The 10 Best Dermatologist-Recommended Retinols We Tried in 2025

My one gripe with this serum is that the consistency feels oily, making absorption slower for me. But for those with dry skin, this may be a benefit. I wouldn’t let the consistency deter me from buying this product because the microencapsulated retinol leaves my skin soft and smooth in the morning. I did not experience any drying or tightness, so I feel good about it as a choice for people with all skin types.

With this formula, there’s no need to add a moisturizer to your skin-care routine. I’ve been using this brand for years, and my combination skin finds the BL+ COMPLEX very hydrating. I enjoyed using this product because the texture melted into my skin, leaving my complexion radiant by the morning. I experienced no signs of irritation, dryness, or peeling. If you’re looking for something nonirritating, the mineral-rich thermal-water formula delivers. It’s a prestige skin-care product, but its price point is more accessible than some of the other luxurious retinols out there.

Added bonus: For individuals who have adult acne, this product has a dual purpose. “The Differin Gel Acne Treatment is an excellent choice for acne-prone skin,” says Engelman. “It has anti-inflammatory properties that help minimize redness while preventing blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and clogged pores. By promoting healthy cell turnover, it helps prevent pore blockages and targets acne before it begins. The gel formula keeps the texture lightweight, reducing the risk of pore congestion. Based on an in vitro laboratory study, Differin Gel can reduce acne by up to 87 percent in 12 weeks with daily use.”

Consistent use over several months can lead to a noticeable reduction in the depth and visibility of wrinkles, contributing to a more youthful and refined complexion. When I used it on my skin that experiences occasional hormonal breakouts, I didn’t notice the dramatic results of prescription-strength tretinoin, a vitamin A–based retinoid that’s used for severe aging concerns, but the over-the-counter accessibility, low price point, and generally milder profile make it an excellent entry point for those looking to incorporate a retinol alternative into their anti-aging regimen.

“Serums are known for their higher concentration of active ingredients and efficient delivery system,” says Engelman. “They are an excellent choice for advanced users with higher tolerance levels who are looking for more potent results with quicker absorption to maximize the benefits of retinol.”

I’ve used this product for more than a year, and it’s a regular in my skin-care routine to help fade dark spots. Its silky consistency has zero tackiness, and it absorbs beautifully. It’s an affordable, high-quality product with dual purposes.

“This is another favorite of mine,” says Engelman. “The formulation is encapsulated in a precise dosage to prevent oxidation, ensuring it remains the freshest and most potent form of retinol. It combines 4-percent pure retinol and HPR Complex, which works in tandem to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while supporting the skin’s natural cell turnover without causing irritation.”

I’ve been using this product for over a year and can tolerate the high concentration without any flakiness or irritation. Plus, the capsules are great for travel, ensuring you stay consistent, which Kobets notes is key for retinol to be most effective.

Paula’s Choice CLINICAL 1% Retinol Treatment is our pick for targeting wrinkles due to its effective concentration of 1-percent retinol combined with peptides and antioxidants designed to support anti-aging results. Wrinkles, especially deeper ones, require significant cellular turnover to show improvement.

This cream delivers a robust dose of pure retinol to stimulate collagen production and accelerate cell renewal. The inclusion of four different peptides further boosts collagen synthesis and helps to visibly firm the skin, while vitamin C and licorice extract brighten the complexion and provide antioxidant protection. This is another product that’s made its way into my nightly routine for over a year now. It’s a keeper because it’s visibly diminishing the “11” sign in my forehead, and I haven’t experienced any irritation.

“I love how gentle this is on my skin,” says Ashley Ziegler, an editor at Everyday Health. “I used this as my first retinol product and was concerned that I’d experience irritation or breakouts or one of the other side effects that are common with retinol products. And I was blown away because I didn’t experience any kind of reaction. I was able to use the product every night (as opposed to every other night as a beginner) without any issue.”

“I went into this product test with high expectations because I love Murad products, and this retinol still managed to exceed them. I noticed results within days of using this product regularly. My skin looks slightly brighter, hydrated, and firm,” says Ziegler. “I have deep wrinkles in my forehead, and while this product doesn’t eliminate them, it truly does help reduce their appearance. I like the product’s lotion-like texture and how quickly it absorbs.” She notes the product is pricey, but adds, “A little goes a long way, so a single bottle will last a long time, giving you a lot of product for the price.”

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1 is our pick for sensitive skin due to its innovative encapsulated retinaldehyde delivery system and the availability of progressive strengths. While retinal is a more potent form of vitamin A than traditional retinol, its encapsulation ensures a slow and gentle release, preventing skin from becoming overwhelmed. This controlled delivery minimizes irritation, redness, and flakiness that sensitive skin often experiences with retinoids.

“I absolutely love Medik8’s Crystal Retinal 1! This product comes in six progressive strengths, ranging from 0.01 percent to 0.2 percent retinaldehyde, allowing you to gradually build your skin’s tolerance while increasing potency,” says Engelman, who uses the product regularly. On her recommendation, I tried it and was impressed with how well it absorbed and how glowing it left my skin. But the youth-boosting results are what make this product a standout. “It’s clinically proven to work up to 11 times faster than standard retinol, thanks to a patented retinal stability system that helps preserve its potency and effectiveness,” explains Engelman.