The 11 Best Drugstore Retinol Products, According to Experts

With encapsulated retinol, bio retinol, and bakuchiol, this serum works to even skin tone and texture in three different ways. And with additional hydrating ingredients like glycerin and cotton fruit water, it won't dry out your skin, either.

• Best for: Dry, oily, combination, mature, and "normal" skin

What reviewers are saying: "Really great value for money. This feels very light on the skin and does not irritate. I use it every other day along with light moisturizer and I like the overall result and how the skin looks and feels." —Rona HS

This popular eye balm's formula contains one percent granactive retinoid, an ingredient that works overtime to soften fine lines and wrinkles. And thanks to the balm's nourishing like vitamin E, it won't irritate sensitive skin.

• Best for: Dry, normal, combination, and mature skin

What reviewers are saying: "Loving my new retinol eye balm as part of my nighttime routine. It's definitely a balm-like texture which helps it stay put. Keeps my eyes feeling hydrated all night. I wouldn't use it in the day because of the shine and the retinol. Love that it doesn't sting my eyes. I would recommend." —Jess

Formulated with 0.1 percent retinol, this gentle anti-aging cream also includes antioxidant-rich bakuchiol to boost its effectiveness without irritation. Other ingredients, like grapeseed oil and allantoin extracts, help nourish and soothe skin.

• Best for: "Normal", oily, dry

What reviewers are saying: “If you’re new to retinol I think this one is great to start with. It’s gentle enough that it doesn’t dry my skin but I can tell that it has helped a lot with new breakouts and fading some minor scars. It also makes my skin feel soft and glowy!” —Suzy

The best retinol drugstore products are just as effective on your face as on the skin below your neck, and this smoothing lotion makes the ingredient easy to incorporate into your body care routine. It keeps skin hydrated thanks to renewing and replenishing ingredients like Olay’s Vitamin B3 complex.

• Best for: Dry, normal, and combination skin

What reviewers are saying: “I am in love with Olay body lotion! Not only does it provide amazing moisture, but the scent is absolutely divine. It’s fresh, light, and soothing, leaving my skin smelling gorgeous all day without being overpowering. The formula is rich and creamy, and it absorbs quickly into my skin, leaving it feeling soft and hydrated without any greasy residue." —Shalmema

Each tube of Differin's water-based Acne Treatment Gel contains enough product for up to 30 days. It uses the prescription-based acne retinoid adapalene to prevent new breakouts from forming while restoring skin's look and feel. "Originally prescription-only, this retinoid gel is highly effective in treating acne by keeping pores clear and reducing inflammation," Rambhia says. "It’s a reliable choice for acne-prone skin and can also improve overall skin texture."

• Best for: Acne-prone and mature skin

What reviewers are saying: "I have been using Differin for over a year now (around 14 months give or take) and did not publish a review until now. If you want an in-depth review, read on. For the tl;dr version: it works, just stick with it. Btw, I was not paid for this nor was I sent this product (although they should be sending it, given how many tubes I've bought)." —Biryani

Here's a serum from CeraVe that's a favorite among professionals. It uses encapsulated retinol to improve skin texture, niacinamide, and licorice root extract to brighten, and ceramides to nourish your skin’s moisture barrier while minimizing post-acne marks.

• Best for: Acne-prone and dry skin

What reviewers are saying: “This product is lightweight and not greasy. I did see a change in the texture of my skin and a decrease in uneven spots. However, what I like the best about it is actually the way it moisturizes.” —Rebecca E.

This dermatologist-approved serum contains the most potent form of retinol, which is much more potent than the majority of retinol derivatives. The serum also contains plumping ingredients like hyaluronic acid and glycerin to minimize potential skin irritation.

• Best for: Mature, dry, oily, and combination skin

What reviewers are saying: “I’ve been using it for almost 30 days and my skin feels tighter, more supple, and looks more glowy go grab a bottle you will absolutely love it! I use it every night and wake up looking so glowy I can’t wait to buy it again!” —ambiies95

It's a no-brainer to lock in hydration thanks to this retinol-based face and body lotion that combines shea and cocoa butter and aims to keep skin hydrated for up to 24 hours. And the best part? Its formula works as you sleep and makes it easy to wake up soft and moisturized.

• Best for: Dry and "normal" skin

What reviewers are saying: “This is an amazing skincare product for the face and body. Usually in cosmetics phrases like ‘instant results’ (unless it’s an acid peel) are marketing gimmicks, but not this time. This cream works miracles literally overnight.” —Anastasiya S.

Rambhia counts this eye cream from RoC Skincare among the most effective drugstore retinol products of all time. It uses the ingredient to target three eye area concerns at the same time: fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness. "Specifically formulated for the delicate eye area, this eye cream uses retinol and a mineral complex to address fine lines and dark circles. It’s gentle enough for daily use while delivering effective results," the professional says.

• Best for: Mature skin

What reviewers are saying: "Super absorbent, really does help the under-eye puffiness, and the lines are smoother already and I've been using this for less than a month." —Yuliya

La Roche-Posay's retinol serum features concentrated pure retinol and vitamin B3 to minimize fine lines and premature sun damage. It also uses the brand's signature thermal spring water to reduce redness and irritation.

• Best for: Mature and sensitive skin

What reviewers are saying: “I love the way this makes my face feel and look! I had to start slow (once every two to three days) and now I use it every night. It’s a very good product for the price point.” —MegN13

"This night cream pairs retinol with hyaluronic acid to deliver hydration while addressing fine lines and wrinkles," Rambhia says of Neutrogena's Rapid Wrinkle Repair night moisturizer, another of her top drugstore picks. "It’s designed to promote a smoother, more youthful appearance with consistent use."

• Best for: Acne-prone, oily, and mature skin

What reviewers are saying: "I recently tried the Neutrogena Retinol Face Moisturizer Cream, and I'm really impressed! This cream has a nice, smooth texture and absorbs quickly without feeling greasy. I've noticed my skin looks smoother and more youthful since I started using it." —Nancy B.