The 11 best retinol serums and creams of 2026, tested & reviewed
The best retinol serums and creams quietly crept into my nighttime routine sometime in my late 20s - and honestly now? I couldn’t live without them. While I’m very much for ageing gracefully, I’m also realistic enough to admit that a little help keeping fine lines, wrinkles and uneven texture at bay doesn't go amiss. Retinol is one of those ingredients that earns its cult status, and once you find the one, there’s really no going back.
That said, retinol isn’t exactly a one-size-fits-all situation. Some formulas are gentle enough for beginners, others mean serious business — and knowing what strength, texture and formulation works for your skin is key (especially if you’re also looking at more targeted options like the best retinol eye creams). Yes, you do need to introduce it slowly and choose the right concentration if you want to dodge the dreaded dryness or flare-ups (the unofficial term “retinol purge” exists for a reason). But when it comes to results? Retinol is absolutely up there in the big league, right alongside vitamin C, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
According to Dr. Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York, “retinoids works by increasing collagen production, as well as increasing the rate of skin-cell turnover,” which is precisely what makes retinoid-infused formulas so effective.
They can “help treat acne scars, clogged pores, and blackheads by reducing the stickiness of the cells that clog pores, as well as speeding up the rate at which the skin barrier turns over and regenerates,” Dr. Shari explains. An impressive list, no?
To help you decide which one of hundreds of retinol serums and creams is the best fit for you, our beauty team has expertly curated a definitive guide to cater to every skin type, concern, budget and preference. In true Glamour fashion, we've also tested the most popular formulas first-hand to reveal whether they're worth the hype, having also quizzed the derms on everything you need to know about retinol.
Meet the experts:
- Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
- Sadaf Jaffari, a celebrity skin expert and consultant aesthetician.
- Dr. Wassim Taktouk, Dermatologist and Medical Director of Taktouk Clinic.
- Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
How we tested the best retinol serums:
Retinol isn’t something you can judge overnight - so we took our time. Our beauty team tested a wide range of retinol serums and creams across different skin types and experience levels, wearing them consistently over several weeks to get a true sense of results.
We assessed each formula for texture, absorption, comfort and how well it played with the rest of a nighttime routine - because nobody wants pilling, redness or flaking. Most importantly, we looked at whether the products actually delivered: smoother skin, improved tone, fewer fine lines and that all-important glow. The end result? A tightly edited shortlist of retinol formulas we’d genuinely recommend to a friend.
After more retinol-related content? Check out our deep-dives on how to use retinol in summer and everything you need to know about “retinol sandwiching”.
Why you can trust me:
Since hitting my late 20s, retinol was the one product I was most keen to introduce into my routine. I even briefly considered Botox, but my dermatologist suggested trying retinoids as a preventative first - and I genuinely haven’t looked back. I did, however, learn the hard way that stronger isn’t always better after starting off too intense and irritating my skin. My personal go-to is Medik8 Crystal Retinal, mainly because its strength “ladder” makes easing in feel far less scary - and since using it nightly, a stubborn line between my brows has genuinely faded. With so many retinols on the market now, I quizzed the Glamour team on their favourites, plus picked the brains of dermatologists and aestheticians for their top recommendations - so consider this your no-nonsense retinol guide, whether you’re a total newbie or you’ve been using it for years.
Enter: the best retinol serums and creams for every skin type…
- Retinoid concentration: 0.01% to 0.2% retinal.
- Form of retinol: Retinaldehyde.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- ≈30ml.
Why we love it: Made with retinaldehyde – a next-generation retinoid that is much, much faster-acting than regular retinol – this innovative skincare product is available in 5 different strengths. In other words, this formulation is perfect for both beginners and more experienced retinol users alike.
"When it comes to Medik8 Crystal Retinal, I’ve been using it for about two years now - long enough to know it’s not not just a fad. I’ll admit, I made the classic mistake of diving straight in with strength 10 (not my finest moment), and quickly learned why Medik8 recommends starting low and working your way up.
After a short break to rebuild my barrier, I switched to strength 3 and gradually built up tolerance, using it a few nights a week before making it a nightly staple. Now, I’m on a higher strength (6 to be exact) and my skin has fully adapted to it. It’s helped smooth fine lines, even out texture, and gives me that subtle brightness that makes everything - even makeup - sit better. I’ve recommended it to pretty much everyone I know, and even my brother, who used to splash his face with water and call it a day, is now converted. It’s that good." - Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Tester: Denise Primbet, Glamour's Beauty Contributor & Shani Cohen, Glamour's Beauty Commerce Writer.
Pros & ConsPros- Different potencies to choose from
- Genuinely effective formula
- Science-backed
Cons- Can irritate if wrong strength is used
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
- Retinoid concentration: Not listed.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: If you're looking for a fast-absorbing retinol serum, we've got just the thing. This particular one is powered by a Tri-Active Technology consisting of a fast-acting retinoid, a time-released retinoid, and a retinol booster to firm your skin. It also includes moisturising substances that provide a long-lasting hydrating effect and help your skin look more radiant by reducing the appearance of dark circles and deep wrinkles.
Tester: Fiona Embleton, Glamour's Associate Beauty Director.
Save when you shop for retinol serums with these LookFantastic discount codes.
Pros & ConsPros- Fast-absorbing
- Good for reducing fine lines and wrinkles
Cons- It doesn't list the retinol potency
- Retinoid concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Encapsulated retinyl retinoate + retinal.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes (night use only).
- Product size: 50ml.
Why we love it: The crown jewel of Medik8’s vitamin A line, this luxe night cream combines two powerhouse retinoids - retinal and encapsulated retinyl retinoate - to deliver results up to 8x stronger and 11x faster than classic retinol. Translation: noticeably smoother, firmer, brighter-looking skin, with visible reductions in wrinkles and dark spots in as little as four weeks - sign us up.
The texture is rich and velvety, exactly what you’d expect from a cream with a £200+ price tag. Yes, it’s a splurge, but if you want science-backed results, this is the luxe option worth investing in.
Tester: Ben Neale, Glamour's Senior Creative Designer.
Pros & ConsPros- Incredibly potent and effective
- Combines two powerhouse retinoids
Cons- Definitely one of the more expensive products on this list
Kate Somerville Mega-A Skin Transforming Serum
- Retinoid concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Retinal.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: Gentle enough for everyday use, this retinal serum is designed to improve elasticity to make your skin feel and appear more supple. Suitable for all skin types – and yes, that includes those of us with sensitive skin.
The texture is silky and lightweight, so it sinks in quickly without any greasy residue, making it an easy step to slot into your evening routine. Over time, the formula helps soften fine lines, refine uneven texture and boost radiance, all while avoiding the dryness and irritation that retinol products are often known for.
Tester: Mayola Fernandes, Glamour's Commerce Writer.
Pros & ConsPros- Fragrance-free
- Hydrating
Cons- Expensive
Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide Capsules Rapid Skin Renewing Serum
- Retinoid concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Pre-measured pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30, 60 or 90 capsules.
Why we love it: Endorsed by dermatologists and beauty editors alike, the Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Ceramide Capsules are a cult favourite for a reason. With the help of the pre-measured capsules, you can apply the exact needed amount without wasting excess product. Each capsule contains a clever blend of pure retinol plus HPR as well as skin-loving ceramides, peptides and nourishing botanicals. The best part? It's gentle enough to be used even on the most sensitive of skin types.
Tester: Georgia Trodd, Glamour's Senior Commerce Writer.
Pros & ConsPros- Gentle
- Pre-measured capsules
- Travel-friendly
Cons- Capsules can be fiddly
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
- Retinoid concentration: 0.3%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: If you're looking for an effective treatment for acne marks and uneven skin tone, we've got just the thing. This product is a gentle yet effective resurfacing serum that focuses on improving your skin's texture. It also contains three essential ceramides that help your skin lock in moisture and restore its protective barrier.
Tester: Dominic Cadogan, Glamour's Acting Beauty Editor.
Pros & ConsPros- Fragrance-free, making it great for sensitive skin
- Doesn't clog your pores
- Affordable
Cons- Some users complain about the smell
Trinny London Overnight Sensation
- Retinoid concentration: Not specified.
- Form of retinol: Retinal and granactive retinoid.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: The aptly named Overnight Sensation by Trinny works wonders by reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while you sleep. It's suitable for all skin types and even gentle enough not to cause any unwanted peeling, thanks to key ingredients such as retinal, bacillus ferment and vitamin F.
Pros & ConsPros- Minimal irritation
- Great overnight treatment
- A gentle formula that works for all skin types
Cons- Expensive
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Eye Serum
- Retinoid concentration: Not specified
- Form of retinol: Tri-active retinol blend
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes
- Product size: 15ml
Why we love it: Your eyes deserve their own retinol moment, and this serum delivers just that. It’s designed to tackle fine lines, dark circles and puffiness in one go, with a formula that’s powerful but still gentle enough to use on the delicate eye area. The texture is silky and hydrating, so you get all the benefits of retinol without the usual dryness or irritation.
It’s not an all-rounder for your whole face, but that’s what makes it stand out from the crowd. Focused on the eye area alone, it helps brighten, smooth and refresh the spot where most of us see the first signs of ageing.
Tester: Ben Neale, Glamour's Senior Creative Designer.
Pros & ConsPros- Targets the eye area if that's a concern
- Brightens
- Reduces fine lines
Cons- Expensive for a small bottle
- Could irritate
Olverum Pure Radiance Facial Oil
- Retinol concentration: None.
- Retinol alternative: Yes (vitamins F, A, C and E)
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: If you want retinol results without actually using retinol, this is a really good place to start. It’s a brightening facial oil powered by Olverum’s Illumina Vitamin Complex (vitamins F, A, C and E), designed to support collagen, help protect against environmental stress, and make skin look fresher and more glowy. It leaves skin feeling nourished and visibly plumped - but not greasy - and it’s a great one to use even if your skin tends to be on the sensitive side, or you have to avoid retinol all together.
Pros & ConsPros- Non-greasy oil
- Great retinol alterantive
- Suitable for sensitive skin types
Cons- May not be as strong as retinol
- Pricey
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
- Retinoid concentration: 0.3%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: This night-time serum is suitable for all skin types, especially for those prone to sensitive skin. In addition to its gentle 0.3% retinol content, the serum complex also includes other ingredients, such as vitamin B3 and glycerin, to keep your skin nourished and hydrated.
Tester: Elle Turner, Glamour's Senior Beauty Editor.
Pros & ConsPros- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Hydrating and effective formula
- Features pure form of retinol
Cons- Some users complain about the smell
The Ordinary Retinol Serum 0.2% in Squalane
- Retinoid concentration: 0.5%.
- Form of retinol: Pure retinol.
- Suitable for sensitive skin? Yes.
- Product size: 30ml.
Why we love it: Sometimes simple is better. If you're looking for pure retinol without any other additional ingredients, this is the one for you. This water-free solution contains 0.2% pure retinol. However, high-strength pure retinol can still irritate your skin, so beginners and people with sensitive skin may be better off with more gentle and hydrating options instead.
Pros & ConsPros- Budget-friendly
- Great for beginners
- Reasonably priced
Cons- Should be refrigerated
Retinol FAQ's
What is retinol and what does it do to our skin?
Retinol is a common type of retinoid and is a vitamin A derivative (which is why retinol is sometimes referred to as vitamin A). There are many different forms of vitamin A and retinoids with varying strength levels, including retinal, retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate. Contrary to the likes of tretinoin, retinol is considered to be a more mild, over-the-counter form that's often included in skincare serums as an active ingredient for:
- acne treatment
- improving skin texture
- brightening dull skin
- treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots and blemishes while also
- reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
You see, retinoid formulas have been proven to increase cell-turnover, meaning that your skin recovers and repairs itself a lot quicker too. “Retinoids work by increasing collagen production, as well as increasing the rate of skin-cell turnover,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. “They also help treat acne scars, clogged pores, and blackheads by reducing the stickiness of the cells that clog pores, as well as speeding up the rate at which the skin barrier turns over and regenerates.”
Oh, and before you go off on your retinol shopping spree, let us gently remind you to always wear some form of SPF or a standalone sunscreen for face the following morning after using a retinoid formula.
Does retinol help with acne?
Due to its anti-inflammatory benefits, one of retinol's commonly known benefits is that it can indeed help minimise the appearance of acne and speed up the healing process. Plus, thanks to its smoothing properties and its ability to accelerate cell turnover, retinol can also smooth out skin, which should in turn help with older acne scars and rough texture.
What strength retinol should I buy?
Professionals usually recommend starting out with the lowest concentration available and work your way to the stronger formula over time once your skin's tolerance adapts to retinoids. You would also do well to remember that beginners should start using retinol once a week for a few weeks, then move on to using it a few times a week until eventually working your way up to applying it once every night as part of your evening skincare routine. That said, if you had any specific skin concerns, we'd definitely advice consulting with your dermatologist prior to purchasing a retinol serum as they may recommend a prescription retinoid formula instead.
How long does it take retinol to have an effect?
As is the case with most active ingredients, you should be able to see results within 3-8 weeks of using retinol, depending on your skin type and the formula's concentration. You may find that some formulas may not be suitable for your skin type so we'd recommend switching to another product rather than keep using it if it irritates or dries out your skin.
How to use retinol correctly
Most dermatology experts recommend easing into retinol serums and creams, starting with one or two applications a week to build up your tolerance. You can also try buffering – i.e., sandwiching retinol between two layers of moisturiser – to keep retinol burn, dryness, flaking and breakouts at bay. Apply a pea-sized amount and take it from there.
It's also worth noting that retinol works best when used at night. “Most retinoids are not stable in the sun,” says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. Not to mention all retinoids can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage due to their exfoliant properties, so be sure to wear a reliable sunscreen every day, she adds. You may also want to refrain from using too many exfoliating products with your retinol, so it might be a good idea to take it easy on products that contain AHAs, BHAs or glycolic acid.
When should you start using retinol?
30s or late 20s has long been considered the most suitable age to start introducing retinol as part of your skincare regimen to target the visible signs of aging, though many people choose to do so earlier rather than later for other concerns, such as acne or rough skin texture.
In other words, there's no particular rule as to when you can and should start using a retinol serum, so feel free to start using it if you’re approaching your mid-20s and feel as though you’d benefit from it. Make sure to consult with your dermatologist if you have specific conditions such as rocasea or eczema.
What is the difference between retinol and retinal?
Retinol and retinal are basically the same family (vitamin A retinoids), but retinal is the quicker one: retinol has to do two “steps” in your skin before it becomes active, while retinal only has one, so it tends to work faster. The trade-off is that retinol is usually a bit easier to get along with when you’re starting out, whereas retinal can feel stronger if you go in too hard too soon - so whichever you pick, start low, take it steady, and don’t try to speed-run your way to perfect skin.
Retinol comparison chart:
Comparing retinols featured in this guide:
| Product: | Ingredients: | Retinol strength(s): | When to use: | Price: | Serum or cream: |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medik8 Crystal Retinal | Retinaldehyde (vitamin A), hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamin E | Varies by level (1–20 retinal ladder) | PM | From £49 | Serum |
| Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum | Retinol Tri-Active Technology, Swertia Flower Extract, Hyaluronic acid | Not disclosed | PM | £92 | Serum |
| Kate Somerville Mega-A Skin Transforming Serum | Retinaldehyde (a potent retinoid), Hyaluronic Acid, Squalane, Rosehip Seed Oil & Pro-Vitamin B5 | Retinal - 11x more potent than retinol | Morning and night | £74 | Serum |
| Trinny London Overnight Sensation | Encapsulated retinol, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid | Retinal - 11x more potent than retinol | PM | £75 | Serum |
| La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum | Retinol, retinyl palmitate, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), glycerin | 0.3% - good for sensitive skin | Morning and night | £48 | Seru |
