Beauty

15 Best Retinol Serums and Creams Dermatologists and Editors Actually Use

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At my high school, Chanel’s Vamp nail polish (released in 1994) was the buzzy beauty launch. Let’s put it this way: I’m well into the age bracket that should be using the best retinol serums and creams regularly—and I have been for quite some time. After all, most dermatologists recommend starting retinol use in one’s mid-20s or early 30s.

Vogue’s Favorite Retinol Products

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Best Retinol Serum
Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum
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Best Retinol Cream
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3
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Best Drugstore Serum
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
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“Retinol is a powerhouse when it comes to achieving visible results,” board-certified dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe tells Vogue. “It brightens skin tone, helps clear acne, and boosts skin’s collagen production to address fine lines and wrinkles.” Despite the ingredient’s well-known benefits, I was afraid to tiptoe into regular usage, since—as is also common knowledge—the vitamin A derivative can cause some irritation at first.

Then, about a year ago, I tried Dr. Julius Few Clean Retinol, which was developed by Gywneth Paltrow’s friend, the renowned plastic surgeon named on the bottle. (I was also in high school when Shakespeare in Love hit theaters; since then, wherever Gwyneth goes, I go.) The morning after I first used it, I distinctly remember looking in the mirror and feeling like a light had been turned on under my skin.

That’s my retinol story, but everyone has their own. And whether you’re a retinol newbie or a seasoned user, there’s a cream or a serum on this list that will help you, so to speak, see the light. Find the right retinol for you, and you’ll get very clear on why every dermatologist (and dewy-skinned celebrity) recommends it.

Read on to discover Vogue s guide to the best retinol treatments for every skin type, with input from the pros. Your cells eagerly await their turnover.

In This Story


Best K-Beauty Retinol Serum: IOPE Retinol Super Bounce Serum

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Iope

Retinol Super Bounce Serum

  • Why We Love It: Designed for daily use morning and night, IOPE’s lightweight retinol serum stands out for its easy, breezy application. It sinks readily into the skin, leaves a silky finish, and has a soothing feel. Enriched with cypress leaf to calm inflammation and plant-based epidermal growth factor to strengthen the skin barrier, the Korean formula also contains a patented Lacto-Exosome. Derived from green tea, the exclusive ingredient targets elasticity and overall skin density. “IOPE Retinol Super Bounce Serum targets early signs of aging while keeping the skin hydrated and resilient,” says Noah Gratch, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology in New York and Long Island. “Its stabilized retinol stimulates collagen and cell turnover, while soothing and hydrating ingredients minimize dryness.” According to Dr. Gratch, it’s a particularly good option for younger patients starting preventative anti-aging care, and for those who want firmness and elasticity without irritation.
  • Key Ingredients: Cypress leaf, Lacto-Exosome, plant-derived epidermal growth factor
  • Retinol Concentration: 1%
  • Best For: Firmness, elasticity
  • When to Apply: According to IOPE, apply one to two pumps, morning and night. Follow with SPF in the morning. It may also be used as an eye treatment.
  • Size: 1.01 fl oz
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Gentle enough for daily useResults may take a while to show

Best Multitasking Retinol Cream: U Beauty Resurfacing Compound

U Beauty

The Resurfacing Compound Skin Care Treatment

  • Why We Love It: Fueled by U Beauty’s signature SIREN Capsule technology—an adaptive delivery system that delivers active ingredients where they’re needed most—this multitasking compound has a legion of A-list fans. Gabrielle Union, for instance, called the retinyl-palmitate-infused salve her “hero product”—and skincare pros stand by it, too. “U Beauty Resurfacing Compound is unique because it combines retinol with antioxidants and exfoliating agents, which allows it to address multiple concerns in a single product,” says Dr. Gratch. “It helps improve dullness, refine uneven texture, smooth fine lines, and brighten tone, making it ideal for someone who prefers a streamlined routine without sacrificing results.” With regular use, he says, the product creates a more radiant, even, and youthful-looking complexion—and Union can attest. After using the cult-status compound for about six months, the 52-year-old told Vogue: “I’ve never gotten more compliments on my face.”
  • Key Ingredients: Prebiotic complex, hyaluronic acid, vitamins C and E, glycine biovector, chamomile, beta-carotene, fruit AHAs
  • Retinol Concentration: Not disclosed
  • Best For: Texture, pores, fine lines, wrinkles
  • When to Apply: According to U Beauty, apply one to two pumps after cleansing, morning and night. Those with sensitive skin should start with once-daily use
  • Size: 0.5 oz, 1 oz, 1.7 oz
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Helps streamline a skincare regimenThe opaque bottle makes it difficult to see how much product is left

Best Clean Retinol: Dr. Julius Few Clean Retinol

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Dr. Few

Clean Retinol

  • Why We Love It: Gwyneth Paltrow’s retinol of choice aligns with the Goop founder’s yen for all things clean. “Dr. Julius Few Clean Retinol offers the proven benefits of retinol in a formulation that avoids unnecessary irritants, which makes it a good option for patients with sensitive or ingredient-conscious preferences,” Dr. Gratch says. He confirms that the formula helps stimulate collagen, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, and improve skin texture while remaining gentle and kind to the skin. “This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking anti-aging results in a cleaner, more mindful formula,” he says. ​
  • Key Ingredients: Argireline, Matrixyl, green tea hydrosol
  • Retinol Concentration: 0.2%
  • Best For: Wrinkles, texture, scarring, visible pores
  • When to Apply: According to the brand, apply nightly with clean fingertips to the face (excluding the eye area), neck, and chest.
  • Size: 1.6 oz
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Clean ingredientsNot recommended for use around the eyes

Best Retinol Cream: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3

SkinCeuticals

Retinol 0.3

  • Why We Love It: SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 is a favorite of dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe’s “because it is potent and effective without being as irritating as some comparable products,” she says. Retinol 0.3 is a less invasive version of the brand’s original cult retinol formula (there are 0.5 and even 1.0 concentrations) includes bisabolol—chamomile extract—to help calm the skin’s irritation. Not to mention, this retinol utilizes a steady-release technology to optimize your treatment.
  • Key Ingredients: 0.3% pure retinol, bisabolol (derived from the chamomile plant), boswellia serrata extract (derived from frankincense)
  • Retinol Concentration: 0.3%
  • Best For: Fine lines, dark spots, acne
  • When to Apply: According to SkinCeuticals, apply a pea-sized amount to skin at night. The brand recommends using one to two times per week, then gradually increasing frequency to your liking.
  • Size: 30 mL
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Variable retinol concentrations available to suit different skin types and concernsPackaging wears easily

Best Tretinoin: Nurx Tretinoin Cream

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Nurx

Tretinoin Cream (Retin-A) for Acne and Anti-Aging

  • Why We Love It: Tretinoin is often the chosen vitamin A derivative for those looking for a real skin transformation. While it s not necessarily more effective than retinol, Dr. Carmen Castilla tells Vogue “it can activate more receptors in the skin.” A type of retinoic acid (that doesn t require additional conversions to be effective, like retinol), its thought of as a more powerful solution to stimulate cell turnover, treat breakouts, improve hyperpigmentation and acne scarring, plus address fine lines and wrinkles. The catch? Tretinoin requires a prescription from your doctor or online services like Nurx, which offers tretinoin at three different concentrations. Getting one is as simple as signing up, filling out a questionnaire, and chatting with an online medical provider.
  • Key Ingredients: Tretinoin
  • Retinol Concentration: Varies - available at 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1%
  • Best For: Breakouts, hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, enlarged pores
  • When to Apply: Not listed - check with your online provider.
  • Size: 20g / 0.7oz
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One of the only tretinoins creams you can shop onlineRequires a Nurx subscription

Best Adapalene: Differin Adapalene 0.1%

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Differin

Adapalene Gel 0.1%

  • Why We Love It: “Adapalene is the first FDA-approved retinoid available on the counter for treating acne,” Green tells Vogue. The most common of which is sold over the counter as Differin. This offers 0.1% adapalene into a silky, non-comedogenic gel that can be used precisely atop blemishes or across the entire face to limit blackheads, whiteheads, and clogged pores.
  • Key Ingredients: Adapalene
  • Retinol Concentration: 0.1%
  • Best For: Acne, enlarged pores
  • When to Apply: According to Differin, apply a thin layer of gel to clean, dry skin nightly and follow with sunscreen in the AM.
  • Size: 15g / 0.5 oz
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Great price pointFormula is strong, best to consult with a dermatologist if new to retinol

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Glow Recipe Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum

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Glow Recipe

Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum

  • Why We Love It: Those with acne-prone skin should take extra care when choosing a retinol. You’ll need something potent enough to deliver exceptional results, but also something that will not exacerbate existing blemishes. If that sounds like you, consider Glow Recipe’s Blackberry Retinol Blemish Serum. Notably gentle, the creamy serum blends three types of retinoids (retinol, retinal, and retinyl ester) at a 0.16% concentration, plus glycerin, ectoin, and blackberry extract to improve skin texture, unclog pores, and soothe the skin barrier with each use.
  • Key Ingredients: Triple-Retinoid Blend, 8% glycerin, blackberry extract
  • Retinol Concentration: 0.16%
  • Best For: Breakouts, acne-prone skin, fine lines, post-acne scarring
  • When to Apply: According to Glow Recipe, apply the serum to the face and neck every other night, followed by a moisturizer—and sunscreen in the morning. You can use nightly once your skin has built up tolerance.
  • Size: 30 mL
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Low retinol concentration great for beginnersFragranced, so may not be best for those sensitive to scents
Lightweight texture that layers well on skin

Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Rdermic R Retinol Cream

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La Roche-Posay

Redermic Retinol

  • Why We Love It: Per Dr. Gratch, La Roche-Posay’s retinol is a great solution to anti-aging concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots—plus, those with sensitive skin, offering gentle yet effective results. “The formula includes glycerin to maintain moisture, pure retinol for skin renewal, lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA) to promote cell growth, and soothing thermal spring water to calm and protect the skin’s barrier,” Dr. Gratch says. “This combination helps improve the skin s texture while providing a fresh look.”
  • Key Ingredients: Retinol, lipo-hydroxy acid (LHA), glycerin, La Roche-Posay’s thermal spring water
  • Retinol Concentration: 0.1%
  • Best For: Sensitive skin, fine lines, wrinkles, age spots
  • When to Apply: According to La Roche-Posay, apply this to the face and neck after cleansing at night.
  • Size: 30 mL / 1 fl. oz
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Gentle, yet effective—even for sensitive skinLow concentration, so may not be strong enough for those interested in intensive results

Best for Beginners: The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

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The Ordinary

Retinol 0.5% in Squalane

  • Why We Love It: Dr. Gratch recommends The Ordinary’s retinol for those new to retinol or with sensitive skin. “The squalane in the formula helps to hydrate and sooth the skin, reducing the dryness and irritation often caused by retinol,” he says. “With a 0.5% concentration, it’s not too strong, making it an effective yet gentle product for improving the skin’s texture and reducing signs of aging.”
  • Key Ingredients: Retinol, squalane
  • Retinol Concentration: 0.5%
  • Best For: Beginners, sensitive skin
  • When to Apply: According to The Ordinary, apply several drops to the face in the evening and follow with sunscreen in the morning. Also, be sure to refrigerate after opening.
  • Size: 30 mL / 1 fl. oz
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High retinol concentration great for experienced retinol usersOil-serum texture that may not be best for oily or acne-prone skin types
The most affordable retinol on our list

Best Retinol Serum: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

Sunday Riley

A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

  • Why We Love It: Powered by a potent 6.5% solution of stabilized retinoid blends and a botanical retinol-alternative extract, Sunday Riley’s serum certainly delivers the best of the vitamin A derivative—working in tandem with conditioning ingredients to keep skin calm and balanced. With consistent use, expect an even, youthful complexion.
  • Key Ingredients: Retinoid ester blend 5%, liposome-encapsulated retinol blend 1%, 0.5% blue-green algae, CoQ10, Hawaiian white honey
  • Retinol Concentration: 5%
  • Best For: Fine lines, dark spots, dry skin, enlarged pores
  • When to Apply: According to Sunday Riley, apply one to two pumps nightly. For those with sensitive skin, follow with a moisturizing oil.
  • Size: 30 mL
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Gentle serum despite high retinol concentrationNo real cons of this formula based on our testing reporting
Serum texture layers well with other products

Best Drugstore Retinol Serum: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

CeraVe

Resurfacing Retinol Serum

  • Why We Love It: Anyone with acne-prone skin will find this CeraVe serum useful. Built around encapsulated retinol, which can help refine the look of pores by accelerating cellular turnover, plus licorice extract for brightening post-acne marks. Niacinamide and ceramides are featured, too, to ensure skin is kept moisturized, soothed, and balanced. Plus, it’s non-comedogenic and free of parabens and fragrances—designed to be gentle on even sensitive skin types. “The Cerave Resurfacing Retinol serum is a great over-the-counter option for those looking to treat hyperpigmentation and textural irregularities,” says Maryam Safaee, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. “This product has encapsulated retinol, which is designed to optimize stability and minimize irritation. I recommend this for someone looking for a non-prescription alternative to tretinoin.”
  • Key Ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, ceramides, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, licorice root extract
  • Retinol Concentration: Not listed
  • Best For: Acne-prone skin, dark spots, enlarged pores
  • When to Apply: According to CeraVe, this is best applied at night before moisturizer daily.
  • Size: 30 mL
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Great price pointRetinol concentration not listed
Designed specifically for acne marks (otherwise known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

Best Retinol Cream for Dry Skin: RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream

RoC

Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Cream

  • Why We Love It: “Using a retinol cream offers a host of skin benefits, including increasing the rate of skin cell turnover and exfoliating away dead skin cells to reveal healthy, new skin cells,” says dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. She recommends the RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Cream because it “offers the anti-aging benefits of retinol, combined with the ultra-hydrating and soothing benefits of hyaluronic acid.”
  • Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
  • Retinol Concentration: Not listed
  • Best For: Dry skin, wrinkles
  • When to Apply: According to RoC, apply this to the face and neck morning or night. In the AM, the cream should be followed with sunscreen.
  • Size: 50 mL
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Texture is as nourishing as a face creamRetinol concentration not listed
There are a fragranced and fragrance-free versions

Best Wrinkle Cream: Olay Retinol24 + Peptide Night Face Moisturizer

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Olay

Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer

  • Why We Love It: The benefits of retinol make it an excellent inclusion in any wrinkle cream. When we asked dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi which were her favorites, she cited Olay Retinol24. “It penetrates deep into the skin surface to address fine lines and wrinkles, as well as smoothness, brightness, firming, dark spots, and pores,” she previously told Vogue. “It also hydrates the skin and help to maintain the natural skin barrier.”
  • Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, peptides
  • Retinol Concentration: Not listed
  • Best For: Drugstore, wrinkles, dark spots, elasticity
  • When to Apply: According to Olay, apply the cream to cleansed skin at night until fully absorbed. Follow with SPF in the morning.
  • Size: 1.7 fl. oz.
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Texture is as nourishing as a face creamRetinol concentration not listed

Best for Any Skin Type: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 Serum

Medik8

Crystal Retinal 3 Serum

  • Why We Love It: “Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 is formulated with retinaldehyde, a vitamin A derivative that is one step closer to retinoic acid than traditional retinol, which allows it to deliver results more quickly,” Dr. Gratch says. “It helps improve fine lines, texture, and uneven tone while remaining gentle on the skin, making it a great choice for people who are newer to vitamin A products but still want to see visible improvements without significant irritation.” Consistent use promotes improved radiance, texture, and skin tone—meaning reduced dark spots and smoothed fine lines. Crystal Retinal is available in five potency levels to help you choose the best for you—level one is designed for sensitive skin, while level five is crafted for experienced vitamin A users.
  • Key Ingredients: Encapsulated retinaldehyde, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin
  • Best For: Various retinol tolerances, dullness, uneven tone
  • Retinol Concentration: Not listed
  • When to Apply: According to Medik8, apply two pumps of the serum to the face and neck at night, followed by a moisturizer. If you re new to retinoids, start with two times per week, increasing frequency as your skin gets accustomed.
  • Size: 30 mL
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Variable retinol concentrations available to suit different skin types and concernsLight fragrance, not best for those sensitive to scents

Best Drugstore Retinol Cream: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Face Cream

Neutrogena

Rapid Wrinkle Repair Face Cream

  • Why We Love It: Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream, a pick of dermatologist Dr. Corey L. Hartman’s, “uses hyaluronic acid to help add moisture to the skin,” especially if you’re looking for a drugstore alternative or have sensitive skin—just look for the fragrance-free version. That said, its blend combats fine lines, dark spots, and dullness. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Dara Spearman, on the other hand, is fond if the face oil from the same collection—especially for dry or sensitive skin types. “It has a faster absorption rate and is known for delivering visible results in just a few weeks,” she tells Vogue.
  • Key Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid
  • Retinol Concentration: Not listed
  • Best For: Dry skin, wrinkles, dark spots
  • When to Apply: According to Neutrogena, apply a pearl-sized amount of product to the face and neck twice daily. In the AM, follow with sunscreen.
  • Size: 50 mL
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Texture is as nourishing as a face creamRetinol concentration not listed
Great price point

Everything You Need to Know

What Is Retinol?

Retinol signals your body to produce collagen and new cells for firmer and smoother skin, while also reducing hyperpigmentation and clogged pores,” says New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Anne Chapas, of its multitasking capabilities. Still, the superhero ingredient has its drawbacks, namely that it can cause dryness and irritation, especially in the colder months, and has a tendency to become unstable (and therefore ineffective) in the presence of oxygen and light.

The latest innovations seek to address and minimize these concerns; the best retinol creams of the moment feature timed-release technology, anti-inflammatory peptides, ultra-replenishing moisturizers, or even airless pump packaging to keep ingredients as lab-fresh as possible. Whether you choose a weightless serum or a line-softening cream, they belong in any anti-aging routine, from the acne-prone to those with sensitive skin. Keep these in rotation year-round or use them once or twice a week for a rejuvenating boost—and watch skin transform.

What are the benefits of retinol?

There are many anti-aging benefits to using retinol according to dermatologist Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD, including “reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing skin texture and shrinking the appearance of pores, decreasing acne outbreaks, diminishing pigmentation, and allowing for an overall tighter, plumper and brighter appearance to the skin.”

What does retinol do?

“Retinol speeds up the turnover of skin cells to improve texture and tone, and stimulates new collagen formation to treat and prevent fine lines and laxity,” explains board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose. “By speeding up skin cell turnover, skin appears smoother and clearer. The vitamin A derivatives like retinol also decrease sebum and oil production–excellent for acne treatment–and minimize the appearance of pores.”

When should you start using retinol?

“Your mid-twenties are a great time to start using retinol,” New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Ellen Marmur, MD, previously told Vogue; however, when you begin using it is typically depedent on your skin concerns. For example, those more prone to fine lines, acne, or hyperpigmentation might reach for it sooner than those not. In any case, experts believe it’s best-practice to start using retinol in your mid-20s to early 30s.

How to Use Retinol

If you plan to introduce retinol into your routine, it is important to consider its implications on your skin. Hartman says the ingredient is safe for all skin types and tones but advises patients with rosacea or overly sensitive skin to consider a retinol alternative, as not to cause further irritation. Think gentle vitamin A derivatives like retinaldehyde, retinoic acid, and retinyl esters or plant-based options like bakuchiol. What’s more, Green emphasizes that retinol is not safe for those breastfeeding or pregnant.

How to Boost the Efficacy of Your Retinol

Can you actually boost the efficacy of your retinol? Dr. Gratch and Dr. Spearman say yes—by using it consistently to improve skin’s overall appearance over time. “To prevent dryness or irritation, pair retinol with a hydrating moisturizer,” says the former. “The more you use it, the more your skin builds tolerance. It is essential to apply retinol on clean, dry skin, as this minimizes irritation. Applying it on damp skin can cause it to absorb too quickly and potentially be too harsh.” Dr. Gratch continues that you can also boost its efficacy by using it with antioxidant-rich products like vitamin C or niacinamide, which help repair and protect the skin. “However, be cautious when layering these types of products to avoid irritation. Lastly, always use sunscreen in the morning, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun’s UV rays.”

What is the best retinol strength to use?

Penzi notes that over-the-counter retinol strengths range from 0.25% to 2%. “Lower
percentages are perfect for those patients in their 20s and 30s who are using the product for more preventative measures,” she continues. “Lower concentrations are also better for this with sensitive or eczema prone skin, as there is less chance of irritation. For more mature patients looking for more powerful anti aging effects, reach for a retinol with at least 1% concentration.”

Overall though, Murphy-Rose emphasizes using the percentage that treats your skin’s needs. “As your skin adjusts, you may be able to build up to using the product every night,” she says. “And don’t worry if not! It will still work just as well for your skin. There will be a correct frequency for you to use it that will be best for your skin. The best strength depends on the individual.”

Retinol vs. Retinoid vs. Tretinoin

Those new to the ingredient might appreciate a quick explainer. Are retinol and retinoid synonyms? Do they have the same efficacy? What’s the benefit of one over the other? To be clear, retinoid is the general term for the group of molecules that react with retinoic acid receptors on the skin to address age spots, texture, and wrinkles. (Retinoic acid is the active form of retinoids that the skin uses for anti-aging and acne-fighting benefits.) “The pure form of retinoic acid can be too harsh on the skin,” explains Green. “To combat potential irritation, scientists developed other forms of retinoids that require additional conversion steps that gradually lead to retinoic acid.” These gentler solutions include retinol, tretinoin, isotretinoin (also known as Accutane), tazarotene, and adapalene. Below, a breakdown of the most common vitamin A forms—along with some general guidance on choosing the best for your skin type—courtesy of Green.

Retinoid: Again, retinoid is the general term, including over-the-counter retinols and prescription-strength retinoids. “Sometimes, retinoid is used to describe Retin-A or tretinoin, which is pure retinoic acid, and requires a prescription by a physician. Other types of retinoids, like tazarotene, also require a prescription. Both retinol and adapalene are available over the counter without a prescription. Retinol and adapalene are gentler than prescription retinoids, making them ideal for dry, sensitive, or mature skin.”

Retinol: Retinol is a milder form of retinoid, and is the most popular ingredient in over-the-counter products, according to Green. “Retinol products typically have various strengths, ranging from 0.25% to 1%. Those with sensitive or dry skin should start at the lowest strength and gradually build up as tolerated. For anyone introducing retinol for the first time in their skin-care routine, the frequency of use should also be gradually built up (i.e., start with 2-3 times per week, then every other day, then every day).”

Tretinoin: “Tretinoin, also known as Retin-A, is a potent topical retinoid available by prescription only. Tretinoin can be irritating or harsh, so it is best to consult a board-certified dermatologist before introducing it into your skin-care routine, especially if you have sensitive skin.”

What ingredients can you not use with retinol?

“Since retinol works to exfoliate the skin, it is advised not to use additional exfoliating products such as AHAs or BHAs in conjunction with retinol,” explains Green. “Over-exfoliating the skin can create unwanted side effects such as dryness and peeling, as well as cause skin to react by producing excess oil to compensate for the loss of necessary hydration,” which can lead to increased acne. Hartman cautions against using retinol with vitamin C or benzoyl peroxide, too as the combination can lead to dryness or peeling.

When to Use Retinol

Note to self: this multitasker should be used as part of your evening skin care routine. “Many forms of retinol actually break down when exposed to sunlight, so they aren’t stable if you apply them in the morning and then hop in the car or head outdoors,” explains Bowe. To be safe, follow the directions of your chosen formula closely.

How We Tested

When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians—to gain professional acumen on the industry s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.

As it relates to retinol creams and serums, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: ingredients, texture, packaging, finish, and the skin care concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.

Meet the Dermatologists

  • Dr. Whitney Bowe is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, scientist, and founder of Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty.
  • Dr. Anne Chapas is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon who specializes in laser surgery, Mohs micrographic surgery for the treatment of skin cancers, and cosmetic procedures.
  • Dr. Noah Gratch, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in treatments for acne, eczema, hyperhidrosis, rosacea, psoriasis, and skin cancer.
  • Dr. Michele Green is a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic dermatology.
  • Dr. Corey L. Hartman is a Birmingham, Alabama-based and board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology.
  • Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
  • Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology and is based in New York and New Jersey.
  • Dr. Dara Spearman, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and owner of Radiant Dermatology Associates in Indiana.
  • Maryam Safaee, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles at Derm and Rejuvenation Institute of Santa Monica.