We updated this article in April 2022 to add more information about each featured product, based on extensive research done by our team (and that of our sister team at the Good Housekeeping Institute).

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If you want to maintain a youthful complexion, there’s one ingredient dermatologists will always stand by: retinoids, which are vitamin A derivatives that help improve skin cell turnover.

Translation: “When you apply a retinoid, you’re constantly exfoliating the top layers of skin,” says Meera Sivendran, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor of dermatology at Penn Medicine in Pennsylvania. So if you don’t already have a retinol cream or serum in your skincare lineup, now’s the time to add one.

The best retinoids can also help you achieve many skincare goals like preventing (and smoothing) fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture, getting rid of age spots, and unclogging pores to keep stubborn blackheads and whiteheads away.

“Almost everyone can benefit from implementing [retinol] or prescription retinoids into their routine. Retinols and retinoids aid in cellular renewal which also can indirectly boost collagen production over time, contribute to a brighter, more evenly pigmented complexion, and improve skin tone,” says Libby Rhee, M.D., dermatology Advisor for Ro Derm and founder of Liora Dermatology & Aesthetics.

The problem is that you typically need a prescription to get your hands on one. That’s where retinol creams and serums come in—a type of retinoid that is most often available over-the-counter (OTC). These retinol products usually aren’t as potent as their prescription-strength counterparts, so they will generally deliver less dramatic effects. That simply means they take a bit longer to work.

However, prescription-strength retinoids are often more irritating to the skin than an OTC retinol, says Dr. Sivendran, and can cause dryness, irritated, red skin, or even slight peeling. Trying out an OTC retinol cream or serum first is a great way to get some of the anti-aging benefits for fewer side effects.

How we chose the best retinol creams and serums

We consulted Dr. Sivendran, Dr. Rhee, Lady Dy, M.D., board-certified dermatologist at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Illinois and founder of the Dy Dermatology Cente, Melanie Palm, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor at Scripps Encinitas Memorial Hospital in California, as well as gathered top picks from Erum Ilyas, M.D., board-certified dermatologist based in Philadelphia, Mona Gohara, M.D., assistant clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine and co-creator of MELĒ skincare, Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City in previously reported Prevention stories, the Good Housekeeping Institute who tests countless products to ensure a fair and accurate representation of each item, and countless customer reviews to find the best retinol creams and serums for healthier skin.

• BEST OVERALLNo7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced SerumREAD MORE
• BEST DRUGSTORE PICKRoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night CreamREAD MORE
• BEST RETINOL WITH SPFNeutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer SPF 30READ MORE

BEST OVERALL

No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum

$12 AT ULTA BEAUTYCREDIT: NO7

PROS

• Great Base for Foundation
• Rapid Results
• Hydrating

CONS

• Users Report Needing a Generous Amount for Full Coverage

This product pick is so good, it earned a Good Housekeeping seal! And for $12, you just can’t go wrong with the price. The formula is designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and reveal a more youthful-looking complexion. The ingredients include a unique Matrixyl 3000+ ingredient (that works to treat wrinkles), rice protein (to smooth the skin), and hyaluronic acid (to lock in moisture).

BEST DRUGSTORE PICK

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

$20 AT AMAZONCREDIT: ROC

PROS

• Reduces Lines and Deep Wrinkles
• Increases Firmness

CONS

• Strong Scent

RoC is well-respected for its OTC retinol products, says Dr. Sivendran. This night cream packs retinol to target the more etched-in lines in your face while you snooze away. The brand also states it’s clinically proven to make your skin look 10 years younger. Oil-free and noncomedogenic (so it won’t clog your pores), it’s a potent cream that will work to smooth, firm, and brighten your skin. It’s ideal for even treating adult acne.

BEST RETINOL WITH SPF

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Moisturizer SPF 30

Now 31% Off

$20 AT AMAZONCREDIT: NEUTROGENA

PROS

• Has SPF 30
• Softens the Skin
• Fast-Acting

CONS

• May Cause Irritation

Dr. Sivendran says many of her patients love using this line from Neutrogena. This product not only includes retinol but also contains sunscreen SPF 30 (to protect your skin) and a glucose complex (to help speed up the exfoliation process) while it gets to work. Plus, it’s packed with hydrating hyaluronic acid to draw in moisture and plump the skin. The Good Housekeeping Institute also ranked this serum among its top three retinol-based products.

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BEST FOR ACNE-PRONE SKIN

Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment

$15 AT AMAZONCREDIT: DIFFERIN

PROS

• Treats Acne
• Instant and Long-Term Results

CONS

• May Be Irritating if Used Too Often

If we had to keep track of the number of derms who recommend Differin, we’d be out of fingers and toes. The first prescription-strength retinoid (adapalene) available OTC, this cult-favorite product is especially effective for a range of skin concerns from acne and discolorations to fine lines and wrinkles. Be sure to use this one with a soothing moisturizer, as it acts as more of a treatment. If you experience irritation, wash your face first, then apply a moisturizer and follow up with the retinol on top at night, recommends Dr. Sivendran. “That gives you a barrier in between your skin and the retinol, improving tolerability,” she says.

BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

$22 AT ULTA BEAUTYCREDIT: CERAVE

PROS

• Treats Acne Scars
• Fragrance-Free
• Lightweight Feel

CONS

• Visible Results Tend to Differ

If you have finicky, breakout-prone skin but want a more budget-friendly pick, this one is for you. “CeraVe, as a brand, is great for people with sensitive skin, as they focus on maintaining the skin’s barrier function,” says Dr. Ilyas. This gentle formula contains ceramides to reduce irritation and maintain hydration, as well as niacinamide to even the skin tone and send redness (including acne scars!) packing.

BEST FOR BRIGHTENING

Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream

$79 AT AMAZONCREDIT: EAU THERMALE AVÈNE

PROS

• Firms the Skin
• Reduces the Appearance of Wrinkles

CONS

• Pump Design Can Be Faulty

Along with a retinol that’s well absorbed into skin, this silky yet potent cream contains a pro-elastin peptide to stimulate collagen production and vitamin E to fight free radicals that lead to aging says Dr. Dy. The best part? It plays nice with all skin types since it’s noncomedogenic and fragrance-free.

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Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Moisturizer

Now 13% Off

$35 AT AMAZONCREDIT: OLAY

PROS

• No Scent

CONS

• Pricey for a Drugstore Product

This just may be one of Olay’s best launches. The Retinol24 MAX night collection was specifically formulated for potency and skin penetration—meaning all of the good stuff actually sinks into your skin to work its magic. On top of that, this cream includes top-notch hydrators (a unique peptide blend) and niacinamide (aka vitamin B3) to minimize irritation and maximize radiance. Bonus: It’s fragrance-free and never feels greasy on the skin.

BEST FOR ALL SKIN TYPES

SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Treatment

$80 AT WALMARTCREDIT: SKINCEUTICALS

PROS

• Improves Skin Texture
• Treats Hyperpigmentation

CONS

• Some Users Note Starting at a Lower Dose Before Working Your Way Up

Not only does this night cream from SkinCeuticals target fine lines, blemishes, and skin discoloration with retinol and alpha hydroxy acids, but it also packs hydrating ceramides, shea butter (to soothe), and dimethicone to ensure your skin reacts well to all that anti-aging goodness. It’s noncomedogenic and free of fragrances, parabens, and sulfates, making this a great pick for all skin types.

BEST FOR WRINKLES

Lancer Advanced Retinol Treatment Serum

$95 AT NORDSTROMCREDIT: LANCER

PROS

• Ingredients List
• Instantly Hydrates

CONS

• Little Amount of Product

The 1.25% retinol concentration in this product is strong enough to take on wrinkles and diminish discolorations. Antioxidants like prickly pear extract and squalene protect and condition the skin—leaving you with a firmer, healthier-looking complexion. The formula also contains a special CoRetinol technology that works to improve your skin’s elasticity and texture.

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BEST FOR NIGHTTIME USE

Naturopathica Argan & Retinol Wrinkle Repair Night Cream

Now 14% Off

$115 AT AMAZONCREDIT: NATUROPATHICA

PROS

• Prevents Fine Lines
• Deeply Moisturizes

CONS

• Expensive

“This is a nice product to use if you have sensitive skin and are looking for a retinol to include in your routine,” says Dr. Ilyas. “Retinol and peptides offer wrinkle-smoothing benefits, while the addition of argan plant stem cells reduces potential irritation,” she adds.

La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum

$45 AT AMAZONCREDIT: LA ROCHE-POSAY

PROS

• Formulated Without Oil
• Non-Irritating

CONS

• Requires Frequent Use for Noticeable Results

This retinol serum may feel ultra-light on the skin, but it digs deep to smooth uneven texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and fade hyperpigmentation. The formula is oil-free, non-greasy, and gentle enough to use on sensitive skin. Glycerin (to moisturize), sodium hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid), and niacinamide (to soothe) offer a refreshing and hydrating boost.

2020 HEALTHY BEAUTY AWARDS WINNER

PCA SKIN Intensive Age Refining Treatment

$109 AT AMAZONCREDIT: PCA SKIN

PROS

• Boosts Collagen
• Softens and Smooths

CONS

• Pricey

Winner for best wrinkle treatment in our 2020 Healthy Beauty Awards, this pick gets a stamp of approval from Mona Gohara, M.D., assistant clinical professor at Yale School of Medicine and co-creator of MELĒ skincare. “When it comes to retinol, I don’t compromise. I like to have the science (knowing it’s been tested to build collagen), the right percentage (at least 0.5%), and the ability to use it regularly without irritation,” she says. “When I find a product that has all those things, I stick with it.”

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Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Power Serum

$38 AT AMAZONCREDIT: NEUTROGENA

PROS

• Treats the Face and Neck
• Lightens Dark Spots

CONS

• Customers Note It May Sting Eyes If Applied Too Close

Unlike many other wrinkle serums, Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Pro+.5% Power Serum guarantees visible results in just two weeks. Formulated with a powerful concentration of 0.5% pure retinol and a dermatologist-proven form of vitamin A, this serum says it works to reduce the appearance of deep wrinkles, lighten dark spots, and provide a smoother and softer complexion. It’s also a must-have skincare product for our favorite gal, Jennifer Garner!

L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Retinol Serum

Now 21% Off

$24 AT AMAZONCREDIT: L’ORÉAL PAIRS

PROS

• Evens Skin Tone
• Potent Formula

CONS

• May Cause Dryness

This fragrance-free night serum was formulated to visibly reduce deep wrinkles, smooth texture, and moisturize the skin all in one go. “I love how easy this serum is to use—absorbs quickly, feels soft on the skin, and didn’t irritate my sensitive skin at all,” one satisfied reviewer wrote. “The formula is milky unlike other clear serums I have used, which adds to the ease of spreading.”

Shani Darden Skin Care Retinol Reform

$88 AT SEPHORACREDIT: SHANI DARDEN

PROS

• Reduces Fine Lines
• Brightens

CONS

• Users Report It Can Cause Breakouts

This serum contains 2.2% encapsulated retinol, ultra-gentle lactic acid for an exfoliating boost, apple fruit extract for some antioxidant protection, and aloe to soothe. Even with its powerful ingredients, it’s gentle enough to leave the skin feeling smooth and even, rather than irritated.

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SkinMedica Retinol 0.25 Complex

$64 AT AMAZONCREDIT: SKINMEDICA

PROS

• Enhances Skin Tone
• Fast-Acting

CONS

• May Cause Flaking

Thanks to a cocktail of beneficial ingredients—like ceramides, niacinamide, peptides, and vitamin E—this nourishing formula can be used on any skin type. Testers swear you’ll be hooked once you try it. “I have very sensitive skin and this product is the only one I can use,” one reviewer wrote. “I tried many but always come back to SkinMedica Retinol Complex .25. It has made my skin more youthful-looking, glowing with less wrinkles and smooth pores.”

Dermalogica Retinol Clearing Oil

$88 AT AMAZONCREDIT: DERMALOGICA

PROS

• Targets Breakouts
• Renews and Soothes Skin Overnight

CONS

• Users Note Difficulty Working Dispenser

This facial oil combines the power of retinol and salicylic acid to gently slough off dead skin, unclog pores, and smooth texture. Lightweight oils, like argan, rosehip, and jojoba, offer much-needed moisture and protective antioxidants. Testers love that it fights breakouts effectively (particularly from maskne!), soothes skin, and absorbs quickly.

Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

$74 AT SEPHORACREDIT: DRUNK ELEPHANT

PROS

• Brightens Dull Skin
• Treats Dark Spots

CONS

• Users Report It Can Cause Peeling

Drunk Elephant’s vegan cream contains 1% retinol, a firming peptide blend, and fatty acids to minimize any irritation from the strength of the product. Plus, it’s free of essential oils and fragrances to reduce the risk of reactions. “This is the first retinol I tried, and I’m sticking to it. A little goes a long way, and after using this consistently for the past five months, I’ve definitely noticed a difference in the tone and texture of my skin,” one reviewer wrote. “Adding this to my routine has helped me feel more confident in makeup-free skin.”

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Replenix RetinolForte 3x Treatment Serum

$81 AT SKINSTORECREDIT: REPLENIX

PROS

• Smooths the Skin
• Instantly Hydrates

CONS

• May Cause Flaking

“These retinol formulations are in an emollient base that allows for decreased irritation to the skin,” says Dr. Palm. They also contain several antioxidants that help boost the skin’s reparative properties (which really come in handy when adjusting to retinol). Depending on where you are in your retinol journey, this particular product is available in a range of strengths, from 2X to 10X.

Custom Rx System

$30 AT RO.CO/DERMCREDIT: RO DERM

PROS

• Tailored for You
• Contains Super Effective Retinoid

CONS

“With Custom Rx, a skincare formula is tailored for you–it could be an effective treatment for anything from acne to well-aging skin concerns,” says Dr. Rhee. “It’s one cream that packs a big punch. If for example, your Custom Rx solution has tretinoin, a prescription topical retinoid, it will not only have a retinoid in there as the main active ingredient, but also humectants such as hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, an antioxidant. It may also have a vitamin C derivative and niacinamide, which both support the positive effects of the retinoid and general skin wellness through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms,” explains Dr. Rhee.

How to choose (and use) the best retinol cream or serum

✔️ Look for moisturizers. Because retinol can be drying, look for a cream or serum that also includes moisturizing ingredients—such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and shea butter—to boost moisture and minimize irritation.

✔️ Start slow. When you first start using a retinol product, expect to have dry flaky skin during the first one or two weeks, particularly around your eyes, nose, and mouth, says Dr. Sivendran. After that, your skin should adapt. Start by first applying a pea-sized amount every other night. Still too much? Drop back to every third night. Eventually, you can work up to nightly use once you know your complexion can handle it.

✔️ Don’t forget SPF. Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to the sun, especially if you decide to use one during the day. If you don’t protect your face with sunscreen, you may be setting yourself up for more damage like burning or discoloration in the long run. You should always use SPF during the day, even if you applied your retinol cream at night. Seeing a dermatologist can also help you get on the right regimen for your skincare concerns, but there are many OTC brands that make a good retinol product, says Dr. Dy. Here are the best OTC retinol face products you can try, all available without a prescription.