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Retinoids (a broad category of vitamin A-derived ingredients) span everything from prescription treatments to the over-the-counter retinol creams you’ll find on drugstore shelves. And the best drugstore retinols prove that powerful formulas don’t have to come with a luxury price tag. These affordable picks still deliver the hallmark benefits—smoothing fine lines, brightening uneven tone, and refining texture—all without the splurge.
What makes these retinol serums and creams stand out is their mix of accessibility and efficacy. Many are designed with gentle delivery systems or soothing ingredients, such as niacinamide and ceramides, to minimize irritation while still delivering results. You can even find options for every experience level at the drugstore (think: gentle, low-strength serums for sensitive-skin types or beginners and stronger formulas for more seasoned retinol users).
Our Top Drugstore Retinol
- Best Overall: RoC Retinol Correxion Serum, $30
- Best Gradual Retinol Serum: Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.15%, $35
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream, $68
- Best for Uneven Texture: La Roche-Posay Redermic R Dermatological Anti-Aging Treatment Intensive, $55
- Best for Hyperpigmentation: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum, $22
- Best for Dry Skin: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum, $30
- Best for Beginners: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream, $25
- Best for Advanced Users: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol, $32
Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best drugstore retinols worth adding to your nightly routine, whether you’re just dipping your toes in or ready to take things up a notch.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What step should retinol be in my routine?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: RoC Retinol Correxion Serum
RoC
Retinol Correxion Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: If you have mature or sensitive skin that’s easily aggravated by too many products, RoC Retinol Correxion Serum is one that dermatologists say people stick with. “The texture is lightweight and smooth, which makes it especially nice for mature or drier skin types that don’t tolerate heavier or sticky products,” says Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in King of Prussia, PA. Alongside pure encapsulated retinol for gradual delivery, the formula includes glycerin for hydration, antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E to brighten and protect, and soothing agents like allantoin and bisabolol to help calm potential irritation. It also contains zinc, copper, and magnesium—minerals that support skin’s overall health. “This serum offers the most consistent results I see in smoother texture and improvement in overall brightness and evenness. It’s a great starting point for beginners, but it also works well for long-time users,” says Dr. Ilyas.
Contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the RoC Retinol Correxion Serum
Lee after applying the RoC Retinol Correxion Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“This serum goes on silky-smooth and never gives me that stingy, irritated feeling, even on my sensitive skin. I’ve been dealing with melasma after pregnancy and constant dryness, and this has really helped even things out while keeping my skin soft and hydrated. It just makes everything look smoother and glowier.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
- Key ingredients: glycerin, vitamin C, vitamin E, allantoin, bisabolol, zinc, copper, sunflower seed oil, magnesium
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Gradual Retinol Serum: Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.15%
Naturium
Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.15%
Amazon
Why it's worth it: Naturium’s Retinaldehyde Cream Serum has a silky, cream-serum texture that feels both lightweight and nourishing, making it easy to incorporate into your nightly routine. It comes in three strengths—0.05%, 0.1%, and 0.15%—so you can start slow and increase as your skin adjusts. The star ingredient is retinaldehyde (often called retinal), a form of vitamin A that’s one quick conversion step away from retinoic acid. Because of that, retinal can work more quickly and more efficiently to smooth fine lines and wrinkles than retinol. To balance out the potency, the formula is infused with skin-loving extras, including glycerin for hydration, peptides and amino acids to support a stronger, healthier skin barrier, and antioxidants such as tocopherol (vitamin E) and pomegranate extract to defend against environmental stress.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying the Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.15%
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.15%
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“Naturium makes some of the chicest, sensorially-pleasing skin care in the affordable-priced market, and the Retinaldehyde Cream Serum is proof. I've been using this cute tube since it first launched with the 0.05% concentration. Since then, it has expanded to 0.10% and 0.15%, and my skin has become more comfortable with all sorts of vitamin A derivatives, so I'm moving up to the higher doses. The punchy neon-yellow-green formula feels like a gel-serum, so it absorbs almost immediately, and it's just all-around refreshing to apply. Because my nighttime skin-care routine can get pretty long, I really like how low-key and layerable this one is. My entire face gets product love, but I do like spending a little extra time on my forehead (hello, faint lines). Does it really do anything? Who knows, but I like believing that it will make a difference in the long run.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Retinol concentrations: 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.15% retinaldehyde
- Key ingredients: glycerin, peptides, amino acids, tocopherol, pomegranate extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Eau Thermale Avene
RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: Our sensitive-skin editors never miss a chance to test Avène: The French brand has built its reputation on a gentle touch, weaving its soothing thermal spring water into every formula—yes, even those with heavy-hitters like vitamin A. RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream is proof: Packed with 0.1% retinaldehyde, it delivers on firmness, brightness, and overall glow, all wrapped up in a velvety, cushiony texture. To round out the formula, evening primrose oil keeps skin nourished, peptides help with bounce, and antioxidants like vitamin E offer an extra layer of protection. After consistent use, skin looks smoother and more radiant, and even the most sensitive among us can get in on the glow.
Allure contributor Annie Blackman applying the Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Annie Blackman
Blackman after applying the Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Annie Blackman
Tester feedback from contributor Annie Blackman
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"I'm new to retinoids, plain and simple. I've been more aware of my frown lines recently and wanted to start my retinol journey. This bottle of Avène goes easy on my skin, has a lovely light and creamy consistency, and paired with my Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer, it's a total breeze. I've noticed some amped-up glowiness and am eager to see where the whole thing goes." —Annie Blackman, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: 0.1% retinaldehyde
- Key ingredients: thermal spring water, evening primrose oil, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: La Roche-Posay Redermic R Dermatological Anti-Aging Treatment Intensive
La Roche-Posay
Redermic R Dermatological Anti-Aging Treatment Intensive
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: If uneven texture and fine lines are your main concerns, La Roche-Posay’s R Retinol Cream is a derm-approved way to tackle both without overwhelming sensitive skin. “This serum combines pure retinol with retinyl linoleate, which gives a gradual-release effect that’s less irritating for sensitive skin,” Hannah Kopelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. To further boost results, the formula also includes lipo-hydroxy acid, a gentle exfoliant that helps smooth skin’s surface and enhance radiance without the sting of harsher acids. This combination makes it a more approachable option for those nervous about irritation. “It’s a good choice for someone newer to retinol but ready for more than an entry-level formula,” says Dr. Kopelman.
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
- Key ingredients: lipo-hydroxy acid, glycerin, thermal spring water
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Hyperpigmentation: CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
CeraVe
Resurfacing Retinol Serum
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: While retinol alone can be a game-changer for hyperpigmentation, CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum brings backup support with niacinamide to calm, brighten, and even skin tone. “Niacinamide is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich vitamin B3 derivative that has been scientifically shown to help with redness and discoloration in the skin,” New York City-based board-certified dermatologist Shari Marchbein previously told Allure. The formulas also feature ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier and licorice root extract for added brightening powers. And because it’s fragrance-free, it’s especially friendly to sensitive skin types—helping you work toward a more even, radiant complexion over time.
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
- Key ingredients: ceramides, niacinamide, licorice root extract
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dry Skin: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
Olay
Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
Amazon
Why it's worth it: If you’re new to retinol, Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum is an easy place to start. This silky, fragrance-free formula delivers all the benefits of retinol—like smoothing fine lines, refining texture, and evening skin tone—without a heavy or irritating feel. “It uses a blend of retinol and retinyl propionate, which makes it potent but still very tolerable for daily use,” says Dr. Kopelman. To keep skin calm and supported, it’s infused with niacinamide (vitamin B3) to brighten and soothe, plus peptides help improve firmness over time. The addition of hydrating ingredients like glycerin gives the formula a silky, fast-absorbing texture that glides on smoothly and layers under moisturizer without a hint of greasiness.
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
- Key ingredients: niacinamide, glycerin, sodium hyaluronate, soybean oil, vitamin E
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Beginners: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream
Neutrogena
Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it’s worth it: Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream is a retinol wrapped up in the comfort of a moisturizer, making it an approachable and beginner-friendly way to ease into vitamin A. The formula pairs pure retinol with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep skin hydrated, soft, and comfortable while targeting fine lines, uneven texture, and dullness. “Hyaluronic acid adds moisture to the skin, which helps with any potential dryness,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama. And while most retinols are reserved for nighttime use, the brand notes that this cream is gentle enough to use during the day. Just be sure to follow up with SPF, as retinol can make skin more sensitive to the sun.
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, glycerin, vitamin C
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Advanced Users: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol
L’Oréal Paris
Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol is one of the most potent drugstore retinol formulations, making it ideal for advanced users who have already built up tolerance. With a high 0.3% concentration of pure retinol, it targets deep wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven texture for more dramatic results. There’s also “a higher percentage of glycerin, which tells me it’s going to have a nice hydrating and smoothing feel to it,” David Petrillo, a cosmetic chemist based in Reno, NV, previously told Allure. That boost of hydration helps balance retinol’s intensity, leaving skin looking firmer, smoother, and renewed with consistent use.
More to know
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- Retinol concentration: 0.3% retinol
- Key ingredients: glycerin, hyaluronic acid
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What step should retinol be in my routine?
Retinol products should be applied at night, after cleansing and before moisturizing. If you’re layering serums, apply it after lighter, water-based ones but before heavier creams or oils. Another derm-loved trick for minimizing irritation is the sandwich method: Apply a base layer of moisturizer first, then your retinol, and seal it in with another layer of moisturizer. “Studies have shown that this base layer of moisturizer does not dilute or reduce the efficacy of the retinoid, but instead helps with tolerability,” Dr. Marchbein previously told Allure. Regardless of the method you use, always follow up with SPF in the morning, as retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.
Meet the experts
- Vivian Bucay, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Bucay Center for Dermatology and Aesthetics in San Antonio, Texas
- Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
- Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology based in Birmingham, Alabama
- Erum Ilyas, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group based in King of Prussia, PA
- Hannah Kopelman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Kopelman Hair Restoration based in New York City
- Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- David Petrillo, a cosmetic chemist and founder of Perfect Image based in Reno, NV
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best drugstore retinols, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified derms and K-beauty experts. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we've solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it's never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
