These Expert-Approved Retinol Creams Pump the Breaks on Visible Signs of Aging

As a beauty editor, I can't go a day without my inbox being flooded with introductions to new retinoid products promising fast-acting anti-aging properties for women of all ages. But let's get real—aging is natural, and despite the best efforts of cutting-edge products and technology, there will always be signs of it. Rather than fighting against the throes of times, I've decided to embrace the natural aging process while balancing its effects with high-performing products that help combat what I can control (hyperpigmentation and acne scaring from my early twenties have become the bane of my existence).

There's absolutely nothing wrong with accepting how your body changes with time, but it can be extremely helpful to know which products can help prevent future skin damage while minimizing the appearance of past damage. Luckily for you, the best version of your skin can be one click (and a few scrolls) away. With the help of two board-certified dermatologists, I've identified 12 retinol creams that are key to revitalizing your skin, underscored by expert recommendations and thousands of glowing five-star reviews. If that sounds enticing, keep on reading!

"Retinoids function to make the skin less “sticky," keep the pores “clean” and free of debris and build-up. This allows the oil to exit the follicle and to keep the inflammatory factors at bay," begins Dr. Ashley Magovern MD, board-certified dermatologist and medical director of Dermstore. "It prevents acne, and that is the key to keeping the skin clear. They accelerate or stimulate cell turnover, which leads to cell renewal and brighter, smoother skin." They also stimulate collagen production, helping the skin remain firm, prevent laxity, and lessen the appearance of hyperpigmentation. Overall, incorporating a retinoic acid product into your skincare routine is essential to any daily regimen.

Cosmetic and Mohns Skin Cancer surgeon and founder of Avant Dermatology and Aesthetics Dr. Sheila Farhang MD offers a similar take on the Vitamin A derivative. "It is commonly found in over-the-counter skincare products as it is milder than prescription form retinoic acid (a.k.a tretinoin)," says Dr. Farhang. "Retinoids including retinols are considered the gold standard for an anti-aging skincare routine because they help promote collagen production, and accelerate cell renewal." When selecting a retinoid cream, both Dr. Farhang and Dr. Magovern pay special attention to how the product is formulated and what can be paired with it for the ideal outcome.

And now, for the million dollar question: how do you know which retinol cream to try? Your answer depends entirely on your skin type and its specific needs. If you're noticing the presence of pigmentation, sun damage, fine lines, and wrinkles, it may be time to start looking for a retinol cream. "For sensitive skin, start with a low concentration of retinol and look for soothing ingredients like niacinamide, aloe and ceramides," Dr. Magovern shares. "If you are trying to reverse deeper lines and wrinkles, then I would try to use a more potent retinol cream." Those with acne, clogged pores, and very oily skin may benefit from a stronger retinol prescription however, it should be noted that the process of skin adjusting to strong retinoids can often lead to redness, irritation, and flaking in the beginning.

"I love products that have pure and stabilized retinol so I can ensure that the product is effective. Additionally, it is important to know the strength of the retinol and if it is more than 0.25% as that may be a little more irritating initially," enthuses Dr. Farhang. Retinoid cream shouldn't be used on its own, and Dr. Magovern recommends pairing soothing products like aloe, pumpkin seed oil, and using a vitamin c serum or cream for two active ingredients on the skin at the same time. For anyone on the hunt for retinol-based products with anti-aging properties, both experts recommend introducing retinol in partnership with a hydrating moisturizer. And don't forget to keep up with your sunscreen application in the meantime!

According to Dr. Farhang, keeping an eye on how your skin reacts to the initial introduction of the product largely determines how much and how often it can be used. "For those who are just starting a retinol, I usually recommend using one pea sized amount twice week the first two weeks, then increasing to every other night for a couple of weeks, then eventually every night as tolerated," she says. If you skin can tolerate more, consider upping the dosage. If possible, avoid using potentially irritating exfoliating products like glycolic acid and benzoyl peroxide (since this can cause skin irritation, redness and scaling) or using the "slugging" method as it increases the penetration of retinol.

Retinol creams come in the many forms, with formulas with game-changing ingredients that can be used on different parts of the body or times of day. While some retinol creams are geared towards night use, allowing the skin to undergo and overnight transformation, other can be used as daily moisturizers. Below, you'll find dermatologist and beauty editor-approved favorites that will make all the difference in the health of your skin.