The Best Retinols
If you haven't heard of retinol yet, then you're in for a mighty big treat. This powerhouse ingredient, which is actually a type of Vitamin A, can help you achieve smoother, brighter, more youthful-looking skin. lt works by helping skin cells to turn over faster, which in turn can stimulate elastin and collagen production. Not only this, but retinol can also help prevent wrinkles from occurring in the first place and may even clear up acne and dark spots. What's not to love? If you're ready to take the plunge (and you should be), these are the best retinols to try. Your skin will thank you later.
RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Retinol Cream
The crème de la crème
In terms of efficacy, quality, and affordability, it doesn’t get much better than RoC Retinol Correxion Retinol Cream. This potent anti-aging cream lifts, firms, and tightens up the skin like none other, though it’s still gentle enough for daily use and won’t inflame or irritate your complexion. The formula is non-comedogenic, so it doesn’t clog pores, and it’s hydrating without being greasy. This cream is a classic for a reason—if you want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, brighten dull skin and dark spots, and smooth out rough or uneven texture, the RoC Retinol Cream should be your go-to product.
Pros:
- We love that this is oil-free, non-comedogenic, and non-greasy, so it doesn’t clog our pores.
- In addition to fixing wrinkles, this cream can brighten dull skin, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation.
- This retinol cream has a reputation for being gentle enough for daily use and appropriate for all skin types.
Cons:
- You really have to be careful to use sunscreen during the day if you’re using this product at night since retinol and sunlight don’t mix.
Amara Beauty Retinol Serum
Rejuvenate your skin
What’s better than a serum with retinol? A serum with retinol and hyaluronic acid. The Retinol Serum 2.5 percent from Amara Beauty contains both ingredients, along with organic jojoba oil, green tea, and vitamin E, so it’s basically a vitamin pack for your face. Skin can appear more nourished, hydrated, and radiant after just a few uses, and you’ll likely notice a significant improvement in texture and fewer wrinkles and fine lines after just 12 weeks.
Pros:
- This contains a uniquely effective formula that consists of retinol, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, green tea, and organic jojoba oil, so our skin looks and feels more hydrated and youthful.
- Some people who have used this cream say they’ve seen noticeable improvements in as little as 12 weeks of use.
- We like that you only need one dab for daily application, ensuring this will last a while.
Cons:
- Though effective, there are cheaper options available.
Flawless. Younger. Perfect. Serum Combo Pack
Save your skin, save your money
If you’ve never tried vitamin C or retinol, the Flawless Younger Perfect Serum Combo pack makes for a fabulous starter kit. This pack comes with two serums: a retinol and a vitamin C, both of which work together to promote healthy, smooth, bright, wrinkle-free skin. Retinol helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, while vitamin C contains essential compounds that help to repair damaged skin. When used together, you’ll likely notice fewer signs of aging and sun damage, and fewer blemishes and dark marks.
Pros:
- With this affordable combo pack, we get two powerful serums for the price of one: vitamin C and retinol.
- Vitamin C is great for improving discoloration, repairing sun damage, and stimulating collagen production, while the retinol serum will help with fine lines and acne.
Cons:
- You have to be diligent about using both products daily to see true results.
Radha Beauty Retinol Miracle Cream
Hydration station
The Retinol Miracle Cream from Radha Beauty is an aptly named product. Slather this cream onto your face and neck every night, and you’ll enjoy more youthful, supple skin that’s even in tone and texture. Unlike many other retinol-infused creams, this one doesn’t leave behind an oily residue, and it’s gentle enough to use around the eye area. The formula has 2.5 percent active retinol, plus jojoba oil, green tea, shea butter, and organic aloe, which equals long-lasting hydration and better, smoother-looking skin.
Pros:
- Unlike other face creams, this one doesn’t leave behind an oily residue.
- This is gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive skin areas, including around the eyes and neck.
- The ingredients are cruelty-free, making this an ideal option for animal welfare advocates.
Cons:
- Results aren’t as immediately noticeable as some other products.
Our Tips and Tricks
There are lots of products out there aimed at keeping your skin looking fresh and healthy, but few are as simple — or as effective — as retinol. Derived from Vitamin A, an essential nutrient that helps promote strong bones, teeth, and skin, retinol has become popular in the beauty world for its restorative and anti-aging properties. Retinol works deep under the skin, where it neutralizes free radicals and boosts the production of elastin and collagen, effectively helping to smooth fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. Retinol is safe for most people to use and retinol products are widely available both online and in beauty stores. You can use retinol every night, or every other night, but you typically have to work up to this schedule since it’s such a powerful ingredient. Start by using your retinol product once or twice per week to see how your skin reacts, and then work up from there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can all skin types use retinol?
Yes, all skin types can (and should) use retinol, but those with sensitive skin should tread with caution.
What are the benefits of using retinol?
Retinol promotes healthier-looking skin overall. It brightens dull skin, smooths over fine lines and wrinkles, lightens up sun damage and hyperpigmentation, clears up acne, and gives you a youthful glow.
About the Author
Why Trust Us
Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.