Best Retinol Serums For Achieving Youthful Skin In 2022
popcorner/Shutterstock By Reecha Kulkarni/March 30, 2022 3:55 pm EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. You’re only a purchase away from the fountain of youth; retinol is the magic ingredient that can prevent wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, minimize breakouts, and basically transform your skin. The vitamin-A derivative is the gold standard in skincare because of its many benefits and ability to reverse signs of sun damage over time. While you may need a prescription to get the more potent versions of the ingredient, there are many effective treatments you can get over the counter. A retinol serum might be your best option if you’re looking for a high concentration.
According to cosmetic chemist Ni’Kita Wilson, “The beauty of a serum is that most of the fluid is eliminated, so what you’re left with is a high concentration of active ingredients” (via WebMD). So although retinol creams and other products with thicker formulas might provide more hydration to the skin, the thinner consistency of retinol serums is ideal for normal, oily, or combination skin. Read on to find a list of the best retinol serums you could add to your cart for youthful skin.
How we selected the retinol serums
Sergey Zaykov/Shutterstock
Since retinol is a multi-functioning marvel ingredient, we wanted this list to be as comprehensive as possible. We’ve pored over the internet to find retinol serums that work for a variety of concerns. Whether you have dry skin and need a little hydration, need a serum that will eliminate acne scarring, or you want a topical to tackle crow’s feet, this list has it all. These serums are not only packed with retinol to tackle anti-aging and acne concerns, but also have other ingredients like antioxidants and ceramides for a holistic approach to skincare.
We’ve also factored in the price point; you’ll find a mix of splurge-worthy luxurious formulations and equally effective affordable options. Among these serums, you’ll also find beauty award-winners and dermatologist-approved formulas. Browse through our curated list to find the one you want to add to your routine.
Best exfoliating retinol serum
Shani Darden/ Sephora
Esthetician Shani Darden has worked with celebrities like Jessica Alba, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Laura Harrier — they’re all loyalists. “Spider-Man Homecoming” actress Harrier told Into The Gloss, “I see Shani Darden in L.A. for my skin — my routine is very Shani…I got my exfoliating wipes from her, and I have her retinol.” If you put your trust in celebrity routines, you’d put your trust in Darden.
One of Darden’s best-selling products is her Retinol Reform serum, a firming and strong retinol that won an Allure Best of Beauty award in 2020. Retinol is an exfoliant by itself, but Darden’s serum is enhanced by lactic acid and AHAs; both are ingredients that exfoliate and soften skin to improve texture and firmness. It also has apple fruit extract as an antioxidant boost and many swear by it. Get the Shani Darden Retinol Reform at Sephora, starting at $30.
Best retinol serum for sensitive skin
First Aid Beauty/ Sephora
Most first-time users of retinol experience flaking, dryness, and irritation for at least the first few weeks of using it (via Healthline). However, if you have sensitive skin, that feeling isn’t for your skin to get used to. “Start slowly applying [retinol] twice per week and then gradually add another day until you have built up tolerance for daily use,” dermatologist Michele Green told Self. But is there a product that can avoid these side effects altogether?
The First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum is a great product to start with, as it has 0.25% retinol and many hydrating properties to help your skin adjust. The serum is infused with hyaluronic acid, anti-oxidizing vitamins, and ceramides to create a moisture barrier on your skin. Ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal soothe the skin, to make this a completely beginner-friendly retinol. And the results are just as effective as any high concentrated retinol. A customer said, “I have sensitive skin and I absolutely love this product. It reversed the deep forehead lines I have so much that people began to ask me if I was getting Botox.” Get the First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum for $58 at Sephora.
Best retinol serum for dry skin
Kiehl’s/ Sephora
For those with perpetually thirsty skin, retinol may not seem like a great idea since the ingredient can further dry your skin. But with the right pairing of retinol and moisturizer, you should be able to join the retinoid club. According to dermatologist Hadley King, “Milder formulations contain ingredients that moisturize and support the skin barrier, and use less potent forms [of retinol],” which should make it less irritating for your skin (via Real Simple).
The Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum might be a great option — it has a daily-strength dose of retinol that is gentle enough to be used during the day and comes packed with hydrating ingredients. The formula features ceramides and peptides, and both ingredients help strengthen your moisture barrier while firming your skin. A customer on Sephora’s website said, “I really liked this serum. I was a little afraid at first because I tend to have dry, sensitive skin. This product have absolutely no irritation and glided on just like butter. If you’re looking for a ‘starter’ retinol, try this one!” Get the Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptide at Sephora, starting at $62.
Best brightening retinol serum
Paula’s Choice/ Dermstore
Retinoids can often help with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and discoloration for all skin types and tones. However, you may want to look for brightening ingredients to accompany the retinol if you have a darker skin tone, according to Dr. Corey L. Hartman (via Bustle). Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment has a bit of both.
Paula’s Choice has a variety of OTC skincare that’s proved to be effective, and their CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment is no different. The serum contains a mixture of 1% retinol and vitamin C to reduce the appearance of dark spots while brightening your skin. It also has licorice and oat extract to soothe any irritation so you won’t see any redness with this serum. Get the Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment for $60 at Dermstore.
Best retinol serum for crow’s feet
Dr Dennis Gross/ Sephora
The harshness of retinol isn’t made for the thin delicate skin near your eyes, but that doesn’t mean that the area should be avoided entirely. According to Face Clinic London, the skin in this area is susceptible to early wrinkles, or crow’s feet, due to deteriorating elasticity and years of squinting and smiling. So, if you’re looking to diminish the appearance of crow’s feet, look no further than Dr. Dennis Gross’ Ferulic + Retinol Eye Cream.
This serum has active ingredients like bakuchiol and rambutan that aid retinol in its quest to improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles. It also has ferulic acid, an antioxidant that protects your skin against sun damage (via Healthline). A reviewer on Sephora’s website said, “I have been using this for years now and the skin around my eyes is the smoothest area on my face. It brightens and smooths, and helps with dark circles too.” The only complaint might be its price tag — it’s definitely an investment piece in your routine. Get the Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Eye Cream for $69 at Sephora and look forward to achieving a more youthful appearance in 2022.
Best Retinol Serums For Achieving Youthful Skin In 2022
popcorner/Shutterstock
By Reecha Kulkarni/March 30, 2022 3:55 pm EST
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. You’re only a purchase away from the fountain of youth; retinol is the magic ingredient that can prevent wrinkles, stimulate collagen production, minimize breakouts, and basically transform your skin. The vitamin-A derivative is the gold standard in skincare because of its many benefits and ability to reverse signs of sun damage over time. While you may need a prescription to get the more potent versions of the ingredient, there are many effective treatments you can get over the counter. A retinol serum might be your best option if you’re looking for a high concentration.
According to cosmetic chemist Ni’Kita Wilson, “The beauty of a serum is that most of the fluid is eliminated, so what you’re left with is a high concentration of active ingredients” (via WebMD). So although retinol creams and other products with thicker formulas might provide more hydration to the skin, the thinner consistency of retinol serums is ideal for normal, oily, or combination skin. Read on to find a list of the best retinol serums you could add to your cart for youthful skin.
We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
According to cosmetic chemist Ni’Kita Wilson, “The beauty of a serum is that most of the fluid is eliminated, so what you’re left with is a high concentration of active ingredients” (via WebMD). So although retinol creams and other products with thicker formulas might provide more hydration to the skin, the thinner consistency of retinol serums is ideal for normal, oily, or combination skin.
Read on to find a list of the best retinol serums you could add to your cart for youthful skin.
How we selected the retinol serums
Sergey Zaykov/Shutterstock
Since retinol is a multi-functioning marvel ingredient, we wanted this list to be as comprehensive as possible. We’ve pored over the internet to find retinol serums that work for a variety of concerns. Whether you have dry skin and need a little hydration, need a serum that will eliminate acne scarring, or you want a topical to tackle crow’s feet, this list has it all. These serums are not only packed with retinol to tackle anti-aging and acne concerns, but also have other ingredients like antioxidants and ceramides for a holistic approach to skincare.
We’ve also factored in the price point; you’ll find a mix of splurge-worthy luxurious formulations and equally effective affordable options. Among these serums, you’ll also find beauty award-winners and dermatologist-approved formulas. Browse through our curated list to find the one you want to add to your routine.
We’ve also factored in the price point; you’ll find a mix of splurge-worthy luxurious formulations and equally effective affordable options. Among these serums, you’ll also find beauty award-winners and dermatologist-approved formulas. Browse through our curated list to find the one you want to add to your routine.
Best overall retinol serum
Best affordable retinol serum
Best drugstore retinol serum
Best splurge-worthy retinol serum
The serum, described as a sleeping night oil, is infused with blue tansy and chamomile to calm your skin and prep it for a restful recovery. That translates to a film of blue on your face that quickly becomes clear, according to the brand. Like every other Sunday Riley product, Luna is a bit of a splurge. However, reviewers and editors agree it’s worth it.
Best exfoliating retinol serum
Shani Darden/ Sephora
Esthetician Shani Darden has worked with celebrities like Jessica Alba, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Laura Harrier — they’re all loyalists. “Spider-Man Homecoming” actress Harrier told Into The Gloss, “I see Shani Darden in L.A. for my skin — my routine is very Shani…I got my exfoliating wipes from her, and I have her retinol.” If you put your trust in celebrity routines, you’d put your trust in Darden.
One of Darden’s best-selling products is her Retinol Reform serum, a firming and strong retinol that won an Allure Best of Beauty award in 2020. Retinol is an exfoliant by itself, but Darden’s serum is enhanced by lactic acid and AHAs; both are ingredients that exfoliate and soften skin to improve texture and firmness. It also has apple fruit extract as an antioxidant boost and many swear by it. Get the Shani Darden Retinol Reform at Sephora, starting at $30.
One of Darden’s best-selling products is her Retinol Reform serum, a firming and strong retinol that won an Allure Best of Beauty award in 2020. Retinol is an exfoliant by itself, but Darden’s serum is enhanced by lactic acid and AHAs; both are ingredients that exfoliate and soften skin to improve texture and firmness. It also has apple fruit extract as an antioxidant boost and many swear by it.
Get the Shani Darden Retinol Reform at Sephora, starting at $30.
Best retinol serum for sensitive skin
First Aid Beauty/ Sephora
Most first-time users of retinol experience flaking, dryness, and irritation for at least the first few weeks of using it (via Healthline). However, if you have sensitive skin, that feeling isn’t for your skin to get used to. “Start slowly applying [retinol] twice per week and then gradually add another day until you have built up tolerance for daily use,” dermatologist Michele Green told Self. But is there a product that can avoid these side effects altogether?
The First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum is a great product to start with, as it has 0.25% retinol and many hydrating properties to help your skin adjust. The serum is infused with hyaluronic acid, anti-oxidizing vitamins, and ceramides to create a moisture barrier on your skin. Ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal soothe the skin, to make this a completely beginner-friendly retinol. And the results are just as effective as any high concentrated retinol. A customer said, “I have sensitive skin and I absolutely love this product. It reversed the deep forehead lines I have so much that people began to ask me if I was getting Botox.” Get the First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum for $58 at Sephora.
The First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum is a great product to start with, as it has 0.25% retinol and many hydrating properties to help your skin adjust. The serum is infused with hyaluronic acid, anti-oxidizing vitamins, and ceramides to create a moisture barrier on your skin. Ingredients like aloe vera and oatmeal soothe the skin, to make this a completely beginner-friendly retinol. And the results are just as effective as any high concentrated retinol. A customer said, “I have sensitive skin and I absolutely love this product. It reversed the deep forehead lines I have so much that people began to ask me if I was getting Botox.”
Get the First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum for $58 at Sephora.
Best retinol serum for acne-prone skin
Best retinol serum for dry skin
Kiehl’s/ Sephora
For those with perpetually thirsty skin, retinol may not seem like a great idea since the ingredient can further dry your skin. But with the right pairing of retinol and moisturizer, you should be able to join the retinoid club. According to dermatologist Hadley King, “Milder formulations contain ingredients that moisturize and support the skin barrier, and use less potent forms [of retinol],” which should make it less irritating for your skin (via Real Simple).
The Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum might be a great option — it has a daily-strength dose of retinol that is gentle enough to be used during the day and comes packed with hydrating ingredients. The formula features ceramides and peptides, and both ingredients help strengthen your moisture barrier while firming your skin. A customer on Sephora’s website said, “I really liked this serum. I was a little afraid at first because I tend to have dry, sensitive skin. This product have absolutely no irritation and glided on just like butter. If you’re looking for a ‘starter’ retinol, try this one!” Get the Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptide at Sephora, starting at $62.
The Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum might be a great option — it has a daily-strength dose of retinol that is gentle enough to be used during the day and comes packed with hydrating ingredients. The formula features ceramides and peptides, and both ingredients help strengthen your moisture barrier while firming your skin. A customer on Sephora’s website said, “I really liked this serum. I was a little afraid at first because I tend to have dry, sensitive skin. This product have absolutely no irritation and glided on just like butter. If you’re looking for a ‘starter’ retinol, try this one!”
Get the Kiehl’s Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptide at Sephora, starting at $62.
Best brightening retinol serum
Paula’s Choice/ Dermstore
Retinoids can often help with hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and discoloration for all skin types and tones. However, you may want to look for brightening ingredients to accompany the retinol if you have a darker skin tone, according to Dr. Corey L. Hartman (via Bustle). Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment has a bit of both.
Paula’s Choice has a variety of OTC skincare that’s proved to be effective, and their CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment is no different. The serum contains a mixture of 1% retinol and vitamin C to reduce the appearance of dark spots while brightening your skin. It also has licorice and oat extract to soothe any irritation so you won’t see any redness with this serum. Get the Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment for $60 at Dermstore.
Paula’s Choice has a variety of OTC skincare that’s proved to be effective, and their CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment is no different. The serum contains a mixture of 1% retinol and vitamin C to reduce the appearance of dark spots while brightening your skin. It also has licorice and oat extract to soothe any irritation so you won’t see any redness with this serum.
Get the Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1 Retinol Treatment for $60 at Dermstore.
Best retinol serum for crow’s feet
Dr Dennis Gross/ Sephora
The harshness of retinol isn’t made for the thin delicate skin near your eyes, but that doesn’t mean that the area should be avoided entirely. According to Face Clinic London, the skin in this area is susceptible to early wrinkles, or crow’s feet, due to deteriorating elasticity and years of squinting and smiling. So, if you’re looking to diminish the appearance of crow’s feet, look no further than Dr. Dennis Gross’ Ferulic + Retinol Eye Cream.
This serum has active ingredients like bakuchiol and rambutan that aid retinol in its quest to improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles. It also has ferulic acid, an antioxidant that protects your skin against sun damage (via Healthline). A reviewer on Sephora’s website said, “I have been using this for years now and the skin around my eyes is the smoothest area on my face. It brightens and smooths, and helps with dark circles too.” The only complaint might be its price tag — it’s definitely an investment piece in your routine. Get the Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Eye Cream for $69 at Sephora and look forward to achieving a more youthful appearance in 2022.
This serum has active ingredients like bakuchiol and rambutan that aid retinol in its quest to improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles. It also has ferulic acid, an antioxidant that protects your skin against sun damage (via Healthline). A reviewer on Sephora’s website said, “I have been using this for years now and the skin around my eyes is the smoothest area on my face. It brightens and smooths, and helps with dark circles too.” The only complaint might be its price tag — it’s definitely an investment piece in your routine.
Get the Dr. Dennis Gross Ferulic + Retinol Eye Cream for $69 at Sephora and look forward to achieving a more youthful appearance in 2022.
