I’m not typically one to make resolutions, because historically, I'm not great at sticking to them. Instead, I like to set some beauty-oriented goals for myself that encourage me to explore new areas, products and skincare ingredients that I'm not already incorporating into my routine. This year, the goal is to look after my body skin with the same level of commitment I show to my face. My facial routine is built around consistency and proven active ingredients, but bodycare has been far more low-maintenance—at best, weekly exfoliation and body lotion when I remember.
Retinoids, in particular, have long been a staple in my skincare routine. They’re the ingredient I credit for keeping my acne-prone skin clear, but also do their bit when it comes to smoothing texture, brightening tone and giving me that elusive good-skin glow. So naturally, it makes sense to extend those benefits beyond my face. As bodycare formulations are increasingly becoming more advanced and ingredient-focused, retinol body creams and lotions have entered the market—balancing effective concentrations with barrier-supporting ingredients—they offer an appealing way to treat common body skin concerns, from rough texture to dullness and loss of firmness. They also make exceptional body creams for mature skin.
After spending the past month testing, researching and speaking to fellow experts, I’ve rounded up the best retinol body lotions and creams that actually work—formulas that balance powerful actives with barrier-supporting ingredients, so your skin looks smoother, firmer and healthier from the neck down.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Retinol Body Lotion?
Retinol body lotions offer many of the same benefits as facial retinoids, just tailored for the thicker, often more resilient skin on the body. Regular use can help improve skin texture, soften rough patches, smooth crepiness and even tone over time. They’re especially useful for areas prone to dryness or loss of elasticity, like the arms, thighs and décolletage.
However, retinol can potentially cause some dryness and sensitivity, so it works best when the skin barrier is strong and healthy, which all comes down to proper moisturisation. As dermatologist Sonia Khorana explains, “The stratum corneum [often referred to as the skin barrier] protects your skin from irritants and inflammation, and it also helps keep the deeper layers of skin hydrated. It is made up of lots of different components, including fatty acids and ceramides, so supplementing your skin with moisturisers will ensure that your skin will be at its happiest and healthiest while using actives."
“Actives can often irritate and dry out the skin, so keeping it all hydrated while using actives can increase the water-holding capacity of your skin and also form a layer to trap in the moisture,” she adds. The best retinol body lotions combine retinoids with ceramides, fatty acids and humectants to support the skin barrier, helping you reap the benefits of retinol without compromising on comfort.
What to Look for When Choosing a Retinol Body Lotion
Much like when choosing a retinol facial serum, when choosing a retinol body lotion, formulation is everything. First, consider the type and strength of retinoid. Encapsulated retinol or gentler derivatives are ideal for the body, as they release slowly and reduce the risk of irritation—especially if you’re new to retinoids below the neck.
Next, look at the supporting ingredients. Because retinol can be drying, a great body formula should include barrier-repairing ingredients like ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, alongside humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid. These ingredients help keep the skin comfortable, resilient and hydrated while the retinol does the heavy lifting.
For me, texture matters, too. A good retinol body lotion should absorb easily without feeling greasy or tacky, making it realistic to use consistently. Bonus points if it dries down quickly and doesn’t pill.
The Best Retinol Body Lotions & Creams
- Best Overall Retinol Body Lotion: Naturium Retinol Body Lotion, £28
- Best for Advanced Results: Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment, £32
- Best Multitasking Formula: Necessaire The Body Retinol, £55
- Best Luxury Retinol Body Lotion: Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate, £38
- Best Beginner Retinol Body Lotion: Frank Body Retinol Body Lotion, £20
1. Naturium Retinol Body Lotion
Pros
- Gentle on skin
- Hydrating,
- Absorbs fast
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Slower to deliver obvious retinol results
This cult-favourite retinol body lotion strikes the perfect balance between skin-renewing actives and everyday hydration. Encapsulated retinol works gently over time to support smoother, softer texture, while soothing shea butter and allantoin keep dryness at bay. While it’s not the strongest retinol formula out there, it’s a reliable entry-level choice for daily body care.
2. Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment
Granted, this formula is more of a serum than a cream or lotion, but it is undoubtedly the most hardworking and fast-acting body retinol I've tried. It blends encapsulated retinol with chemical exfoliants to visibly smooth and resurface the skin, so it is especially effective on areas like the arms and legs, where uneven texture and bumps tend to linger. It's not the most hydrating formula, but the light texture means it sinks in quickly, so you can layer additional moisture on top if you need it.
Pros
- Retinol and exfoliation in one step
- Noticeable results
- Non-greasy texture
Cons
- May be too strong for sensitive skin
- Dry skin will need extra moisture
3. Necessaire The Body Retinol
This formula is something of a hybrid of the two above—it also combines retinol with exfoliating acids, but is still deeply hydrating. 0.1% retinol, 10% AHAs and vitamin C work to smooth, brighten and renew skin, while hyaluronic acid and glycerin provide lightweight but deep-reaching moisture. It feels lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it particularly good for speedy application post-shower. The results are noticeable with regular use, but due to the potency of the active ingredients, this is one for experienced retinol users.
Pros
- Multitasking formula
- Refines texture quickly
- Lightweight feel
Cons
- Expensive price point
- May be too strong for sensitive skin
4. Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate
Price shown is members' price.
This creamy lotion feels indulgent and spa-like, designed to firm, smooth, and deeply nourish the skin. The retinoid blend works alongside peptides and hydrators to support elasticity and overall skin quality, making it feel noticeably more like body skincare than a regular body lotion. Rich but not heavy or greasy, I prefer this for evening use when skin has time to absorb everything properly.
Pros
- Multitasking formula
- Firming effect
- Deeply nourishing
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Highly fragranced
5. Frank Body Retinol Body Lotion
This is a great entry point into retinol body care. The formula focuses on gentle smoothing and hydration rather than aggressive resurfacing, making it easy to use regularly without experiencing any side effects. It absorbs quickly, feels comfortable on the skin and fits seamlessly into an everyday routine. I'd recommend it for those patient enough for gradual results or for maintenance rather than targeted correction.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Beginner-friendly
- Lightweight hydrating texture
Cons
- Lower retinol strength
- Subtle results
6. Paula's Choice Retinol Body Treatment
Pros
- Well-balanced formula
- Smoothing and firming
- Barrier-supportive
Cons
- Smaller size
- Not the most luxurious texture
Paula's Choice does active ingredients particularly well in skincare, so it only makes sense that its bodycare products are just as effective. This is a classic, no-nonsense retinol body lotion that prioritises results without unnecessary extras. It combines retinol with rich emollients to help improve skin texture, firmness, and tone while keeping dryness in check. The texture strikes a nice balance between nourishing and potent which makes it a good all-rounder—though you may get through it quickly if using generously.
7. Murad Retinal Resculpt Body Treatment
Pros
- Potent retinal
- Visible results
- Deeply nourishing
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Heavier texture takes longer to absorb
This is one of the most advanced formulas on the list, using retinal for faster, more noticeable skin renewal. It's also one of the few formulas that I'd describe as a cream, rather than a lotion—it feels rich and luxurious, making it particularly well-suited to dry or mature skin concerns. With regular use, skin appears smoother, firmer and more refined, especially in areas prone to crepiness.
8. The Solution Retinol Smoothing Body Lotion
Designed for everyday use—and with a price tag that doesn't hold you back from generous application —this lotion focuses on gently smoothing and improving skin texture over time. It’s lightweight, easy to apply, and works well as a maintenance product rather than an intensive treatment. While hydration is on the lighter side, it’s comfortable and easy to use, especially for those new to retinol body care.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Gentle on sensitive skin
- Good for beginners
Cons
- Light hydration
- Slower results
9. Kopari Beauty Ultra Renewal Retinol Body Cream
Hydration is the focus here, thanks to aminobutyric acid, which works to promote the skin’s natural hyaluronic acid and collagen production and antioxidant-rich botanicals that leave skin feeling soft and supple. The texture is silky and absorbs beautifully, making it ideal for daily use without irritation. While it’s not the most intensive retinol treatment available, it excels at improving overall skin feel and smoothness.
Pros
- Low-strength encapsulated retinol
- Hydrating, comfortable texture
Cons
- Expensive price point
- May take longer to see retinol results
How We Tested
To compile this edit, each retinol body lotion was tested consistently over several weeks and incorporated into my regular daily bodycare routine. Formulas were applied to areas prone to dryness, texture, and crepiness, including my arms, legs, and décolletage, and I assessed each for ease of application, absorption, comfort, and visible skin changes over time. Particular attention was paid to how each product balanced active retinoids with hydration, ensuring results without compromising the skin barrier.
Why Trust Us
At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts, including dermatologists, makeup artists and leading industry insiders, to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.