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With regular use, thebrightening creamsmooths and evens skin, adding to a healthy-looking glow.
Photographed by CARLOS and ALYSE. Stylist: Fiona Green. Hair: Jenni Iva Wimmerstedt. Makeup: Andrew Colvin. Manicure: Elina Ogawa. Model: Brandi Quinones. Shirt by Issey Miyake. Earrings by Paula Mendoza.
“I’ve been more aware of my frown lines recently and wanted to start my retinol journey.
I’ve noticed some amped-up glowiness and am eager to see where the whole thing goes.”
This beauty from Dr. Few isit, shopping directorShanna Shipinvouches.
Contributing commerce editor Annie Blackman applying the Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
While I await its wrinkle-smoothing benefits, the cream has already helped me avoid acne breakouts.
(If youre the latter, start with level 1.)
I haven’t experienced any irritation with level 3, a rarity for my sensitive skin.
Contributing commerce editor Annie Blackman applying the Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Iope’s been that brand for me.
I alternate between the Best of Beauty-winningRetinol Expertand Retinol Bouncethe latter when my skin needs a hydrating boost.
Retinol Bounce melts into my skin and my complexion is noticeably plumper after the fact.
I think my moisturizer absorbs better, too.
This combats any sun damage and improves cell turnover on my olive-tone complexion with ease.
The formula goes easy on sensitive faces, accomplishing a lot in one pump.
Shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Dr. Few Clean Retinol
Use it in the morning and night, coupling the serum withmoisturizerandSPF.
A product that makes your skin worse before it gets better?
commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann admits.
Content director Kara McGrath applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
Shes since noticed a nice difference in some of the fine lines on her forehead and around her eyes.
With continued use, it’s done wonders for my congested skin.
a treat for anyone who doesn’t want to seek out prescription-strength retinol.
Content director Kara McGrath applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
Once you become a seasoned user, you’re able to upgrade to SkinCeuticals'0.5or1.0formulas.
We also recommend grabbing the retinol-infusedSkinCeuticals Tripeptide-R Neck Repairso you haveserumto target fine lines and wrinkles below your face.
Nowthat’sthe power of antioxidants at work.
These acids diminish the appearance of fine lines while unclogging pores and curbing breakouts.
The pump top might be our favorite design feature, dispensing the perfect dose and making the app mess-free.
This pick is fragranced, so take note if your skin is reactive and/or sensitive.
Commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Iope Retinol Bounce to her face and neck
How should I use retinol?
Whatever the frequency, there may be an adjustment period of slight irritation, so just be prepared.
Will retinol irritate my skin?
Tester Talia Gutierrez applying the Kiehl’s Retinol Skin Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
Its also key to start your retinol journey with a lower-potency option.
“you’re free to think of it as an entry-level version.”
What are retinol alternatives?
Tester Talia Gutierrez applying the Kiehl’s Retinol Skin Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
Bakuchiolis the most well-known retinol alternative out there for its gentler profile and impressive fine line-smoothing results.
We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies.
To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our completereviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase.
Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if its never been tested on curls?
Commerce producer Sarah Hoffmann applying the Malin + Goetz Retinol Correcting Serum
Allurecommerce contributor Deanna Pai applying the Alastin Skincare Renewal Retinol 0.25
Allurecommerce contributor Deanna Pai applying the Alastin Skincare Renewal Retinol 0.25
Allurecommerce writer Jennifer Hussein applying the Eighth Day Reparative Night Cream Treatment
