<p>Keep reading for the full list of the 15 best drugstore retinols of 2023 according to my testing experience and insights from board-certified dermatologists <a href=”http://www.zeichnerdermatology.com/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Joshua Zeichner</a>, MD, <a href=”https://www.rochesterregional.org/physician-directory/m/mikailov-anar” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Anar Mikailov</a>, MD, and <a href=”https://drsharimarchbein.com/about/” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Shari Marchbein</a>, MD.</p>” />
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1
Best Overall Drugstore Retinol
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
1
Best Overall Drugstore Retinol
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
Pros
- Lightweight formula soaks into skin quickly
- Contains hydrating ingredients to minimize any dryness or flaking
Cons
- Some testers said the dropper applicator can be messy
If you’re looking for a tried-and-true retinol serum to help improve your skin texture and tone, this pick from Olay should be on your radar. It harnesses the power of retinol, peptides, and niacinamide to smooth fine lines, minimize the look of pores, and fade dark spots. After testing this for just a few weeks, I noticed a considerable difference in the dark spots on my chin and rough patches on my cheeks that were bugging me. Plus, I experienced zero irritating side effects from using this on a nightly basis.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, oily, combo, sensitive
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: A 65-year-old reviewer used this nightly on their face and neck and wrote, “after a few weeks I started to notice the difference on my forehead. The lines were not as prominent as before. But the real excitement came when my baby sister came to visit and asked if I had gotten Botox done on my forehead. Just finished ordering my 2nd bottle. Love love love this product.”
2
Best Drugstore Retinol for Daytime
CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream with Sunscreen
2
Best Drugstore Retinol for Daytime
CeraVe Skin Renewing Day Cream with Sunscreen
Now 39% Off
Pros
- Unlike many retinols this formula can be used in the daytime
- Contains broad-spectrum SPF 30 to protect skin from UVA and UVB rays
Cons
- Some testers say the formula is prone to pilling when layered with other skincare products
For the longest time retinol was only able to be used at night since it was rendered inactive when exposed to daylight, but new and improved formulations (like this one from CeraVe) include encapsulated and stabilized version of retinol that are safe to use as part of your morning skincare routine. In addition to daytime-safe retinol, this cream also contains SPF 30 sunscreen to help protect your skin from UV damage and ceramides to help boost your skin’s protective barrier, says Dr. Mikailov.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, oily
- Usage: Daytime
THE REVIEW: “I recently started using this moisturizer and I am extremely pleased with the results. It not only offers effective anti-aging benefits but also provides essential sun protection, making it a must-have product in my skincare routine,” wrote one tester, adding “the tube design with a small opening allows for precise dispensing and ensures product freshness.”
3
Best Drugstore Retinol for Acne-Prone Skin
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%
3
Best Drugstore Retinol for Acne-Prone Skin
Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%
Pros
- The best over-the-counter retinol for treating acne
- Helps minimize the look of large pores and fade acne scars
Cons
- Some testers say it makes skin purge during the first few weeks of use
- One of the more drying retinol products on the list
Not only is retinol great for smoothing and plumping skin, it’s an excellent ingredient for treating and preventing acne (including whiteheads, blackheads, and cysts) thanks to its ability to keep pores clear of dead skin cells and excess oil. Derms agree that the adapalene (the active ingredient in Differin gel) is the best type of retinoid for treating acne—and I’ve experienced the positive results via firsthand testing. Differin has been a staple in my skincare routine for years and helps minimize the look of large pores and keep my skin clear and even-toned.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Oily, acne-prone
- Usage: Morning and/or evening
THE REVIEW: “I have been using this product for about two years and it works wonders,” writes one reviewer. “When masks were required at my job, my face broke out and left terrible scars. This product cleared my scars in about two months. I use this every morning, and I get no breakouts. It is absolutely amazing!”
4
Best Drugstore Retinol Serum for Dark Spots
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
4
Best Drugstore Retinol Serum for Dark Spots
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
Pros
- Combines hyaluronic acid and niacinamide with retinol for a plumping and brightening effect
Cons
- On the pricey side for a drugstore product
- Some testers say the texture can be a bit sticky
This is one of my favorite serums (and Dr. Mikailov’s) drugstore face serums with retinol. It combines retinol with niacinamide, an antioxidant that helps improve skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation, like sun spots and acne marks. Overall, it’s a great choice for brightening your skin tone and giving your face a nice, dewy glow without causing irritation. Dr. Mikailov also likes how lightweight the formula feels on skin and how easy to layer it is with other skincare products.
- Fragrance-free? No
- Skin types: Dry, combo, oily
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “Absorbs quickly with no burning or irritation,” writes one reviewer. “I use this product on the daily,” wrote another, adding “I purchased this to use in my skin cycling routine and I’ve noticed such a difference in my skin…definitely repurchasing.”
5
Best Drugstore Retinol for Sensitive Skin
Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream + Pro-Retinol
5
Best Drugstore Retinol for Sensitive Skin
Eucerin Q10 Anti-Wrinkle Night Cream + Pro-Retinol
Pros
- Can be used on all skin types, including the most sensitive
- Made without potentially irritating fragrances, dyes, or alcohols
Cons
- May be too thick and heavy for oily skin types
“This is a great drugstore retinol for people with sensitive skin,” says Dr. Zeichner. “It combines coenzyme Q10, a potent antioxidant, with retinol to gently smooth and resurface the skin.” Dr. Zeichner says it’s important to note that the cream contains pro-retinol, which is a less irritating form of retinol, but also less potent so it make take longer to see a visible change in your skin tone and texture. Also cool? It’s loaded with moisturizing ingredients (including vitamin E, shea butter, and macadamia oil) to offset any potential dryness or flaking from the retinol.
- Fragrance-free: Yes
- Skin types: All
- Usage: Nightly
THE REVIEW: “One reviewer wrote, “I’ve been using this product for a month and people have asked what made my skin glowing and I realized this is the only product I’ve just added so I guess it’s working for far.”
6
Best Drugstore Retinol Cream for Dry Skin
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer
6
Best Drugstore Retinol Cream for Dry Skin
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Triple Power Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer
Now 22% Off
Pros
- Formulated to keep skin hydrated for up to 24 hours
- Has a rich, buttery texture that instantly smooths and softens skin
Cons
- Some testers say the ingredients/packaging can vary depending on where you purchase it
Retinol can be notoriously drying, so it may seem counterintuitive to use the ingredient if you have dry skin, but that’s not the case with this super-rich retinol cream from L’Oréal Paris. It has anti-aging and moisturizing benefits (thanks to a blend of pro-retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C). I personally love using this retinol cream in the winter, when my skin tends to be drier than normal and needs some extra hydrating TLC.
- Fragrance-free? No
- Skin types: Dry
- Usage: Morning and/or evening
THE REVIEW: “I’ve repurchased this face cream a million times and I will continue to buy it. It’s very rich and moisturizing and leaves my face feeling super hydrated and soft. It also looks fabulous under makeup as well,” reads one tester review.
7
Best Drugstore Retinol for Beginners
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
7
Best Drugstore Retinol for Beginners
The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
Pros
- Most inexpensive option on the list
- Contains moisturizing oils to mitigate potential dryness
Cons
- Not available at traditional drugstores
- Testers say it’s often out of stock
I always recommend this retinol serum from The Ordinary to retinol newbs. Not only is it incredibly reasonable, it’s really well formulated too. The retinol comes in three strengths—0.2 percent, 0.5 percent, and 1 percent—and is combined with moisturizing squalane and jojoba oil for an ultra-moisturizing effect. The 0.2 percent is great for sensitive skin types or anyone who hasn’t used retinol before, and then you can work your way up to the 0.5 and 1 percent options as your skin tolerates it.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: According to one tester, “this is the perfect intro product 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!”
8
Best Retinol Drugstore “Spot Treatment”
RoC Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Advanced Retinol Serum
8
Best Retinol Drugstore “Spot Treatment”
RoC Derm Correxion Fill + Treat Advanced Retinol Serum
Now 15% Off
Pros
- Works to plump and fill wrinkles both instantly and over time
Cons
- Some reviewers say you don’t get a ton of product for the price
If you’re trying to smooth fine lines and wrinkles but aren’t quite ready for Botox or facial fillers, you should definitely give this retinol serum from RoC a try. Unlike most retinol serums that are intended to be used all over, this one is designed to be used more like a spot treatment to smooth specific lines and wrinkles. The tip of the bottle is shaped like a syringe for targeted application, and the formula is filled with a a stabilized form of retinol and hyaluronic acid, says Dr. Zeichner. “These ingredients complement each other—the hyaluronic acid immediately hydrates and plumps skin, while retinol provides long-term smoothing benefits.”
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive
- Usage: Morning and evening
THE REVIEW: “This stuff is amazing,” one tester writes. “My face has NEVER looked this good! It looks like I’ve had dermabrasion!! I love this stuff! I will use it everyday FOREVER!!”
9
Best Drugstore Retinol Eye Cream
No7 Pure Retinol Eye Cream
9
Best Drugstore Retinol Eye Cream
No7 Pure Retinol Eye Cream
Pros
- Helps smooth, depuff, and brighten the eye area
- Has a lightweight texture that doesn’t feel greasy or tacky
Cons
- May be too strong for ultra-sensitive skin types
Being that the eye area is one of the first to show signs of aging, I’m super diligent about using a retinol eye cream in my skincare routine. I’ve tested and reviewed tons of new and old retinol eye creams, but I always come back to this one from No7. It combines smoothing and plumping retinol with calming calming bisabolol and moisturizing shea butter to make my eye area look more youthful and wide awake but without getting all dry and irritated.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, oily, sensitive
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “It feels like I’ve tried a million different eye creams to find a formula that isn’t too heavy. Finally I found this game changer. The texture is perfect and the results are so impressive,” one tester review reads.
10
Best Drugstore Retinol Capsules
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Serum Capsules
10
Best Drugstore Retinol Capsules
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Face Serum Capsules
Now 58% Off
Pros
- Testers love the lightweight, non-greasy texture
- Single-use format is ideal for travel
Cons
- Only comes with a month supply of retinol
- Some testers say the formula can cause pilling
For years, serum-filled capsules and ampoules were only available via pricey, prestige skincare brands, but Neutrogena totally changed the game with this launch. Each biodegradable capsule is filled with the ideal dose of retinol serum for your nighttime skincare routine—plus the capsule-style packaging ensures that the retinol inside stays fresh and potent until you’re ready to use it. I personally love these bbs for traveling because they’re easy to pack and I don’t have to worry about any liquids spilling in my makeup bag.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin type: Dry, combo, sensitive
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “My skin is so soft after I using this product,” reads a review. “I have gotten so many compliments that I look younger and people are asking me what I started using. When I tell the Neutrogena their mouths drop. A lot of people think you have to spend an arm and a leg to get quality products, but I’m here to tell you that’s not so. If you are thinking of getting this product just do it. You won’t be disappointed.”
11
Best Vegan and Cruelty-Free Drugstore Retinol
E.l.f. Skin Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum
11
Best Vegan and Cruelty-Free Drugstore Retinol
E.l.f. Skin Youth Boosting Advanced Night Retinoid Serum
Pros
- Reviewers say it works faster than many other drugstore retinols
- Testes love the lightweight, silky feel
Cons
- Some reviewers said they don’t love the orange color
Not only is this retinol serum from E.l.f. vegan and cruelty-free, it’s incredibly effective too. After testing it for four weeks, I was seriously impressed with the smoothing and plumping results. My forehead wrinkles seemed less pronounced and the fine lines around my eyes had softened too. The magic? A blend of retinol, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, oily
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “I’ve put this ELF serum on many times and have had ZERO issues, not even an itch,” shares one reviewer. “I absolutely have noticed a difference in the crows feet wrinkles around my eyes. This serum goes on smoothly and soaks in quickly not leaving a greasy feeling at all. I will be keeping this product in the house for my aging skin.”
12
Best Drugstore Retinol Cream with Bakuchiol
Skintensive Bakuchiol & Retinol Dual Renewal PM Cream
12
Best Drugstore Retinol Cream with Bakuchiol
Skintensive Bakuchiol & Retinol Dual Renewal PM Cream
Pros
- Safe for ultra-dry, eczema-prone skin
- Rich, fluffy texture doesn’t leave behind any greasy residue
Cons
- Some testers say it has a weird odor
- Not the best choice for oily or acne-prone skin
From Dr. Mikailov’s own line, this night cream “contains bakuchiol and a non-irritating form of encapsulated retinol to improve cell turnover to help reduce dark spots,” he explains. ICYMI, bakuchiol is the plant-derived retinol alternative that similarly promotes skin cell turnover but without any irritation. Together, they offer a two-pronged approach for smoother, more even-toned skin. “It’s also formulated with vitamin E, sea buckthorn extract, and coconut oil which all have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to help soothe and strengthen the skin barrier,” says Dr. Mikailov.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “This night moisturizer is pretty thick but oddly enough, does not leave my skin feeling coated or sticky. It fully absorbs in about a minute and my skin always feels so soft within minutes of applying it,” writes one tester.
13
Best Drugstore Retinol for a Glow
Versed The Shortcut Overnight Facial
13
Best Drugstore Retinol for a Glow
Versed The Shortcut Overnight Facial
Pros
- Helps unclog and minimize the look of large pores
- Uses AHAs in addition to retinol to help smooth and brighten skin
Cons
- May be too powerful for sensitive skin types
Like a facial in a bottle, this multitasking formula uses all the anti-aging heavy-hitters to give your skin a spa-like glow. Glycolic acid and lactic acids (two chemical exfoliators) help dissolve dead skin cells to resurface your skin, while the retinol helps boost collagen and elastin long-term. I’ve applied this lightweight cream before bed on several occasions where I really wanted to my skin to look good the next day, and it never lets me down. It’s just one of those products you can count on the get the job done.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Combo, oily, acne-prone
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “This overnight facial works for both my husband and me who have very different skin,” writes a tester. “He has large pores and oily skin, while I have fair skin that is sensitive with hyperpigmentation. It doesn’t irritate either of our skin and makes us look freshly exfoliated in the morning without having to use anything abrasive. I have also started using is on the backs of my arms to help with KP.”
14
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Lotion
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body & Face Lotion
14
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Lotion
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body & Face Lotion
Now 27% Off
Pros
- Made without parabens, phthalates, and dyes
- A great choice for ultra dry, flaky skin
Cons
- Some testers say it has a weird odor
- Can feel a bit thick and greasy according to some reviewiers
The skin on my face and neck usually gets all of the attention, but recently I’ve made it a point to build a better body care routine, which includes using this retinol body lotion from Gold Bond on my arms, legs, and chest. It helps get rid of dry, ashy skin with a blend of plant oils and butter and also helps smooth and plump with a retinol and peptide complex.
- Fragrance-free? Yes
- Skin types: Dry, combo, sensitive
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “This really works. I’ve been using this on my neck and upper chest and I feel like the skin in those areas is tighter and smoother. I also use it on spots on my legs or feet where I notice irritation from dryness and wake up with noticeably softer skin. I will buy it again when I run out for sure,” writes one tester.
15
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Serum
Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Body Serum
15
Best Drugstore Retinol Body Serum
Pacifica Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Body Serum
Pros
- Spray-on formula is easy and quick to apply
- Resurfaces skin while moisturizing for a dewy glow
Cons
- Some testers say the nozzle is prone to clogging
- Some testers say the scent can be a bit overwhelming
If you prefer a lighter retinol formula for your body, consider this body serum from all-natural beauty brand Pacifica. The fast-absorbing serum soaks into skin in seconds and because it comes in a spray bottle, it’s easy to apply in hard-to-reach areas, like your back. As for the formula, it’s packed with retinol, melatonin (it’s used in skin care for its antioxidant properties), and hydrating mushroom extract.
- Fragrance-free? No
- Skin types: Dry, combo, oily
- Usage: Evening
THE REVIEW: “I tried so many different body serums and nothing worked until bought this,” wrote a reviewer. “This stuff has been amazing! I use it after I shower at night. My skin drinks it up and my skin stays hydrated for 24 hours. It was a huge difference from day one. Not only is my skin hydrated and soft, it looks healthier too.”
Which drugstore retinol is strongest?
Over-the-counter and drugstore retinols comes in varying strengths, and derms agree that retinal or retinaldehyde is the strongest options available. Rx retinoids are pure retinoic acid and are most active in the skin. OTC versions needs to be converted to retinoic acid to be bioavailable, and during this process lose some of their potency. “Retinyl and retinol are considered weaker OTC options, while retinal or retinaldehyde is considered the strongest—it’s anywhere from two to five times less potent than Rx retinoids but is largely considered the strongest OTC option available,” dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD, has previously told Cosmo.
Is prescription retinol better than over-the-counter retinol?
While prescription retinol is significantly stronger than over-the-counter or drugstore retinols, it’s not necessarily better. “There’s sort of a trade-off,” says Dr. Mikailov, who explains prescription retinol may work faster than over-the-counter retinol, but there are more potential side effects (including irritating, redness, and flaking) that come alone with using it.
What type of retinol is best for anti-aging?
When it comes to anti-aging, retinol, retinaldehyde, and retinyl palmitate are your best best, as they all have been shown to improve the look of dark spots, fine lines and wrinkles, and rough or uneven skin texture,” says Dr. Mikailov, When it comes to treating acne, a type of retinol called adapalene (it’s found in Differin) is your best choice.
Does cheap retinol work?
Yes, cheap retinol (like the 15 drugstore formulas on our list above) does work. “Retinol at all price points can be effective as long as they are well formulated and stable,” says Dr. Mikailov. That said, it’s always smart to read reviews, scan ingredient lists, and, if you’re under the care of a dermatologist, ask a pro for their advice and/or recommendations.
How to choose a drugstore retinol:
Don’t get hung up on the percentages.
Although it might sound like a stronger formula with a higher percentage of retinol would be more efficacious, that’s not always the case. “With retinol, we’re always balancing strength, efficacy, with the potential of retinol to irritate the skin,” explains Dr. Mikailov, “In terms of drugstore retinol, we find that retinol can be effective at multiple concentrations.” He says that “while retinol creams with higher concentrations (0.2 percent or more) worked faster, at the end of 6 months, retinol creams at various concentrations, including below 0.2 percent, also had great benefits.”
Look for keywords like “gentle” and “non-irritating” on the label.
Retinol is notoriously irritating so it’s important to choose a formula that’s formulated to mitigate any unwanted side effects, even if you don’t have sensitive skin, say Dr. Mikailov. Oftentimes, gentler retinol serums and creams are “encapsulated” or are combined with nourishing ingredients like vitamin E or soothing ingredients like allantoin.
Lisa DeSantis is a freelance writer who has been in the beauty industry for nearly ten years. She began her career in beauty and fashion at QVC and has since written for and contributed to top women’s magazines and digital brands such as Health, Real Simple, Cosmopolitan, Motherly, Byrdie and more. She has tested thousands of products and considers herself a professional guinea pig who’s always on the search for the next big trends in beauty, wellness and beyond.
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