Retinol Creams Do It All—Here Are the Best 20 Buys for All Skin Types and Budgets (2024)

Key Ingredients: Ethyl lactyl retinoate, glycolic acid, ceramides | Benefits: Improves lines and wrinkles, tone, and texture | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Dr. Kobets is a big fan of this formula, pointing out that it was tested head-to-head against a prescription-strength retinoid and found to be as effective but with less irritation. “It’s also combined with alpha hydroxy acids and additional moisturizers to help increase the efficacy and keep skin hydrated,” she says. Namely, there are lactic and glycolic acids in the mix to further help boost radiance and smooth your complexion, as well as plenty of moisturizing ingredients that help minimize the likelihood of irritation. Due to the number of active ingredients included, you should see noticeable results pretty quickly when used nightly. If you're new to retinol, however, you'll want to slowly introduce it into your routine.

Makayla, product reviewer: “I see such significant progress in my skin with only using it for a couple of weeks. And it’s gentle enough for every night use!”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide | Benefits: Improves lines and wrinkles, boosts radiance, combats the look of dark spots and pores | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Dr. Kobets is also a fan of this option, lauding it for the addition of hydrating ingredients, including niacinamide (AKA vitamin B3). Like retinol, niacinamide is a great multi-tasker, offering dark spot-fading and redness calming effects. This cream is formulated with peptides, too, which have extra anti-aging and skin-smoothing benefits for an overall youthful complexion. Plus, we love that it's affordable and fragrance-free, which is good for sensitive skin.

Ash, product reviewer: “Absolutely love, love, love this moisturizer. Makes my skin feel baby-butt smooth seconds after application. You won't be disappointed!”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acids | Benefits: Smooths fine lines, hydrates | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Here’s another great option that pairs pure retinol with hydrating hyaluronic acid in a moisturizing yet fast-absorbing cream that can work quickly to smooth and boost the radiance of your complexion. It works so fast that some users have started to see results in as little as one week. Also nice: It’s fragrance-free and dermatologist-tested for all skin types, making it a great pick for those with sensitive skin who are easily irritated by retinol.

Noxdomina, product reviewer: “Great preventative daily moisturizer. I use this all the time and it has improved my skin texture so much! I am so grateful for discovering this product. Gives such a great glow.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol, vitamin E | Benefits: Improves lines and wrinkles, tone, and texture | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Given how efficacious and well-studied retinol is, this is certainly one category where you can feel fairly confident that any money you spend is well worth it. That being said, if you’re on a budget and/or just don’t want to invest in a retinol cream quite yet, consider this guy. It costs less than $10, though it still contains 0.1% retinol, along with antioxidant-rich bakuchiol and skin–soothing ingredients (like allantoin and vitamin E45) that help nourish and combat any irritation.

D. White, product reviewer: “There are few products I can say that I like almost instantly. This is one of those products. It's lightweight, goes on smoothly, has no scent, and it's effective. My dry skin looks and feels moisturized as soon as I put it on, and it stays moisturized. Yet, it feels gentle on the skin, almost delicate-like.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, jojoba oil, hyaluronic acid, petrolatum | Benefits: Firms skin, targets, signs of aging | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Retinol is notorious for its drying side effects; it’s why you may initially experience some roughness and flaking when you first start using the ingredient. But this cream helps address that issue with a thick and creamy base that’s loaded with humectant, emollient, and occlusive ingredients (you want all three hydrating categories in a moisturizer). Just remember that this only contains a 0.01% concentration of retinol, which is on the lower end of the spectrum. While this might be a deterrent for some skin types, those with drier complexions will actually benefit from a less intense retinol concentration and use it to build up their tolerance.

Kayti, product reviewer: “This is so hydrating; it makes my skin feel so dewy and refreshed in the morning without being overly greasy or causing breakouts, which is hard to do for my sensitive skin. This is absolutely going to be a permanent addition to my skincare routine!”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, squalane, jojoba oil | Benefits: Improves lines and wrinkles, tone, and texture | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Retinol is a great ingredient for those with oily skin (as it can balance oil in the skin and limit breakouts), particularly when it’s in a formula like this. Rather than a heavy cream, this is lightweight and serum-like, with a base of jojoba oil and squalane. Both are great hydrators, but because they mimic and are very similar to the natural sebum in our skin, they absorb very quickly and won’t clog pores. The fact that this boasts a very minimal ingredient list also makes it a nice choice for anyone with sensitive skin, and the crazy affordable price is just an added bonus.

Brittany, product reviewer: “I really like this product because it's a perfect intro to retinol. I don't find that it causes my skin to experience any type of reaction or dryness, so it seems gentle yet effective. I'll be buying this again!”

Key Ingredients: Adapalene | Benefits: Clears blackheads, whiteheads, and blemishes | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Retinoids are great for those with acne; in fact, prescription-strength tretinoin was first used as an acne treatment back in the 1970s. This pick, which is another Dr. Kobets recommendation, is great for clearing blackheads, whiteheads, and blemishes—but it technically doesn’t contain retinol. Rather, it relies on adapalene, another type of retinoid that used to be available by prescription only. Since adapalene has been studied to be effective for treating and healing all kinds of acne (even more effective than tretinoin), this pick is a great choice for those who have severe acne and need something a little stronger. While it may be a little harsher than a standard retinol product, it's much milder than tretinoin and other prescription-strength acne medications.

Maria, product reviewer: “With consistent use, it makes your skin smooth and glowy. I'm a physician, and all my derm friends recommend this as a daily retinol. I get a lot of compliments on my skin now (I used to be acne-prone).”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, ceramides, licorice root, niacinamide | Benefits: Minimizes the look of pores and discoloration | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

It can be admittedly scary to try retinol if you have sensitive skin; after all, the ingredient is notorious for its irksome side effects, including irritation, redness, and flaking. This serum is a good option to start with, even if you are on the sensitive side. Dr. Kobets says it’s a non-irritating formula thanks to the fact that the retinol is encapsulated and delivered into the skin via slow-release technology. There are also skin-strengthening ceramides and calming niacinamide, which is always a good thing for sensitive skin.

Pauline, product reviewer: “This got rid of my acne almost overnight and has lightened my acne scars. After using it for just a week, my face is baby-soft. I highly recommend it!”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, glycerin | Benefits: Helps with fine lines and boosts radiance around the eye area | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

The skin around your eyes is the thinnest on the body, making it more prone to irritation than elsewhere. So, if you’re going to use retinol on the lines around your eyes, it’s a good idea to use a dedicated eye product. RoC’s Retinol Correxion Eye Cream has been a fan favorite for years (one is sold every 30 seconds), but it recently got a reformulation upgrade. The retinol is now delivered via a sustained-release system to help minimize irritation and increase efficacy and is even better able to smooth fine lines and wrinkles.

Denise, product reviewer: “I repurchased this eye cream because it performed so well. Retinol creams can be very irritating around the eyes, but not this one. I love that it has retinol, and it is gentle enough to use around the eyes. It helps with crow's feet, dark circles, and puffy eyes.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, peptides, vitamin F | Benefits: Minimizes look of fine lines and sun damage | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Given that fragrance is one of the most common irritants for sensitive skin folks, looking for fragrance-free retinol creams is always a good idea. This one packs a 1% concentration of retinol alongside line-smoothing peptides and moisturizing vitamin F. We also love that the pump-top bottle minimizes exposure to light and air, both of which can degrade the namesake ingredient. Although this product is on the pricier side, we think the formula plus the bottle's design make this a quality product worth the spend.

Jenn, product reviewer: “One of my favorite products. I feel like this helps with my wrinkles and fine lines like no other product I have ever tried.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, bisabolol | Benefits: Improves the look of wrinkles, blemishes, and pores | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No

Many brands don’t specify exactly how much retinol is included in their over-the-counter products. While concentration isn’t the only thing to keep in mind, it can be a good indicator of the product's strength. That’s why we appreciate that this pick specifies the amount and comes in three concentrations: 0.3%, 0.5%, and 1.0%. It makes it easy for you to know exactly what your skin is getting and allows you to gradually work your way up as your skin gets more and more acclimated to the ingredient.

PJ, product reviewer: “Skinceuticals has the most effective (from experimenting on my skin) non-prescription retinols. This one allows me to use it three times a week without peeling. It does keep my skin clear and seems to help keep discoloration away. I'm always getting compliments on how nice my skin is.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan | Benefits: Reduces fine lines and improves skin texture | Size: 2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

We love a multitasking formula like this one from Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare. It combines retinol with three antioxidant-rich ingredients—bakuchiol, ferulic acid, and rambutan—helping to prevent the effects of free radical damage, including premature aging, inflammation, and hyperpigmentation. The cream is also super hydrating and soothing for those with sensitive skin; in brand-backed clinical studies, none of the participants experienced any kind of irritation, even after using this for 12 weeks.

Adrienne, product reviewer: “This is a thick, nourishing cream with zero greasy residue, and I love it.It doesn't break me out and has done a great job smoothing out fine lines and keeping my face tight yet plump and soft.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, ceramide | Benefits: Improves texture and tone | Size: 28 treatments | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Here’s a splurge-worthy option for those who want to channel their inner cosmetic chemist. This set comes with an activator device and 28 treatment ampoules reminiscent of Nespresso pods. Pop one into the device, where it gently spins and warms up the solid pod, transforming it into a lightweight cream. This kit comes with both a retinol option—made with retinol and ceramides—as well as a restorative mask pod made with soothing and moisturizing ingredients that you can alternate nightly. Plus, you can choose from three different retinol concentrations.

KB, product reviewer: “I am now three weeks in and can confidently speak to the efficacy. The overall texture of my skin is more velvety. The size of my pores has diminished—so much so that even my husband, who notices nothing, noticed! Now that's what I call a miracle.”

Key Ingredients: Retinyl linoleate, safflower seed oil, squalane, algae | Benefits: Improves lines and wrinkles, tone, and texture | Size: 60 x 0.01 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

There are two reasons why we like this pick for retinol newbies. First, the serum is housed inside individual capsules, offering the perfect dose and eliminating one of the biggest mistakes beginners make: using too much product and ending up with flakey, irritated skin. Second, the formula itself, though not a nourishing cream, is great for sensitive skin thanks to a lower retinol concentration combined with skin-barrier-building algae and squalane.

Ashley, product reviewer: “I noticed such a difference in my skin in like a week; it just felt softer and looked younger—just smooth and plump! It almost felt like I didn’t need to use my moisturizer afterwards. I tested it out (with and without moisturizer) and my skin was just as soft and supple the next day. This is such a treat; my skin care feels luxurious! I feel like it pours into my confidence.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide | Benefits: Improves lines and wrinkles, boosts firmness, hydrates | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

As a general rule of thumb, retinol isn’t one of those ingredients that’s going to work some kind of magic overnight; it takes time to see all of its effects. That being said, in clinical brand trials, people saw results in as little as four weeks—an impressive timeline. Credit the fact that it uses a three-pronged approach, combining a fast-acting retinoid, a time-release retinol, and a retinol booster. Bonus points for the inclusion of moisturizing niacinamide too.

Candy, product reviewer: “After using this product for several weeks, I noticed a visible improvement in the appearance of my skin. My fine lines and wrinkles appeared less noticeable, and my skin felt smoother and more hydrated. I also appreciated that the cream absorbed quickly and did not leave a greasy or heavy feeling on my skin.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, CoQ10, Hawaiian white honey | Benefits: Fights the signs of aging and improves the look of congested and UV-damaged skin | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

So, you’ve put time and effort into increasing your skin’s retinol tolerance, and you’re ready to step things up a notch. Meet the Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum, a silky formula that boasts a whopping 6.5% solution of retinoid blends and retinol-alternative botanical extracts like blue-green algae. Additionally, this seriously potent product is infused with CoQ10, a powerful antioxidant that can help repair damaged skin, and soothing Hawaiian white honey. Advanced retinol users can apply it every evening for swift, impressive reduction of UV damage, fine lines, and blemishes. If you’re fairly new to retinol, remember to take it slow by using it two days on, followed by two days off and slathering on an additional moisturizer.

Amptbc, product reviewer: “Holy grail product! This A+ high-dose retinol serum is a game changer. It improved both the texture and the condition of my skin. It smoothed and cleared my skin. I had multiple people ask me what I was using and tell me my skin looked better than it had in years.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, HPR, bisabolol, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Wrinkles, dryness, dark spots, pores, and aging | Size: 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you prefer a lightweight product that won’t feel too heavy on your skin, this water cream from Elizabeth Arden was made for you. It goes on smooth and silky and absorbs quickly with no greasy residue left behind. The formula combines retinol with HPR, a bioavailable sustained-release version of retinol, offering a double dose that’s balanced with hydrating hyaluronic acid and soothing bisabolol to reduce the risk of dryness and irritation. Although reviewers love the pump dispenser, many lament the amount of product in the bottle, which feels scarce considering the cost.

Lynn, product reviewer: “I went through almost the whole bottle and now I wish I had taken a before and after picture. I have this wrinkle in the middle of my forehead, which is more pronounced when I wake up. The cream has really helped in diminishing this line, and that's where I have been able to see the biggest change. I would keep buying this cream just for this reason alone. Overall, it's a light cream and although it has retinol, I did not have to acclimate to it. It was very mild.”

Key Ingredients: Rambutan, squalane, orange milk tree extract | Benefits: Increased elasticity and firmness, decreased fine lines and wrinkles | Size: 1.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

While we're here to sing retinol’s praises, there are certain times when an alternative might be called for, particularly if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if your ultra-sensitive skin simply won’t tolerate the ingredient. In those cases, help is at hand in the form of plant-based retinol alternatives like rambutan, which offers many of the same benefits—increased elasticity and firmness, decreased fine lines and wrinkles—without the drawbacks. This rich cream from Indie Lee combines rambutan with hydrating squalane and orange milk tree extract to leave your skin plump and soft.

Danielle, product reviewer: “I literally noticed results in five days! My face felt hydrated and non-greasy, and my fine lines have diminished. I noticed the area around my mouth and chin look a lot better, too!”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, ferulic acid | Benefits: Boosts firmness, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, supports skin barrier | Size: 1.69 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

Anyone noticing early signs of aging on their skin will benefit from a regular dose of retinol, and the effects can be enhanced further when combined with other science-backed anti-aging actives. Along with a 1% concentration of slow-release retinol, this potent moisturizer from Beauty Pie contains a co*cktail of antioxidants, including vitamins C and E and ferulic acid, which work in harmony to illuminate and even skin tone, boost collagen, and protect against UV damage.

Misha, product reviewer: “This has been my go-to retinol product. It's moisturizing, does not cause irritation, but is powerful enough to keep my skin smooth.”

Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, antioxidant PhytoShield Complex | Benefits: Hyperpigmentation, lines and wrinkles | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes

If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, you know, patches seem to appear instantaneously but take months of dedication to fade. Anything that speeds up the painstaking process is worth the investment. Enter SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex, a strong solution that blends retinol with dark spot-tackling niacinamide and anti-inflammatory magnolia grandiflora bark extract. Use it regularly and you should see stubborn hyperpigmentation begin to fade away as if by magic. Just don’t forget to use a mineral SPF that will deflect UV rays away from the skin and prevent dark patches from returning.

Michelle, product reviewer: “Amazing! Makes age spots or brown spots disappear! Nothing better than this.”

FAQ

• How do retinol creams work?

  “Retinoids have many mechanisms of action,” says Dr. Kobets. These include influencing how cells proliferate, increasing skin cell turnover, and increasing collagen production. In short, they work in multiple different ways in the skin, which is why they have so many benefits, including helping to minimize wrinkles, improve the look of pores, smooth out rough skin texture, and help even out pigmentation.
  

• Are retinol creams good for all skin types?

  Yes, with one big caveat. “Be cautious if you have sensitive skin, which is more prone to the potential irritation, or have skin of color, which is more likely to experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from any type of irritation,” Dr. Kobets says. Start slowly, using a product only every few nights, and gradually increasing the frequency of use as your skin can tolerate it.

• Should you moisturize after retinol?

  Yes! And if you want to up the ante, you can even try the ‘sandwich’ method: “Apply a basic moisturizer both before and after using a retinoid, as this will provide both hydration and possibly help minimize any irritating side effects,” says Dr. Kobets.