drugstore retinol product on the market. The formula felt featherweight on skin during testing and delivered wrinkle-smoothing results in just two weeks of use.
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EDITOR'S CHOICE
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Editor testing review rating: 4.9 rating
Size: 1.7 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic Acid
Best for: All skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$21.11 $37.99 44% off
$26.59 $37.99 30% off
Neutrogena has an all-star lineup of retinol products, but this best retinol night cream takes the cake for its gentle effectiveness — it’s the best retinol for sensitive skin. It contains a stabilized form of retinol, meaning it won’t degrade in the tub or on your skin, plus hyaluronic acid to instantly plump your skin while the vitamin A smooths fine lines over time. The face cream formula is a great way for retinol beginners to try out the ingredient, as it lessens the harsh side effects you’ll get from super potent serums.
Editor testing and review notes: “This retinol face cream from Neutrogena is an icon for a reason — it delivers all the benefits I want from a vitamin A product without any irritation on my sensitive skin. I love the face cream format for retinol when I’m trying to pare back on the number of skin care products I’m using, and this one has the feel of a rich, luxurious night cream with the added anti-aging benefits of retinol. I find that a pea-size amount is all I need to coat my face and decolleté.”
Value: 4.9 rating | Results: 4.8 rating | Texture: 4.9 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $21.11
EDITOR'S CHOICE
Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform Treatment Serum
Editor testing review rating: 4.9 rating
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Lactic acid and apple fruit extract
Best for: All skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$89
$89
Shani Darden is a Los Angeles-based esthetician and brand founder with a cult following — her clients include January Jones, Shay Mitchell, and more. Her skin care products give a taste of what all the talk is about, and this one delivers. Its lactic acid removes dead skin after one use (you’ll notice that makeup goes on smoother), while the encapsulated, slow-release retinol supports cell turnover in the long run. You’ll get a glow — and no peeling or itchiness — making this one of the best retinol products for sensitive skin you can find.
Editor testing and review notes: “When dullness takes over and I need a near-instant glow, I always reach for Shani Darden’s retinol serum. I love that the retinol promises smoother, firmer skin in the long run, while lactic acid makes me wake up with a clearer, brighter complexion. It has a lightweight texture that feels semi-moisturizing upon application, making it a dream for my dry skin.”
Value: 4.9 rating | Results: 4.9 rating | Texture: 4.9 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $89
EDITOR'S CHOICE
L'Oréal Paris Revitalift 0.3% Retinol Serum
Editor testing review rating: 4.8 rating
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Vitamin E
Best for: All skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$23.99 $31.99 25% off
One of the best drugstore retinol serums on the market is L’Oréal’s Revitalift 0.3% Retinol Serum. This anti-aging skin care product has proven benefits, particularly for those looking to the ingredient for its line-softening powers: The potent serum helps to noticeably soften wrinkles after 12 weeks of consistent use, according to a clinical study conducted by the brand. Beyond a wallop of retinol, the formula also includes vitamin E to help prevent the pesky side effects (redness, peeling, and sensitivity) that typically come with vitamin A products, so you’ll be enticed to use it nightly.
Editor testing and review notes: “The first thing I do when I’m trying a new product is review the product’s ingredient list. L’Oréal’s retinol serum passed my inspection with flying colors, courtesy of a hefty dose of retinol — a proven anti-aging ingredient — as well as vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, which in my experience, help to reduce any irritation I feel from using a retinol product. It feels lightweight but hydrating on my skin, which is a winning combination in my evening skin care routine.”
Value: 4.9 rating | Results: 4.8 rating | Texture: 4.8 rating
Price upon publish date of this article: $23.99
BEST RETINOL FOR BEGINNERS
Lilyana Naturals Retinol Cream
Size: 1.7 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Aloe vera, gotu kola, jojoba seed oil, shea butter, and sunflower seed oil
Best for: Dry and normal skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$19.34
Amazon shoppers can’t get enough of Lilyana Naturals’ Retinol Cream: This best retinol cream has over 26,000 five-star reviews. The magic of the formula is its combination of vitamin A and a bevy of skin-soothing ingredients, like aloe vera, plant-based oils, and shea butter. Those nourishing ingredients give this affordable retinol cream the feel of a great dry skin moisturizer that just so happens to deliver the anti-aging benefits of retinol. Because of its high concentration of hydrating ingredients, it’s best for dry to normal skin types (it may feel heavy on oily skin types).
What testers say: “To say that I am blown away would be an understatement! I simply cannot express how pleased I am after literally just three uses. Normally, my skin is so dry that nothing seems to help, but this. THIS! It makes my skin feel great, and it even looks great! It’s not greasy, but it moisturizes. The texture feels like whipped velvet!! It is so luxurious and feels amazing on my skin. My skin feels hydrated and normal. I feel like shouting from the rooftops how amazing this stuff is!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $19.34
BEST RETINOL FOR ACNE
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment
Size: 0.5 oz
Type of retinoid: Adapalene
Key ingredients: Propylene Glycol
Best for: Acne-prone skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$11.49 $14.49 21% off
This potent gel used to be only available by prescription, but now you can buy it over the counter. It’s designed for those who experience severe breakouts; adapalene is a vitamin A derivative that’s approved by the FDA for managing acne. It’ll treat pimples that have surfaced as an acne spot treatment, but with continued use, you’ll notice that it also clears your complexion in the long run, preventing bumps from developing in the first place. Over 45,000 reviewers have awarded it five stars on Amazon.
Editor testing and review notes: “When I’m stressed out, my skin follows suit with sporadic breakouts that can last for weeks at a time. Differin is one of the few retinol products that I know I can rely on to lessen the look of pimples and blackheads — although you can dab it directly on a zit, I find that the best results come when I apply a thin layer on my complexion before night cream. My skin is prone to redness, but this formula doesn’t irritate it.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $11.49
Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol + HPR Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream
Size: 1.7 oz
Type of retinoid: High-performance retinol
Key ingredients: Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, shea butter, meadowfoam seed oil
Best for: All skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$73.60 $92 20% off
$92
Elizabeth Arden’s newest retinol cream has a featherweight texture, genius ingredients, and clinical results to back its anti-aging benefits. This water cream features a high-performance retinol that amps up cell turnover without irritation, making it a particularly great retinol product for mature skin types who are new to the ingredient. Ceramides and hyaluronic acid rev up the face cream’s moisturizing properties to soften skin, while bisabolol and ginger root soothe any sensitivity.
Editor testing and review notes: “My first impressions of Elizabeth Arden’s retinol cream were “wow.” For starters, the formula’s packaging features a pump dispenser that provides the perfect amount of product, also keeping the formula airtight to prevent it from degrading with exposure to air and sunlight. The cream has a cooling, whipped texture that feels like a luxury face cream — I look forward to slathering it on.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $73.60
BEST GENTLE RETINOID SERUM
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 Serum
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinaldehyde
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and glycerin
Best for: Sensitive skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$54
This British brand offers retinoids in three tiers of intensity, and this one is the gentlest — but that doesn’t mean it’s weak. The formula contains retinaldehyde, a type of retinoid that works quicker than retinol to deliver benefits. Hydrating hyaluronic acid and calming vitamin E offset any dryness or peeling for even the most sensitive skin types.
What testers say: “In just three months of regular use, I’ve seen a significant improvement in my sun damage, hyperpigmentation, dullness, and early thirties wrinkles. I love the smell and it’s not overwhelming. Perfect for someone new to retinol, and you can customize the strength by getting a different level of retinol. This is a luxurious product and makes my $300 (and honestly my Tretinoin!) pale in comparison. This is a must-have!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $54
BEST RETINOL ALTERNATIVE
Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Retinol Alternative Serum
Size: 1 oz
Key ingredients: Resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, and vegan collagen
Best for: All skin types; those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$84
$84
One downside to retinol is that it’s not recommended for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding — but brands like Caudalie have created breakthrough products that deliver the benefits of vitamin A without retinol. This Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Retinol Alternative Serum is the best retinol alternative for pregnancy with its resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, and vegan collagen. Together, these ingredients provide near identical benefits to retinol — it firms, plumps, and resurfaces skin for a brighter, bouncier complexion. Even better, you can use it twice daily as it won’t make you as sensitive to sun exposure as standard retinol products.
Editor testing and review notes: “Caudalie’s resveratrol serum is the best retinol alternative I’ve ever tried — it makes noticeable improvements in the radiance and texture of my skin when I use it consistently twice a day. The formula is lightweight and plays well with products I layer it with, including face sunscreen and foundation. It doesn’t pill and makes my skin feel soothed, not sensitive.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $84
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Pure retinol and gradual release retinol
Key ingredients: Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
Best for: Oily or acne-prone skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$45
$46
Gradual release retinol is a great form of vitamin A for retinoid beginners — it makes the ingredient more tolerable for sensitive skin types and prevents skin flare-ups after use. La Roche-Posay’s Retinol Serum provides that in a clear, lightweight serum that melts into skin without a greasy feel, also making it an excellent retinol for oily or acne-prone skin types. This retinol serum contains hyaluronic acid and niacinamide to boost hydration and put you on the fast track for brighter, bouncier skin.
Editor testing and review notes: “My skin is prone to breakouts in my T-zone, and many retinol products trigger purging when I first use them, bringing pimples to the surface before they clear away with regular retinol use. La Roche-Posay’s serum is one of the few options I’ve tested that not only prevents this purging, but also feels lightweight — never greasy! — on my skin. The packaging tends to leak a little bit near the opening, but otherwise, it’s an all-star product in my rotation.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
BEST RETINOL NIGHT CREAM
Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
Size: 2 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid
Best for: Dry skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$73.15 $77 5% off
$77
$77
This cream is great for preventing and treating fine lines and wrinkles, but it also supports your skin’s overall health. That’s courtesy of rambutan, an antioxidant that helps your body produce more collagen, and ferulic acid, which soothes any irritation from the retinol while preventing and managing sun damage (bye bye, dark spots). Combined, these ingredients support our skin’s barrier, which helps aging complexions stay hydrated. Best of all, it feels like silk on your skin.
Editor testing and review notes: “Retinol is a drying ingredient — all those benefits don’t come without some compromises. So when I’m incorporating a retinol into my dry skin routine, I know I need to pair it with a super hydrating moisturizer. I love Dr. Dennis Gross’ formula because it combines retinol with emollient ingredients that counteract any dry, flaky patches. It has a thick, velvety texture that restores my skin on contact with anti-aging benefits in the long run.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $73.15
BEST RETINOL CREAM FOR DULL SKIN
Murad Retinol Youth Night Serum
Size: 1.7 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Niacinamide
Best for: Combination and oily skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$82.80 $92 10% off
Three kinds of retinol team up in this formula to deliver next-level benefits, and limited irritation when you begin using it. You’ll get fast-acting retinol to clear dullness overnight while a time-released version of the ingredient delivers benefits over time (and without making your skin sting). The opaque, airtight packaging ensures that the formula stays fresh and potent with every drop you apply.
What testers say: “I really love this serum. It absorbs quickly and actually works. It’s worth the money as a little goes a long way. With any retinol you need to use it for awhile before you see the results. Ive been using retinol for years now and I’m used to it so I didn’t have any issues with dryness or sensitivity. If your are new to retinol start slow just in case. This serum does have a pretty strong floral scent. It doesn’t bother me but may bother those who don’t like that sort of thing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $82.80
Avène Eau Thermale Retrinal 0.1% Intensive Cream
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinaldehyde
Key ingredients: Thermal water, vitamin E, evening primrose oil, and peptides
Best for: All skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
$79
Retinaldehyde is a potent form of vitamin A know for its powerful, fast-acting results. Avène’s retinol face cream combines this ingredient with proven skin-soothers like vitamin E and thermal water, resulting in a balancing formula that delivers a wallop of anti-aging benefits without taxing sensitive skin types. Testers flag that the pump dispenser can be finicky, but rave about how effective the product is for combatting dullness, acne, and fine lines after just a few uses.
What testers say: “I’m 55 with olive skin that is combo but mostly dry with a little breakthrough oil on my T-zone. I have large pores with some age spots and hormonal chin acne. I wanted smoother skin, even tone and something to control my acne in one product. I believe I might have found my answer with this product. I honestly saw results after one use! I have used this product nightly after washing and toning my face, neck, and chest area for five days and the results are very impressive. My skin is smoother, acne drying up and a plus is the loose crepey skin under my eyes is now firm!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $79
Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Vitamin C, peptides, and willow bark
Best for: Combination and acne-prone skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$51.20 $64 20% off
$64
Paula’s Choice offers a high-strength retinol, so sensitive skin types should cycle it in after your skin has adjusted well to a lower percentage formula. We love it for combination skin because it’s a lightweight lotion, and its peptides nourish dry areas while the willow bark helps manage oily spots. You may experience some peeling after the first few uses, so if you’re using it before a special event, layer a moisturizer under the formula to lessen the risk of peeling or flaking.
What testers say: “Got a mini version before the full size. And now, I’m switching to the full size. And that explains everything! I’m enjoying it for both wrinkles and large pore problems. I put a layer of eye cream under my eyes before this. And it doesn’t cause irritation or redness. My under eye crepes are getting a lot lighter. Dark circles are getting a little lighter and lighter as well. Mixing it with BHAs to solve blackheads and pimples, too.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $64
BEST RETINOL FOR TRAVEL
RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules
Size: 30 capsules
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Ceramides
Best for: Dry and sensitive skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$21.48 $32.99 35% off
$32.99
Each of Roc’s single dose capsules contain a stabilized form of retinol in a non-irritating formula. Simply twist off the smaller end of the pod and squeeze out the serum (and don’t worry — the capsules are 100 percent biodegradable). “The capsules both maintain potency and prevent over-application because they are dispensed in a metered dose,” Dr. Zeichner explains. Over 12,000 Amazon reviewers rate it five stars, and we particularly love them for travel: Stash enough in your overnight bag for each night of vacation.
What testers say: “I have tried a few other forms of retinol and they all irritated my skin. I thought I may be too sensitive for retinol products. I decided to try this one and it is awesome. I use the sandwich method of putting a very thin layer of a light moisturizer first, then a capsule of this, and then a thick layer of my winter night moisturizer. My skin is already smoother and looks brighter and more plump. Highly recommend for my fellow dry sensitive skin folks.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $21.48
BEST RETINOL FOR EXFOLIATION
Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Niacinamide and ceramides
Best for: Acne-prone skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$12.49 $22.99 46% off
$22.99
Over 34,000 reviewers give Cerave’s serum five-stars, and we do, too. This wallet-friendly serum pairs skin barrier-strengthening ceramides with retinol, so you get the exfoliating benefits of retinol without any irritation. It’s excellent for smoothing out post-acne marks — reviewers highlight its ability to fade dark marks. This retinol serum is also a TikTok-loved beauty product, with over 34 million views on the app.
What testers say: “I have aging skin and have tried a number of retinol products, including a prescription Tretinoin cream. Each was to strong and left my skin dry, flaky and dull, even when I reduced usage. This product is gentle enough to use daily and my skin is exfoliated without the dry, flakiness. I even see a renewed glow. I will purchase it again.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $12.49
BEST BUDGET RETINOL SERUM
The Inkey List Retinol Anti-Aging Serum
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Squalene
Best for: All skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Sephora Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$15
$15
The Inkey List is the least expensive option on our list, but that doesn’t mean it’s ineffective. In fact, the formula contains two kinds of retinol (stabilized and granactive) in a slow-release format to resurface your skin effectively and gently. The low price point and mild retinol potency makes it an excellent choice for retinol beginners. Some testers flag that it has an unappealing scent, but if you can look past that, it’s a great budget retinol product.
What testers say: “I’m 38 and while my skin is pretty youthful I still have a few bothersome fine lines, mainly my forehead and one near my mouth. This serum has made the lines so faint you can barely see them. I ordered this on a whim and am so glad I did, it’s done more for my skin than more expensive products have and in less time. No burning or stinging or irritation either. It’s a definite winner in my book!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $15
Bliss Youth Got This Prevent-4 + Pure Retinol Advanced Skin Smoothing Serum
Size: 0.67 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Squalene, amino acids, and peptides
Best for: Dry and normal skin types
Amazon Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.5/5 stars
Ulta Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.8/5 stars
$14.98 $29 48% off
$29
This budget pick from Bliss is dermatologist-approved. “It contains pure retinol with skin-protecting squalane,” says Dr. Zeichner, adding that the serum’s antioxidants and peptides complement the effects of retinol. After continued use, you’ll see an improvement in the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, plus more even tone and a smoother texture. Some testers note that it’s helpful as a spot treatment for ingrown hairs, too.
What testers say: “The texture is so creamy and the smell is minimal! (which is hard to find in a good retinol serum) it absorbs to your skin so quick and leaves it feeling silky smooth. It’s also great on sensitive skin!!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $14.98
BEST RESURFACING RETINOL CREAM
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream
Size: 1 oz
Type of retinoid: Retinol
Key ingredients: Shea butter; chamomile and frankincense derivatives
Best for: Normal, oily, and combination skin types
Dermstore Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.4/5 stars
Bluemercury Top-Quality Store Badge on Google: 4.6/5 stars
$88
$88
With just four to five drops of this cream, you’ll wake up to fresh skin. The retinol is encapsulated, meaning it won’t degrade when you put it on (and the packaging’s small dropper also ensures the formula isn’t exposed to air, which weakens its potency). Skinceuticals also offers this formula with both stronger and lighter retinol percentages, so you can adjust to what your skin can handle.
What testers say: “I’ve been using this retinol for about 6 years. I am 48 and my skin is smooth with no wrinkles. I’ve tried other retinols in the past and this has been my fave. It’s causes occasional peeling but I apply moisturizer 30 minutes before applying and that seems to work. Retinol is integral in any anti-aging routine.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $88
The Benefits and Side Effects of Retinol
“Retinol is perhaps the best studied ingredient we have to treat aging skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. It stimulates collagen and elastin production to smooth your skin and give it good bounce. However, retinoid newbies may experience some changes to their skin as it adjusts to the ingredient. “It takes several weeks to adjust to application of retinol to the skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. “This process is known as retinization, and commonly causes redness, burning, and stinging of the skin.”
So is retinol good for your skin? In short, yes, but your skin needs to get through that adjustment period (usually about a month) before you begin seeing results.
To ease yourself into a retinol routine, use a pea-size amount and build up the frequency, starting with one to two times a week, says Dr. Boakye. You can also layer a moisturizer before or after applying it to curb any peeling or dryness, according to Dr. Zeichner. Retinol makes our skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it’s best to apply at night and slather on SPF 30 during the day. “No skin types are incompatible with retinol, but some individuals cannot tolerate it,” Dr. Boakye explains.
When used consistently, retinol can be a game-changer for those with acne-prone skin, delivering more potent pimple-busting actives than you’d find in a pimple patch or face mask, although preventative steps should still be taken, like sleeping on a pillowcase for acne, or using foundations or concealers specifically formulated for breakouts. Facial cleansing brushes or devices should be used infrequently, as a retinol and a scrub could equal trouble for sensitive skin types.
Retinoid vs. Retinol vs. Tretinoin
Retinoids and retinols are all vitamin A compounds that have similar benefits for the skin. Retinols (like retinaldehyde and retinyl esters) are available in over-the-counter creams. These ingredients convert into vitamin A on your skin to up-regulate collagen production. Tretinoin, on the other hand, requires a prescription and tends to work quicker than OTC options. That’s because it’s true vitamin A straight out of the bottle, which also means it can also be more intense. “It’s all about finding the right formula for your skin, and starting slowly,” Dr. Boakye says.
What to Look For in the Best Retinol Creams, Serums, and Gels
Percentage: This is the quickest way to gauge how intense a formula may be, so you can calibrate your selection to how sensitive or resilient your complexion is. The gentlest options start as low as 0.01 percent, and over the counter options typically max out at 2 percent. Anything stronger requires a prescription.
Soothing ingredients: Because of the inconvenient side effects — peeling, itching, sensitivity — formulas that contain calming ingredients are best for beginners. Soothing ingredients will help to manage your tolerability of the ingredient over time, and consistency is crucial. Common ones to look for are hydrators, like hyaluronic acid, and skin barrier strengtheners, such as ceramides.
Texture: You’ll want a formula that agrees with your skin type. Reach for a retinol cream if you’re dry, and a gel if you have oily skin. The best choice is the one that absorbs into your skin without leaving you feeling either parched or greasy.
The Different Types of Retinol Products
Retinol cream: Great for dry skin types, these formulas pair intense hydrators with retinol. You’ll typically get a less potent dose of retinol in creams, so it’s a good option for those who are new to the ingredient.
Retinol serum: “These are designed to deliver high concentrations of active ingredients to your skin, in this case, retinol,” says Dr. Zeichner. It’s not ideal for retinol beginners, as the higher potency can be harsh on skin that’s not used to it. Follow an application of retinol up with a soothing night cream to buffer the ingredient.
Retinol gel: Since they’re lightweight and breathable, retinol gels are a great option for acneic skin types. Like serums, you’ll get a high concentration of the ingredient.
Can You Use Retinol While Pregnant?
Both Drs. Zeichner and Boakye agree: It’s best to avoid OTC and prescription retinoids during pregnancy. Lucky for you, there’s plenty of baby-safe ingredients that offer similar benefits. Dr. Zeichner recommends glycolic acid. This alpha hydroxy acid is derived from sugar cane and gently sloughs away dead skin without scrubbing, making it a fab option for moms-to-be who are experiencing acne or dullness.
Dr. Boakye says bakuchiol has promising results, too. The ingredient is derived from the Babchi plant, commonly used in ayurvedic medicine. Recent research shows that it functions similarly to retinol once applied to the skin, as it up-regulates collagen production to improve elasticity, firmness, and discoloration. What’s more, you can apply it both morning and night, and your odds of undesirable side effects are slim to none, so you’ll be comfortable using it consistently.
Though both of these ingredients are generally considered safe, be sure to check with your dermatologist or doctor before trying anything new.
How We Tested and Selected the Best Retinol Products
Since 1910, WWD — often referred to as “the fashion bible” — has been the leading industry voice of authority for senior executives in the global women’s and men’s fashion, retail and beauty communities, while also informing the consumer media that cover the market. Today, WWD’s breaking news and trend coverage continues to be a trustworthy resource for both fashion insiders and consumers alike. Our shopping editors continue to uphold WWD’s editorial standards and values with quality, expert-backed product selections.
In order to find the best retinol products, our team began research by interviewing two leading dermatologists for their input on what to look for in retinol creams and serums, also asking for their dermatologist-approved retinol product recommendations. Using this information, our editors combed the market for top retinol options for different skin types and skin concerns. We read through ratings, examined key ingredients, and personally tested different retinol creams, serums, and gels to see if they lived up to their claims. We considered top factors for retinol products like size, ingredients, benefits, and accessibility.
Our list also includes product picks from extensive reporting conducted to create a list of the greatest skin care products of 2024. The list involved input from over 600 beauty industry insiders, executives, financiers, creators, professionals and founders, narrowing down the top 100 products based on criteria like product efficacy and formula innovation. Learn more about us here.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Joshua Zeichner, MD, FAAD, is an Associate Professor and the Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is one of the country’s key opinion leaders in treating acne and rosacea and is an expert in cosmeceuticals and skin care.
Dr. Naana Boakye, MD, MPH, is a New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist specializing in general dermatology. She is also the author of Inside out Beauty, Your Prescription for Healthy, Radiant, Acne Controlled Skin, co-founder of Karite? skincare and Chief Medical Officer for A-Frame, a brand building company that focuses on celebrity-led skincare brands.
Meet the Author
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for Footwear News and WWD, where she writes and edits beauty, fashion and lifestyle stories. She has over six years of experience as a writer and editor for national media outlets including Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She keeps her finger on the pulse of all things related to beauty and wellness and regularly tests retinol creams and serums, including many that made the cut on this list of the best retinol products. Sullivan wrote the original version of this article and contributed to the March 2024 update after a round of product testing.
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