In our extensive search for non-irritating retinols, we’ve discovered many products that are both ultra-effective and gentle enough for those with retinoid intolerance. What makes these non-Rx gems so transformative is that they all contain either pure retinol or a next-gen derivative that has been shown to activate those same aforementioned receptors to trigger visible change.
What types of skin care products contain retinol?
Before exploring their individual merits, consider this brief buyer’s review: there are a ton of serums and oils on the market posing as retinols. You won’t find retinol (or any recognizable derivatives) on their ingredient lists because they rely on plant extracts, like rosehip oil, as alternative sources of vitamin A.
“There is no evidence that natural sources of retinoids are safer than synthetic ones, and often their effectiveness is highly suspect,” according to cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. For example, she says that rosehip oil contains only about 0.4 parts per million (0.00004%) of retinoic acid, which is then diluted into the final product.
To help you sort out the amazing products from their suspect or just average counterparts, keep scrolling through our favorite dermatologist-approved retinol creams.
Dr. Kim recommends drunken elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream, which contains 1% retinol locked in nourishing oils like passion fruit, apricot, jojoba and marula. It also happens to a Best of Beauty Award winner, in case that swayed you. However, “it is important to note that 1% retinol is a relatively high concentration and could be irritating to people with sensitive skin, especially patients with eczema or rosacea,” warns Dr Kim.
As we talked about earlier, the ideal frequency is different for everyone, so start slow and small (a pea-sized amount) in terms of dosage and increase over the course of a few weeks. “I generally recommend that patients apply moisturizer on top to alleviate any potential dryness,” Dr. Kim adds.
Instead of retinol, RetrinAL Intensive Cream 0.1 Avène Thermal Spring Water is formulated with its brother, retinaldehyde, and the brand’s Eau Thermale, which soothes and calms the skin in case of irritation. Brightening Cream smoothes and evens skin for a more radiant glow. The brand recommends users apply this product at night and incorporate sunscreen into their daily routines. Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana, considers this a “good starter retinol for very sensitive and dry skin.”
Bills from Dr. Turegano Obagi-Medical Retivance Skin Rejuvenating Complex as a “gentle but effective retinol”. Why do you ask? This lightweight hydration contains retinaldehyde, a stable, less potent form of vitamin A that is best suited to more sensitive skin, but is still effective in improving elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. Additionally, ingredients such as chamomile, shea butter, and vitamin E act as calming agents.
