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Two months ago, I put together a Beginner’s Guide to Using Retinol as I’m learning the ropes and trying it for the first time (better late than never!). Now that I’ve gotten over the initial fear of trying it, I dug through my skincare stash and found quite a few retinol-type products.
So, I decided to do some research on all of them so I could decide which ones to use, and in what order, and why. And, why not share that information with you? So let’s get into it.
WHAT IS RETINOL, AND WHY SHOULD YOU USE IT?
Retinol is a form of vitamin A that supports collagen production and increases skin cell turnover. It’s widely considered one of the best ingredients for reducing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin texture and tone, treating blemishes and clogged pores, and brightening dull skin.
However, because retinol speeds up skin renewal, it can also cause irritation, dryness, and sensitivity, which is why starting slowly is key. There are different types, strengths, and formulations of retinol for different skin goals and types.
A Retinol Comparison Chart
| Product | Retinol Type / % | Best for… | Texture | Fragrance-Free? |
| RoC Retinol Capsules | Pure retinol (encapsulated) | Intermediate users, anti-aging | Lightweight fluid | Yes |
| Beekman 1802 Dream Booster | Bakuchiol (plant-based) | Sensitive skin, beginners | Serum | Yes |
| Meaningful Beauty Night Cream | Retimel (retinol + melon) | Dry skin, gentle aging care | Cream | No |
| Juice Beauty Stem Cellular | 2.5% Bio-Retinol + Retinol | Dark spots, fine lines | Lotion/light serum | Natural scent |
| No7 Advanced Retinol | 1% Retinol + peptides | Advanced users, wrinkles | Concentrate | No |
| BareMinerals Phyto-Retinol | Phyto-retinol | Natural/vegan alternative | Lightweight lotion | Yes |
| Vichy Liftactiv | 0.2% Retinol + peptides | Deep wrinkles, sensitive skin | Serum | Yes |
| iT Costmetics Hello Results | Dual retinol | Daily gentle retinol use | Cream-serum hybrid | No |
| PTR Glycolic + Retinol | 1.5% Retinol + 15% glycolic | Texture, discoloration | Serum | No |
| Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair | Beginner retinol + HA | Retinol newbies, hydration | Cream | Yes |
| StriVectin Super C + Retinol | Retinol + Vitamin C | Brightening + aging | Lightweight serum | No |
How to choose the right retinol for you
With so many options (including plant-based alternatives), it’s important to choose a formula that fits your skin type, experience level, and goals.
Here’s a quick guide to help you find your best match:
👶 If You’re New to Retinol
Start slow. Choose a low-strength formula or a retinol alternative like bakuchiol or phyto-retinol, which offer similar benefits with less risk of irritation. Look for words like “gentle,” “beginner,” or “sensitive skin” on the label. Creams or lotions tend to be more hydrating and less intense than serums.
Try: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair, Beekman 1802 Dream Booster, BareMinerals Phyto-Retinol
✨ If You Want to Target Wrinkles or Texture
For more noticeable results, look for 0.3% to 1% pure retinol or products that combine retinol with peptides or glycolic acid. These multitaskers smooth fine lines and improve skin tone, though they may come with a short adjustment period (slight dryness or peeling is normal at first!).
Try: RoC Retinol Capsules, Juice Beauty Stem Cellular, Peter Thomas Roth Glycolic Retinol Serum
🌿 If You Have Sensitive Skin
Not all skin can tolerate traditional retinol, but that doesn’t mean you have to miss out on its benefits. Choose formulas with added hydrators like hyaluronic acid and barrier-supporting ingredients like niacinamide, or opt for plant-based retinol alternatives.
Try: Beekman 1802 Dream Booster, it Cosmetics Hello Results, Vichy Liftactiv Retinol
🔬 If You’re an Experienced Retinol User
If your skin is used to retinol and you’re ready for something stronger, look for higher concentrations (1% or more), or time-released encapsulated formulas that penetrate deeper. Just make sure to pair with SPF during the day!
Try: No7 Advanced Retinol 1.5%, Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother, StriVectin Super C + Retinol
☀️ Bonus Tips:
- Always use sunscreen when using retinol—your skin becomes more sensitive to the sun.
- Start slow: 2–3 nights a week is plenty in the beginning. Build up as your skin tolerates.
- Layer with moisturizer (or apply after) to help minimize dryness or flaking.
Since I’m still pretty new to retinol, I’m currently using the Cocokind Beginner Retinol Gel. When I’m done with that, I’m going to try Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair, Beekman 1802 Dream Booster, and the BareMinerals Phyto-Retinol.
Wherever you’re at in your retinol journey, I hope this guide was helpful. I’d love to hear about any retinol products you’re using and loving!
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