Retinol has been a buzzword in skin care circles for years. With serums featuring this ingredient renowned for their ability to combat signs of ageing and improve skin texture. Derived from Vitamin A, retinol accelerates cell turnover, promotes collagen production and reduces fine lines and wrinkles. However, selecting the appropriate retinol product depends largely on your skin type and concerns. It’s definitely not a one size (or serum) fits all! Here’s the complete guide to picking the best creams for your complexion. Including 11 excellent retinol products for different skin types.
How to pick a retinol for your skin
Normal Skin:
Normal skin types generally tolerate retinol well. A good starting point is a product with a low to moderate strength (around 0.25 – 0.5%). This helps maintain skin balance and enhances collagen production without overwhelming the skin.
Dry Skin:
Dry skin tends to be more sensitive. Opt for a retinol product that includes moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. These additives mitigate potential dryness and irritation while delivering the anti-ageing benefits of retinol.
Oily or Acne-Prone Skin:
Those with oily or acne-prone skin benefit greatly from retinol’s ability to unclog pores and reduce breakouts. Look for oil-free or gel-based formulas that are lightweight and non-comedogenic to prevent further congestion.
Sensitive Skin:
Sensitive skin requires a gradual introduction to retinol to minimise irritation. Begin with a lower concentration (0.1% or less) and apply sparingly, possibly every other night until your skin builds tolerance. Consider using a gentler retinol derivative – like vegan based varieties – as an alternative.
Combination Skin:
Finally, for those with combination skin it is important to invest in a treatment with balancing actives that address both oily and dry areas. A lightweight retinol serum or lotion can be applied to the entire face, focusing more on oilier zones while using a gentler approach on drier areas.
Choosing the right retinol products
When choosing a retinol product, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase as your skin builds tolerance. Consider the formula – whether it’s a cream, serum, or oil – based on your skin’s specific needs, such as moisturising or non-comedogenic properties. Look for additional ingredients like antioxidants (vitamin C, E) or soothing agents (aloe vera, chamomile) to complement retinol’s effects and minimise potential irritation.
Application types
For application, remember to apply retinol at night, as sunlight can deactivate its effectiveness. Use a pea-sized amount for the entire face to avoid over application, and follow with a moisturiser to lock in hydration and reduce dryness.
Retinol products we love
Retinol Nourishing Treatment Oil, $135, by Ella Bache
A relatively recent addition to the retinol landscape (released in late May), this concentrated oil by Ella Bache is expertly formulated to visibly enhance skin tone and texture, effectively reducing the appearance of age spots, fine lines, and wrinkles. Suitable for all skin types, including both novice and seasoned retinol users, it features a powerful blend of antioxidant-rich oils that nourish and complement the powerhouse ingredient. Key active ingredients include Sunflower Seed Oil to enhance skin density, Kakadu Plum Seed Oil to fortify the skin barrier, Argan Oil rich in omega fatty acids and vitamins to soften skin, Safflower Seed Oil to soothe inflammation, and Hemp Seed Oil for deep hydration.
Smart Clinical Repair AM/PM Retinoid Balm, $58, by Clinique
Clinique’s just-hit-the-counter release is designed to target stubborn lines with concentrated retinoid power. Its powerful formula features 1% retinoid and hyaluronic acid that instantly minimises the appearance of fine, dry lines. Safe for sensitive skin and dermatologist tested.
Anti-Aging Foaming Face Wash, $58, by The Skills
Extend the addition of retinol to your skin care regime by including it in your cleanser! This one by inclusive new Aussie brand The Skills (that has since gone global and can be found at Saks Fifth Avenue as well as Harvey Nichols), features the most advanced actives, Retinol and Peptide-8. To provide instant oil reduction without drying out your skin’s natural protective barrier.
Crystal Retinal 3, $99, by Medik8 at Adore Beauty
This medium strength serum features an innovative crystal encapsulation system that ensures minimal irritation. Plus a lightweight, creamy formula ideal for almost all skin types.
Made with retinal (the closest Vitamin A molecule to Retinoic Acid) it may deliver faster results compared to traditional retinol. In any instance, it definitely diminishes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles within four weeks, resurfaces skin texture, improves tone, boosts collagen production, and helps hydrate for a visibly smoother complexion.
Nutricentials Pumps – Bakuchiol Oil, $54 by NuSkin
Sometimes referred to as nature’s retinol, the Bakuchiol in this oil is derived from the babchi plant. And, celebrated for its natural, gentle mimicry of retinol’s benefits without the harsh effects. Bakuchiol stimulates collagen, enhances cell turnover, combats ageing free radicals, soothes inflammation, regulates sebum, and is safe for sensitive skin and during pregnancy for those seeking a retinol alternative.
Derm Correxion Dual Eya Cream, $56.99, by Roc
This 2-in-1 eye duo, was created with input from dermatologists and plastic surgeons – meaning it targets both upper and lower eye areas effectively and safely. The upper eye gel lifts and firms eyelids, while the lower eye cream reduces puffiness, smooths skin, and diminishes dark circles. Featuring advanced Retinol and Peptide blends, these formulas deliver reduced lines, lift eyelids and diminish dark circles.
Retinol Complex Oil, $49, by Software
Aussie skin care brand. Software is Australia’s first online dermatology service to provide prescription skin treatments to patients. However, its over the counter products are also excellent These include the Retinol Complex Oil – a rich facial treatment that aims to improve fine lines, dark spots, and dryness. Enriched with vitamin A, it also blends coconut, seed, and fruit oils to nourish and revitalise the skin, enhance elasticity and support cell renewal.
Transform Double Rewind Pro-Grade 0.3% Retinol Serum, $105, by Ole Henriksen at Sephora
This professional-grade formula combines two potent retinoids with soothing aloe vera and a nourishing Scandinavian botanical complex. Ideal for both new and experienced retinol users, it evens skin tone, smooths texture, and diminishes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, to restore clarity and promote a youthful glow.
1% Retinol Treatment, $92, by Paula’s Choice
This treatment’s high-strength formula features 1% retinol, skin-supportive peptides, and vitamin C to visibly reduce signs of ageing. Its advanced hydrating complex targets wrinkles and fine lines while a controlled-release delivery system ensures even absorption. This light lotion texture absorbs quickly, delivering powerful results with added antioxidants to enhance hydration and soothe skin, including ingredients like licorice and oat extract to calm redness and promote an even skin tone.
Vitamin Amen!, $148, by Dr Naomi
Vitamin Amen is an advanced Vitamin A serum that blends three potent forms of Vitamin A- Retinoate, Encapsulated Retinoid, and Bakuchiol- for maximum efficacy. Enhanced with a Calming Peptide Complex, it minimizes skin sensitivity and irritation, delivering optimal results. More than just an anti-ageing serum, it’s perfect for individuals with problematic skin, addressing issues like congestion, blemishes, blackheads, and enlarged pores.
Creme Metamorphique Vitamin A Anti-Wrinkle Creme, $103, by Beaute Pacifique
These creams feature Retinyl Palmitate and Retinyl Acetate, stable forms of Vitamin A known for their potent anti-ageing benefits. Encapsulated in nanometer-sized squalane droplets, these ingredients penetrate deeply to stimulate collagen synthesis, reducing wrinkles and revitalising skin texture. The patented squalane delivery system ensures these formulations maintain high potency. And, offers effective rejuvenation that can visibly diminish signs of ageing by up to 10-20 years.
