Best of

The best retinol serums

Retinol is the most proven anti-ageing ingredient there is, and the most misused. Start too strong and you'll peel, give up, and blame the retinol. The trick is the right strength for where your skin is now.

Here are the ones worth buying, from gentlest to strongest, plus the alternative for when retinol is off the table. None are sponsored, and each buy link routes to the store that ships to you.

Sorted by how gentle they are, because with retinol the best one is the one you can actually stick with. Always pair it with daily SPF. Read the guide →

Best for beginners

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum

An encapsulated retinol buffered with ceramides and niacinamide, so it delivers results with far less of the flaking and stinging beginners dread. The gentlest way to start.

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Best budget

The Ordinary Retinol

A straightforward, affordable retinol that comes in a few strengths so you can build up slowly. The cheapest way to find out whether your skin gets on with retinol at all.

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Best premium

Shani Darden Retinol Reform

A cult, higher-end formula that pairs retinol with lactic acid for smoother, brighter skin. The splurge for people who already tolerate retinoids and want a visible step up.

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Best gentle alternative

Herbivore Bakuchiol Serum

Bakuchiol isn't retinol, but it's the plant-based alternative worth knowing: similar smoothing benefits, gentle enough for sensitive skin, and considered pregnancy-safe. The option when retinol is off the table.

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