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The 19 Best Retinol Creams Worth Adding to Your Skin Care Routine
To combat acne, dark spots, wrinkles, and more.
By A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is formulated at a range of percentages—anywhere from 0.25 to two—which stimulate cell turnover, helping to soften fine lines and wrinkles, brighten dark spots, and clear existing breakouts in one fell swoop. While the ingredient is highly effective, retinol can sometimes be intimidating to incorporate into a regular skincare routine. A simple way to pare down the intensity of the ingredient while delivering added moisture and skincare benefits? Using one of the best retinol creams. These product hybrids make it easy to reap the complexion smoothing benefits of using retinol ingredient while smoothing your skin's texture and enhancing its radiance.
"All retinol creams and serums accelerate cellular turnover of the outer layers of the skin. Almost everyone can benefit from implementing retinols or prescription retinoids into their routine," Libby Rhee, DO clinical instructor at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai tells BAZAAR.com. "Retinols and retinoids aid in cellular renewal, which also can indirectly boost collagen production over time, and contribute to a brighter, more evenly pigmented complexion while improving skin tone and texture." However, Rhee notes that for those looking for quick results, "These skin rejuvenating benefits take consistency and time. When combined with other healthy skincare habits such as cleansing, moisturizing, and using regular SPF, the effect can be glowing, more resilient skin that looks and feels healthier!"
From expert-approved drugstore creams like Olay's Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer and Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream to vegan options from Glossier and Drunk Elephant, we've hand-picked moisturizers for just about every skin type. Here, 19 of the best retinol creams to shop now and add to your nightly routine.
Related: The 13 Best Bakuchiol Serums and Moisturizers
Beauty Pie + Vitamin C Night Renewal Moisturizer
Beauty Pie + Vitamin C Night Renewal Moisturizer
Pros
- Supports skin barrier
Cons
For more advanced retinol users, this vegan, one percent formulation from Beauty Pie might become your new favorite. In addition to leaving skin looking and feeling more plump and hydrated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter, it also uses vitamin C to brighten discoloration while you sleep.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, shea butter, ferulic acid |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "Been using for only a week so far, but skin is glowy, lines are softer, hyperpigmentation reduced. Pores smaller, better skin texture. Will continue using. Smells lovely, too." —KimH81 |
Indie Lee Retinol Alternative Cream
Indie Lee Retinol Alternative Cream
Pros
- Refillable
Cons
- May not be intensive enough for some skin types
If you're currently pregnant or have an aversion to retinol, add this plant-based cream from Indie Lee to your nightly routine instead. In addition to improving skin firmness and reducing fine lines, the essential also happens to be eco-friendly, since its bottle is refillable.
| Active ingredients | Rambutan, squalane, paracress, orange milk tree extract |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I used this moisturizer for a full week and my skin feels less bumpy and more plump. It feels a little thick at first but sinks in pretty quickly, leaving behind a non-greasy sheen. I have sensitive skin but this moisturizer did not irritate me one bit." —Elaine |
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream
Pros
- Firming
Cons
We consider this staple from Murad one of the best retinol creams because of its versatility. Not only is it ideal for firming skin and reducing fine lines, but the formula also aims to help strengthen the skin barrier.
| Active ingredients | Algae Extract, Retinol, Niacinamide |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "This product is amazing! After using nightly, my skin was smoother, more plump, and I noticed a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles." —RDarr |
Dr Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
Dr Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
Pros
- Contains both a retinol and retinol alternative
Cons
- Best for Aging Skin
This face cream is a powerhouse of skin-restoring ingredients. In addition to retinol, it also contains plumping hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid to minimize hyperpigmentation, and the brand’s signature ECG Complex to keep skin firm.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writers: | "Really loving this wrinkle cream, I just turned 40 and I’ve been using this cream almost twice daily for about three weeks. I can see a real difference! A lot of the fine creases around my eyes have diminished and the deeper smile lines are plumper. I feel like it’s easily taken five years off, maybe more. Would definitely recommend!" —misspriscilla96 |
Kate Somerville Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer
Kate Somerville Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer
Pros
- Great for dark spots
Cons
Another of our favorite retinol creams, this ultra-rich version uses hyaluronic acid and fatty acids to minimize irritation, and includes the brightening power of vitamin C for the ultimate glow up.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, wild gooseberry extract |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "This moisturizer is amazing. I am 52 and have been using this for about a year—it has really made a difference in the appearance of my skin. I noticed a difference after a couple of weeks. My complexion is smoother, clearer, and the fine lines around my eyes are a lot less noticeable." —Tracy S. |
Glossier Universal Pro Retinol
Glossier Universal Pro Retinol
Pros
- Vegan
- Safe for sensitive skin
Cons
- May not be intensive enough for some skin types
Containing 0.5 percent retinyl sunflowerate—retinol derived from sunflower seed fatty acids—plus stevia leaf extract, this cream is one of the gentlest on our list (and even deemed safe for sensitive skin). While it's effective at smoothing lines and wrinkles, it won't leave you feeling dry, since its formula is packed with humectants, like glycerin, to hydrate your complexion. That said, you may need another layer of moisturizer on top, especially if you have dry skin.
| Active ingredients | Retinyl sunflowerate, stevia leaf extract |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I was in search of a retinol product and I’m glad I found this one. I followed the instructions to apply at night a few times a week and gradually move up. I’m now using almost every night. I have very sensitive skin and this has not bothered me at all." —Chloe S. |
Paula's Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream
Paula's Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream
Pros
- Contains lower retinol concentration for easily irritated skin
- Hydrating
Cons
- Best for dry skin
This highly rated face cream has a little bit of everything: A low concentration of retinol (0.01 percent) provides line-smoothing benefits, while jojoba oil moisturizes and a whole host of antioxidants protect skin from environmental stressors.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, antioxidant blend, hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I use this product everyday after my routine and it has become my favorite moisturizer. The visual results that come from this are amazing. It has helped keep me clear and my skin looking vibrant and fresh." —ST |
Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream
Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream
Pros
- Features botanical extracts
Cons
Talk about a multi-tasking routine essential: This refining night cream from Skinceuticals uses encapsulated retinol and botanical extracts to calm irritation while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, frankincense and chamomile extracts |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I’ve been using this product for a couple of months or so and have noticed an improvement in skin tone already. The key is consistency! I don’t have many wrinkles I am targeting and instead am trying to correct for some dark spots. Would recommend!" —Jgirl |
Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
Pros
- Eco-friendly
Cons
Over 1,300 Sephora customers swear by this concentrated, one percent retinol from Drunk Elephant. It's not only ideal for improving skin dullness and uneven texture, but also happens to be entirely vegan.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, peptide blend, vitamin F |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "The best retinol product I've ever used and the only one I've seen results from. Reduced my hyperpigmentation to the point that you can barely notice it. Be careful about how often you use it when you start as it is quite strong. Don't use it two days in a row until your skin is used to it." —krissy428 |
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream
Pros
- Eco-friendly
Cons
It's no secret that BAZAAR editors are big fans of Charlotte Tilbury staples, which includes this popular night cream from the brand. It uses a combination of time-released retinol, plant stem cells, and vitamin E to leave skin looking smoother and plumper as you sleep.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, vitamin E, red algae marigel, winter daphne stem cell extract |
|---|
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
Pros
- Fragrance-free
Cons
You'll notice smoother, brighter skin and softened lines in just a week of daily use. But as with all retinol, you'll need to keep using it for the results to stick around.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "This stuff really works. If I get busy and don't use it for a few days I notice a difference and not in a good way. When used consistently this cream reduces my crows feet and other fine lines, keeps my skin perfectly moisturized, and just gives my skin a healthy glow. It also does not clog my pores. Use this at night so you get the full benefit of the retinol. I have very sensitive skin and allergies to fragrances. I have never had an issue with this cream." —Dani36 |
Avène Retrinal 0.1 Intensive Cream
Pros
- Oil-free
Cons
Fans of Avène's Thermal Spring Water and tinted sunscreen should make room in their summer line up for this velvety retinol cream from the brand. In addition to vitamin A, it also uses ingredients like vitamin E to evening skin's tone and smooth deep wrinkles while protecting it against environmental stressors.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, peptides, vitamin E, |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "My aesthetician recommended this product a few years ago. I have sensitive skin, and have been very pleased with the results. I use it every other night." —Colleen |
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Crème
Pros
- Top-rated on Amazon
- Provides hydration for up to 24 hours
Cons
For those dealing with dry skin and fine lines, this hydrating retinol should be right up your alley, since it's made to keep your skin moisturized for the long haul.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, hyaluronic acid |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I saw a difference after one application. I applied the product and kinda forgot about it. I walked by a mirror and caught my reflection out of the corner of my eye, stopped, and did a double take—I could not believe the difference. It works, smells wonderful, and is affordable. I plan on trying other RoC products." —Rebecca D. |
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer
Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer
Pros
- Provides hydration for up to 24 hours
Cons
This fragrance-free cream from Olay is one of Abbott Elementary creator and star Quinta Brunson's favorites, and perfect to slather on before bed. It delivers a big dose of hydration packed with fine line-minimizing retinol, which is still gentle on skin.
| Active ingredients | Retinol, peptides, niacinamide, vitamin B3 |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I absolutely love this product. It feels like velvet when I put it on—it's thick but not heavy. I always wake up in the morning with smooth, happy skin! I've been using this for a few months now, and I love how it's reduced some of the redness of my skin. I mostly use it in conjunction with the eye cream and serum, but sometimes I use just this step and I'm never disappointed." —Bev12122 |
StriVectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Face Moisturizer with Retinol
StriVectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Face Moisturizer with Retinol
Pros
- Top-rated on Amazon
- Anti-aging
Cons
Retinol, retinal (a relative of the former), and niacin combine to leave skin looking refreshed overnight. We love how this cream also has anti-redness ingredients, just in case your skin is a little more sensitive.
| Active ingredients | Retinal, retinol, copper tripeptides, ginger root extract |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "Great moisturizer and reduces the look of fine lines! I have purchased it before. This is a reorder. Buy it and your skin will thank you!" —Maura M. |
Chantecaille Retinol Intense+
Chantecaille Retinol Intense+
Pros
- Features niacinamide and vitamin C
Cons
- May be intensive for sensitive skin
Apply this powerful cream—which combines retinol and botanicals to brighten hyperpigmentation and soothe visible redness—to your face and neck to redefine beauty rest.
| Active ingredients | Pure encapsulated retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C, soy bean extract |
|---|
La Roche-Posay Redermic R Retinol Cream
Pros
- Top-rated on Amazon
- Anti-aging
Cons
Made with retinol and lipo-hydroxy acid (a derivative of salicylic acid, which helps gently exfoliate), this lightweight cream helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet.
| Active ingredients | Pure Retinol, thermal spring water, lipo-hydroxy acid |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I would give this product 10 stars if I could. I have been using the La Roche-Posay Effaclar line of products for six months now. At around month four, I decided to add in this retinol product and it took my skin to the next level! I have been documenting my journey for six months—I went from horrible, bumpy, acne prone, uneven skin to skin I feeling comfortable without makeup! I have never had this clear of a complexion, even when I was taking acne meds! I have also noticed a significant reduction in pore size and fine lines—I am very happy with this product and all of the La Roche-Posay products—amazing!" —Cassandra K. |
L'Oréal Paris Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer
L'Oréal Paris Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer
Pros
- Top-rated on Amazon
- Features hyaluronic acid and vitamin C
Cons
The anti-aging all-stars—retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C—get cozy in this wallet-friendly formula. If you’re looking to get into retinol but don’t want to spend a small fortune, this jar is a good place to start.
| Active ingredients | Pro-retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "I’m in my 60s, have sensitive skin and an occasional breakout and an aesthetician recommended multiple, pricey items but the cost wasn’t sustainable for me. This affordable product contains many of the same, key ingredients and after about a month of use I really like it. My skin looks and feels great with no irritation or breakouts. Bonus: It smells great!!"—Kathey |
VERSO Night Cream with Retinol 8
Pros
- Top-rated at Nordstrom
- Paraben- and sulfate-free
Cons
Created with a stabilized vitamin A complex that aims to be eight times more effective than most over-the-counter retinol with less irritation, this cream also features natural ingredients like oat extract and turmeric to keep skin calm during the retinization period.
| Active ingredients | Retinol 8, tumeric, squalane, oat extracts, |
|---|---|
| One satisfied customer writes: | "This is such a rich moisturizer. It feels very nourishing and luxurious on the skin. I have noticed a difference in the texture and unevenness of my tone, so this product really does deserve all five-stars. The price is steep, but because it is so rich, you only need one pump for the face AND neck, so it does last a long time." —NiamhC |
What does a retinol cream do?
According to experts, the best retinol creams and serums aim to accelerate cellular turnover of the outer layers of the skin. Cellular turnover is extremely beneficial, as it helps improve your complexion's overall texture and tone overnight.
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