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Retinol is the G.O.A.T. of skin-care ingredients, and the best retinol serums have the most potent (and therefore, effective) concentrations of the gold-standard active. Dealing with acne or dark spots? Fussing over enlarged pores? Noticing fine lines popping up on your forehand? Retinol addresses all of these concerns (and more!) by boosting cell turnover and collagen production, which is especially important as we age and our bodies can't produce as much of its own collagen. Best of all, this "rockstar ingredient," as David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, puts it, everyone, even those with sensitive skin or breakout-prone skin, can benefit from retinol.
Before we get to shopping, let's take a step back and clarify what retinol actually is. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative and only one of several types of retinoids. "Retinoids are the general term that includes all the vitamin A derivatives, both natural and synthetic," Caroline Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, previously explained. When shopping for retinol products, you'll spot any of the following ingredients: retinoic acid, retinol, retinyl esters (such as pro-retinol), and retinaldehyde (or retinal, for short). Skin-care brands offer a wide range of concentrations for said ingredients, typically between 0.1% to 1%, but the golden rule across the board is to start low and slow.
Our Top Retinol Serums
- Best Overall: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum, $50
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Wildfleur Pure Retinol 0.3% + Bakuchiol Renewing Serum, $26
- Best for Beginners: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3, $65
- Best Fast-Release: Kiehl's Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle Reducing Night Serum, $88
- Best Exfoliating: Shani Darden Retinol Reform, $75
- Best for Mature Skin: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum, $98
- Best Mid-Strength: The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane, $9
- Best Advanced Strength: ISDIN Isdinceutics Retinal Advanced, $185
- Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum, $20
- Best for Dry Skin: Senté Bio Complete Serum, $118
Without further ado, here are the 10 best retinol serums recommended by dermatologists and Allure editors you should consider incorporating into your skin-care routine.
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Best Overall: Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Iope
Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Amazon
Soko Glam
Why it's worth it: Iope’s Retinol Super Bounce Serum is a Korean skin-care favorite that blends a gentle yet effective granactive retinol—a stabilized retinoid complex—with soothing cypress leaf extract to soften signs of aging, clear breakouts, and boost bounciness in your skin. The serum’s formula releases encapsulated retinol (which means it’s designed for slower, gentler release) gradually to reduce irritation while maintaining all of its potent goodness. Just apply a pump or two in the morning and evening, follow with SPF, and you're all set.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Iope Retinol Super Bounce Serum
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“Now that I’m firmly in my 30s, I use a retinol serum almost every night to keep signs of aging at arm’s length. More times than not, I reach for Iope’s extra-silky, extra-melty Retinol Bounce, which leaves my skin looking noticeably plumper after the fact—and well into the next morning. I haven’t had any purging episodes, even after I return to Retinol Bounce after testing other brands (the life of a beauty editor, eh!).” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: Bio-Seletinoid, Lactobacillus ferment
- Who it's for: everyone
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 1%
Best for Sensitive Skin: Wildfleur Pure Retinol 0.3% + Bakuchiol Renewing Serum
Wildfleur
Pure Retinol 0.3% + Bakuchiol Renewing Serum
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Wildfleur’s Pure Retinol 0.3% + Bakuchiol Renewing Serum combines a low dose of retinol (0.3%) with bakuchiol, a plant-derived alternative to retinol known to be gentler on skin, making it a worthwhile option for newbies. The actives join forces to smooth and even out your skin’s texture and tone. Meanwhile, ingredients like hyaluronic acid, panthenol, and squalane pack a hydrating punch and soothing ones—hi, chamomile extracts, Centella asiatica, and aloe—make sure your skin stays chill and unbothered.
Allure editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel applying the Wildfleur Pure Retinol 0.3% + Bakuchiol Renewing Serum
Jessica Cruel
Cruel after applying the Wildfleur Pure Retinol 0.3% + Bakuchiol Renewing Serum
Jessica Cruel
Tester feedback from editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel
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“This night serum from Wildfleur is one that I recommend to retinol beginners. First of all, because it is less than $30. Second of all, because it is the most gentle retinol I've tried, with both pure retinol and bakuchiol (a favorite retinol alternative) on the ingredient list. I like to use it after my hyaluronic serum and before my night moisturizer. The consistency is thicker than most serums, but it leaves a matte finish. After two weeks of use—including a bit of a purging breakout—a makeup artist was raving about my flawless skin texture.” —Jessica Cruel, editor-in-chief
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: bakuchiol, caffeine, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, squalane, chamomile extracts, centella asiatica, aloe, calendula extracts, niacinamide
- Who it's for: beginners worried about irritation
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.3%
Best for Beginners: Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
Medik8
Crystal Retinal 3
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: The powerful formula in Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 contains retinaldehyde, which is more effective and faster-working than classic retinol. It’s designed to slowly release the ingredient throughout the night, so your skin doesn’t become irritated. It also contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid to moisturize and hydrate the skin. The Medik8 Crystal Retinal is available in varying strengths from 0.01% up to 0.24%. Most people start with this one, the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3, which is 0.03% retinal. “The brand makes it simple to ease into retinal use: You start with level 1 (sensitive) or 3 (beginner), then seamlessly graduate to higher concentrations once your skin can tolerate them. I haven't experienced any irritation with level 3, a rarity for my sensitive skin,” shares Allure content director Kara McGrath.
Allure features director Dianna Singh applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
Dianna Mazzone Singh
Singh after applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
Dianna Mazzone Singh
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
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“When vitamin A works, it really works—and this formula is a testament to the ingredient's line-smoothing prowess. Plus, it's one of the few that doesn't make my skin extra sensitive or turn my pillow yellow. Once I finish this bottle, I'm going to move up to the ‘advanced’ strength version.” —Dianna Singh, features director
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: carrot seed oil, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E
- Who it's for: everyone, especially those new to retinol
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.03% retinal
Best Fast-Release: Kiehl's Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle Reducing Night Serum
Kiehl's
Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle Reducing Night Serum
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: If you’re looking for results ASAP, Kiehl’s Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle Reducing Night Serum should be on your radar. This advanced serum can reduce the appearance of wrinkles in two weeks and the appearance of fine lines in just five days, according to clinical studies. The unique packaging comes with a capsule of pure retinol powder that you mix into the serum yourself upon first use, for maximum efficacy. Despite being powerful, it’s also gentle enough that your skin won’t freak out when you use it.
Former associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez applying Kiehl’s Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle Reducing Night Serum
Former associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez after applying Kiehl’s Retinol Fast-Release Wrinkle Reducing Night Serum
Tester feedback from former associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez
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“Retinol is one of those things I was hesitant to start incorporating because of my sensitive skin. But I was drawn to this retinol because of its gentle approach that mixes pure retinol within a lightweight serum that contains moisturizing ingredients like panthenol and glycerin.” —Talia Gutierrez, former associate manager of special projects
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: glycerin, panthenol
- Who it's for: all skin types, especially those with sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.3%
Best Exfoliating: Shani Darden Retinol Reform
Shani Darden
Retinol Reform
Sephora
Why it’s worth it: Dr. Kim recommends this gentle option, the Best of Beauty-winning Shani Darden Retinol Reform, to patients with sensitive skin—particularly those "who can't tolerate prescription retinoic acid or more robust, over-the-counter retinol." He recommends applying two pumps to the face and one to the neck, followed by a calming serum and/or moisturizer for optimal results. With most retinoids, you might experience some initial tingling, but Dr. Kim assures us that your skin will become tolerant to the formula quickly and there won't be any flakiness or redness in the meantime.
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen
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“The fact that this yellow, jellied serum is a Best of Beauty winner should tell you enough as it is, but I'll moon on anyway. Most retinol formulas leave my skin red and aching the morning after application, but this one houses aloe vera, glycerin, and rosemary leaf extract to hydrate and soothe, leaving behind fresh-looking skin that's not tight-feeling or itchy every single time I use it. It’s the rare retinol formula that is effective yet gentle, and it boosts its key ingredient with line-smoothing alpha hydroxy acids, too. It does not contain any harsh fragrances that could offset my sensitive skin. If I could keep bulk stashes of it, I would become the Willy Wonka of retinol and hand it out to everyone who's ever asked why my skin is looking so good these days.” —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: lactic acid, apple fruit extract, aloe, niacinamide, sunflower extract
- Who it's for: normal, oily, or combination
- Fragrance-free: no, contains less than 1% synthetic fragrance
- Retinol concentration: 1%
Best for Mature Skin: Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum
Dermalogica
Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Unlike many retinol serums that can leave mature skin tight and flaky, Dermalogica’s Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum delivers powerful wrinkle-smoothing results with minimal side effects. “This is a great retinol serum for minimizing fine lines and addressing texture concerns while keeping skin comfortable and calm,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. The formula features a 3.5% retinoid complex to help soften wrinkles, even out tone, and boost radiance. But what really sets it apart is how gentle and moisturizing it feels with the help of squalane that replenishes lipids and locks in hydration. If your skin is also easily irritated, oat-derived beta-glucan supports the skin barrier and calms redness, both of which are essential for mature or sensitive complexions prone to dryness.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: squalane, oat-derived beta-glucan
- Who it's for: people with fine lines, wrinkles, or uneven texture
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 3.5% retinoid complex
Best Mid-Strength: The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
The Ordinary
Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: The Ordinary’s Retinol 0.5% in Squalane is a budget-friendly pick for anyone ready to graduate to a mid-strength retinol. The 0.5% pure retinol supports cell turnover to help improve uneven tone, refine texture, and soften fine lines. Even seasoned retinoid users can experience dryness when stepping up in strength, but this formula’s squalane base helps counter that by mimicking skin’s natural oils, reinforcing the moisture barrier, and locking in lasting hydration. “It’s an oil-like serum, so it feels a little richer and more moisturizing on the skin,” says Hannah Kopelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “Gentle enough for those moving up from very low-strength formulas, it delivers smoother, more radiant skin over time,” she adds. Jojoba seed oil further adds lightweight nourishment with vitamins and fatty acids that smooth and soften skin.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: squalane, jojoba seed oil, tomato fruit extract
- Who it's for: frequent retinoid users looking to target early signs of aging and uneven texture
- Fragrance-free: yes
- How often to use it: start with two or three nights a week; gradually increase to nightly as tolerated
- Retinol concentration: 0.5%
Best Advanced Strength: Isdin Isdinceutics Retinal Advanced
Isdin
Isdinceutics Retinal Advanced
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: For seasoned retinol users looking to level up their results, Isdin Isdinceutics Retinal Advanced offers a potent upgrade. “This is a dual serum that is well tolerated by all skin types,” says Vivian Bucay, MD, based in San Antonio, Texas. This serum doubles up on vitamin A power with both retinaldehyde and retinol to fight against stubborn fine lines and wrinkles, working harder than retinol alone. “Plant-based bakuchiol also helps amplify those results without adding irritation, while melatonin steps in to kickstart your skin’s own antioxidant defenses,” says Dr. Bucay. Stick with it and you’ll notice skin that looks firmer, brighter, and more even over time.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin
- Who it's for: everyone, especially beginners
- Fragrance-free: yes
- How often to use it: apply nightly; start two to three times a week if you’re new to retinoids, then increase frequency as tolerated
- Retinol concentration: 0.1% retinal (retinol not disclosed)
Best Drugstore: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
Olay
Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
Amazon
Walmart
Why it’s worth it: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum pairs vitamin A with barrier-loving hydrators so you get the smoothing, brightening benefits without irritation or dryness. “It uses a blend of retinol and retinyl propionate, which makes it potent but still very tolerable for daily use,” says Dr. Kopelman. The fragrance-free formula also includes niacinamide and glycerin to hydrate and support the skin barrier as it helps smooth fine lines, brighten dullness, and even tone. “The texture is silky and fast-absorbing, leaving no sticky residue, and it layers well under a night cream,” she adds.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin
- Who it's for: everyone, especially beginners
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Best for Dry Skin: Senté Bio Complete Serum
Senté
Bio Complete Serum
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: We get that retinol can seem intimidating—after all, potential side effects include peeling, redness, and dryness as your skin adjusts and builds tolerance. And just because these effects are par for the course, it doesn't mean it's not incredibly annoying to deal with. Senté's Bio Complete Serum is super hydrating, making it an ideal choice for new retinol users, people with dry skin, and just about everyone else. “I love this as a beginner retinol because it incorporates heparan sulfate analog, which provides extensive hydration to offset potential dryness,” explains Mamina Turegano, MD, a triple-board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. The formula also has vitamin C to reduce discoloration and peptides to plump the appearance of fine lines. In short, what can't this face serum do?
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: heparan sulfate analog, vitamin C, peptides
- Who it's for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: no
- How often to use it: nightly
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common types of retinol found in skin-care products?
The topical retinoids most commonly used in skin care are retinoic acid, retinol, retinyl esters, and retinaldehyde.
As for their benefits, "[retinoids] are keratolytics, which means they increase skin cell turnover and are known to stimulate collagen synthesis," Sheila Farhang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Tucson, Arizona, previously explained.
Whereas retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin) is only found in prescription formulas, retinol is the most common vitamin A derivative that pops up in over-the-counter (OTC) skin-care products—and it's arguably just as effective. "There's a lot of literature showing that while retinol is more gentle than retinoic acid, biochemically it does exactly the same thing—it may just take longer to see results," Dana Sachs, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School, previously told Allure.
You might be surprised to learn this but retinaldehyde (often referred to as retinal) is actually closer in efficacy to retinoic acid than retinol is, as "[retinal] can be directly converted to retinoic acid and is more stable than retinol," Dr. Kim explains.
On the other hand, there is also a group of retinyl esters that are gentler on the skin, but less effective. "Products that are designed for sensitive skin typically have retinyl palmitate (a type of pro-retinol) but because it has to be converted to retinol before it becomes retinoic acid (the active form), it is not as potent as retinol," Dr. Kim explains.
What concentrations do you recommend for patients just starting out with retinoids?
Even for beginners, there's no one correct dosage. "If they have sensitive skin, I typically start them on 0.25% and have them use it twice a week," Dr. Kim recommends. "If they have regular skin, I start them on 0.5% twice weekly, and if they have really oily skin, I typically start them on a prescription retinoic acid twice weekly right away."
In terms of incorporating retinoids into your serums versus creams, it's up to your personal preferences. However, some dermatologists, including Dr. Chang, prefer retinol serums followed by a soothing moisturizer to minimize any potential side effects such as irritation, dry skin, or flaking.
What active ingredients should be avoided when using retinol?
Dr. Kim cautions against using any exfoliating acids, including AHA (glycolic acid, lactic acid), BHA (salicylic acid), and PHA, as they can further irritate the skin. However, if you'd like to incorporate both without causing irritation and inflammation, try alternating days between the two types of formulations.
What cannot be avoided, at all costs, is sunscreen. Even though you already should be wearing sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every single day (rain or shine; indoors or outdoors), retinol "makes your skin more easily prone to burning," as Dr. Chang noted.
How often should you be using a retinol serum?
In an ideal world, every day, according to Dr. Kim. But for those who can't, he recommends two to three times a week. "For patients trying to improve and target hyperpigmentation, I have them alternate gentle acids and retinol every other day."
If you have sensitive skin, try the dermatologist-approved sandwiching technique. All it takes is a layer of moisturizer before and after your retinol of choice to soften the blow, so to speak. And fret not: "Studies have shown that this base layer of moisturizer does not dilute or reduce the efficacy of the retinoid, but instead helps with tolerability," says New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD.
As for morning-time care, while you don't need to reach for a cleanser to wash off retinol products, Dr. Kim recommends that everyone wash their face with lukewarm (not hot) water in the morning to rinse away sweat accumulated while sleeping.
Does retinol help with acne?
In short, yes. Because retinoids boost cell turnover, they do a fantastic job unclogging pores and targeting uneven texture. "Higher levels of retinol (0.5% or higher) or prescription-strength retinoic acid are the most effective at making the biggest difference," Dr. Kim notes, adding that these concentrations will also “improve hyperpigmentation and acne scars.”
Meet the experts
- Vivian Bucay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics, based in San Antonio, Texas
- Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Caroline Chang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and the founder of Rhode Island Dermatology Institute
- Sheila Farhang, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Tucson, Arizona, and founder of Avant Dermatology & Aesthetics
- David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Idriss Dermatology in New York City and founder of Lightsaver
- Hannah Kopelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Kopelman Hair Restoration, based in New York City
- Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Dana Sachs, MD, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Michigan Medical School
- Mamina Turegano, MD, a triple-board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best retinol serums, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
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