I’ve Been Using Retinol for a Decade—I Swear By These Serums for Addresing Uneven Skin Tone, Texture, Fine Lines, and Acne
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Derms love it. Editors swear by it. Retinol really is the skincare ingredient on everyone's lips. Of every skincare question I get asked as a beauty editor, retinol is high up on the list. The ingredient is often cloaked in controversy, although it's the most widely studied (and recommended) ingredient out there. Heck, it's touted as a game-changer for basically every skin concern. But what does a retinol serum actually even do?
Retinol serums "increase the turnover of skin cells, reduce the tendency of cells and keratin debris to clump together and clog up pores, increase collagen production, and decrease discoloration," says dermatologist Hadley King, MD. It encourages your skin cells to quickly turn over, so you're constantly churning out new, tight, firm, and bouncy skin. For this reason, it's fantastic for fine lines and wrinkles, reducing uneven skin texture, managing hormonal acne, fading dark spots, and boosting overall glow. This is why it's often touted as "Botox in a bottle" even. But this is also why it can be very irritating, so make sure you look into the type of retinol and the dosage. This is why Cosmo's team has been diligently testing formulas for years to figure out what is best for each concern and skin type.
After trying everything from prescription-strength formulas to beginner-friendly face serums, we’ve got some strong opinions on which retinol serums actually work. Whether your skin is dry, oily, sensitive, or acne-prone (or somewhere in between), these are the best retinol serums worth your money.
Our top picks for the best retinol serums and creams we've tested:
Best Firming Retinol Serum
Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty Retinal Night Advanced 0.1% Retinal Firming Treatment
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But pls grab a snack, because we have way more picks for the best retinol serums. Keep scrolling for all of the best, according to dermatologists and team Cosmo. Plus, info on how to choose a retinol serum for yourself.
Pros
- Most advanced retinol serum I've tested, with 0.24 percent retinaldehyde
- Great for acne-prone skin
Cons
- Very intense, so only for those who are experienced already with retinoids
Why we love it: Winner of our 2024 Acne Award for best retinol, Medik8 offers six strengths of their retinol, from the most sensitive-skin friendly to an expert-level version for those who've been around the retinol game a few times.
Team Cosmo has tested every single variation, but this one is the most advanced for smoothing texture and fine lines, and unlike anything else we've tested over-the-counter, making it truly one of the best retinol serums we've ever used.
One Cosmo editor says: “I normally stick to the Rx kind, but this OTC option has won me over. It’s just as effective as tretinoin for keeping my pores clear and skin smooth but with less dryness and flaking.” —LAUREN BALSAMO, BEAUTY DIRECTOR
| Key ingredients | Retinol, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, glycerin |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty Retinal Night Advanced 0.1% Retinal Firming Treatment
Pros
- Helps firm and tighten skin with peptides and retinol
- Doesn't dry out skin, according to testers
Cons
- Some reviewers say the pump breaks easily
Why we love it: Peptides are a common topic amongst the Cosmo beauty team. A very, very positive one. They're chains of amino acids that are basically the key to plump and smooth skin by amping up collagen production, which can help soften fine lines and wrinkles. So when you combine it with retinol, like in this serum from Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty (you might remember her as the derm who popularized skin cycling), you essentially get a double-duty anti-aging workhorse.
One Cosmo editor says: “This DWB serum genuinely changed my skin texture for the better. For years, I was suffering from congested pores on my chin that would lead to breakouts and bumpy skin texture, and I believe this was what finally smoothed out my skin and helped prevent acne before it began."—SARAH MABERRY, FASHION AND LUXURY COMMERCE EDITOR
Features at a Glance
| Key ingredients | Retinol, peptides, squalane, shea butter |
| Size | 0.95 fl oz |
Pros
- Cosmo Holy Grail Beauty Award winner
- Uses two types of retinol to help firm and tighten skin
Cons
- Need to work up to consistent use, or else you could experience some peeling
Why we love it: What's better than one retinoid? Two retinoids. Paula's Choice combined both retinaldehyde (the most potent form of retinol available OTC) and adapinoid (a form of retinol that's oil-soluble and fantastic for acne-prone skin) to develop this cream. It's a workhorse that can help smooth fine lines and wrinkles but also penetrate a lil deeper to prevent acne. No wonder it won a Cosmo Holy Grail Award.
One Cosmo editor says: “This retinol serum gives smoothing and anti-aging results that are on par with a low-grade prescription retinoid, yet somehow manages to be incredibly gentle. My sensitive-ish skin experienced zero irritation while using this, just a nice tightening effect.” —MADELEINE FRANK REEVES, FORMER DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROJECTS
Features at a Glance
| Key ingredients | Retinaldehyde, adapinoid, jojoba oil |
| Size | 1 oz |
Pros
- Loaded with hydrating ingredients to help offset potential dryness
- On the affordable side compared to other retinols
Cons
- A few testers said it pilled when layered with other serums and moisturizer
Why we love it: Not only does this drugstore retinol serum have more than 19,000+ five-star reviews, but it's beloved by dermatologists too. Dermatologist Jessie Cheung, MD, raved to Cosmo about this over-the-counter retinol from CeraVe, noting that it's the amazing for sensitive-skin types.
It uses encapsulated retinol, which "allows for deeper penetration and sustained release, making it a great formulation for sensitive skin," she says. "You are able to deliver the active ingredient where you want it to work deep in the skin, and this lessens any potential irritation at the surface."
One Cosmo editor says: " As someone with v sensitive skin, CeraVe is a go-to when it comes to skincare products, and this was the first retinol I've ever used. I didn't experience severe flakiness or redness, and it's great on my dry and acne-prone skin."—JASMINE HYMAN, ASSISTANT BEAUTY EDITOR
| Key ingredients | Retinol, ceramides, hyaluronic acid |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
Pros
- The first Rx-strength retinoid for treating acne sold OTC
- Helps smooth texture and fade acne scarring
- Cosmo Holy Grail Acne Award winner
Cons
- Can be pretty irritating, so you gotta start slow
Why we love it: Listen, not all retinol serums are made equal, especially when it comes to treating acne. The only over-the-counter retinol that was developed specifically for preventing and treating breakouts is adapelene. There are multiple OTC adapelenes now, but a consistent go-to is the O.G. Differin Gel. It has a lightweight, matte texture that's great for oily skin. It also helps smooth uneven skin texture and fade hyperpigmentation, making it ideal for legit every step of your acne journey.
But because this is v strong, try the "sandwich method" to avoid dryness by layering a moisturizer underneath and on top of Differin to keep your skin hydrated.
One Cosmo expert says: “Differin 0.1 percent Gel is the over-the-counter version of the powerful Rx retinoids doctors recommend for treating acne and also signs of aging. It’s gentler and less drying than prescription options, making it ideal for sensitive skin or mild comedonal acne.” —SHARI MARCHBEIN, MD, DERMATOLOGIST
| Key ingredients | Adapalene |
| Size | 0.5 fl oz |
Pros
- Customized formula to your skincare needs (acne, anti-aging, texture, etc.)
- Fairly affordable compared to going in-office for a prescription
Cons
- Requires a virtual meeting with a doctor
Why we love it: Retinoic acid, or tretinoin, is the retinoid form that is immediately available to skin, making it the most potent—but it's available only with a prescription. But, over-the-counter retinoids (aka every other retinol on this list) uses a form of retinol that has to undergo a conversion into retinoic acid before your skin can use them. "In general, I recommend using the strongest version that your skin tolerates without too much irritation," Dr. King says.
Keep in mind: Tretinoin can be v strong, so start slow. Try it for one night for a week, then two nights a week for two weeks, then three nights indefinitely. "I use a prescription tretinoin on my face, but an OTC version on my neck and chest, where I have a difficult time tolerating a prescription version," Dr. King says.
One Cosmo editor says: ""If you have moderate to severe acne, an RX retinol is the way to go. While you can get one from your derm, it's a hell of a lot easier to create a Curology account and get one shipped straight to your down—no co pay, no wait times, no insurance drama."—LAUREN BALSAMO, BEAUTY DIRECTOR
Features at a Glance
| Key ingredients | Tretinoin |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
Pros
- Helps fade dark spots with vitamin C and retinol
Cons
- Can take a while (and consistent use) to notice results, said reviewers
Why we love it: Designed to treat wrinkles, dark spots, and legit any of the less-than-stellar impacts of being a normal, aging human, this serum uses a blend of retinol and vitamin C (a powerhouse combo, btw) to basically trick everyone into believing you're a whole lot younger than you are. It helps tighten to reduce sagging and lines, while brightening skin for a more radiant look. And did we mention it does all of that for less than $30?
One Cosmo editor says: "My mom has been using this stuff for years, and I recently tried it out when I was visiting her for a few days. It was surprisingly gently on my sensitive skin. So much so, that I immediately ordered my own tube on Amazon the next day."—JH
| Key ingredients | Retinol, vitamin C, vitamin E |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
Pros
- We *love* the gel texture
- Contains a slew of moisturizers to help hydrate skin
Cons
- Some reviewers wished it came in a stronger version too
Why we love it: This gentle gel uses granactive retinoid, which is a more gentle form of retinol, and the formula is also loaded with moisturizers—ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, to get specific—that keep the skin barrier healthy and strong.
Overall, we love this gel because it spreads so easily across the skin and doesn't cause any dryness or irritation whatsoever. Is it the most sophisticated, strongest, intense retinol? No. But in a matter of six weeks, we saw some serious smoothing results.
One Cosmo editor says: "I actually went through an entire tube of this retinol gel last year, because it's both gentle and effective. It's a lil less harsh than other retinols, which is why this serum is so great for beginners and those with sensitive skin."—BG
| Key ingredients | Granactive retinoid, aloe extract, squalane, centella asiatica, allantoin |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
Pros
- Made with spicules to help increase product absorption in your skin
- Helps brighten and clear skin
Cons
- Doesn't really contain many hydrators, so you'll need to pair with a good moisturizer
Why we love it: Historically, retinol isn't as popular in Korea as it is in America (they have more access to professional treatments and prescription-strength products). But as brands start developing for Western consumers, they're finding ways to innovate in the retinol space. Case in point: This booster formula from Celimax that features 0.1 percent retinal in a cream suspended in spicules, teeny-tiny spores that create micro channels in your skin for deeper product penetration (some consider it a form of liquid microneedling).
Quick retinal 101: Retinal only needs one step to be converted in your skin to retinoic acid, which boosts cell turnover, making it the strongest retinal available over the counter (only second to prescription tretinoin). With the added spicules (plus Matrixyl 3000, peptides, and niacinamide), this cream is pretty mighty for preventing and smoothing wrinkles and fading hyperpigmentation.
One Cosmo editor says: "I cannot believe how well this retinol serum works. I'm used to strong prescription formulas, and this provides a similar efficacy in a short amount of time. This does mean it can be a little irritating, but I just sandwich it with a rich moisturizer to help offset dryness."—BG
Features at a Glance
| Key ingredients | Retinal, niacinamide, Matrixyl 3000, peptides |
| Size | 0.5 oz |
Pros
- Brightens my skin with lactic acid and niacinamide
- Lightweight, watery texture
Cons
- Can be a lil strong for retinol beginners
Why we love it: Retinol is great for wrinkles, yes, but it's also fab for fading hyperpigmentation, whether you've got sun spots, acne scars, or melasma. And we're huge fans of this serum from Shani Darden (a celeb aesthetician who's worked with Shay Mitchell, Kelly Rowland, and Ashley Graham). It mixes smoothing, firming retinol with brightening niacinamide and lactic acid, an AHA that helps exfoliate dead skin.
One Cosmo editor says: "This serum is the GOAT for fine lines and resurfacing. It's not harsh on the skin and is great for any type of hyperpigmentation."—BG
| Key ingredients | Retinol, lactic acid, niacinamide, aloe vera |
| Size | 1 fl oz |
What percent retinol is most effective?
The most effective percentage of retinol completely depends on your skin type, sensitivity, and concerns. Retinol to prevent fine lines and wrinkles when you're 20 versus 50 versus retinol for cystic acne—it's not one-size-fits-all. In general, beginners should look for a 0.25 concentration or below, and slowly work your way up to a 1% formula.
However, you should also consider what type of retinoid you're using, as different retinols will be stronger. For example, retinal is stronger than standard retinol—a low-strength retinal is 0.01 percent to 0.03 percent, while a high-strength is anywhere from 0.1 percent to 0.25 percent.
Keep in mind: Retinol is most effective when used consistently, so opt for a formula you can use often with the least amount of side effects. Typically, low and slow wins here.
How to choose the best retinol serum for you:
Assess your skin's sensitivity levels.
If you've got extremely sensitive skin, your approach to retinol is def going to be v diff from someone with oily, acne-prone skin that can handle the strongest of treatments. Consider how sensitive your skin is before choosing a retinol. Like, if the thought of acids makes your face burn, opt for a gentler retinol alternative, like bakuchiol or resveratrol, or go with something sensitive skin-friendly, like a low-concentration formula filled with soothers. But if your skin can handle a bit more, dial it up a notch with retinal.
And if your dermatologist recommends it, try tretinoin, the strongest version of retinoid you can only get by prescription. It's intense, but it works wonders for skin turnover.
Start slow.
There we go again—but it's extremely important to keep things minimal when you're starting with retinol. First of all, begin with the lowest percentage you can find and then work your way up to a higher percentage or concentration, especially if your skin is sensitive. Consider starting with a gentler retinol type as well, like granactive retinoid or retinyl palmitate (we listed our faves above, ofc). But you should also go slow with use. Start by using your retinol cream every other night for a few weeks and increase the usage as the weeks go on.
Meet the experts:
- Hadley King, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist and clinical instructor of dermatology at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University.
- Jessie Cheung, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist with practices in Chicago, IL, and New York, NY. She focuses on the intersection of dermatology and overall wellness, taking a holistic approach to acne and skin. She was previously interviewed about retinol for sensitive skin.
Why trust ‘Cosmopolitan’?
Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with more than seven years of experience researching, writing, and editing skincare stories.
Jasmine Hyman is the assistant beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, with three years of experience writing about all the best beauty products.
Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers skincare, makeup, hair, nails, and more across digital and print. She can generally be found in bright eyeshadow furiously typing her latest feature or hemming and hawing about a new product you "have to try." Prior to Cosmopolitan, she wrote and edited beauty content as an Editor at The Everygirl for four years. Follow her on Instagram for makeup selfies and a new hair 'do every few months.
Jasmine Hyman is the Assistant Beauty Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she writes about the latest beauty trends and must-have products. Her most prized beauty possessions are a meticulous skincare routine and salon blowouts. You’ll also likely find her in bed reading a good book or endlessly scrolling TikTok (spoiler: it’s usually the latter) while listening to Harry Styles’ entire discography on repeat. Follow her on Insta to be inundated with pictures of her meals.
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