2010 Feb; 3(2): 2241. "It's an absolute game-changer. I boarded the anti-aging skincare train the day I turned 20 and haven't looked back since. This product dries down quickly in about 15 seconds and totally absorbs into the skin. CeraVe's Retinol Serum is a fan favorite for its refreshing feel and the way it helps firm skin without aggravating breakouts. Active Ingredients: Stabilized retinol, hyaluronic acid | Retinol Concentration: 0.3% | Dosage: Pea-sized amount daily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No, Charlene DeHaven, MD, says this advanced serum is an excellent spot treatment for inflammation and blemishes. Both the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and the CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum feature retinol as their primary active ingredient, but its inclusion serves entirely different purposes in each serum First and foremost, it's worth establishing the fact that these serums are part of two *completely* separate ranges. CeraVe has a store locator on their website so you can find a location near you. CeraVe's Skin Renewing Cream Serum helps reduce and prevent visible signs of aging using super-ingredients like retinol, niacinamide, ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate This overnight oil boasts an active retinoid complex, calming chamomile, and skin-loving plant oils like blue tansy, which contains azuleneone of the most potent skin-soothing ingredients on the market. Please refer to the ingredient list on your product package for the most up to date list of ingredients to ensure it issuitable to your personal use. So, you've decided you want to try one of CeraVe's cult-favorite, best-selling retinol serums, but you can't quite figure out what the differences are? Some have completely disappeared from my face and others have lightened significantly. In addition, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory benefits and regulates sebum production. While OTC serums typically max out at 2 percent, they can go higher, depending on the form of retinoid used. As a long-time retinol user, Theresa has tried a handful of products on this list, including RoC, Dr. Dennis Gross, Neutrogena, Maelove, CeraVe, and Yeouth. #ceraveskincare #cerave #retinol In this video I show you how to use Cerave resurfacing Retinal serum and who to use It. vitamin B3) and a line-reducing peptide. This is an indication that the product is working. They do have another serum that's anti aging that would make more sense. Before using the serum as directed, a person should test a small amount on their inner arm and wait 24 hours to. 2. retailers. This top-rated serum isn't just one serum; it's three for the delightedly affordable price of $20. Active Ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide | Retinol Concentration: Not listed | Dosage: Small amount daily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No. What makes it special? The concentration of retinol is not disclosed, but retinol is listed as ingredient #19 of 33 in the serum, so retinol is not one of the most concentrated ingredients in the serum. Apply CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum to clean skin daily at night, avoiding contact with eyes and lips. | Cruelty-Free: No | Byrdie Clean: No, Addition of green tea to retinol doubles down on antioxidants, Some reviewers note castor oil might be too thick. Cosmeceuticals for hyperpigmentation: What is available? User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Furthermore, ingredients such as chamomile, shea butter, and vitamin E act as calming agents. As Dr. Madfes explains, "All retinoids increase cell turnover." Olay offers multiple products in its Retinol 24 skincare line. Soothes the skin. Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover, offering mild exfoliation, and stimulating collagen production, explains board-certified dermatologist Diane Madfes, MD. This affordable formula combines micro-encapsulated retinol with retinol alternative bakuchiol to bring you a one-two punch of line-smoothing, wrinkle-preventing, skin-firming, pore-minimizing goodness, plus vitamin C to simultaneously brighten. Retinol provides all of these benefits by first being converted to retinoic acid (its active form) after being absorbed into the skin. Instead of retinol, Eau Thermale Avne's RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream is formulated with its sibling, retinaldehyde, and the brand's Thermal Spring Water, which soothes and calms the skin in the event of irritation. Even though it might take slightly longer to see the benefits of it. Do you need a serum to fade acne scars, or do you want a rich night cream to smooth fine lines while moisturizing your skin? Can be used on its own or layered with moisturisers. In general, and especially if your skin is oily or acne-prone, you'll want to pick a retinol product that is formulated for your skin type. Niacinamide is the amide form of vitamin B3 (niacin) that provides many benefits to the skin. It contains Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, an ingredient that provides similar benefits with less irritation. With the help of board-certified dermatologists and cosmetic chemists, we separate retinol fact from fiction to find the best, brightest, and most potent formulas currently on the skin-care market. This isn't the only SkinCeuticals retinol product worth noting the brand also offers face creams with concentrations of 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 percent. Active Ingredients: Retinal, vitamin C, squalane | Retinol Concentration: 0.11% | Dosage: A few drops daily | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes. Best for dark spots: Rose Ingleton MD Complexion Brightening . Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana, deems this as a "good starter retinol for those with very sensitive and dry skin.". This serum flaunts a generous 1.5 percent concentration of encapsulated retinol, meaning it releases slowly into your skin to sidestep irritation. If you're on a budget, go with this option from The Inkey List. Massage one to two pumps every other night in an upwards motion (up to the jawline) and steadily increase usage if/when your skin can tolerate it. (Your morning moisturizer should include SPF 30.) This gentle yet constant delivery . Related Post: CeraVe vs Cetaphil: Which is Better? Landing on a retinol that your skin won't reject takes patience and knowledge, but most of the latter's credit goes to the cosmetic chemists who've dreamed up innovative ways to deliver all the magic of this molecule without the cursed side effects. It also happens to a Best of Beauty Award winner, in case that sways you. It's the more potent of the forms that are available without a prescription and when applied to the skin, it converts itself into retinoic acid. Two of the best options at the drugstore are Olay Retinol 24 Max Night Serum and CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. The strongest concentration of retinol you can get over the counter is 1 percent. (Built-in soothers, like ceramides, squalane, and bisabolol, help keep the peace.) Using an encapsulated retinol, this serum will slowly increase collagen and hyaluronic acid production in your skin to reveal a more vibrant-looking . It resurfaces the skin to reduce the look of acne scars (due to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), visible pores, and uneven skin tone. Recommended by dermatologists and skin experts, retinol is considered the gold standard in skin care. Read on for the key differences and how . Molecules. I Tried the CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum and My Skin Has Never Looked Better. Key Ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, licorice root extract | Dosage: Small dots twice per day | Size: 1 fl. The CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol face serum is non-comedogenic, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. CeraVe Retinol Face Serum For Post-Acne Marks vs. NOTE: if you choose to be redirected, you'll be taken to the homepage. these products have a total of 1 ingredients in common. In a clinical trial commissioned by the brand, 100 percent of users noticed an improvement in their skin after just a week. Read our, Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum, Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum at Amazon, iS Clinical Pro-Heal Serum Advance + at Amazon, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Triple Correction Eye Serum at Amazon, RoC Smoothing Night Serum Capsules at Amazon, Maelove Moonlight Retinal Super Serum at Maelove.com, Peter Thomas Roth Retinol Fusion PM Night Serum Review, The 14 Best Drugstore Moisturizers of 2023, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Ferulic + Retinol Triple Correction Eye Serum, Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Ferulic + Retinol Triple Correction Eye Serum Review, RoC Retinol Correxion Smoothing Night Serum Capsules, Shani Darden Retinol Reform Treatment Serum, Josie Maran Argan Beta Retinol Pink Algae Serum, Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment, Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% Acne Treatment Review. 43 new from $13.49 . We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best LOreal and CeraVe are committed to a future without tests on animals. This milky serum contains 3% retinol in an encapsulated form, which equates to 0.09% of retinol proper, and is gradually released into the skin over the night. For similar reasons, Dr. King is also a fan of the Rejuveness Skin Tightening Serum. ", Key Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol, vitamin C | Retinol Concentration: 0.5% | Dosage: One to two pumps three times a week | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: No. CeraVe Anti Aging Retinol Serum | 1 Ounce | Cream Serum for Smoothing Fine Lines and Skin Brightening | Fragrance Free $20.99 $ 18.79 in stock . Cons. CeraVe Retinol Face Serum For Post-Acne Marks. "This powerful gel is the first FDA-approved acne-treating retinoid that's over the counter," she explains. However, these products use different formulas to treat similar skin concerns. Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Paula's Choice retinol booster evens skin tone, renews radiance, brightens the complexion, and improves the appearance of wrinkles. For instance, a publication in the, Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. We also like that the formula is safe for skin that's prone to acne, as castor oil is known not only for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, but also for its ability to diminish the appearance of scars. Biological and pharmacological activities of squalene and related compounds: potential uses in cosmetic dermatology. You can probably guess from the name that retinol is the key ingredient in CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. Moonlight Super Serum contains retinal (short for retinaldehyde), which is believed to be more effective than standard retinol but still plenty gentle. When using this product, avoid getting it into your eyes. It contains 0.5 percent "retinyl sunflowerate," a fancy name for a blend of pure retinol and sunflower seed oil. Now, watch 100 years of acne treatments: You can follow Allure on Instagram and Twitter, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on all things beauty. Related: Best Retinol Cream What is the Best Retinol Serum? You will need to cleanse your face to wash off retinol or any other active ingredients before exposing your skin to sunlight. Serum. The CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and the Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1% feature two different types of retinoid Retinol and Adapalene which, as we'll be discussing today, makes all the difference when it comes to deciding which is best for you and your skin. You can also find her work in Elite Daily, MyDomaine, Thought Catalog, and more. Putting on your moisturizer/night cream is supposed to prevent and/or soothe any bad reactions. Olay also includes Tropaeolum majus flower/leaf/stem extract in the moisturizer to support a healthy skin barrier, plus glycerin to moisturize the skin. You'll also find various retinoid complexes, which means multiple forms are combined into one. In our opinion, CeraVe products deliver value for money, but take a look at other brands that dont require you to sacrifice your precious money. Please be aware that ingredient lists for the products of our brand are updated regularly. Just apply a thin layer to your freshly-cleansed skin every other night and you'll start seeing results before you know it. Niacinamide and licorice root extract brighten and soothe the skin. Active Ingredients: Trans-retinoic acid ester complex | Retinol Concentration: Not listed | Dosage: A few drops nightly | Size: 0.51.2 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes, With 2.5 percent encapsulated retinol, this serum offers one of the highest concentrations you can get over the counter, while encapsulation allows for a slow release with minimal irritation. Clin Interv Aging. According to a publication in the journal Clinical Interventions in Aging, retinol can minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve uneven skin tone, restore skin firmness, and shrink the appearance of enlarged pores. Although not technically a serum, it has a silky potent formula that's packed with botanic actives that my skin just drinks up, so it essentially functions as well, if not better than a serum, especially if you're prone to dryness or have combination skin like me." Dr. Sugai Compares: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 vs CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Dr. Daniel Sugai 609K views 1 year ago Dr. Sugai Explains: Vitamin C Serums- what makes a good one and some of. Although retinol products can improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and can also help to clear up acne, when you stop using the treatment, your skin will often return to baseline or pre-treatment condition. Our Top Products: 1 Best Fragrance-Free Option Marie Veronique Multi-Retinol Night Emulsion $135 at marieveronique.com 2 Best for Dark Spots Retinol 0.5% in Squalane This post contains affiliate links; as an Amazon Associate we earn commission from qualifying purchases. "This serum contains a stabilized form of retinol in a base that will not dry out the skin. Clinical Interventions in Aging. Developed by a dermatologist, Sobel Skin Rx 4.5% Retinol Night Treatment offsets the extra retinol and the potential irritation it can cause with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and macadamia seed oil to help fortify your skin's barrier. It is said to help refine, smooth, and improve skin texture without compromising its protective barrier. For example, one reviewer shares, Ive been using this product everyday for 3 weeks and I have noticed a visible difference in the appearance of my acne marks. I have somewhat sensitive skin, and I cant use this for more than two nights in a row. Best Vitamin C Serums for Sensitive Skin 1. If your skin has become sensitized, dial down your routine to two steps: a gentle cleanser and a moisturizer, says Sandy Skotnicki, M.D., a dermatologist and the author of Beyond Soap. This ingredient also has the ability to improve the appearance of dry or damaged skin by reducing flaking and restoring suppleness. "This form is less efficacious than retinol," says Wilson. What happens when you stop using retinol? 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 build up over the course of a few weeks. "There is no evidence that natural sources of retinoids are safer than synthetic, and often their effectiveness is highly suspect," according to cosmetic chemist Kelly Dobos. Ramping up your supply can not only abet vitamin A's brightening actions but also increase skin's tolerance and offset any desiccating side effects. However, if you have sensitive, reactive, or dry skin, look for a formula containing some of the hydrating and soothing ingredients mentioned above. The CeraVe Difference Product Description Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum is designed to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also helping to repair the protective skin barrier with 3 essential ceramides (1, 3 and 6-II). THIS SITE IS AFFILIATED WITH FORMULYST AND CARROT & STICK, WHOSE PRODUCTS ARE AMONG THOSE WE REVIEW AND RANK. Serums contain higher concentrations of active ingredients, and since they're so thin and light, Dr. Van Dyke says, they penetrate skin more efficiently than creams. Courtesy of brand . Please read myDisclosurefor additional information. Olay Retinol 24 Max Night Hydrating Moisturizer, Olay Retinol 24 vs Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair, Olay Collagen Peptide 24 vs Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, CeraVe Retinol Resurfacing vs Renewing Retinol Serum, CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser vs Foaming Cleanser, There is a possibility that retinol might be too strong for you if you have. This night cream, aptly called +Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer, also boosts hydration via hyaluronic acid and antioxidant protection via wild gooseberry extract, which has the extra benefit of soothing any irritation the aforementioned star ingredients may cause. To help your skin look and feel its best, look for a face serum formulated with hydrating and calming ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. The thick white cream melts like butter to completely reform the skin's look and feel. The final key ingredient in CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol face serum is dipotassium glycyrrhizate, a derivative of licorice root extract that functions as a skin-conditioning agent with anti-inflammatory, skin-soothing, and brightening properties. This light serum contains niacinamide and licorice root extract along with ceramides, making it a gentle option for sensitive skin. After using this product for a short period of time, I didn't notice much of a difference to my skin at all. Important Things to Know about Retinol How does retinol work? Int J Mol Sci. Don't Mix: Vitamin C with retinol. Even so, treat it as you would any new retinol start off gradually before increasing frequency in use. 2006 Dec; 1(4): 327348. Now that's the power of antioxidants (such as ferulic acid) at work. . "It contains high levels of wound healers for acne lesions, anti-inflammatories, and antioxidants from botanical sources," she tells Byrdie. If contact occurs, rinse thoroughly with water. $19 at CeraVe. CeraVe Renewing SA Cleanser vs Smoothing (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser vs Renewing SA Cleanser (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser vs Renewing SA Cleanser (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser vs Foaming Facial Cleanser (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream vs CeraVe PM (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Moisturizing Cream vs Lotion (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum vs Differin (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe Healing Ointment vs Moisturizing Cream (The Definitive Guide), CeraVe SA Cleanser vs Acne Control Cleanser (The Definitive Guide), Try the CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum. Theresa Holland is a freelance copywriter and self-proclaimed skincare nerd. The products include a serum, eye cream, and night cream. Amazon.com as of January 21, 2023 3:17 am . 4.4. Serums that contain acids, such as vitamin C and retinol, may cause irritation. Hmm I don't think those two should be compared. Along with a bunch of other vitamin-A derivatives starting with the letter R, retinol is an example of a retinoid that's the catchall term for these A-based formulas, both the over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription (Rx) varieties. This particular combination of retinol, ceramides and niacinamide is useful in reducing the dryness and skin irritation related to retinols. Would you like to view the website for United Kingdom instead? From prescription-strength topicals and over-the-counter buys to serums . "I recommend Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Serum because it contains stabilized retinol, and the formulation won't break you out," says board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD. He holds an expertise in many areas including laser resurfacing of wrinkles and acne scarring, melasma and hyperpigmentation treatment. It may take your skin some time to get used to retinol, so plan to slowly work your way up to daily use. It's the ideal last step to your nighttime skin-care routine to really seal in the good stuff a.k.a., moisturizing, firming, and rejuvenating ingredients. High quality serums, like those from CeraVe, are an effective way to deliver active and beneficial ingredients to skin in a lightweight formulation that can be layered with other products and wont block pores. Combined with retinol, it makes for an especially effective complexion-refining treatment. However, adapalene . The fragrance-free moisturizer glides onto your skin like silk. 2013;6(1):4. doi: 10.4103/0974-2077.110089, Chaudhuri RK, Bojanowski K. Bakuchiol: a retinol-like functional compound revealed by gene expression profiling and clinically proven to have anti-aging effects. Skin Renewing Retinol Serum. This might be why its Amazons second best-selling face serum. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Face Cream Serum for Fine Lines and Wrinkles is designed to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also helping to repair the protective skin barrier with 3 essential ceramides (1, 3 and 6-II). These are doctors' orders well-established ones that we've long practiced and preached. "Retinol products are not to be used while pregnant," Dr. Madfes tells Byrdie. Key Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin E, castor oil, green tea | Dosage: Small dots twice per day | Size: 1 fl. SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream is a Best of Beauty Award winner that has served as a gateway retinoid for more people than we can count. Today there are many drugstore options if you want to incorporate a retinol product into your skincare routine. Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil. Retinol, hyaluronic acid | Cream | 1.7 ounces (Approx. Both Dr. Engelman and Dr. Zeichner . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For instance, she says that rosehip oil contains only about 0.4 parts per million (0.00004 percent) of retinoic acid, which is further diluted in the final product. CeraVes serum contains retinol and niacinamide, ceramides and sodium hyaluronate for hydration and moisture, and licorice root for brightening. Active Ingredients: Retinol, bakuchiol, ferulic acid | Retinol Concentration: Not listed | Dosage: Half a pump morning and night | Size: 0.5 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes. It's also gentle enough to not cause major irritation to sensitive skin. To help your skin look and feel its best, look for a face serum formulated with hydrating and calming ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. Another common side effect is irritation. 2016;8(9):3024-3031. doi: 10.19082/3024, Kim SJ, Baek JH, et al. Topical application of ceramides can help to replenish ceramide levels, thus restoring the skins natural barrier. The result is skin that can easily become dry, itchy, or irritated. It's unscented and formulated not to clog pores, and rings in at a very budget-friendly price. In Dr. Dennis Gross's Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream, you'll find an age-defying concoction of retinol, bakuchiol (a popular, plant-based retinol alternative), rambutan, and ferulic acid that amps up your skin's collagen production to visibly smooth fine lines, treat dryness and roughness, and restore elasticity. This site is intended for US consumers. Cookies and related technology are used for advertising. Ask any dermatologist which one ingredient you should diligently apply in your skincare regime and they'll almost unanimously wax lyrical about retinol and the best retinol serums. Its also formulated with MVE Technology that encapsulates ceramides to ensure efficient delivery within your skins barrier and slow release over time, supporting your protective skin barrier long after youve finished applying. Clinically proven results are why retinol reigns supreme in the world of skincare. The gel serum is also formulated. 2006 Dec; 1(4): 327348.2. Both drugstore products, the Cerave Resurfacing Retinol serum and Differin Gel are two very common Vitamin A (Retinol) products considered by drugstore skincare buyers. Provides 24-hour hydration. 2. This brilliantly cheap serum contains a 1 percent concentration of stabilized retinol, 0.5 percent of granactive retinoid (the gentle cousin of prescription-only tretinoin), and squalane to deliver moisture while minimizing irritation. If you have ultra-sensitive skin and crave extra assurance, you can always pair this treatment with another moisturizer that goes heavy on ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Int J Cosmet Sci. The serum also contains CeraVes proprietary three essential ceramides to hydrate the skin and restore the skin barrier. It calls on alpha-hydroxy acid to gently slough off dead cells, brighten your complexion, and improve uneven texture. Key Ingredients: Retinol, plant oils, quercetin | Retinol Concentration: 2% | Dosage: A few drops daily | Size: 0.85 oz | Cruelty-Free: Yes | Byrdie Clean: Yes, Board-certified dermatologist Melissa K. Levin, MD, recommends Differin Adapalene for clearing and preventing breakouts. Enjoy! Bakuchi seed oil is the starring ingredient in this rich, concentrated cream. Are retinol serums safe for all skin types? We love this as a moderately priced option that features a naturally-derived ingredient list. As a refresher, retinoic acid is the active form of vitamin A that immediately binds with receptors on our skin cells, causing them to behave in a healthier capacity. In addition, it's formulated with 3 essential ceramides that work together to lock in skins moisture and help restore your skins protective barrier, along with soothing niacinamide. Effective retinol treatments don't necessarily equate to high price points. Our retinol face serum is formulated with ingredients likehyaluronic acidfor extra hydration,niacinamideto soothe, and three essentialceramides that work together to lock in moisture and help restore your skins protective barrier. Retinol These products (a serum, eye cream, and night cream) contain 20% More Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex than the original Retinol 24 products. 1 Over-the-counter retinols have come a long way since their early iterations and many of today's formulas are backed by clinical results. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum is a facial serum formulated specifically for those with post-acne marks, uneven skin tone, and visible pores. 1. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. If you have combination, oily or acne-prone skin, CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum work to fade hyperpigmentation and acne scars with retinol, niacinamide, and licorice root extract. Especially for first-time users, retinol treatments generally come with an irksome adjustment period. While prescription-only retinoic acid is stronger and can give you better results than over-the-counter retinol, it also can be more irritating. This lightweight, fast-absorbing face serum, with encapsulated retinol and licorice root extract, helps brighten and resurface the skin. Well look at product ingredients and performance in this post on Olay Retinol 24 vs CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum. doi:10.3390/ijms20215262, Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg Kv. Both products contain retinoids, but different types: Differin Gel contains 0.1% adapalene, whereas Cerave Retinol serum contains 0.3% encapsulated retinol. Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety. This particular cream's smoothing benefits come from a combination of pure retinol and lipo hydroxy acid. Retinol is a vital nutrient. And since they're. We rounded up standout options touted by dermatologists, as well as a few fan favorites from the Byrdie team. Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe Retinol Face Serum is formulated - with 3 essential ceramides, encapsulated retinol, and licorice root extract - reduces the appearance of post-acne marks and pores. Since retinoids can cause dryness, Dr. Madfes says, "the trick is to create a balance to not dry the top layer of our skin." This fragrance-free nighttime formula is an ideal starter retinol, both for your retinoid-virgin skin and budget. If you have eczema, rosacea, or your skin is particularly sensitive, this can be a gentle way to ease into using retinol in your regimen. By penetrating deep beneath your epidermis (the outer layer of your skin) and neutralizing free radicals, retinol boosts your skin's production of elastin, collagen, and comedolytic agents. "Retinoids help to decrease wrinkles and brown spots and improve overall skin texture," says Dr. Madfes. The Best Korean Skin-Care Products That'll Transform Your Complexion, 22 Top Dermatologists Reveal Their Skin-Care Routines. If you need help purchasing a product directly from Allure, go to our FAQ. The umbrella term for Vitamin A derivatives are retinoids, and retinol is one of these derivatives (read about retinol vs. retinal here if you want to know more about retinoids).