If you’re looking for the best retinol serum on the market that does not require a prescription, we’ve gathered our best sellers for every occasion and skin type. As we’ve curated a collection of dermatologist-recommended retinols, luxury items, and budget-friendly options, we are sure you will find exactly what suits your needs with this list! But first, we will answer your most pressing questions:
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Is a higher concentration of retinol better?
Even though a higher concentration of retinol is associated with better results in reducing the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging, keep in mind that, with retinol, stronger is not always better. You have to adjust to your needs and to your skin. All in all, the general recommendation is that you should start with lower concentrations and then upgrade. However, we advise you always to consider your skin type first, as some formulas are heavier in oils and others are lighter.
Can you use retinol serum every day?
We stand with our usual: it depends. We’ll always refer you to the brand recommendation. However, there are a few universal guidelines we think can be useful. You’re using an entry-level concentration of retinol, and your skin is not particularly sensitive? The brand advises confidently that you can use it daily. Then maybe you can use it every day.
If you’re going straight to medium to high concentrations of the active, then it’s probably a bad idea to use it daily, as those formulas require a more gradual approach.
Some formulas may be suitable for everyday use, but require a slower start. This initial adjustment period, also known as retinization, allows your skin to get used to retinol, to get all the benefits without compromising the overall comfort and health of your skin. As you can see, there are a lot of details to consider when retinol makes an entrance in your routine. That’s why we have an entire blog post dedicated to beginners who wish to introduce retinol in their skincare lives.
Our 8 favorite retinol serums
Now that we’ve established that not always a higher concentration is better, and you need to consider brand recommendations before giving a go to your retinol serum, here are our favorites:
ISDINCEUTICS Rejuvenate Retinal Smooth Serum
Best Starter Retinol
ISDINCEUTICS Rejuvenate Retinal Smooth Serum
ISDINCEUTICS Rejuvenate Retinal Smooth Serum is a brand new formula from ISDIN that is perfect if you’ve never used any retinol before. Moreover, the biphasic consistency is nourishing, which helps to avoid dryness. Perfect if you’re looking for an effective product to start your retinol journey.
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
Best for Sensitive Skin
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
The new La Roche-Posay serum on the block, this serum is already a best seller. Formulated with both retinol and niacinamide, it’s suitable for sensitive skin. One of the main issues with using retinols is that they are rarely compatible with sensitivity. However, this formula takes this into consideration and can be used by people with skin that cannot tolerate intensive treatments.
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
Best Budget
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
Not everyone can or wants to spend a lot on skincare, but that doesn’t mean that there won’t be a great product for them. The Ordinary has come up with the Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion, a star serum on a budget that delivers the effectiveness that you do not want to give up on. Containing a next-generation retinoid in a 0,2% concentration, it provides your skin with all the retinol benefits while still being well tolerated. It’s a great bet if you’re unsure about spending a lot on other products.
Retincare Hyperpigmentation Xerosis Photo/Chrono-Aging Treatment
Best for Deep Wrinkles
Retincare Hyperpigmentation Xerosis Photo/Chrono-Aging Treatment
This powerful peeling treatment combines both retinol and glycolic acid for maximum efficacy. As an intensive night treatment, this cream, that delivers results that can only compete with serums, targets deep wrinkles and aging spots to ensure that your skin is even and bright.
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Best for Oily Skin
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
This extremely fluid product is perfect if you suffer from oily skin. Often, retinol products are extremely nourishing, which renders them useless for people with oily skin. However, this very fluid serum is the perfect solution for those suffering from oiliness, enlarged pores, and post-acne marks. Containing Cerave‘s signature 3 essential ceramides, you’ll get the oil control you need without disrupting your skin.
Biretix Tri-Active Anti-Blemish Gel
Best for Adult Acne-Prone Skin
Biretix Tri-Active Anti-Blemish Gel
The greatest thing about retinol is that it’s not only good for wrinkles. Additionally, retinol is one of the go-to treatments for acne. All in all, if you are suffering from acne breakouts and still want to keep fighting the aging signs, this one is for you. This enhanced formula is able to tackle both acne and wrinkles so that you can achieve a smoother complexion.
Neoretin Discrom Control Ultra Emulsion Pigment Corrector
Best for Dark Spots
Neoretin Discrom Control Ultra Emulsion Pigment Corrector
Retinol is a do-it-all product. It’s also wonderful for removing dark spots, thanks to the ability to boost cellular turnover. This product from Neoretin features not only 0.55% RetinSphere® Technology, but also other depigmenting agents—such as 0.5% EDAFENCE®, tranexamic acid, and niacinamide—for maximum efficacy.
Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide Capsules
Best Luxury
Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide Capsules
Elizabeth Arden has been producing the ceramide capsules for many years now, and the retinol ones are just as good as the other ones from the range. The powerful blend of barrier-repairing ceramides with retinol ensures the skin is protected and wrinkles are reduced. It not only looks premium, it feels luxurious on the skin!
Lastly, if you still want to explore more about this top skincare ingredient, you can check out our best-selling retinol products on our website. We also think that our begginer’s guide to start using retinol can come handy!
