We can understand if you’re intimidated by prescription retinol. It’s highly effective, but it can be irritating. A derivative of vitamin A, retinol stimulates collagen production and cell turnover, which can help soften wrinkles, smooth skin texture, correct dark spots, and clear acne. But all that skin-perfecting power comes at a cost, including dryness, redness, irritation, and sun sensitivity. These side effects usually subside after a few months at most, but if you don’t have time to wait, we’ve got a solution: retinol creams. You reap all the benefits but with added hydrating and nourishing ingredients to minimize those less-than-pleasant side effects. Ahead, learn about the tried-and-true retinol creams that are worth integrating into your nightly routine ASAP.
This face cream is a powerhouse of skin-restoring ingredients. In addition to retinol, it also contains ferulic acid to help with hyperpigmentation, plumping hyaluronic acid, and the brand’s signature ECG Complex to help firm.
Finally, Glossier introduced a retinol—and it’s fantastic. With 0.5 percent retinyl sunflowerate (which, yes, is made with sunflower seed fatty acids) and stevia leaf extract, it’s effective at smoothing lines and wrinkles, but it also contains humectants like glycerin to hydrate skin. One thing to note: Although it does have a creamy texture, you’ll probably still want to follow with a proper moisturizer.
This highly rated face cream has a little bit of everything: A low concentration of retinol (0.1 percent) provides line-smoothing benefits, while jojoba oil moisturizes and a whole host of antioxidants protect skin from environmental stressors.
This concentrated formula packs a punch; try incorporating into your routine one or two days a week, then increase as your skin gets acclimated.
Arguably the strongest cream on this list, it contains the highest concentration of retinol and botanical extracts to not only to reduce the appearance of fine lines but also treat acne.
When you see retinol and hyaluronic acid on the same ingredient list, you know to snatch up it quick. Say goodbye to fine lines and dry, cracked skin — it’s the perfect cream for this winter.
This fragrance-free cream is perfect to slather on before bed. It delivers a big dose of hydration and retinol so you are left with little to no irritation.
Cushioning retinol in an ultra-rich cream with hyaluronic acid and fatty acids helps avoid irritation, while the addition of vitamin C provides an extra dose of protective brightening power.
Retinol, retinal (a relative of the former), and niacin combine to leave skin looking totally refreshed overnight. We love how this cream also has anti-redness ingredients, just in case your skin is a little more sensitive.
Aptly named intense, this cream is loaded with double the amount of retinol, along with brightening botanicals and rosewater to soothe the skin.
Made with pure retinol, an exclusive retinol booster complex, and exfoliating salicylic acid, use this lightweight cream to reduce the appearance of fine lines and crow’s feet.
The anti-aging all-stars—retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C—get cozy in this wallet-friendly formula. If you’re looking to get into retinol but don’t want to spend a small fortune, this jar is a good place to start.
You’ll notice smoother, brighter skin and softened lines in just a week of daily use. But as with all retinol, you’ll need to keep using it for the results to stick around.
A rich, skin-coddling cream that also boasts flower and red algae extract to enhance the anti-aging and line-smoothing effect of the retinol. Use it every night during the winter, then pull back during the warmer months to a few times a week.