"Illuminating Picks: Top 15 Retinol Creams Suited for All Skin Varieties"

"Illuminating Picks: Top 15 Retinol Creams Suited for All Skin Varieties"

Cool retinol gurl right here! Listen up cause I got the lowdown on all the best retinol gels, creams, and serums for your skin's best life ever.

Why retinol though? Well, that shit's the holy grail of skincare ingredients, and it's basically that girl for a load of skin concerns, including acne, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, big ol' pores, age spots, melasma and hyperpigmentation, you name it.

And the coolest part about retinol? It's all backed up by decades of research, which I'll dig into below.

I've drooled over all the best retinol options out there and chatted with a couple of dermatologists to get the science behind it. After all, this sh*t is mighty as hell and has the potential to be a little too intense for some.

So keep scrolling to get the deets and make a little space in your cabinet for your new retinol BFF.

A quick look at the best retinol creams

• Best overall: Skinmedica Retinol Complex
• Best for beginners: Medik8 Crystal Retinal
• Best for wrinkles: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream
• Best for acne: Differin Acne Treatment Gel
• Best drugstore: La Roche-Posay Retinol Face Serum with Vitamin B3
• Best serum: Decree Treat Tincture
• Best eye cream: La Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Aging Retinol Eye Cream
• Best night cream: Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair
• Best for sensitive skin: Sweet Chef Beet + Retinol Nightly Firming Mask
• Best for body and stretch marks: Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
• Best high-concentration: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum
• Best for uneven texture: Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform
• Best vegan retinol cream: Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
• Best budget: RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
• Best high-end moisturizing: NourishMax Encapsulated 0.5% Retinol Cream

Benefits of using retinol

I chatted with Dr. Jeannette Graf, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in NYC, to learn about this golden standard skincare ingredient.

She explained that retinol - a vitamin A derivative - has been shown through decades of clinical research to boost collagen production, strengthen the protective function of the skin barrier, help reduce transepidermal water loss, and increase cell turnover on a molecular level. Love that!

Because it helps increase cell turnover, Graf explained that it helps improve overall skin texture and address acne, hyperpigmentation, and dark under-eye circles (by increasing the thickness of the skin).

"By boosting collagen," she says, "it helps keep the skin firm and tight as it minimizes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." Basically, this sh*t is hella helpful for all kinds of skin concerns, especially acne-prone skin, at any age.

Who should use retinol?

In general, Graf says anyone can use retinol to help boost their skin health. "Just be mindful of how often you are using it and when you are using it to minimize any potential irritation," she says.

You can shop for over-the-counter (OTC) retinol creams or talk with your derm about testing out one of the several available prescription-strength options. Graf says OTC options have been shown to offer similar results to prescription-strength but at lower percentages to reduce the chance of irritation.

How we chose the best retinol creams

I chatted with derms to learn how to find the best retinol cream for your skin type, which ingredients to keep an eye out for, and which ones to avoid like the plague. I also asked for their favorite products.

Here are Graf's shopping tips for different types of skin:

• Oily skin. Find a lightweight, serum-like retinol product. You'll still need a moisturizer, especially if you're using prescription-strength retinol.
• Normal to dry skin. A moisturizer, cream, or even oil with retinol can be a nice last step.
• Sensitive skin. If you're using an OTC retinol product, use it sparingly - at most twice a week - and avoid formulas and other products with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs).

Pricing guide

• $ = under $30
• $$ = $30-$90
• $$$ = over $90

The 15 best retinol creams

Best overall retinol cream

Skinmedica Retinol Complex

• Price: $$-$$$
• Retinol concentration: 0.25, 0.5, 1.0
• Skin type/concern: normal, red
• Standout ingredients: retinol, squalane, niacinamide (vitamin B3), tocopherol (vitamin E), glycerin, ceramides
• Size: 1-oz bottle

Graf says this retinol is good for people with normal skin types. But what is "normal," anyway? Basically, it means you don't quite identify as dry, sensitive, or oily.

Graf also says this cream is great for people who have used retinol before. She adds that it contains antioxidants like vitamin E to help soothe your skin and minimize irritation and redness.

It contains evidence-backed hydrators like glycerin, squalane, and ceramides, which are famous for being amazing moisturizers and strengthening your skin's barrier.

It also has one of our fave ingredients: niacinamide. This is another science-backed ingredient that can help treat acne, reduce redness and irritation, curb oil production, and smooth out wrinkles. Seriously, we love it.

Although this cream sits at a higher price point, it's tough to find a negative review, which is why it lands at the top of our list.

Plus, it's free of parabens, which we appreciate. It comes in three different strengths, too, so you can start low and work your way up.

Pros

• contains additional moisturizing ingredients and ingredients to support healthy aging
• available in multiple retinol concentrations
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey

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Best retinol cream for beginners

Medik8 Crystal Retinal

• Price: $$
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: beginner, sensitive
• Standout ingredients:** encapsulated retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, ​vitamin E, glycerin
• Size: 1-oz bottle

This retinol is great for beginners. The brand says it's low strength but still effective AF (okay, we're paraphrasing).

It uses a form of retinol called retinaldehyde, which has been shown to reduce signs of aging without causing irritation like regular retinol. That makes it an A+ choice for retinol newbs.

This gentle formula also includes hyaluronic acid, ​vitamin E, and glycerin to boost hydration. Plus, once your skin gets used to this product's strength, there are three stronger versions to move up to.

It's tough to find a negative review of this product so far, and we love that the price isn't too out of this world either.

Pros

• contains a gentler form of retinol
• good for beginners
• available in multiple strengths
• alcohol-free

Cons

• contains fragrance

Shop now at Dermstore Shop now at Medik 8

Best retinol cream for wrinkles

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream

• Price: $$
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: normal, dry, combo, and oily
• Standout ingredients: retinol, niacinamide, tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E), hyaluronic acid, picolinamide
• Size: 1.7-oz container

This night cream comes recommended by Dr. Emmanuel Loucas, a board certified dermatologist and director of SINY Dermatology in NYC.

It includes niacinamide and vitamin E for hydration, an antioxidant boost, and extra support for skin aging. It also has hyaluronic acid, a widely-loved, lightweight moisturizing ingredient that helps lock in moisture. Plus, it's got picolinamide, which can help reduce hyperpigmentation and sunspots.

It has some glowing remarks from reviewers, too, with many calling it lightweight and gentle. Some point out that they noticed positive effects after using it for only a short time. But one reviewer says it dried out their already-dry skin, so you may want to skip this one if you're a dry guy.

The one downside is that Murad doesn't disclose the retinol percentage for this cream. When asked about it, they respond with a generic answer: "Murad develops formulas with proof - not percentages - in mind. We start with clinically proven ingredients, then develop innovative technologies to enhance their efficacy. Our multi-action formulas do not just consider the symptom or target a skin concern; rather, we address the entire health of the skin." This isn't THAT big of a deal, but it's kinda annoying that you don't know what you're getting into before you try it.

Editor's review

I'm a big fan of Murad products, so I've tried a decent number of them over the last few years. I gave this one a shot and fell in love with it. It has a super luxurious, lightweight feel. I also love the pump on the container - each pump gives you the perfect dose of cream, so you're not using too much of it.

I definitely noticed a new softness to my skin when using this cream. It wasn't quite hydrating enough for the wintertime (my skin gets sooo dry in the winter), but it was perfect for spring and summer.

Ultimately, the only reason I stopped using it is because of the price. But I plan on coming back to this cream when my wallet can handle it.

-Ruby Thompson, Market Editor

Pros

• lightweight, luxurious feel
• contains multiple ingredients that reduce signs of aging and reduce hyperpigmentation
• alcohol-free

Cons

• contains fragrance
• may not be the best for dry skin

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Best retinol cream for acne

Differin Acne Treatment Gel

• Price: $
• Retinol concentration: 0.1%
• Skin type/concern: acne-prone
• Standout ingredients: adapalene 0.1%
• Size: 1.6-oz tube

Graf recommends this topical gel for those with acne. This is an adapalene gel, a form that works well with oily skin. Graf points out that this product used to be available only with a prescription, but now it's OTC (cue the sound of angels singing).

She says it works very well to reduce acne, inflammation, and excessive keratosis pilaris (aka chicken skin).

The FDA approved this mighty little gel as an OTC treatment for acne back in 2016, and it works wonders for many people.

It has about 6K Google reviews with a 4.5/5-star rating. Most users are thrilled with the results, but some experience a "purge" period in which acne gets worse before it gets better. This is pretty common when treating acne, though.

Pros

• prescription-strength retinoids available OTC
• FDA-approved for acne
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• may experience a "purge" before you see results

Writer's review

I'm a fan of this one. I used to use this gel before it was available OTC, and it was a miracle worker for me.

I definitely remember an adjustment period before the full results kicked in. Some things are worth the wait! Plus, that price is nice.

-Breanna Mona, writer

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Best drugstore retinol cream

La Roche-Posay Retinol Face Serum with Vitamin B3

• Price: $$
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: sensitive
• Standout ingredients: retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, dimethicone, glycerin
• Size: 1-oz bottle

A lightweight serum that's soothing, hydrating, and available at your local Walgreens? Yup, this is something to get pumped about.

Niacinamide works its hydrating, oil-decreasing, wrinkle-reducing magic while dimethicone, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid moisturize and hydrate.

Reviewers are happy campers, bragging about a gorg plump and glow, although they feel the bottle is a little small.

Bonus: It's made without oil or parabens.

Pros

• lightweight serum
• available at Walgreens
• contains extra hydrating ingredients and those that reduce signs of aging

Cons

• small bottle
• contains alcohol and fragrance

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Best retinol serum

Decree Treat Tincture

• Price: $$$
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: hyperpigmentation
• Standout ingredients: hydroxypinacolone retinoate, tocopherol (vitamin E), hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, caffeine
• Size: 1-oz bottle

Some skin types really hate creams. This serum is for those types - plus, serums are applied before a moisturizer, which means they can get deeper into the skin. This one's formulated to carefully target skin issues like fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and loss of firmness.

The serum uses a granactive retinoid along with an ingredient called alpha-arbutin, which is known for its ability to brighten up the skin and lighten areas of pigmentation.

It also includes icons like vitamin E, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid.

No doubt this pick is pricey, but legend has it the pump accurately dispenses the amount of product you need, so you won't waste any or overdo it on your precious face.

Pros

• lightweight serum
• contains extra hydrating ingredients and those that reduce signs of aging
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey
• not widely available

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Best eye retinol cream

La Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Aging Retinol Eye Cream

• Price: $$
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: all skin types, sensitive eye area
• Standout ingredients: retinol, caffeine, glycerin, dimethicone
• Size: 0.5-oz tube

The eye area is super sensitive. You don't want to go HAM in this area with anything, let alone retinol.

This eye cream is gentle enough to use in the crow's feet zone, though, which is why it landed on our list. According to the brand, it can visibly lessen the look of crow's feet and even help out with dark circles. In fact, the formula uses caffeine - an antioxidant that's proven to increase microcirculation of blood in the skin - to tackle 'em.

This formula promises not to clog pores since it's noncomedogenic. Plus, folks with sensitive skin will appreciate that it doesn't contain fragrance. It's also free of oil and parabens.

We must admit, though, the price tag is a bit big for the bottle. But when you're using the cream only in the eye area, you do use less. Big facts.

Pros

• de-puffs and hydrates eye area
• available at Walgreens
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey

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Best retinol night cream

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair

• Price: $$$
• Retinol concentration: 0.5%
• Skin type/concern: fine lines, wrinkles
• Standout ingredients:** microencapsulated retinol, vitamin C, copper amino acid, squalane, glycerin, ceramides
• Size: 1-oz tube

Another of Loucas' recommendations, this cream uses microencapsulated pure retinol and vitamin C to work on signs of aging, uneven skin tone, and discoloration.

This formula also contains a copper amino acid complex, which the brand says works to visibly reduce wrinkles and boost your skin's firmness.

We love a hydration moment, and this pick has those ceramides and polysaccharides we've mentioned, which help prevent water loss and soften fine lines.

We appreciate that this cream does not include:

• parabens
• sulfates
• phthalates
• synthetic fragrance

Pros

• comes with a buffer cream to help acclimate skin to retinol
• contains extra hydrating and antioxidant ingredients
• alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey
• contains essential oils, which can cause irritation for some

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Best retinol cream for sensitive skin

Sweet Chef Beet + Retinol Nightly Firming Mask

• Price: $
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: dry, sensitive
• Standout ingredients: hydroxypinacolone retinoate, squalane, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, beetroot extract, hemp seed oil
• Size: 1.69-oz jar

Graf picked this night cream for both dry and sensitive skin types. She says it's very hydrating, with hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, and hemp seed oil. It also has beetroot extract, an antioxidant that contains high amounts of vitamin C and E.

Plus, it uses granactive retinoid, which Graf says is something called a retinyl ester that has been found to be less irritating but still as effective as other forms of retinol.

We love that it's free of:

• parabens
• mineral oil
• sulfates
• silicones
• phthalates
• alcohols
• synthetic fragrances and dyes

This mask is also vegan, and Leaping Bunny certified.

Pros

• contains a gentler form of retinol
• contains extra hydrating and antioxidant ingredients
• vegan
• alcohol-free

Cons

• jar packaging less convenient than tubes for some users
• contains fragrance

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Best retinol cream for stretch marks

Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment

• Price: $
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: stretch marks
• Standout ingredients: retinol, vitamin C, glycerin, shea butter
• Size: 4-oz bottle

Retinol for the body - it's a thing. This is a decent-size bottle of lotion with retinol, and it sits at a decent price point. This is a good thing since you'll probs be slathering it allll over your bad self. Be careful about using this alongside exfoliants, though - that can lead to irritation.

Research suggests that retinol has the secret sauce for improving the look of stretch marks (but nothing can quite delete them altogether, folks, so do your best to love 'em).

Reviewers are impressed overall. Comments range from "life changing" to some users saying they didn't see improvement in their concerns. But Paula's Choice is known for high quality ingredients at a fair price point, so it could be worth trying out for yourself.

We love that it's free of fragrance (helpful for sensitive skin types) and cruelty-free.

Pros

• contains hydrating and antioxidant ingredients
• big bottle at a nice price
• nongreasy
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• might cause irritation

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Best high-concentration retinol cream

Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

• Price: $$
• Retinol concentration: 6.5%
• Skin type/concern: regular retinol user
• Standout ingredients: hydroxypinacolone retinoate, retinol, honey, bisabolol, cactus extract, ginger
• Size: 1.7-oz bottle

This one is NOT for the new kids. This formula has a blend of 5% hydroxypinacolone retinoate (a more stable and less irritating version of retinol), 1% retinol proper, and 0.5% natural retinol-imitating blue algae. This means it can give ya a sexy mix of potency and protection.

The formula also includes CoQ10 (an antioxidant that can help reduce signs of aging) plus bisabolol, honey, and cactus extract - three anti-inflammatory ingredients that help soothe your skin and prevent irritation from retinol. It also has ginger, which the brand says helps soothe and balance out the skin, but we couldn't find any research to back that up.

Reviewers rave about it, confirming the "gentle but effective" claim. But one reviewer says they saw some pilling when they layered this with other products.

It's also cruelty-free and made without:

• artificial fragrances
• sulfates
• parabens
• gluten
• soy
• phthalates

Pros

• high strength
• contains soothing and antioxidant ingredients
• fragrance-free

Cons

• not great for new retinol users
• pricey

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Best retinol cream for uneven texture

Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform

• Price: $$$
• Retinol concentration: 2.2%
• Skin type/concern: textured skin
• Standout ingredients: retinol, lactic acid, glycerin, green tea extract, tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E), rosemary and sunflower extract
• Size: 1-oz bottle

This retinol is formulated by a facialist named Shani Darden, who has an impressive resume of beautiful celebs who put their trust in her - like Emily Ratajkowski, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Jessica Alba, and Chrissy Teigen.

What matters most is that the brand promises this product is gentle but effective. The formula includes 2.2 percent encapsulated retinol, which the brand says offers fast, youth-boosting results.

It contains lactic acid, one of the gentler AHAs that clears away skin cells to reveal a brighter, more even texture. It also has green tea extract to help calm redness and irritation and rosemary and sunflower extracts to help hydrate and clear up signs of UV damage.

Reviewers rave about it, but one reviewer says they saw some pilling when they layered this with other products.

Pros

• contains AHAs and retinol
• celeb-endorsed brand
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey
• might pill when layered with other products

Shop now at Sephora

Best vegan retinol cream

Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

• Price: $$$
• Retinol concentration: 1%
• Skin type/concern: not disclosed
• Standout ingredients: retinol, niacinamide, tocopherol (vitamin E), peptides, linoleic and linolenic acid (vitamin F), hyaluronic acid, panthenol (vitamin B5), glycerin
• Size: 1-oz bottle

Buckle up 'cuz this cream's LOADED with ingredients. We won't dive into all of them, but we will call out some important faves. In addition to a few we're familiar with by now (niacinamide, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin), this cream also contains "vitamin F" and vitamin B5. What the heck do those do?

Vitamin F (which is not an actual vitamin but rather a type of fat) is a bad B at improving skin barrier function (your skin's ability to hold on to moisture). Vitamin B5 is also known for helping with skin barrier function - but it's great at soothing irritated skin.

This formula also uses a blend of triple peptides, another skin barrier superstar that improves skin elasticity.

Drunk Elephant says this blend helps firm and strengthen while also improving retinol's benefits for signs of aging. Reviewers rave about the results they're seeing but recommend avoiding this if you've never used retinol before.

Pros

• contains soothing, hydrating, antioxidant ingredients
• vegan
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey
• not widely available

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Best budget retinol cream

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

• Price: $
• Retinol concentration: not disclosed
• Skin type/concern: not disclosed
• Standout ingredients: retinol, glycolic acid, zinc gluconate, glycerin, squalane
• Size: 1-oz tube

If you want to dip your toes in the retinol waters, why not start out small and easy on the wallet? This one comes recommended by Loucas, so we're into it. It also has a 4.3/5-star rating on Google. Many reviewers think it's a great deal, but some point out that it has a fragrance they could live without.

We know the concentration of this cream isn't high, but details are not listed (bummer). It does have some goodies like glycolic acid, one of the gentler AHAs that can clear away skin cells to reveal a brighter, more even texture.

We love that this formula is noncomedogenic, too, so it won't clog your pores.

Pros

• contains hydrating and anti-acne ingredients
• available at Walgreens
• inexpensive
• alcohol-free

Cons

• contains fragrance

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Best high-end moisturizing retinol

NourishMax Encapsulated 0.5% Retinol Cream

• Price: $$$
• Retinol concentration: 0.5%
• Skin type/concern: not disclosed
• Standout ingredients: retinol, retinyl palmitate, safflower seed oil, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane
• Size: 1-oz jar

This night cream comes with Loucas' seal of approval.

Although it can be on the pricier side, it does contain some of those superstar ingredients we love.

This formula includes squalane for deep hydration, safflower seed oil for skin barrier restoration, and glycerin for even more moisture. Finally, it has ceramides for an added moisture-holding layer. The name "NourishMax" really goes hard, doesn't it?

This cream is also vegan, cruelty-free, and made in the United States.

Plus, it's free of:

• gluten
• parabens
• sulfates
• phthalates
• formaldehyde

Pros

• contains two types of retinol and multiple hydrating ingredients
• vegan
• fragrance- and alcohol-free

Cons

• pricey
• not widely available

Shop now at NourishMax

How to choose a retinol cream

Shopping from trusted brands with positive (legit) reviews is, of course, a must. From there, you'll have a few other things to consider.

Type of retinol or retinoid

Sooo should you go with a retinoid or retinol? It depends on your skin type and goals.

If you're looking to reduce moderate-to-severe acne, a retinoid like adapalene (or a prescription-strength retinoid like tretinoin or tazarotene) is your best bet. They're also used for skin conditions like keratosis and psoriasis. Retinoids can also be used to reduce signs of aging, but they're pretty strong, so many people start with retinol for that.

There are a few diff types of retinol to consider:

• Retinol. This is the most commonly used form in cosmetic products. It's a very stable ingredient that can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve texture and hyperpigmentation. It's less irritating than retinoids but more irritating than retinyl esters and retinaldehyde. Retinol works well if you have oily, acne-prone, or normal skin types.
• Retinaldehyde. A less irritating form of retinol that helps a bit with reducing wrinkles and improving texture, but it's best used for improving sun damage. This works well for any skin type, especially if you're more on the sensitive side.
• Retinyl esters (acetate and palmitate). A less irritating form of retinol that's only mildly effective at reducing fine lines and wrinkles. This one is ideal for drier or more sensitive skin.

Concentration

Not every brand will disclose what percentage of retinol its product contains, so it's a little hard to compare products apples to apples.

In general though, retinol creams can contain anywhere from 0.0015 to 1 percent retinol. It's definitely a good idea to start on the lower side (especially if you're going the retinoid or pure retinol route) and work your way up over time.

If you have dry or sensitive skin, lower concentrations are def the move.

If you're feelin' uneasy, always ask a derm for advice on what concentration works well for your skin type and goals.

Other ingredients

Because retinol and all its variations can be mildly irritating, Graf says to make sure it's paired with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients and antioxidants with anti-inflammatory benefits. This means beneficial ingredients like:

• Squalane. When you think squalane, think hydration and smoothing without feeling greasy. *chef's kiss*
• Glycerin. This helps your skin cling to water, so it stays nice and hydrated.
• Niacinamide. This ingredient loves to moisturize, smooth wrinkles, reduce acne- or rosacea-induced irritation, and reduce oil production. It's basically great for all skin types.
• Hyaluronic acid. This lightweight moisturizer helps lock moisture into your skin. It's amazing for oily skin because it won't feel too thick on your face.
• Ceramides. Among other v helpful functions, these are popular for strengthening the skin barrier. They're great for dry skin.

What to avoid

Graf points out the most important part of shopping for a new-to-you topical product: allergies or skin sensitivities.

"If you are allergic or sensitive to any ingredients in a formula, that is what you should generally avoid," she says.

Take a good hard look at the ingredients, and then double down by doing a patch test. This is the best way to avoid a big ol' mess - aka an allergic reaction. And it's simple to do: Test out a small amount of the product on your inner wrist or forearm, making note of any signs of irritation.

Plus, Graf adds, if you have very sensitive skin, avoid retinol products that are also formulated with exfoliating acids - think AHAs (like glycolic and lactic acid) or BHAs (like salicylic acid).

"That might be just a little too much for sensitive skin and can lead to dryness and irritation," she says. "The same thing goes for vitamin C - it's best to use vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night." (Remember our retinol pick with vitamin C? That one is not for the sensitive types.)

How to apply retinol cream

Graf says that when you're brand-new to retinol, you'll need to start slow, using it once or twice a week at most until your skin gets used to it. "Let your skin get used to it. If at any time it starts to feel dry or stinging, stop," she says.

Loucas adds that you can increase the frequency of use once your skin starts to get used to it.

"Retinoids are much more likely to cause [sensitivity] compared to retinols," he says.

So, if you get prescription strength, you can expect your skin to take a little longer to get used to its new, intense topical friend.

Applying retinol for different skin types and strengths

• Sensitive or dry skin. Graf suggests applying it as the last step, on top of your moisturizer: "It'll help reduce any potential irritation."
• Oily skin. You should still apply moisturizer on top of the retinol.
• Applying prescription-strength retinol. If you're using a prescription version (like tretinoin, tazarotene, adapalene, etc.), Graf says to simply follow your doctor's instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Is retinol better as cream or serum?

It depends on what your skin type and goals are.

Serums are usually more concentrated than creams and can absorb a bit deeper into the skin. They also have a more lightweight feel to them. This combo might work beautifully for oily or normal skin types, but it might irritate dry or sensitive skin.

On the other hand, creams usually have multiple hydrating ingredients that can create more of a barrier on your skin. Anyone can use creams, but they might work best for dry or sensitive skin.

Which retinol is best for wrinkles?

Our top pick for wrinkles is one of our derm's recommendations: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream.

In addition to retinol, it contains niacinamide and hyaluronic acid - which are also known for helping reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

What is a good percentage of retinol?

Retinol creams can contain anywhere from 0.0015 to 1 percent retinol. If you've never used retinol before, make sure you start on the lower side and work your way up if you tolerate it well. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you'll prob want to stick to lower concentrations all the time.

If you're feelin' uneasy, always ask a derm for advice on what concentration works well for your skin type and goals.

How can I get prescription retinol?

If you'd like to get your hands on prescription-strength retinol, make an appointment with a dermatologist or check out a telehealth platform like Nurx. Your doctor can decide whether it's a good choice for your skin concerns.

Just keep in mind that some insurance companies won't cover it - especially if you're above a certain age (RUDE) - so it can be kinda pricey.

When should I start using retinol cream?

For skin concerns like acne-prone skin, oily skin, fine lines and wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, there's no better time to start than now. Just make sure you start off slowly and add a good moisturizer into the mix.

What do I do if I have a bad reaction to a retinol cream?

Graf says a "bad" reaction to retinol is usually due to too much application. "Retinol is very active and can be irritating," she says. This leads to redness, dryness, tightness, and peeling. "If that happens, stop using retinol and products with any other anti-aging actives like AHA and BHAs."

She adds that you should then treat your skin as if it's very sensitive and use minimal products with minimal ingredients. "Opt for a creamy gentle cleanser that doesn't foam, a rich and soothing moisturizer, and a mineral-based sunscreen during the day. This helps your skin repair itself."

The bottom line

Retinol is an OTC type of retinoid. This vitamin A derivative is popular for addressing issues like acne, oily skin, hyperpigmentation, and fine lines and wrinkles.

Even though OTC retinol products are less intense than prescription-strength options, you still need to be careful when starting out.

Give your skin time to adjust by using a retinol product only a couple of times a week at first, making sure you're using a trusted moisturizer along with it and avoiding using other intense ingredients at the same time, like exfoliating acids.

You can likely find a retinol product with a strong reputation and high ratings that will work for your skin type, skin concerns, and budget.

Our process and why you should trust us

We consulted with two dermatologists to get tips for choosing the best retinol creams for different skin types and concerns. We used those tips to pick the products above.

Before writing about those products, we put them all through a thorough vetting process that checks for unsupported health claims (like "This retinol cream gets rid of wrinkles in one use!"), shady business practices, and lawsuits concerning a company's products. We also checked that the main ingredients in each product are evidence-based and actually do what the company says they do.

After wrapping up our recommendations and tips, we sent this entire article to a third medical professional specializing in dermatology (in this case, Amanda Caldwell, MSN, APRN-C) for review.

So basically, you can feel good knowing that we put in WORK to get you these recommendations.

1. Retinol, a vital skincare ingredient, is nicknamed the holy grail due to its ability to address numerous skin concerns, such as acne, fine lines, uneven skin texture, large pores, age spots, melasma, hyperpigmentation, and dark under-eye circles.
2. The strength of retinol can sometimes lead to irritation, making it essential to follow instructions carefully when using it.
3. The best retinol creams, based on various factors like retinol concentration, skin type, and special ingredients like hyaluronic acid, antioxidants, and fragrances, include Skinmedica Retinol Complex, Medik8 Crystal Retinal, Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream, Differin Acne Treatment Gel, and La Roche-Posay Retinol Face Serum with Vitamin B3.
4. Sensitive skin should use retinol sparingly and avoid formulas with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) to minimize potential irritation.
5. Retinol offers numerous benefits like boosting collagen production, strengthening the skin barrier, reducing transepidermal water loss, and increasing cell turnover, making it suitable for most skin types.

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