Skinfatuation
Retinoids 101
From mild retinol to skin-smoothing retinal, discover the best retinoid for your needs.
3X Points
skin tip
“All types of retinoids help promote skin cell turnover, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve texture. The main difference lies in their potency and dosage.”
Retinal
Retinal is more potent so you see results more quickly. Those with mature skin tend to favor this version.
Murad
Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment
Why we love it
Delivers retinal deep into skin to improve sagging and elasticity while fighting dryness and irritation. The encapsulated retinal means it’s gentler.
Who should use it
Great for anyone who wants to improve the major signs of aging.
The Ordinary
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
Why we love it
Reduces dark spots, firms skin and helps create a more even skin tone in as few as two applications.
Who should use it
This potent serum is best for experienced retinoid users.
Peach & Lily
Retinal For All Renewing Serum
Why we love it
Nourishes skin while targeting early signs of aging, wrinkles and fine lines.
Who should use it
All skin types, even sensitive skin.
Retinol
Retinol smooths fine lines and helps refresh skin—it's a great way to ease into the ingredient.
TULA
Wrinkle Treatment Drops Retinol Alternative Serum
Why we love it
Nourishes and targets aging with a dry oil serum featuring a blend of retinol alternatives including bakuchiol, alfalfa sprouts and stevia.
Who should use it
We like this for anyone who’s concerned about potential irritation.
Kiehl’s Since 1851
Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum
Why we love it
Works overnight for more luminous skin while reducing the appearance of pores and wrinkles.
Who should use it
Ideal for all skin types because you’ll notice minimal redness, dryness or peeling.
Sunday Riley
Luna Retinol Sleeping Night Oil
Why we love it
Improves skin firmness and reduces environmental damage (aka: dark spots and discoloration.) The blue serum becomes clear when massaged into skin.
Who should use it
While it’s great for many skin types, do not use during pregnancy.
IT Cosmetics
Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-in-Cream
Why we love it
Speeds up skin cell turnover to help plump, firm and minimize fine lines and wrinkles—it also contains niacinamide to help even out skin tone.
Who should use it
This can be used daily on all types of skin.
Strivectin
Super-C Retinol Brighten & Correct Vitamin C Serum
Why we love it
Combines the brightening power of vitamin C with skin-smoothing retinol. You'll see brighter, firmer skin and fewer lines.
Who should use it
The formula sinks into skin making it a great first step to a morning skin care routine.
DIME
TBT Cream
Why we love it
Uses plant-based alternatives like bakuchiol and apple fruit stem cell extract to deliver the benefits of retinol without the harshness.
Who should use it
This gentle retinol alternative can be used by everyone.
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