You could wish to include retinol in your nightly skin care regimen if you’re still having acne. As a subtype of retinoids, which are potent skin transformants, retinols are vitamin A derivatives, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Linda Honet, president of Honet Dermatology/Cosmetic. They can work so well that they are now frequently used as a main ingredient in serums, lotions, and other products.
We spoke with dermatologists about everything you need to know about retinol, including application advice, to help you determine if it would be good for your skin. We also provide the retinol creams and serums that our specialists recommend, along with other highly regarded items that follow their advice.
GO Ahead and SkipWhat is retinol? How did we choose the top 2025 retinol products? Which products are the best retinol and which are the best retinoid? Why should I trust NBC Select?
Selected.
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Best overallRoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Face Serum
$19.49$29.99Amazon
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Best splurgeMurad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
$undefined$105.00Amazon
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Best budgetAcneFree Adapalene Gel 0.1%
$undefined$9.97Amazon
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What is retinol?
According to Dr. Caren Campbell, a board-certified dermatologist in the Bay Area of California, retinol, an active ingredient derived from vitamin A, has been demonstrated to boost skin cell turnover and stimulate collagen, the skin’s building block, making it an excellent choice for anti-aging and skin rejuvenation.
The FDA authorized retinoids, a type of vitamin A compounds that includes retinol, as a topical acne therapy in 1971. Retinol can treat fine wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and other conditions, according to later research.
Including retinoids in your skin care regimen has a number of advantages. Among them are:
-
Increasing collagen production and decreasing collagen breakdown, which helps with fine lines as well as scarring, says
Dr. Cyndi Torosky
, a board-certified dermatologist at Pariser Dermatology in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
- Inhibiting the production and transfer of melanin, which prevents age spots from surfacing over time and helps fade age spots and sun spots that already exist, according to Torosky.
- Helping unclog pores and minimize their appearance, according to Honet.
- Increasing skin cell turnover, which helps replace dead skin cells with younger, healthier ones that promote a glowing complexion, says Campbell.
How we picked the best retinol products
We discussed the factors to look for when purchasing retinol products with board-certified dermatologists. What they suggest is as follows:
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Formulation:
The experts we spoke to say that retinol creams and serums are a good starting point for most people. They also recommend looking for products that are also formulated with hydrating ingredients likehyaluronic acid
. This is because retinol can be slightly irritating when you first use it and hydrating ingredients will help calm the skin.
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Purported benefits:
Most retinol products are promoted with the benefit of reducing fine lines, but not acne-fighting ones. The reason: Companies cannot legally make medical claims ( treats acne ) unless specific studies have been done to prove those claims, says Torosky, noting that these studies can cost millions. Studies aside, it would be correct to say that any retinoid-containing product will inherently help reduce [the] tendency for acne, she says. The companies cannot say that, but any dermatologist will confirm that fact. (All of the dermatologists we spoke to did, indeed, agree on this.) -
Other retinoids:
Our list includes retinol creams and serums, as well as retinoid gels. Retinol is an ideal starting point, since it tends to be more gentle on skin, however retinoid gels are a better option for those withcystic acne
because they are a bit more intense and can penetrate deeper. All of the retinoid gels we recommend are adapalene a type of retinoid typically available in 0.1% and 0.3% strengths and used to treat mild to moderate acne since it is currently the only over-the-counter topical retinoid available.
Related
Have sensitive skin? Skip retinol and try these alternatives
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The best retinol products of 2025
In addition to a few well regarded formulas and NBC Select staff favorites, our list contains a variety of retinol products (serums, creams, and gels) that have been suggested by experts. Experts claim that retinoid products are more potent than retinol, so we also list them.
Best overall:
RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Face Serum
RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Face Serum
- Clinically-proven results
- Hydrating formula
- Works quickly
- Slight smell
The brand claims that this retinol serum is a tried-and-true solution, having undergone over 100 clinical trials to validate its efficacy in addressing drooping skin and skin texture. RoC claims that a mineral compound in the solution helps moisturize the skin and increases the effectiveness of the retinol. According to Honet, retinol serums like this one work best when applied in the evening, right after cleaning, and before applying moisturizer.
Type of product: serumAdditional essential components: mineral complex
Editor s pick:
Shani Darden Retinol Reform
Shani Darden Retinol Reform
- Powerful formula
- Good for oily/combo skin
- Not for sensitive skin
Both NBC Select commerce editor Lindsay Schneider and NBC Select SEO editor Nikki Brown suggest this Shani Darden serum. The manufacturer claims that because the retinol in this composition is encapsulated, it is less irritating than other forms. According to the brand, it employs apple extract as an antioxidant to help defend against free radicals and AHAs to improve the texture of your skin. For people who have used retinol before and don’t have extremely sensitive skin, Brown, who has seen results from prior use, recommends it: According to her, it is unquestionably for those who can tolerate the strong lactic acid and retinol combo. She suggests introducing the serum gradually and starting with a few days each week for optimal effects.
Type of product: oilAdditional essential components include apple fruit extract and alpha-hydroxy acid.
Best cream:
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Retinol Cream
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Retinol Cream
- Absorbs well
- Rich texture
- Strong smell
According to Honet, Neutrogena’s Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Cream is a good and reasonably priced retinol cream. It contains hyaluronic acid, which the brand claims helps minimize the look of fine wrinkles and give the skin a smoother appearance without irritating the skin, just like other formulas on our list.
Type of product: cream; additional important components: hyaluronic acid
Best serum:
Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum
Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum
- Gentle formula
- Brightening ingredients
- Shake before using
Honet also appreciates Peter Thomas Roth’s remarkable, clinically successful products, particularly the Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum. According to the manufacturer, the serum contains vitamins C and Squalane to hydrate the skin, as well as time-released 1.5% retinol, which is on the upper side for retinol treatments. According to Peter Thomas Roth, the time-release mechanism makes the retinol more gentle on skin and ideal for all skin types because it is encased in a lipid that dissolves gradually as it sits on the skin, allowing it to permeate more slowly.
Type of product: serumAdditional essential components: squalane, vitamin C, and vitamin E
Best for fine lines:
Alastin Skincare Renewal Retinol
Alastin Skincare Renewal Retinol
- Softens skin
- Time-release formula
- Non-drying
- Pricier than others
Similar to Peter Thomas Roth’s serum, this Alastin version has time-released retinol, which may be kinder to skin. I have a strong devotion to this brand. Greenwald utilizes this retinol serum, their moisturizer, and SPF four times a week. She claims that after using it for a few months, the small lines around her eyes were no longer as obvious and that every time she applies it, her skin feels incredibly hydrated and silky.
Type of product: serumAdditional essential components: silver mushroom and oat extract
Best splurge:
Murad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
Murad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
- Targets acne
- Fast-absorbing
- Best for oily/combo skin
Murad’s nightly treatment includes retinal, a retinoid that is more potent than retinol and has comparable effects of eliminating breakouts and improving skin texture. It has an average rating of 4.8 stars based on 635 reviews on Sephora. According to the firm, the retinal in this formulation is encapsulated, allowing for a gradual release to minimize irritation. Additionally, it contains extracts from olive leaves in its recipe to aid with hydration.
Type of product: serumAdditional essential components include olive leaf extract and kangaroo paw flower.
Best for beginners:
Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream Level 1
Fig.1 Retinol Night Cream Level 1
- Great for beginners
- Gentle on skin
- Hydrating
- Higher concentration available
According to Lindsay Schneider, editor of commerce for NBC Select, this retinol night cream is an excellent choice for novices. She claims that despite being relatively new to retinol, she hasn’t had any negative side effects or breakouts. (The NBC Select staff team received samples from the brand to test.) When I use it, I make sure to use other hydrating products on top, and unlike some of the others I’ve tried, I haven’t had any peeling or dryness. This is the first option for the brand that is made with.In addition to 15% retinol and peptides to promote skin suppleness, they also provide two more levels with stronger retinol. The company advises beginning with this dosage if you are new to retinol in order to prevent irritation.
Type of product: cream; additional important components: bioactive peptides
Budget pick:
Cerave Anti Aging Retinol Serum
Cerave Anti Aging Retinol Serum
- Protects skin barrier
- Brightening formula
- Works for all skin types
- Nothing to note at this time
Cerave produces some of our favorite skin care products, such as one of the best moisturizers for dry skin and a lotion to strengthen your skin barrier. According to the makers, this serum combines hyaluronic acid and vitamin A to restore moisture to your complexion and improve skin texture. Based on 941 reviews, it has an average rating of 4.4 stars at Target.
Type of product: serumAdditional essential components: niacinamide and hyaluronic acid
Best oil:
Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil
Sunday Riley Luna Retinol Sleeping Night Oil
- Soothing formula
- No moisturizer needed
- High price tag
Brown, a devoted Sunday Riley devotee, appreciates that she doesn’t need to use a moisturizer after using this retinol oil. When I use this regularly, my complexion is even and radiant, and it feels very calming, she says. According to the brand, it minimizes fine wrinkles by using seed oils and soothing ingredients including blue tansy and chamomile.
Type of product: oilAdditional essential components include cold-pressed seed oils, German chamomile, and blue tansy.
Best moisturizer:
Strivectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Moisturizer
Strivectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Moisturizer
- Good for dry skin
- Gentle formula
- Use in the evening
Schneider received this retinol moisturizer from the brand, and she adores its feel. She claims that it is incredibly creamy and feels more like a moisturizer than a serum. It’s rather soothing for my skin because it’s a little thicker. It s designed to be non-irritating, making it great for beginners or those with sensitive skin, and uses ginger root extract to help soothe your skin while improving the look of fine lines, according to the brand. It works effectively for all skin types and should be administered in the evening after all other products.
Type of product: moisturizerOther essential components include ginger root extract and beta glucan.
Other retinoid products
There are numerous more retinoid medications available on the market in addition to retinol treatments. (Reminder, retinoids tends to be a bit stronger than retinol.) Our experts suggest looking for adapalene when shopping for retinoid products since it has been shown to minimize blemishes and fine lines.
Best gel:
Differin Gel
Differin Gel
- Strong formula
- Great for acne
- Affordable price
- Formula may be too strong for some
The FDA authorized Differin Gel, an over-the-counter acne medication, in 2016.Dr. Caren Campbell, a board-certified dermatologist based in California s Bay Area, says that Differin which has 0.1% adapalene in its formula is a good over-the-counter retinoid option for those looking for something stronger than retinol. It has a 4.5-star average rating from over 77,000 reviews on Amazon and experts have previously told us that it also works well onacne scarscaused by hyperpigmentation, too.
Type of product: gelOther key ingredients: n/a
Best spot treatment:
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel
La Roche-Posay Effaclar Adapalene Gel
- Doubles as spot treatment
- Non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free
- Nothing to note at this time
Another recommendation from Campbell, this gel from NBC Select-staff favorite brand La Roche-Posay is one of our favoriteacne spot treatments, and has 0.1% adapalene in its formula to unclog pores and fight blackheads and whiteheads, according to the brand. It s also fragrance-free and noncomedogenic, which is good for those with sensitive skin.
Type of product: gelOther key ingredients: n/a
Budget retinoid pick:
AcneFree Adapalene Gel 0.1%
AcneFree Adapalene Gel 0.1%
- Very affordable
- No fragrance
- Smaller amount in tube
AcneFree, which makes some of our favoriteblackhead treatmentsandskin care products for oily skin,also has a 0.1% adapalene gel. This gel has a 4.5-star average rating from 8,189 reviews on Amazon and is the most affordable option on this list. You can apply it once at night to clean skin prior to wearing moisturizer.
Type of product: gelOther key ingredients: n/a
Frequently asked questions
Retinol and retinoids are both forms of vitamin A, but they aren t the same thing. A retinoid is a class of chemicals, whereas retinol is a derivative found within this class. All retinols are retinoids, but not all retinoids are retinols.
Retinols tend to be found in over-the-counter skin care products and aren t as strong as retinoids, says Torosky. Retinoids, on the other hand, tend to be more potent and the strongest ones require a prescription. The potent products that dermatologists prescribe to patients with acne are often retinoids like tretinoin, aka retinoic acid, or tazarotene and adapalene, two types of synthetic retinoids.
Retinol can be irritating to some people, so experts recommend easing your way into using it. To do this, Campbell suggests using a pea-sized amount of your retinoid product on a clean, dry face every third or fourth night for two weeks and slowly building up to nightly use. However, Torosky says that not everyone can handle nightly use even if you try building up to it, and that s OK: Some [of my] patients can only handle three days a week, and others can handle every day, she says. Wondering how you ll know if you can handle it or not? If your skin looks red or irritated after using it nightly, scale back until you aren t noticing those symptoms after use.
You should always use retinoid products in conjunction with a moisturizer since they can irritate and dry out the skin, according to both Torosky and Campbell. It s also important that you only use them at night since they can break down in sunlight and make your skin more sensitive to the sun s UV rays, according to experts. Campbell suggests using a mineral sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during the day to protect your skin.
Since retinoid is an active ingredient, there are some ingredients that you should not use in conjunction with it to avoid irritation this is especially true if you have sensitive skin, says Torosky. She says that ingredients to avoid include:
- Anything that will stimulate exfoliation, including AHAs and BHAs like lactic acid, salicylic acid and glycolic acid
- Willow bark, which is a natural source of salicylic acid
- Benzoyl peroxide, which can make retinoids unstable and reduce their efficacy. Benzoyl peroxide is often found in spot treatments for blemishes
Since retinoid products speeds up skin cell turnover, it can leave your skin feeling and looking dry, red and irritated. Certain people may also experience burning and peeling while using a retinoid product, according to Campbell. Starting slow is the best way to minimize and mitigate side effects, she says. If you find yourself too dry or irritated, you can try mixing the medication 50:50 with a moisturizer to make it more tolerable on the skin.
Meet our experts
At NBC Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.
-
Dr. Linda Honet
is a board-certified dermatologist and president of Honet Dermatology/Cosmetic in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan -
Dr. Caren Campbell
is a board-certified dermatologist based in California s Bay Area -
Dr. Cyndi Torosky
is a board-certified dermatologist at Pariser Dermatology in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Why trust NBC Select?
Morgan Greenwald is a former NBC Select editor who covered various skin care topics including stories onhyaluronic acidandmoisturizers for dry skin. Greenwald has tried dozens of skin care products and brands over the years, including retinol products. For this story, Greenwald spoke to multiple board-certified dermatologists.
Bethany Heitman is a contributor at NBC Select and a journalist who regularly covers beauty, home and lifestyle.
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