The Best Retinol Products, According to Dermatologists

Developing a good skin-care routine involves finding ingredients that target your top concerns. More often than not, this includes hunting down the best retinol products. The super ingredient isn’t just trendy—it works wonders for several skin-care issues, including the most stubborn. It has anti-aging effects, smoothing fine lines with the ability to reach deeper set wrinkles. But it also helps to even tone and decrease the appearance of dark spots, whether caused by acne scarring or hyperpigmentation. But finding the right one for your skin isn’t always easy. As one of the most popular skin ingredients, the market is saturated with products claiming stellar results. Having expert insight will help you narrow the selection and make your shopping easier. Below, we tapped a team of dermatologists to find out their top retinol products. All you have to do is search the list to find one that fits your skin’s needs.

1 / 10

Doctor’s Daughter Skincare Retinol Wrinkle Repair Eye Cream ($90)

This formula is specifically designed for the delicate eye area to target issues like fine lines and crow’s-feet without irritation, thanks to a balanced mix of peptides, antioxidants and retinol. For maximum results, Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill, suggests pairing it with the brand’s Concentrated Retinol Treatment Serum 2.5x.

• BUY NOW – $90

2 / 10

Allumier MD Retinol Resurfacing Serum .5% ($110)

The microencapsulated retinol in this potent resurfacing serum is time-released to diminish the look of wrinkles and firm the skin with minimal irritation. But the serum is also packed with soothing and hydrating ingredients like niacinamide, honey and sodium hyaluronate. The pros recommend using it overnight for visible results achieved in comfort.

• BUY NOW – $110

3 / 10

Mother of Science Retinol Synergist ($96)

According to Birmingham, Alabama dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD, Mother of Science’s Retinol Synergist is a great fit for anyone with sensitive skin or new to retinol. “The formula combines retinol with malassezin, which helps minimize the risk of irritation from retinol while overall minimizing fine lines and wrinkles and smoothing skin texture.”

• BUY NOW – $96

4 / 10

Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream ($140)

This formula combines a retinoid with an alpha hydroxy acid to gently rejuvenate the skin and boost moisture to prevent dryness. “It’s well-tolerated by patients of all ages and skin types without causing discomfort that many people experience when using vitamin A products,” says Chapel Hill, NC dermatologist, Sue Ellen Cox, MD.

• BUY NOW – $140

5 / 10

Alastin’s Renewal Retinol ($74)

“The combination of retinol and antioxidants, such as silver mushroom and oat extract, make this formula a real multitasker. Each works to offset the irritant qualities of retinol, ensuring the skin is moisturized and soothed,” says New York dermatologist Marina Peredo, MD.

• BUY NOW – $74

6 / 10

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair ($30)

Retinols can get pricy, but West Palm Beach, FL dermatologist Kenneth Beer, MD, notes that this option from Neutrogena delivers well above its $30 price point. It has potent actives and includes hyaluronic acid for added moisture and plumping results.

• BUY ON TARGET – $30
• BUY ON AMAZON – $27

7 / 10

SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 ($102)

“This formulation is highly effective yet gentle, thanks to its slow-release technology that minimizes irritation while delivering powerful results for fine lines, hyperpigmentation and overall skin texture,” says Miami dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD.

• BUY ON SKINCEUTICALS – $102
• BUY ON DERMSTORE – $102

8 / 10

RoC Derm Correxion Firming Serum Stick ($30)

While most of the products on this list come in a cream or liquid format, this serum is a handy stick that can easily be applied to the face, neck and chest area. It tights skin and smoothes wrinkles with a simple swipe. But Dr. Beer notes that the formula is also impressive as it includes different ingredients, like vitamin C  and glycerin to achieve long-term results.

• BUY ON AMAZON – $30
• BUY ON ULTA – $29

9 / 10

Skinfluence Firming Retinol Body Lotion ($100)

“Skinfluence’s Body Retinol is perfect for retinol beginners and those looking to tighten and tone their skin. It provides intense hydration but also incorporates fortifying ingredients to brighten and soothe as you apply,” says Dr. Peredo.

• BUY NOW – $100

10 / 10

SkinMedica Retinol 1.0 Complex ($96)

“This retinol helps to enhance skin tone and texture thanks to the encapsulated ingredient and a PhytoShield Complex which helps to minimize irritation,” says New York dermatologist Marisa Garshick, MD. The result is skin that looks renewed with fewer fine lines and areas of discoloration.

• BUY ON SKINMEDICA – $96
• BUY ON DERMSTORE – $96