15 Retinol Products Recommended by Dermatologists for Personal Use

Choosing a personal retinol can be a difficult task, with the variety of options available it's easy to feel overwhelmed. However, when it comes to skin care, retinol is considered top of the line which means we should find a way to incorporate it into our routine. "Despite the flood of over-the-counter options, including many products that contain retinol derivatives, navigating through the choices can be challenging, particularly for those with sensitive skin," states New York dermatologist Elaine Kung, MD. We interviewed several board-certified dermatologists to provide guidance and they shared some retinol-based products they personally use.

SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream

According to dermatologist Dr. Matthew Elias of Fort Lauderdale, FL, SkinBetter’s AlphaRet is the top over-the-counter retinol product, bundling various significant anti-aging constituents into one topical salve. Dermatologist Amelia K. Hausauer, MD, from Campbell, CA, applauds its “groundbreaking blend of retinoin and lactic acid, two excellent rejuvenating components with years of scientific research supporting them."

Rochester, NY-born dermatologist Lesley Loss, MD praises the brand as a perfect fit for those with sensitive skin, like herself. “Most prescription strength and over-the-counter retinols cause dryness or irritation on my skin, but this one doesn’t, which is why I love it,” she expresses. Dr. Kung and Linda Honet, MD, a dermatologist from Bloomfield Hills, MI also appreciate the cream.

Altreno (prescription)

Dermatologist Anna Chacon, MD from Miami, FL and New York-based dermatologist Michelle Henry, MD both prefer Altreno, a prescription tretinoin product. They appreciate the formula's smooth and moisturizing qualities, the fact that it doesn't cause skin irritation, and its collagen base. “Aside from sunscreen, Tretinoin has the most empirical evidence supporting its anti-aging and anti-acne benefits than any other skincare product,” notes Dr. Hausauer.

According to Dr. Kung, Tretinoin is “the unrivalled retinoid for tackling acne and aging.” Research shows a 60% decrease in inflammation compared to placebo after 12 weeks, confirming the effectiveness of Altreno in treating moderate to severe acne.

Arazlo (prescription)

“Arazlo is regularly used by most dermatologists due to its high potency, yet gentle formulation” believes Dr.Elias. Arazlo contains tazarotene in place of tretinoin, which “is suspected to be quicker at repairing photodamaged skin in some studies,” adds Dr. Kung. Arazlo’s specialized tazarotene formulation is proven to reduce inflammation by up to 70%, and nearly 30% of patients achieve noticeably clearer skin within 12 weeks.

Dr.Honet prefers this “extremely potent prescription topical tazarotene for its comprehensive anti-aging benefits, such as boosting collagen production, removing sun damage, and improving skin pigment, texture, and fine lines.” She points out that “it works well in treating cystic acne and scars, quite similar to its relative tretinoin.”

However, tazarotene might not work for everyone. “My skin has been conditioned to retinols for decades, starting in my twenties and I tolerate strong retinoids well. I have not skipped a single day of topical retinoid usage since I began my dermatology residency. It is incredibly important to me,” states Dr. Honet. “But remember, to benefit from a retinol, start with a low dose and progress slowly. Pay attention to how your skin responds as you increase the strength, and always follow your dermatologist’s guidance.”

Avène Professional RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream

Dr. Janet Allenby, a dermatologist from Delray Beach, FL mentions that her skin doesn't respond well to strong formulations, which is why she opts for the Avène brand. “My skin doesn’t react negatively and it still aids in reducing my fine lines and sun spots,” she comments about the cream.

SENTÉ Bio Complete Serum

“This is ideal for those with sensitive skin struggling with both acne and early aging signs,” recommends Dr. Kung. In this unique formula, retinol is paired with heparan sulfate, a hydrating and soothing superstar, alongside vitamin C and green tea that offer antioxidant protection. Tina Alster, MD, a dermatologist from Washington D.C., mentions that this gentle formula is “particularly beneficial during winter when the skin tends to be dry and hypersensitive.”

Alastin Renewal Retinol

For Houston-based dermatologist Jennifer Segal, MD, retinol can be too irritating to apply on the face so she uses Alastin’s product on her body, especially on her hands and forearms.

Revision Skincare Revox Line Relaxer

The targeted applicator makes this retinol product a standout. In this formula, “retinol takes center stage, but botanical extracts like chamomile and green tea prevent irritation. Hyaluronic acid keeps skin hydrated and plump,” says Dr. Kung. “This is great for those with concerns about both breakouts and loss of skin elasticity.”

L’Oréal Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum with 0.3% Pure Retinol 

West Palm Beach, FL dermatologist Kenneth Beer, MD says his favorite is this retinol from L’Oréal. “It’s well priced, and I think it delivers a good amount of retinol,” he says. Dr. Henry is also a fan of this product.

A Method Reti-Gel 

Dr. Alster says she goes back and forth between two retinols, one being her own retinol gel “because it’s anhydrous 0.5 percent retinol and very effective without causing excessive dryness and irritation.”

SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 Refining Night Cream

Dr. Henry loves this retinol night cream from SkinCeuticals. This is the brand’s maximum-strength formula, but they offer a .3 and .5 option as well for retinol beginners and those with sensitive skin.

Aesthetx Skin The Core/PM Serum 

Dr. Hausauer is a huge advocate for prescription retinoids, namely tretinoin. However, she likes to offset the intensity of trentinoin by using an over-the-counter retinoid instead three days of the week. The Core/PM Serum, which she helped develop, contains all-trans retinol and bakuchiol. “The combo is supercharged but provides less irritation than higher amounts of just pure retinol,” she explains.

Farmhouse Fresh Three Milk Ageless Sleep Cream 

Dr. Loss loves Farmhouse Fresh Ageless Sleep Cream if you’re looking for a retinol formula that’s a bit thicker and more hydrating.

Hopkins Dermatology RX Concentrated R & B Serum

South Lake, TX dermatologist Janine Hopkins, MD’s retinol of choice is her own formulation, which is a combination of all-trans-retinol, bakuchiol and licorice root extract. “This formula reduces the appearance of lines and wrinkles, large pores and helps the skin look radiant without redness or irritation.”

Depology Anti-Aging Retinol Night Cream

Dr. Kung likes this night cream. The formula combines retinol with niacinamide and peptides, giving it the power to “calm redness, promote collagen and address texture and tone” all at once.

LovelySkin LUXE Advanced Retinol Serum 

Omaha, NE, dermatologist Joel Schlessinger, MD, uses LovelySkin LUXE Advanced Retinol Serum and recommends it to many of his patients. “While it is suitable for every skin type, it’s an especially great option for those who have dry skin or have experienced sensitivity to other OTC retinols,” he says. “In addition to .5 percent retinol for cell renewal, it’s formulated with glycolipids and phospholipids, which are fats that coat the skin cell walls, helping to prevent moisture loss and restore the skin’s moisture barrier.”