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Retinol walked so retinal could glow.

Best retinal products A collage of photos of women holding tubes of skincare products

Because of that, retinal can work more quickly and more efficiently than even thebest retinol cream.

“Even in my late 40s, people still think Im in my 20s or 30s.

While you wont see results overnight, consistency can pay off.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 silver tube on light gray background

Dianna Mazzone Singh applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6

If you have the green light, check out these derm-approved picks that deliver real results.

The gradual system has made it popular among multipleAllureeditors.

“I haven’t experienced any irritation with level 3, a rarity for my sensitive skin.

Dianna Singh after applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6

Dianna Mazzone Singh applying the Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6

Once I finish this bottle, I’m going to move up to the advanced strength version.

This is one of my favorite brands for mature or sensitive skin, says Dr. Berry.

He also notes that adding niacinamide and hyaluronic acid makes it especially nourishingeven for eczema-prone skin.

Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream in branded component on a light gray background

It doesn’t have a pleasant smell, but it’s also not particularly off-putting.

Its also hydrating and airy, and I feel like theres definitely a bit more evenness to my skin.

minimizingthe look of fine lines) without retinoids involved.

A selfie of contributing commerce editor Annie Blackman holding the Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream

Annie Blackman applying the Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream

Beauty of Joseon’s Revive has been a staple in that regard.

It helps smooth texture, fade hyperpigmentation, and soften fine lines over time.

Biofermented oligopeptide boosts glow by refining skin texture and dialing up radiance.

Eighth Day Reparative Night Cream Treatment black jar on light gray background

Tester feedback:While Han loves many of Naturium’s products, this stands out.

It absorbs practically as soon as its applied and helps plump my skin.

Then Isdin Retinal Advanced Rejuvenating Facial Night Serum is a great next step to level up your routine.

Allure commerce writer Jennifer Hussein after applying the Eighth Day Reparative Night Cream Treatment

Jennifer Hussein applying the Eighth Day Reparative Night Cream Treatment

Melatonin is another standout for its skin-repairing benefits, he says.

If you have sensitive skin, just a heads-up: Its lightly fragranced.

Just be sure your skin is ready for it.

Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Cream Ginseng + Retinal in branded light pink tube with white pump on light gray background

Sarah Han applying Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal

Its powerful but gentle, feels soft on the skin, and layers well with other actives.

I especially recommend it for patients with drier skin.

It glides on smoothly, sinks in fast, and strikes a nice balance, she says.

A selfie of Allure commerce editor Sarah Han after applying Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum Ginseng  Retinal

Sarah Han applying Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum: Ginseng + Retinal

That means it works faster and is typically more potent than retinol, says Dr. Levit.

Is it better to use retinol or retinal?

We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies.

Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05% reflective silver tube with neon yellow label on light gray background

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase.

Isdin Isdinceutics Retinal Advanced Serum gold and black bottle and box on light gray background

Retinal 0.2% Emulsion in white tube on gray background

Allies of Skin Retinal 0.1% & Peptides Advanced Repair Night Cream black tube on light gray background

Youth to the People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum black serum bottle with white cap on light gray background