Skincare

15 best retinol serums and creams for smoother, firmer skin

Major results, minimal irritation and 0 skin-purging.
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Iryna Veklich

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You don't have to be a skincare connoisseur to know just how game-changing retinol serums and creams can be in the long run. Whether it's in the form of hydrating face serums or nourishing night creams, you can rely on them for smoothing out your skin texture, healing breakouts and reducing the appearance of fine lines.

Today's retinoid-infused skincare products have come a long way compared to the irritation-inducing formulas of the past – good news for those of us with sensitive skin.

Best retinol serums and creams at a glance, reviewed:

  1. Best retinol serum overall: Medik8 Crystal Retinal
  2. Best retinol serum for oily skin: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
  3. Best overnight retinol cream: Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturiser
  4. Best retinol serum for sensitive skin: La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum

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As someone who has PCOS, I'm no stranger to experiencing breakouts that would leave me with persistent scarring, pigmentation, rough skin texture and a dull-looking skin tone. After consulting multiple board-certified dermatologists and aestheticians, I was advised to start using retinol – in the form of a face serum or a moisturiser.

I listened. Over the past six months, I've been on a mission to find the best retinol serums and creams on the market. My judging criteria are pretty straightforward: the formula has to be A) non-drying, B) non-pore-clogging, C) one that doesn't result in skin purging, and, of course, D) effective.

Before & after using the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 serum for 4 weeks

Medik8 Crystal Retinal
£45 £36 at Medik8

The best news? It's entirely possible to find a retinol serum or a retinol cream that works for your exact skin type, even if you, like me, have sensitive skin. My results speak for themselves. After just four weeks of religiously using the dermatologist-recommended Medik8 Crystal Retinal serum, my skin went from looking inflamed and bumpy to smooth and plump.

Below, we've covered everything you need to know about retinol from the industry's top dermatologists, as well as beauty-editor-approved formulas that genuinely work. Oh, and before you go off on your retinol spree, let me remind you to: always wear some form of SPF or a standalone sunscreen for face the following morning.

Meet the experts:

How we tested retinol serums and creams:

The GLAMOUR beauty team has collectively tested hundreds of retinol formulations, having used them for a minimum period of 4-6 weeks for optimal results. We've also reviewed formulas on different skin types, while keeping in mind skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.

Your definitive guide to the best retinol serums and creams for every skin type…

Medik8 Crystal Retinal
£45 £36 at Medik8

Best retinol serum overall

  • Pros: Different potencies to choose from.
  • Cons: Expensive.
  • Retinol concentration: 0.01% to 0.2% retinal.
  • Form of retinol: Retinaldehyde.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

Why we love it: Made with retinaldehyde – a next-generation retinoid that is much, much faster-acting than regular retinol – this innovative skincare product is available in 5 different strengths. In other words, this formulation is perfect for both beginners and more experienced retinol users alike.

Tester: Denise Primbet, GLAMOUR's Beauty Commerce Writer.

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
£92 £73 at LookFantastic
£92 at Space NK

Best retinol serum for oily skin

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum

  • Pros: Fast-absorbing, good for reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
  • Cons: Doesn't list the retinol potency.
  • Retinol concentration: Not listed.
  • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

Why we love it: If you're looking for a fast-absorbing retinol serum, we've got just the thing. This particular one is powered by a Tri-Active Technology consisting of a fast-acting retinoid, a time-released retinoid, and a retinol booster to firm your skin. It also includes moisturising substances that provide a long-lasting hydrating effect and help your skin look more radiant by reducing the appearance of dark circles and deep wrinkles.

Tester: Fiona Embleton, GLAMOUR's Associate Beauty Director.

Save when you shop for retinol serums with these LookFantastic discount codes.

Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturiser
£38 at Boots
£35 at Sephora

Best overnight retinol cream

Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Face Moisturiser

  • Pros: Absorbs quickly; hydrating.
  • Cons: Some users say it makes their skin oily.
  • Retinol concentration: Not listed.
  • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

Why we love it: This retinol night cream has a fragrance-free formula, which is ideal if your skin is more sensitive or prone to irritation. The best part? It's filled to the brim with hydrating ingredients such as vitamin B3 to help keep your skin moisturised for longer.

Tester: Hattie Cotmore, GLAMOUR's Freelance Contributor.

La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
£48 £38.40 at LookFantastic
£48 £38.40 at Boots

Best retinol serum for sensitive skin

La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum

  • Pros: Suitable for sensitive skin, hydrating formula.
  • Cons: Some users complain about the smell.
  • Retinol concentration: 0.3%.
  • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

Why we love it: This night-time serum is suitable for all skin types, especially for those prone to sensitive skin. In addition to its gentle 0.3% retinol content, the serum complex also includes other ingredients, such as vitamin B3 and glycerin, to keep your skin nourished and hydrated.

Tester: Elle Turner, GLAMOUR's Senior Beauty Editor.

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
£27 £9 at Amazon
£22.95 at Sephora

Best retinol serum for acne-prone skin

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

  • Pros: Fragrance-free and does not clog your pores.
  • Cons: Some users complain about the smell.
  • Retinol concentration: 0.3%.
  • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

Why we love it: If you're looking for an effective treatment for acne marks and uneven skin tone, we've got just the thing. This product is a gentle yet effective resurfacing serum that focuses on improving your skin's texture. It also contains three essential ceramides that help your skin lock in moisture and restore its protective barrier.

Tester: Chrissie Moncrieffe, GLAMOUR's Creative Producer

Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum
£32 at Space NK

Best retinaldehyde serum

Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum

  • Pros: Potent; suitable for most skin types.
  • Cons: Users with very sensitive skin note some breakouts.
  • Retinol concentration: 0.05%.
  • Form of retinol: Retinaldehyde.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin? No.

Why we love it: Is it a cream? Is it a serum? Well, both. Fuelled by sustained-release retinaldehyde, this Naturium product is cruelty-free, fragrance-free and incredibly effective at tackling fine lines and wrinkles.

Tester: Fiona Ward, GLAMOUR's Acting Website Director.

  • Best high-potency retinol serum

    Medik8 r-Retinoate Day & Night

    • Pros: Incredibly potent and effective.
    • Cons: Definitely one of the more expensive products on this list.
    • Retinol concentration: Not specified.
    • Form of retinol: Encapsulated retinyl retinoate.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: Beloved by Hailey Bieber, this luxurious serum contains encapsulated retinyl retinoate, which is eight times more potent than regular ol' retinol while still being suitable for sensitive skin. The best part is that it also comes with stabilised vitamin C and hyaluronic acid, which work together with the retinyl to visibly improve your skin tone and give you the most radiant glow.

    £149 £119.20 at Medik8
    £149 at Space NK

  • Best retinol alternative

    Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Instant Firming Serum

    • Pros: Great firming effect without actual retinol.
    • Cons: N/A.
    • Retinol concentration: N/A.
    • Form of retinol: N/A.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: Made with a vegan collagen booster and natural hyaluronic acid, this topical face serum provides a similar firming effect as retinol, but without the risk of unwanted side effects. Plus, it leaves your skin feeling hydrated and more toned while reducing the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet.

    £52 at LookFantastic
    £52 £41.60 at Boots

  • Best affordable retinol serum

    L'Oréal Paris Pure Retinol Revitalift Laser Night Serum

    • Pros: Pure retinol; hydrating ingredients counteract irritation.
    • Cons: Small bottle.
    • Retinol concentration: 0.3%.
    • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: This powerful retinol serum is specially designed for mature skin to reduce the appearance of even the deepest wrinkles. Combining a high concentration of retinol with the hydrating effects of glycerin and hyaluronic acid, Revitalift is best paired with a night cream as part of your evening routine to achieve maximum effect.

    £31.99 £21.43 at LookFantastic
    £31.99 £17.47 at Amazon

  • Best lightweight retinol serum

    Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Booster

    • Pros: Suitable for all skin tones.
    • Cons: Some users with dry skin note that it dried their complexion out even more.
    • Retinol concentration: 1%.
    • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? No.

    Why we love it: This lightweight retinol serum with a potency of 1% is designed to improve the appearance of wrinkles, pore size and skin tone for a beautiful, rejuvenated complexion. Did we mention that it also includes antioxidant-rich liquorice root extract, skin-soothing oat extract, hydrating vitamin E and plenty of peptides to help effortlessly soothe skin?

    £61 £48.80 at Paula's Choice

  • Best hydrating retinol serum

    The Ordinary Retinol Serum 0.2% in Squalane

    • Pros: Budget-friendly, great for beginners.
    • Cons: Should be refrigerated.
    • Retinol concentration: 0.5%.
    • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: Sometimes simple is better. If you're looking for pure retinol without any other additional ingredients, this is the one for you. This water-free solution contains 0.2% pure retinol. However, high-strength pure retinol can still irritate your skin, so beginners and people with sensitive skin may be better off with more gentle and hydrating options instead.

    £7.40 at Space NK

  • Best retinol cream with vitamin C

    Kate Somerville +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer

    • Pros: Combines both retinol and vitamin C for a brightening effect.
    • Cons: May not be suitable for sensitive skin.
    • Retinol concentration: Not specified.
    • Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? No.

    Why we love it: Filled to the brim with retinol, vitamin C, hyaluronic acid and a wide range of botanical extracts, this face cream addresses multiple skin concerns at the same time. Not only will it brighten, firm and hydrate your complexion, but each application will also gradually smoothen your skin texture.

    £84 at Space NK
    £84 at Cult Beauty

  • Best collagen-stimulating retinoid serum

    S'Able Labs Okra Face Serum

    • Pros: Stimulates collagen production, minimal irritation.
    • Cons: Expensive.
    • Retinol concentration: Not specified.
    • Form of retinol: Bioavailable retinoid.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: Meet the latest launch from S'Able Labs – a powerhouse serum that features bioavailable retinoid with youth-boosting properties. It also includes Okra, an innovative ingredient in skincare that is designed to minimise hyperpigmentation and stimulate collagen production. If you're someone who has sensitive skin, you'll be pleased to know that this face serum doesn't result in irritation either.

    £69 at Space NK

  • Best overnight retinol serum for sensitive skin

    Trinny London Overnight Sensation

    • Pros: Minimal irritation, works while you sleep.
    • Cons: Expensive.
    • Retinol concentration: Not specified.
    • Form of retinol: Retinal and granactive retinoid.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: The aptly named Overnight Sensation by Trinny works wonders by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep. It's suitable for all skin types and even gentle enough not to cause any unwanted peeling, thanks to key ingredients such as retinal, bacillus ferment and vitamin F.

    £75 at Trinny London

  • Best retinol serum for UV-damaged skin

    Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

    • Pros: Doesn't cause redness, irritation or flakiness.
    • Cons: Expensive.
    • Retinol concentration: 1% encapsulation retinol.
    • Form of retinol: 5% retinoid ester blend and 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol blend.
    • Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.

    Why we love it: If you want all the results and none of the side effects, this highly potent retinoid serum is the one for you. Fuelled by a blend of retinoid ester and encapsulated retinol, this product gives you near-instant results by reducing wrinkles and improving the look of UV-damaged skin.

    £70 at Space NK
    £70 at Cult Beauty

  • When should you use retinol serums and creams?

    Although everyone is free to use retinol serum, figuring out how to make it work is an entirely different question. 30 has long been considered the age for introducing retinol as part of a skincare regimen to target the visible signs of aging, though many people choose to do so earlier rather than later for other concerns, such as acne, hyperpigmentation or rough skin texture.

    In other words, there's no particular rule as to when you can and should start using retinol serum, so feel free to start using it if you’re approaching your mid-20s and feel as though you’d benefit from it.

    Most retinol formulas contain other ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, bakuchiol

  • What is retinol and what does it do to our skin?

    Retinol is a common type of retinoid and is a vitamin A derivative (which is why retinol is sometimes referred to as vitamin A). There are many different forms of vitamin A and retinoids with varying strength levels, including retinal, retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate. Contrary to the likes of tretinoin, retinol is considered to be a more mild, over-the-counter form that's often included in skincare serums as an active ingredient for:

    • acne treatment
    • improving skin texture
    • brightening dull skin
    • treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots and blemishes while also
    • reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

    You see, retionid formulas have been proven to increase cell-turnover, meaning that your skin recovers and repairs itself a lot quicker too. “Retinoids work by increasing collagen production, as well as increasing the rate of skin-cell turnover,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. “They also help treat acne scars, clogged pores, and blackheads by reducing the stickiness of the cells that clog pores, as well as speeding up the rate at which the skin barrier turns over and regenerates.”

    P.S. make sure to check out our guide to the best retinol eye creams to supercharge your routine that much further.

  • How to use retinol for optimal results

    Most dermatology experts recommend easing into retinol serums and creams, starting with one or two applications a week to build up your tolerance. You can also try buffering – i.e., sandwiching retinol between two layers of moisturiser – to keep retinol burn, dryness, flaking and breakouts at bay. Apply a pea-sized amount and take it from there.

    It's also worth noting that retinol works best when used at night. “Most retinoids are not stable in the sun,” says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. Not to mention all retinoids can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage due to their exfoliant properties, so be sure to wear a reliable sunscreen every day, she adds. You may also want to refrain from using too many exfoliating products with your retinol, so it might be a good idea to take it easy on products that contain AHAs, BHAs or glycolic acid.

    Looking to upgrade your skincare routine? Read up on our roundups of best moisturisers and lotions, best sunscreens and face SPFs, best hyaluronic acid serums, best eye creams, best face cleansers and the best niacinamide serums.

    For more makeup, skincare, haircare and wellness content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on X @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.

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