As a beauty editor, I can't go a day without my inbox being flooded with introductions to new retinoid products promising fast-acting anti-aging properties for women of all ages. But let's get real—aging is natural, and despite the best efforts of cutting-edge products and technology, there will always be signs of it. Rather than fighting against the throes of time, I've decided to embrace the natural aging process while balancing its effects with high-performing products that help combat what I can control. (Hyperpigmentation and acne scarring from my early 20s have become the bane of my existence.)
There's absolutely nothing wrong with accepting how your body changes with time, but it can be extremely helpful to know which products can help prevent future skin damage while minimizing the appearance of past damage. Luckily for you, the best version of your skin can be one click away. With the help of two board-certified dermatologists, I've identified the best retinol creams on the market that are key to revitalizing your skin, underscored by expert recommendations and thousands of glowing five-star reviews. If that sounds enticing, keep on reading!
What Is Retinol Cream?
"Retinoids function to make the skin less 'sticky,' keep the pores 'clean' and free of debris and buildup. This allows the oil to exit the follicle and to keep the inflammatory factors at bay," begins Ashley Magovern, MD, board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Dermstore. "It prevents acne, and that is the key to keeping the skin clear. They accelerate or stimulate cell turnover, which leads to cell renewal and brighter, smoother skin." They also stimulate collagen production, helping the skin remain firm, prevent laxity, and lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Overall, incorporating a retinoic acid product into your skincare routine is essential to any daily regimen.
Sheila Farhang, MD, cosmetic and Mohs surgeon and founder of Avant Dermatology and Aesthetics, offers a similar take on the vitamin A derivative. "It is commonly found in over-the-counter skincare products, as it is milder than prescription-form retinoic acid (aka tretinoin)," says Farhang. "Retinoids including retinols are considered the gold standard for an anti-aging skincare routine because they help promote collagen production and accelerate cell renewal." When selecting a retinoid cream, both Farhang and Magovern pay special attention to how the product is formulated and what can be paired with it for the ideal outcome.
Which Retinol Cream Should I Use for My Skin Type?
And now, the million-dollar question: How do you know which retinol cream to try? Your answer depends entirely on your skin type and its specific needs. If you're noticing the presence of pigmentation, sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles, it may be time to start looking for a retinol cream. "For sensitive skin, start with a low concentration of retinol and look for soothing ingredients like niacinamide, aloe, and ceramides," Magovern shares. "If you are trying to reverse deeper lines and wrinkles, then I would try to use a more potent retinol cream."
Those with acne, clogged pores, and very oily skin may benefit from a stronger retinol prescription. However, it should be noted that the process of skin adjusting to strong retinoids can often lead to redness, irritation, and flaking in the beginning.
How Do I Use Retinol Cream, and When Should It Be Used?
According to Farhang, keeping an eye on how your skin reacts to the introduction of the product largely determines how much and how often it can be used. "For those who are just starting a retinol, I usually recommend using one pea-size amount twice a week the first two weeks, then increasing to every other night for a couple of weeks, then eventually every night as tolerated," she says. If your skin can tolerate more, consider upping the dosage. If possible, avoid using potentially irritating exfoliating products like glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide (since this can cause skin irritation, redness, and scaling) or using the "slugging" method, as it increases the penetration of retinol.
Retinol creams come in many forms and with game-changing formulas that can be used on different parts of the body or times of day. While some retinol creams are geared toward night use, allowing the skin to undergo an overnight transformation, others can be used as daily moisturizers.
Retinoid cream shouldn't be used on its own, and Magovern recommends pairing soothing products like aloe and pumpkin-seed oil and using a vitamin C serum or cream for two active ingredients on the skin at the same time. For anyone on the hunt for retinol-based products with anti-aging properties, both experts recommend introducing retinol in partnership with a hydrating moisturizer. And don't forget to keep up with your sunscreen application in the meantime! "I love products that have pure and stabilized retinol so I can ensure that the product is effective. Additionally, it is important to know the strength of the retinol and if it is more than 0.25%, as that may be a little more irritating initially," enthuses Farhang.
If you're ready to see which retinol cream products dermatologists recommend, keep on scrolling!
Overall Best Retinol Cream: SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream
SkinBetter's best-selling cream features a unique ingredient that combines retinol with AHA to improve the appearance of lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and texture with little to no irritation.
Customer review: "This is, hands down, one of the best retinols I've used. It doesn't dry out my skin at all and makes your skin look plump and hydrated. I've noticed a difference in my texture when using this product and the elasticity of my skin. Highly recommend anything from this brand!"
Pro: Deeply hydrates and revitalizes the skin
Con: None
Best Drugstore Retinol Cream: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
This anti-wrinkle cream by Neutrogena is formulated with retinol, hyaluronic acid, accelerated retinol SA, and a glucose complex to smooth the look of wrinkles, delivering rapid results.
Customer review: "I love this retinol in the fragrance-free formula. I started out using it twice a week and have built up to everyday use. I have dry, sensitive skin and have never had an irritation or burning with this product. I see a difference in forehead wrinkles as well. I'm on my third jar, and each one lasts about two months with daily use on neck and face."
Pro: Fast-absorbing and hydrating
Con: Not as effective on deep-set wrinkles
Best Retinol Cream for Sensitive Skin: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3
Here's a retinol night cream that diminishes the appearance of wrinkles, refines pores, and reduces discoloration. Powered by retinol and botanical extracts, this cream exfoliates the skin while you sleep.
Customer review: "Perfect for sensitive skin. I notice immediate results and have gradually been increasing usage. Retinol is intimidating to me, but this one seems to do the trick. Heavy moisturizing is obviously necessary with any retinol, but so far my skin's doing well with it."
Pro: Formula is noncomedogenic
Con: None
Best Retinol Cream for Dry Skin: SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex
This Retinol Complex promotes a brighter, more youthful complexion by stimulating collagen production and enhancing faster cell renewal to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, and its algae extract ensures hydrated skin.
Customer review: "I love this retinol! My skin tends to be sensitive, dry, and somewhat dehydrated, and I find this product doesn't dry me out like many other retinol serums. In fact, it's actually somewhat hydrating!"
Pro: No irritation or redness
Con: Formula feels sticky after drying
Best Retinol Cream for Oily Skin: Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
Paula's Choice's Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment uses a unique blend of oak, willow bark, and licorice extracts to soothe the skin and address signs of sensitivity, and its triple peptide blend promotes visibly firm skin.
Customer review: "Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment is simply incredible! This product has transformed my skin in ways I couldn't have imagined. The potent 1% retinol formula works wonders on fine lines, texture, and overall radiance. With consistent use, I've seen a remarkable improvement that's made me feel more confident and glowing. If you're looking for a high-quality retinol treatment that delivers real results, this is the one to go for."
Pro: Targets fine lines and wrinkles
Con: Not ideal for beginners or those with sensitive skin
Best Retinol Cream for Combination Skin: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol and Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
This nourishing anti-wrinkle cream uses niacinamide and PhytoRetinol Blend to support your skin's natural collagen production, which, in turn, visibly smoothes pronounced lines and wrinkles while also correcting dry, rough texture.
Customer review: "This is my go-to nightly cream that I pair with the Dr. Dennis Gross retinol and ferulic serum! It is very hydrating, thick, and goes on nicely! I have sensitive skin and this product does not break me out or cause redness/irritation. It is a staple in my nighttime skincare routine and I highly recommend. Dr. Dennis Gross products are the best!"
Pro: Formulated with vitamin C
Con: Improvements are not quickly noticeable
Best Retinol Cream for Milia: Obagi Medical Retinol 1.0 Cream
This cream fights the signs of premature aging caused by environmental aggressors for a vibrant, youthful-looking complexion powered by 1% retinol, hydrating jojoba oil, shea butter, and vitamins C and E.
Customer review: "This is my go-to retinol. I believe it is encapsulated because it is very gentle for a 1%. I have not had any issues with peeling or redness with this product. Even so, I would still suggest starting slowly, every other day or so. Then, gradually increasing to every night. Excellent results, I highly recommend."
Pro: Absorbs quickly into the skin
Con: Packaging does not dispense product easily
Best Retinol Cream for Psoriasis: Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform Treatment
Clinically shown to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles (as well as loss of firmness and elasticity), this Shani Darden retinol-based serum firms, brightens, and evens the skin tone in as little as two weeks.
Customer review: "This retinol is amazing! I have dry, sensitive skin, and I use this in my skin-cycling routine along with her lactic acid. My skin has never been happier! Use alone or with her other products, like lactose acid or her triple-acid peel, and your skin will love you!"
Pro: Lightens hyperpigmentation and acne scarring
Con: Product is strongly fragranced
Best Retinol Night Cream: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream
This nurturing retinol night cream helps minimize signs of aging while supporting the skin's natural protective barrier with a formula that's gentle enough for nightly use. Plus, its innovative packaging provides the perfect amount of product with every pump.
Customer review: "This moisturizer is such a good nighttime cream. It's so hydrating and soft on the skin. Absolutely love the packaging on this and how it gives you just the right amount of product. I also love that It has so many good benefits for fine lines, dark circles, and anti-aging."
Pro: Glides smoothly onto the skin
Con: Noticeable fragrance
Best Retinol Day Cream: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream
Combining retinol and hyaluronic acid, this ultra-hydrating cream delivers fast, clinically proven results. While retinol works to diminish wrinkles and fine lines, hyaluronic acid delivers 48-hour hydration and plumpness.
Customer review: "I have been using the RoC Correxion Max Hydration Cream for many years. I am 62 years old and have received many compliments on my skin. I can tell you before using this product I had deep creases around my mouth that have greatly improved. Consistency is the key. Love this product!"
Pro: Offers intense hydration
Con: None
Best Retinol Eye Cream: RoC Retinol Correxion Anti-Wrinkle and Firming Eye Cream
Your eyes need TLC too. RoC's Anti-Wrinkle and Firming Eye Cream targets dark circles, puffiness, and wrinkles with a formula clinically proven to brighten, rejuvenate, and reduce eye wrinkles by 50%, all while being gentle on your delicate skin.
Customer review: "I have always struggled with dark bags under my eyes, and now that I am in my late 30s, it's gotten really bad, and nothing has helped, until I found this! I wish taken before and afters because this has drastically made a difference with my bags!"
Pro: Combats fine lines and puffiness
Con: Not ideal for sensitive skin
Best Retinol Body Cream: Versed Press Restart Gently Retinol Body Lotion
Retinol is just as effective on the rest of your body as it is on the face. Use this gentle body lotion by Versed to firm, smooth, and brighten from the neck down with this lightweight, non-greasy formula with skin-loving ingredients like cocoa butter and vitamin E.
Customer review: "I have super sensitive skin, and changing anything in my routine always makes me break out. I saw a great review about this and decided to try it out, and it's been amazing! It's helping me stay moisturized all over without the breakouts! Absolutely will be buying more!"
Pro: Softens and soothes the skin
Con: None
Best Retinol Moisturizer: Bliss Prevent-4 and Pure Retinol Deep Hydration Moisturizer
If you're looking for any easy way to incorporate retinol into your routine, try this deeply hydrating moisturizer by Bliss. It helps boost surface cell turnover to diminish fine lines and promote a youthful, glowing complexion.
Customer review: "I'm obsessed! Retinol is one of my favorite skincare ingredients. I love how this moisturizer is so fluffy and feels velvety on the skin. This is definitely a new staple for me! It's a must try for anyone looking for a great retinol."
Pro: Ideal for new retinol users
Con: None
More Retinol Creams to Try
Customer Review: "I use two other retinol moisturizers on my aging skin. Because I still have oily skin they leave me looking slick and shiny. I love the way this moisturizer just absorbs into my skin without a trace of oiliness."
Customer Review: "I am a firm believer in using Vitamin C as a part of my skin care routine. I discovered Kate’s C plus retinol by sheer luck and am glad I did. I use it every other day and it keeps my face glowing."
Customer Review: "Def a retinol staple. Strong enough to do it’s job but gentle enough to not irritate or dry out. The texture is lovely and smooth, color is beautiful, smell is pleasant, and I know my skin is being treated and nourished with quality ingredients. Saint Jane is always a hit."
Customer Review: "You can never go wrong with a good moisturizer. This one is light but not runny. It's a perfect consistency and absorbs quickly - there isn't any need to keep rubbing it in for a long time. Best of all, it keeps my skin hydrated for the whole day."
Customer Review: "I really like this cream for use when my skin feels dry or just dehydrated. It’s an extremely rich cream that has a texture something like petroleum jelly. It’s deeply hydrating and has a nice, but light scent. I love this cream."
Customer review: "I love this stuff! It’s thick, rich, and creamy. Glides on easily and blends into skin well. Doesn’t leave any greasy or cakey residue. I have noticed my skin looking healthier! Keeping this as part of my routine to help with aging!!"
Editor's note: This moisturizer contains bakuchiol, one of the best natural alternatives to retinol.
Customer review: "This cream is the absolute holy grail of all skin care. The only cream that gives my skin a healthy glow, plumps the skin and prevents any blemishes. The cream is luxurious and thick and a little really does go a long way. It makes me feel beautiful in my own skin and is definitely the best quality value for money."
Customer Review: "THIS STUFF WORKS! I have melanated skin and I instantly saw some improvement the very next morning! WOW and since then I been using it throughout the week and I must say my skin is looking better! Some dark marks, small pimples and hyperpigmentation cleared up! this product was easy to absorb and not sticky! not work why other people had issues."
Customer Review: "I feel after using this for a while that this a very good retinol product it is very hydrating and moisturizing. I am very impressed by it. It is very gentle and something that I will definitely will be incorporating in my beauty routine highly impressed by this Kiehl’s product. Highly recommend!"
This article was originally published at an earlier date and has been updated.
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