What is retinol?
Retinol is a type of vitamin A that’s widely used in skin-care products for its ability to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. Retinol can be found in both over-the-counter and prescription skin-care products.
While retinol is generally considered safe, it can cause some side effects like dryness, redness, and irritation. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with a lower concentration of retinol or use it less frequently until your skin adjusts.
To help you find the best retinol product for your needs, we asked dermatologists to share their top picks. Read on for the best retinol skin-care products, according to dermatologists.
If you’re new to retinol, Dr. Akhavan recommends starting with a lower concentration and applying it every other night to minimize dryness and irritation.
Dr. Zeichner recommends this retinol cream from RoC because it’s affordable and comes in both a 0.5% and 1% concentration (most retinols are 1%). He says the RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Facial Cream has been shown to reduce wrinkles by up to 50% in 12 weeks.
How often should retinol be used?
In general, retinol should be used three to four times a week to start, then increased as your skin becomes more tolerant.
What are the side effects of retinol?
The most common side effects of retinol are dryness, redness, and irritation. If you have sensitive skin, you may want to start with a lower concentration or use it less frequently until your skin adjusts.
To help reduce the risk of side effects, Dr. Akhavan recommends applying a hydrating moisturizer before using retinol. You can also try using retinol every other night or alternating it with another type of skin-care product, like an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA).
What are the benefits of using retinol?
Retinol can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. It can also help to reduce the risk of skin cancer and promote wound healing.
Here are the main benefits of retinol:
- Retinol can improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation
- Retinol can help to reduce the risk of skin cancer
- Retinol can promote wound healing
- Retinol can help to reduce the appearance of scars
- Retinol can improve the texture of your skin
1. SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 Cream
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 Cream is a high- potency retinol cream that’s ideal for advanced skincare routines. It’s formulated with 0.3% retinol and 1% hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, a more stable form of retinol.
2. Glytone Night Renewal Cream
The Glytone Night Renewal Cream is a Retinol cream that’s ideal for those with sensitive skin. It’s formulated with 0.5% retinol and 2% glycerin to help hydrate and soothe the skin.
3. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Cream
For the budget-minded, the Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Cream is a great option. It’s formulated with retinol and hyaluronic acid to help hydrate and plump the skin. It contains 0.3% retinol and is fragrance-free.
4. Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturizer
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturizer is a Retinol cream that’s ideal for those with sensitive skin. It contains retinol and niacinamide to help brighten and even out the skin tone. It has a light, refreshing scent and is non-greasy and contains 0.3% retinol.
5. Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment is a unique retinol formula that not only works to improve the appearance of skin on the body, but also helps to hydrate and nourish it. This makes it an ideal choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.
6. RoC Retinol Correxion Smoothing Night Serum Capsules
The RoC Retinol Correxion Smoothing Night Serum Capsules are a favorite among dermatologists for their ability to target fine lines and wrinkles. “They help fill in the gaps in your skin so that wrinkles appear less pronounced,” says Dr. Sonya Cooksey, a board-certified dermatologist in Houston, Texas. “These capsules also help improve the overall texture of your skin.”
7. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Daily Face Moisturizer with SPF 30 + Hyaluronic Acid
The Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Daily Face Moisturizer with Retinol SA, Hyaluronic Acid, and Glucose Complex can help diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains hydrating hyaluronic acid and SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
8. Dr. Different Vitalift-A Forte
Dr. Different’s Retinol Vitalift-A Forte is a potent retinol cream that works to improve the skin’s overall appearance, including diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, this product helps to improve the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
9. Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
The Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream is a vegan retinol cream that is formulated with 1% retinol and Vitamin F. It also contains Passionfruit oil and apricot oil to help soothe the skin.
10. Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask
The Glow Recipe Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask is a unique product that mixes retinol with avocado oil to hydrate and brighten the under-eye area overnight. This product also contains coffee berry extract to help reduce the appearance of puffiness.
FAQs
How can retinol skin-care products improve your complexion?
Retinol skin-care products can improve your complexion by helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, scars, and uneven skin texture. Retinol can also help to brighten the skin and even out the skin tone.
What are the side effects of using retinol skin-care products?
The most common side effects of using retinol skin-care products include dryness, redness, and irritation. It is important to start with a lower concentration of retinol and increase it gradually to help reduce the risk of these side effects.
It is also important to use a sunscreen when using retinol skin-care products, as they can make the skin more sensitive to the sun.
How often should you use retinol skin-care products?
Retinol skin-care products can be used daily, or as often as needed. It is important to start with a lower concentration of retinol and increase it gradually to help reduce the risk of side effects.
What is the best way to apply retinol skin-care products?
Retinol skin-care products can be applied to the face in the morning or evening. It is important to start with a lower concentration of retinol and increase it gradually to help reduce the risk of side effects.
It is also important to use a sunscreen when using retinol skin-care products, as they can make the skin more sensitive to the sun.
How long does it take for retinol skin-care products to work?
The effects of retinol skin-care products are typically seen after four to eight weeks of use. However, some people may see results sooner.
Are retinol skin-care products suitable for all skin types?
Retinol skin-care products are suitable for most skin types. However, those with sensitive skin may want to start with a lower concentration of retinol and increase it gradually to help reduce the risk of side effects.
What are the best foods to eat when using retinol skin-care products?
There are no specific foods that you need to eat when using retinol skin-care products. However, eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help to improve the overall appearance of your skin.
Nexym's editorial team handpicks all of the products and services it recommends, regardless of external influences. Affiliate links appear in some of our stories. We may receive an affiliate commission if you purchase something through one of these links, which helps us stay independent and support our great team.
