Best creams with retinol: what it is and what it's used for

April 20, 2026

Retinol has become a must-have in recent years in the dermatological and beauty care routines of thousands of women worldwide.

After all, it's one of the cosmetic actives with the most properties and benefits on the market. Its effectiveness has been tested in numerous studies, always with the same conclusion: retinol is able to reduce wrinkles, eliminate blemishes, and stimulate the skin's natural collagen production.

But is it always a recommended ingredient for use on our skin? What are the best retinol creams on the marketto take advantage of its miraculous benefits?

We'll tell you everything below!

What is retinol and what is it used for?

Retinol is a type of retinoid made from vitamin A. It can be used as a dietary supplement(beneficial for teeth, soft tissues, bones, and mucous membranes) or applied topically for cosmetic purposes in the form of a cream or serum.

The main difference compared to other active ingredients found in anti-aging creams is that, in this case, retinol doesn't remove dead skin cells. Instead, its small molecules penetrate beneath the surface. the skin down to the dermis.

When these molecules are in the middle layer, they neutralize the skin's free radicals, which stimulates the natural production of elastin and collagen. This has a "plumping effect" that helps to minimize fine lines, wrinkles, and enlarged pores.

It also has other uses, such as treating acne, removing blemishes (sun spots or acne scars), or as a facial exfoliant. We also invite you to read our post with the best creams to remove facial blemishes.

When should you use retinol? At night or during the day?

Now that we know what retinol is used for, let's see how it should be applied to get the most out of its benefits.

According to experts, retinol can be an active ingredient suitable for daily use on virtually any skin type.

However, we must keep in mind that due to its composition, it may slightly irritate the facial surface. Its intensity will also depend on the product we are using and its concentration. It's best to apply it as part of our nighttime skincare routine, as this will ensure that it doesn't increase sensitivity to sunlight. To begin with, and to ensure that facial sensitivity doesn't increase, it's ideal to alternate the days of application until we see that the product adapts to our skin type. Check out our article on the routine. Perfect facial skin and discover other tips you should follow to show off perfect skin.

Benefits and contraindications of retinol

These are the main benefits of retinol:

Acne elimination:retinol helps to unclog poreson our face. This will have a direct effect on oil production and acne reduction. Fights the signs of aging: this is undoubtedly the quintessential benefit of retinol. Thanks to its power to stimulate the natural production of elastin and collagen by our dermis, this will help us combat the signs of aging naturally. Exfoliates and evens skin tone: Thanks to the skin cell renewal promoted by the effects of retinol, the exfoliating effect of the process will result in renewed, more even, and radiant skin. Although it may seem like a panacea, retinol also has some contraindications that we should consider before using it on our skin. This is especially relevant when the concentrations of this active ingredient are high in the cream or serum we have purchased. The most common side effects are itching, irritation, dermatitis, or peeling. Special attention should be paid to sun exposure after application, as well as if we are undergoing other facial treatments concurrently. To avoid potential adverse effects, we recommend starting with creams with a low concentration and always applying the product at night. If you have any doubts, it's best to consult your trusted dermatologist.

Best Retinol Creams

Are you ready to try retinol but have no idea which product and format would be ideal for you? Here are the best creams and serums on the market and their features:

By the way! Don't miss our post about the benefits of snail mucin cream, another essential beauty product with countless properties.
Olay Retinol 24 Regenerist Night Cream

One of the best-known on the market, specifically designed to be added to our nighttime skincare routine.

Its active ingredients are retinol and vitamin B3.
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L’Oreal Paris Revitalift Laser Pure Retinol Night Serum

This serum contains 0.2% pure retinol, which is a fairly moderate concentration, ideal if you have no prior experience with retinol.

Kiehl’s Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Retinol Facial Serum

This Kiehl’s facial serum has been designed to help promote skin tolerance of Pure Retinol thanks to peptides and ceramides. According to the manufacturer's instructions, this product is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin and first-time retinol users. It can also be used in both your day and night routine.
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum

La Roche-Posay's retinol serum offers a balanced and lightweight formula, with 0.3% retinol and niacinamide (vitamin B3). It has a highly effective depigmenting effect against dark spots thanks to the combined effect of its two main active ingredients. It also has moisturizing properties thanks to glycerin. A very complete product, perfect for a nighttime facial care routine.