Our testers rated these the ultimate retinol serums to transform your skin.
The reigning champion of skincare is retinol. This superstar ingredient, a form of vitamin A, tackles a range of concerns, from fine lines and dark spots to uneven texture and pesky breakouts.1 “The magic of retinoids lies in their ability to rev up cell turnover, gently exfoliate, and boost collagen production,” explains board-certified dermatologist Diane Madfes, M.D. “Plus, retinol helps regulate sebum production, which is a win for acne-prone skin. Consistent use can even minimize sun damage in the top layers of your skin,” she adds.
To find the best retinol serums you can buy without a prescription, we tested 25 over-the-counter options for two months. We used each product as often as once daily (depending on instructions and skin sensitivity concerns) and evaluated it on absorption, consistency, effectiveness, and overall results. After analyzing our testing insights and consulting a dermatologist, we named these the 16 best retinol serums for a more radiant complexion.
Best Overall
Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum
Key Ingredients: Pure retinol, ceramides, peptides | Dosage: A few drops nightly | Size: 1, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Introducing retinol to your routine can involve some trial and error while your skin adjusts, but this serum from Kiehl’s is gentle enough to use daily from the get-go. A precisely calculated microdose of retinol (the brand doesn’t list a specific amount) produces results in around two weeks, according to our tester, and the addition of skin-soothing ceramides and peptides ensures your skin barrier is healthy and thriving.
Our tester gave the serum great marks across the board, praising the formula for smoothing, firming, hydrating, plumping, clearing acne breakouts, and enhancing radiance without any signs of irritation.
Best Budget
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum
Key Ingredients: Retinol SA, glucose complex, hyaluronic acid | Dosage: A pearl-sized amount daily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Retinol is often featured in premium products, but there are lots of budget-friendly retinol-infused formulas worth trying. This option from Neutrogena smooths fine lines and targets dark under-eye circles to leave your skin looking fresh and even-toned. It’s got a lightweight consistency and, unlike some formulas that should only be used at night, can double as a hydrating makeup primer.
Our tester says her fine lines and dark spots improved so dramatically by week four that she stopped wearing foundation every day. She was impressed with how easily the formula absorbed into her skin, leaving it soft and never sticky. While she noticed some minor flaking five weeks in, she still considers this a gentle formula that’s suitable for daily use.
Best for Dark Spots
Common Heir Retinol Serum
Key Ingredients: Retinol, squalane, algae oil | Concentration: 0.2% | Dosage: One capsule nightly | Size: 7 or 60 capsules | Cruelty-Free: No
One of the major benefits of retinol is its ability to fade stubborn dark spots and sun damage by boosting the skin’s renewal process. These retinol capsules from Common Heir are formulated to gently enhance cell turnover and boost collagen, gradually reducing hyperpigmentation on all skin tones. Each capsule is perfectly portioned for the face and neck. Just rub the formula between your palms to warm and liquefy the product, then smooth it on and leave it to do its magic.
Our tester was amazed that the serum effectively faded post-breakout dark spots and even reduced the appearance of an old scar from childhood. It also smoothed the wrinkles around her eyes and on her forehead, creating a more even and radiant complexion. Although it didn’t leave her skin firmer than before, the overall effects were impressive.
Best for Fine Expression Lines
Dermalogica Retinol Serum
Key Ingredients: Retinoid Complex, squalane, oat-derived beta-glucan | Concentration: 3.5% | Dosage: Two pumps nightly | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If your expression lines are becoming more prominently etched on your face, this serum from Dermalogica can help soften them. It’s formulated with a pretty high dose of retinoid complex (3.5%), designed to reduce the four signs of aging: wrinkles, pore size, texture, and tone. The gel-like consistency makes it easy to spread a thin layer over your face and neck, paying special attention to areas where fine lines form.
On advice from her dermatologist, our tester used the serum three days a week, which helped mitigate the chance of irritation or retinoid purging. It wasn’t long before she noticed a significant reduction in fine lines.
Best for Sensitive Skin
Drunk Elephant A-Gloei Retinol Oil
Key Ingredients: Retinol, marula Oil, ceramides | Retinol Concentration: 0.5% | Dosage: Two to three drops, morning or night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If you thought retinol wasn’t compatible with sensitive skin, it’s time you met Drunk Elephant’s A-Gloei Retinol Oil. The serum’s beginner-friendly retinol concentration (a gentle yet effective 0.5%) teams up with reparative marula oil, an ingredient full of antioxidants and fatty acids to help nourish and soothe skin.
Our tester, who has sensitive skin, was stunned to find a retinol product she could apply daily with zero irritation. After applying the silky formula and leaving it to dry for at least 10 minutes (it’s an oil, so absorption takes a while), her skin felt super soft and healthy. Although she didn’t notice huge improvements in the appearance of her complexion, she appreciated that it made her skin feel protected and cared for. And because the formula is so intensely hydrating, she would also recommend this oil as a winter retinol option.
Best Fast-Absorbing
First Aid Beauty 0.3% Retinol Complex Face Serum with Peptides
Key Ingredients: Retinol, peptides, glycerin | Retinol Concentration: 0.3% | Dosage: Pea-size amount each evening | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Given that some products on our list take 10 minutes to absorb, it’s pretty remarkable that this one soaks into the skin in just 30 seconds, allowing you to shave time off your skincare routine. Our tester describes the luxurious texture of this formula as “featherweight” and “cloud-like,” adding that it’s so skin-smoothing you only need to apply light moisturizer afterward.
This is a low-dose retinol serum, (another great pick for sensitive skin types) but that doesn’t mean it won’t deliver visible results. Our tester saw a reduction in fine lines—especially the ones on her neck. Plus, it helped clear breakouts and her dark spots appeared less noticeable.
Most Hydrating
Murad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
Key Ingredients: Encapsulated retinal, kangaroo paw flower extract, olive, oat, alpha glucan | Dosage: Apply a thin layer to face and neck daily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Murad’s overnight treatment contains retinal—another derivative of vitamin A that’s 10 times stronger than retinol. According to dermatologists, this means faster results, but it can also increase the risk of irritation. Not so in our tester’s experience; she praised this option for giving her dramatic results without any dryness or flaking.
After four weeks of daily use, her complexion looked and felt better across the board. Think fewer fine lines and breakouts, less visible pores, more firmness, and an overall boost in radiance. Most impressively of all, it left her skin super dewy and hydrated (a rarity among retinoid products).
Best for Acne-Prone Skin
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
Key Ingredients: Retinol, Swertia flower extract, hyaluronic acid | Dosage: Apply a thin layer to face and neck nightly | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
This lightweight serum is a great preventative option, designed to be gentle enough for all ages yet potent enough to tackle all the usual skin concerns. But where it truly shines, in our tester’s option, is in its acne-fighting capabilities. She noticed breakouts cleared much faster while using the serum, and her skin tone looked more even and radiant as hyperpigmentation from old blemishes began to fade. Unlike many acne products, it wasn’t harsh or drying; her skin was soft, moisturized, and glowing while using it. Another huge plus: She noticed results after only one week, making it one of the fastest-acting formulas on our list.
Best for Dry Skin
Shani Darden Retinol Reform Treatment Serum
Key Ingredients: Encapsulated Retinol, AHA, apple extract | Dosage: Apply one to two pumps twice a week at night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Although retinol might not be an obvious choice for dry skin, its exfoliating qualities can help remove dead cells, revealing a more supple complexion. As Dr. Madfes explains, “All retinoids increase cell turnover.” But Shani Darden’s Retinol Reform takes it a step further. It calls on alpha-hydroxy acid2 to gently remove dead cells, brighten your complexion, and improve uneven texture.
Our tester with dry skin was impressed by how hydrating this serum is. Although the consistency is light and thin, it felt silky on application and absorbed fast, leaving her skin soft, moisturized, and plump. Although she didn’t notice a big improvement in her skin texture or the appearance of fine lines, her complexion looked brighter and healthier overall.
Best Pore Minimizing
Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%
Key Ingredients: Retinal, glycerin, apricot kernel oil | Concentration: 0.05% | Dosage: Apply a thin layer to face and neck | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If you’re looking to reduce the appearance of enlarged pores, reach for this serum from Naturium. It contains 0.05% retinal (that potent form of vitamin A again) which acts as an exfoliator, unclogging pores and making them appear smaller. While using the serum, our tester noticed her pores looked smaller, especially on her nose. The formula also helped fade dark spots, improve the overall glow of her skin, and maintain moisture levels. It even layered nicely under her go-to skincare and makeup products.
The downside is that this super-potent formula did cause some skin purging during the adjustment period. Our tester found that using it twice weekly was the best approach for her combination skin.
Best Brightening
Paula’s Choice Retinol Treatment
Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, peptides | Concentration: 1% | Dosage: Apply 1–2 pea-sized pumps over face and neck, morning or night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Fading hyperpigmentation and creating a more even skin tone gives the impression of a brighter, more radiant complexion. This treatment from Paula’s Choice blends two ingredients that excel at the job: retinol and vitamin C. The creamy formula absorbed nicely on our tester’s skin and a little went a long way. She used it three times a week, and her complexion gradually became noticeably brighter, more even, and super soft. It did cause some tingling about an hour after application, but she didn’t notice any other signs of irritation like redness or flaking.
Best for Nighttime
Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum
Key Ingredients: Microencapsulated retinol, vitamins C and E | Concentration: 1.5% | Dosage: Apply 3-4 drops at night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No
Most retinol products are designed for use in the evening (if you use one in the morning don’t forget to apply SPF and throw on a hat) but the way this serum is formulated makes it the ultimate nighttime choice. It contains 1.5% slow-release microencapsulated retinol which gradually works its magic on your skin while you sleep, revealing a fresher complexion by the AM. Our tester says her skin tone and texture improved, and she noticed a general boost in brightness and radiance.
Three to four drops of the oil-like formula will cover your face and neck. Although our tester found the product tricky to spread without it dripping off her face, she liked how moisturizing it felt on her skin—like a fancy face oil.
Best for Beginners
SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3
Key Ingredients: Retinol, bisabolol, Boswellia serrata extract | Concentration: 0.3% | Dosage: Apply one to two pumps twice a week at night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
As you know by now, retinol newbies should go slow at first to prevent irritation. This option from SkinCeuticals helps you do just that. It’s designed specifically with beginners in mind and contains a low concentration of retinol (0.3%) teamed with bisabolol3 (derived from the chamomile plant) and Boswellia serrata extract4 (derived from frankincense) to help calm and soothe the skin.
Our tester used this nightly and found the results were too subtle for her preferences. However, she did appreciate how hydrated and glowy the serum made her skin and noted that it helped curb her breakouts.
Best for Textured Skin
SkinMedica Age Defense Retinol Complex 0.5
Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, squalane, ceramides | Concentration: 0.5% | Dosage: Apply two or three times a week at night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
If you’re hoping to address uneven skin texture, this retinol complex can help. It blends retinol with niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 known for its anti-inflammatory properties. These two ingredients synchronize to fight acne, tackle the signs of aging, and reduce hyperpigmentation, revealing a smoother, more even, and noticeably radiant complexion. Our tester raved about how much this product improved the look and feel of her skin. After experiencing some light peeling initially, all the formerly dull and rough patches of her face appeared even and smooth. Plus, it helped unclog her pores and reduce breakouts, leaving her with a clean, clear complexion.
Best for Everyday
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
This option from The Ordinary contains granactive retinoid, a form of vitamin A that the brand claims is more effective than regular retinol when it comes to reducing the signs of aging but won’t leave your skin a dry, flakey mess. After applying it every day for eight weeks, our tester said her skin felt softer and smoother. She confirmed this is a gentle, surprisingly hydrating option; she didn’t have to deal with dry patches like she has while using tretinoin (a prescription retinoid) in the past. That being said, the results were also less obvious, particularly for fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
Best for Travel
Summer Fridays Midnight Ritual Retinol Renewal Serum
Key Ingredients: Vegan retinyl linoleate, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, tiger grass extract, oatmeal blend | Dosage: Apply two pumps daily at night | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes
Consistency is key with retinol, so be sure to use your chosen product on trips just as you would at home. This Summer Fridays serum comes in a TSA-friendly 1-ounce bottle and has an easy-to-use pump applicator, making it our favorite travel pick.
The formula contains retinyl linoleate, a more gentle derivative of retinol that’s sensitive skin-friendly, so you can dive into daily use without worrying about irritation. Our tester loved how “plush” it made her skin feel, softening tight areas and effortlessly smoothing out her forehead lines. It even helped brighten areas of hyperpigmentation, particularly her dark under-eye circles. The formula was light and liquid-y, which made it easy to spread but slower to be absorbed by her skin; be prepared to give this formula 10 minutes to soak in before the next step in your routine.
What to Look for in a Retinol Serum
- Retinol Form: Dr. Madfes recommends encapsulated retinol (sometimes called sustained-release retinol), as it offers a slower release into the skin, minimizing irritation and excessive dryness. You’ll also find various retinoid complexes, which means multiple forms are combined into one. Then there’s retinal (aka retinaldehyde), which has shown to be a little more effective than traditional retinol while still avoiding prescription-level side effects. It’s wise to consult with your dermatologist to see what form is best for your specific skin.
- Concentration: Over-the-counter formulas usually contain about 1% retinol, though you’ll find some lower and higher strengths. While OTC serums typically max out at 2%, they can go higher, depending on the form of retinoid used. Higher concentrations generally provide faster, more noticeable results, but if you have particularly sensitive skin, a lower concentration may be best.
- Hydrating and Soothing Ingredients: Since retinoids can cause dryness, Dr. Madfes says, “The trick is to create a balance to not dry the top layer of our skin.” She recommends formulas with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, squalane, niacinamide (vitamin B3), ceramides, and plant oils. To minimize stinging and redness, opt for soothing ingredients, such as chamomile, aloe, witch hazel, and green tea. Squalane and various plant oils can also offer a calming effect.
FAQ
- Are retinol serums safe for all skin types?”Retinol serums are safe for all skin types,” confirms Dr. Madfes. However, if you have sensitive, reactive, or dry skin, look for a formula containing some of the hydrating and soothing ingredients mentioned above.
- Are retinol serums safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?”Retinol products are not to be used while pregnant,” Dr. Madfes tells Byrdie. To achieve similar smoothing, brightening, and complexion-clearing benefits, she says, “Substitute vitamin C, vitamin B, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and antioxidants into your skincare regimen.”
- How often should you apply retinol serums?According to Dr. Madfes, a retinol serum should be applied daily, preferably at night. “If you experience dryness, change to every other night,” she adds. “It’s important to apply sunscreen in the morning to protect and continue the collagen-stimulating benefits.” Keep in mind that if you don’t like using a serum, there are also retinol creams available.
- What percentage of retinol is best for skin?A 0.5% concentration is a good baseline. From there, you can gradually increase your dosage as your skin acclimates to the treatment until you reach a 0.25% concentration. The strongest concentration of retinol you can get over the counter is 1%. However, most dermatologists agree that this concentration is too high for those starting out on the treatment, or beginning with retinol.
- What’s better, retinol serum or retinol cream?In general, serums penetrate deeper layers of skin, while creams form a protective barrier on the surface to keep it hydrated. Retinol serums and creams both deliver the wrinkle-fighting benefits of retinol but cater to different skin types and needs. Most retinol serums pack a higher concentration of retinol, are lightweight, and absorb quickly, making them ideal for oily or acne-prone skin. Retinol creams are richer, more moisturizing, and better for dry, sensitive, or mature skin. No matter what form they take, over-the-counter retinol products can be effective, but they generally aren’t as strong as prescription retinoids.
- What happens when you stop using retinol?Although retinol products can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can also help to clear up acne, when you stop using the treatment, your skin will often return to baseline or pre-treatment condition.
- Do you need to wash retinol off in the morning?Yes. You will need to cleanse your face to wash off retinol or any other active ingredients before exposing your skin to sunlight.