17 best retinol serums and creams for smoother, firmer skin
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Retinol serums and creams used to be the gate-kept secret to nailing your nighttime skincare routine – known only to dermatologists and beauty editors alike. But no longer. Over the years, retinol has garnered itself quite a reputation as one of the most effective skincare ingredients around (on par with hyaluronic acid and vitamin C), having become the go-to solution for a multitude of skin concerns.
Whether it's in the form of hydrating face serums or nourishing night creams, you can rely on retinol-infused formulas to smooth out your skin texture, heal breakouts and acne scars, as well as reduce the appearance of fine lines.
Though they're not suitable for everyone, the good news is that today's retinoid serums and creams are nothing like the irritation-inducing formulas of the past that would result in purging or excessive dryness. Instead, we're met with innovative, science-backed options that are suitable for all skin types (yep, even sensitive skin) and are even more effective in the long run.
Best retinol serums and creams at a glance, reviewed:
- Best retinol serum overall: Medik8 Crystal Retinal
- Best retinol serum for oily skin: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
- Best overnight retinol cream: Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturiser
- Best retinol serum for sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
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My retinol journey is an interesting one. As someone who has PCOS, I'm no stranger to experiencing breakouts that would leave me with persistent scarring, pigmentation, rough skin texture and a dull-looking skin tone. After consulting multiple board-certified dermatologists and aestheticians, I was advised to start using retinol – in the form of a face serum or a moisturiser.
I listened, and my results speak for themselves. After just four weeks of religiously using the dermatologist-recommended Medik8 Crystal Retinal serum, my skin went from looking inflamed and bumpy to smooth and plump. Initially, I was a tad worried that my sensitive skin may not pair well with a retinoid formula, however, let me assure you that it surprised me in the best way possible.
Below, I've covered everything you need to know about retinol from the industry's top dermatologists (scroll all the way down for the full breakdown) and beauty-editor-approved formulas that genuinely work.
Oh, and before you go off on your retinol shopping spree, let me gently remind you to always wear some form of SPF or a standalone sunscreen for face the following morning after using a retinoid formula.
Meet the experts:
- Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York
- Sadaf Jaffari, a celebrity skin expert and consultant aesthetician
- Dr. Wassim Taktouk, Dermatologist and Medical Director of Taktouk Clinic
- Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
How we tested retinol serums and creams:
The GLAMOUR beauty team has collectively tested hundreds of retinol formulations, having used them for a minimum period of 4-6 weeks for optimal results. We've also reviewed formulas on different skin types, while keeping in mind skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.
Your definitive guide to the best retinol serums and creams for every skin type…
Best retinol serum overall
- Retinol concentration: 0.01% to 0.2% retinal.
- Form of retinol: Retinaldehyde.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: Made with retinaldehyde – a next-generation retinoid that is much, much faster-acting than regular retinol – this innovative skincare product is available in 5 different strengths. In other words, this formulation is perfect for both beginners and more experienced retinol users alike.
Tester: Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Best retinol serum for oily skin
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
- Retinol concentration: Not listed.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: If you're looking for a fast-absorbing retinol serum, we've got just the thing. This particular one is powered by a Tri-Active Technology consisting of a fast-acting retinoid, a time-released retinoid, and a retinol booster to firm your skin. It also includes moisturising substances that provide a long-lasting hydrating effect and help your skin look more radiant by reducing the appearance of dark circles and deep wrinkles.
Tester: Fiona Embleton, GLAMOUR's Associate Beauty Director.
Save when you shop for retinol serums with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Best overnight retinol cream
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturiser
- Retinol concentration: Not listed.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: This retinol night cream has a fragrance-free formula, which is ideal if your skin is more sensitive or prone to irritation. The best part? It's filled to the brim with hydrating ingredients such as vitamin B3 to help keep your skin moisturised for longer.
Tester: Hattie Cotmore, GLAMOUR's Freelance Contributor.
Best retinol serum for sensitive skin
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
- Retinol concentration: 0.3%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: This night-time serum is suitable for all skin types, especially for those prone to sensitive skin. In addition to its gentle 0.3% retinol content, the serum complex also includes other ingredients, such as vitamin B3 and glycerin, to keep your skin nourished and hydrated.
Tester: Elle Turner, GLAMOUR's Senior Beauty Editor.
Best retinol serum for acne-prone skin
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
- Retinol concentration: 0.3%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: If you're looking for an effective treatment for acne marks and uneven skin tone, we've got just the thing. This product is a gentle yet effective resurfacing serum that focuses on improving your skin's texture. It also contains three essential ceramides that help your skin lock in moisture and restore its protective barrier.
Tester: Chrissie Moncrieffe, GLAMOUR's Creative Producer
Best retinaldehyde serum
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum
- Retinol concentration: 0.05%.
- Form of retinol: Retinaldehyde.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? No.
Why we love it: Is it a cream? Is it a serum? Well, both. Fuelled by sustained-release retinaldehyde, this Naturium product is cruelty-free, fragrance-free and incredibly effective at tackling fine lines and wrinkles.
Tester: Fiona Ward, GLAMOUR's Acting Website Director.
1/14Best high-potency retinol serum
Medik8 r-Retinoate Day & Night
- Retinol concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Encapsulated retinyl retinoate.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: Beloved by Hailey Bieber, this luxurious serum contains encapsulated retinyl retinoate, which is eight times more potent than regular ol' retinol while still being suitable for sensitive skin. The best part is that it also comes with stabilised vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which work together with the retinyl to visibly improve your skin tone and give you the most radiant glow.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredibly potent and effective
- Endorsed by celebrities and dermatologists
Cons- Definitely one of the more expensive products on this list
- 2/14
Best retinol alternative
Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Instant Firming Serum
- Retinol concentration: doesn't feature retinol.
- Form of retinol: doesn't feature retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: Made with a vegan collagen booster and natural hyaluronic acid, this topical face serum provides a similar firming effect as retinol, but without the risk of unwanted side effects. Plus, it leaves your skin feeling hydrated and more toned while reducing the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet.
Pros & ConsPros- Great firming effect
- Suitable for mature and sensitive skin
Cons- Doesn't feature retinol
3/14Best affordable retinol serum
L'Oréal Paris Pure Retinol Revitalift Laser Night Serum
- Pros: Pure retinol; hydrating ingredients counteract irritation.
- Cons: Small bottle.
- Retinol concentration: 0.3%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: This powerful retinol serum is specially designed for mature skin to reduce the appearance of even the deepest wrinkles. Combining a high concentration of retinol with the hydrating effects of glycerin and hyaluronic acid, Revitalift is best paired with a night cream as part of your evening routine to achieve maximum effect.
Pros & ConsPros- Features pure retinol
- Has hydrating ingredients
- Doesn't result in irritation
Cons- Less effective than other options in this edit
4/14Best lightweight retinol serum
Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Booster
- Retinol concentration: 1%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? No.
Why we love it: This lightweight retinol serum with a potency of 1% is designed to improve the appearance of wrinkles, pore size and skin tone for a beautiful, rejuvenated complexion. Did we mention that it also includes antioxidant-rich liquorice root extract, skin-soothing oat extract, hydrating vitamin E and plenty of peptides to help effortlessly soothe skin?
Pros & ConsPros- Effective formula
- Feels lightweight on the skin
Cons- Some users with dry skin note that it dried their complexion out even more
5/14Best hydrating retinol serum
The Ordinary Retinol Serum 0.2% in Squalane
- Retinol concentration: 0.5%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: Sometimes simple is better. If you're looking for pure retinol without any other additional ingredients, this is the one for you. This water-free solution contains 0.2% pure retinol. However, high-strength pure retinol can still irritate your skin, so beginners and people with sensitive skin may be better off with more gentle and hydrating options instead.
Pros & ConsPros- Budget-friendly
- Great for beginners
- Reasonably priced
Cons- Should be refrigerated
6/14Best retinol cream with vitamin C
Kate Somerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer
- Retinol concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? No.
Why we love it: Filled to the brim with retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and a wide range of botanical extracts, this face cream addresses multiple skin concerns at the same time. Not only will it brighten, firm and hydrate your complexion, but each application will also gradually smoothen your skin texture.
Pros & ConsPros- Combines both retinol and vitamin C for a brightening effect
- Helps smooth out skin texture
Cons- Expensive
7/14Best collagen-stimulating retinoid serum
- Retinol concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Bioavailable retinoid.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: Meet the latest launch from S'Able Labs – a powerhouse serum that features bioavailable retinoid with youth-boosting properties. It also includes Okra, an innovative ingredient in skincare that is designed to minimise hyperpigmentation and stimulate collagen production. If you're someone who has sensitive skin, you'll be pleased to know that this face serum doesn't result in irritation either.
Pros & ConsPros- Stimulates collagen production
- Minimal irritation
- Innovative formula
Cons- Expensive
8/14Best overnight retinol serum for sensitive skin
Trinny London Overnight Sensation
- Retinol concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Retinal and granactive retinoid.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: The aptly named Overnight Sensation by Trinny works wonders by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep. It's suitable for all skin types and even gentle enough not to cause any unwanted peeling, thanks to key ingredients such as retinal, bacillus ferment and vitamin F.
Pros & ConsPros- Minimal irritation
- Great overnight treatment
- A gentle formula that works for all skin types
Cons- Expensive
9/14Best retinol serum for UV-damaged skin
Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum
- Pros: Doesn't cause redness, irritation or flakiness.
- Cons: Expensive.
- Retinol concentration: 1% encapsulation retinol.
- Form of retinol: 5% retinoid ester blend and 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol blend.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: If you want all the results and none of the side effects, this highly potent retinoid serum is the one for you. Fuelled by a blend of retinoid ester and encapsulated retinol, this product gives you near-instant results by reducing wrinkles and improving the look of UV-damaged skin.
Pros & ConsPros- Doesn't cause redness, irritation or flakiness.
- Effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Cons- Expensive.
10/14Best retinal serum for acne-prone skin
Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
- Retinol concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: stabilised retinaldehyde.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: Those of us with acne-prone skin already know how challenging it can be to find the right face serum that will help smooth out skin texture without causing any further irritation. Thanks to its gentle and non-comedogenic formula, this retinal serum from Youth To The People is a great choice for oily and breakout-prone skin. It features stabilised retinaldehyde and a blend of 5% niacinamide to help boost the efficacy.
Pros & ConsPros- Great for acne-prone skin
- Brightening and smoothing
- Vegan and fragrance-free
Cons- Expensive
- Not the best for dry skin
11/14Best double-potent retinol serum
Farmacy 1% Vitamin A Retinol Serum
- Retinol concentration: 1%.
- Form of retinol: stable encapsulated retinol and fast-acting retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
Why we love it: If you're after a potent formula that features not one but two types of retinoids for the best possible results, you can't go wrong with this retinol serum from Farmacy. This cruelty-free formula helps minimise the look of fine lines and wrinkles in a matter of weeks while maintaining your skin firm and smooth (no skin purging in sight).
Pros & ConsPros- Visible and speedy results
- Potent formula with two forms of retinoids
- Hydrating
Cons- Expensive
- May not be the best for sensitive skin
When should you use retinol serums and creams?
Although everyone is free to use retinol serum, figuring out how to make it work is an entirely different question. 30 has long been considered the age for introducing retinol as part of a skincare regimen to target the visible signs of aging, though many people choose to do so earlier rather than later for other concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation or rough skin texture.
In other words, there's no particular rule as to when you can and should start using retinol serum, so feel free to start using it if you’re approaching your mid-20s and feel as though you’d benefit from it.
Most retinol formulas contain other ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, bakuchiol
What is retinol and what does it do to our skin?
Retinol is a common type of retinoid and is a vitamin A derivative (which is why retinol is sometimes referred to as vitamin A). There are many different forms of vitamin A and retinoids with varying strength levels, including retinal, retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate. Contrary to the likes of tretinoin, retinol is considered to be a more mild, over-the-counter form that's often included in skincare serums as an active ingredient for:
- acne treatment
- improving skin texture
- brightening dull skin
- treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots and blemishes while also
- reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
You see, retionid formulas have been proven to increase cell-turnover, meaning that your skin recovers and repairs itself a lot quicker too. “Retinoids work by increasing collagen production, as well as increasing the rate of skin-cell turnover,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. “They also help treat acne scars, clogged pores, and blackheads by reducing the stickiness of the cells that clog pores, as well as speeding up the rate at which the skin barrier turns over and regenerates.”
P.S. make sure to check out our guide to the best retinol eye creams to supercharge your routine that much further.
How to use retinol for optimal results
Most dermatology experts recommend easing into retinol serums and creams, starting with one or two applications a week to build up your tolerance. You can also try buffering – i.e., sandwiching retinol between two layers of moisturiser – to keep retinol burn, dryness, flaking and breakouts at bay. Apply a pea-sized amount and take it from there.
It's also worth noting that retinol works best when used at night. “Most retinoids are not stable in the sun,” says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. Not to mention all retinoids can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage due to their exfoliant properties, so be sure to wear a reliable sunscreen every day, she adds. You may also want to refrain from using too many exfoliating products with your retinol, so it might be a good idea to take it easy on products that contain AHAs, BHAs or glycolic acid.
Looking to upgrade your skincare routine? Read up on our roundups of best moisturisers and lotions, best sunscreens and face SPFs, best hyaluronic acid serums, best eye creams, best face cleansers and the best niacinamide serums.
For more makeup, skincare, haircare and wellness content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on X @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.
