20 Best Retinol Creams for Wrinkles, According to Experts in 2024

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Best Potent Retinol Cream

PerriconeMD High Potency Retinol Recovery Overnight Moisturizer

Best Potent Retinol Cream

PerriconeMD High Potency Retinol Recovery Overnight Moisturizer

Pros

• Supports skin barrier

This overnight cream features three different forms of retinol to help skin look renewed while you rest. But because of the ultra-rich texture and nourishing ingredients—squalane, jojoba oil, shea butter—you don't have to worry about irritation.

Customer Review:

"This is a very rich, thick, smooth & good smelling moisturizer. It does what it says it does. My skin never felt & looked so good so early in the morning. I'm seeing improvements to my fine lines. What I like the best is you feel beautiful and it works!!"—Dawn

Best Lightweight Retinol Cream

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol + HPR Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream

Best Lightweight Retinol Cream

Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Retinol + HPR Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream

Pros

• Airless pump bottle prevents bacteria

For a more lightweight take on a retinol cream, try this formula from Elizabeth Arden; the water cream texture can be used morning or night, and never feels cloying on the skin. But with HPR (a.k.a. high-performance retinol), skin-strengthening ceramides and hydrating hyaluronic acid, it's just as—if not more—effective, as the formulation may help reduce wrinkles in just one week.

Customer Review:

"This is my first skincare product from Elizabeth Arden and now I understand why there are so many fans of this brand. Retinol is an absolute must for my skin, and I can trust that this brand uses the highest quality retinol possible over the counter. Feels wonderful on my skin. It doesn’t dry me out at all, but my skin is pretty used to retinols. I also usually prefer unscented products but this smells luscious. Love it."—BirdNerd

Best Slow-Release Retinol Cream

Beauty Pie + Vitamin C Night Renewal Moisturizer

Best Slow-Release Retinol Cream

Beauty Pie + Vitamin C Night Renewal Moisturizer

Pros

• Supports skin barrier

For more advanced retinol users, this vegan, one percent formulation from Beauty Pie might become your new favorite. In addition to leaving skin looking and feeling more plump and hydrated with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and shea butter, it also uses vitamin C to brighten discoloration while you sleep.

Customer Review:

"Been using for only a week so far, but skin is glowy, lines are softer, hyperpigmentation reduced. Pores smaller, better skin texture. Will continue using. Smells lovely, too." —KimH81

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Best Retinol Alternative Cream

Indie Lee Retinol Alternative Cream

Best Retinol Alternative Cream

Indie Lee Retinol Alternative Cream

Pros

• Refillable

Cons

• May not be intensive enough for some skin types

If you're currently pregnant or have an aversion to retinol, add this plant-based cream from Indie Lee to your nightly routine instead. With ingredients including rambutan, squalane, paracress, orange milk tree extract, it helps hydrate and calm skin, too. In addition to improving skin firmness and reducing fine lines, the essential also happens to be eco-friendly, since its bottle is refillable.

Customer Review:

"I used this moisturizer for a full week and my skin feels less bumpy and more plump. It feels a little thick at first but sinks in pretty quickly, leaving behind a non-greasy sheen. I have sensitive skin but this moisturizer did not irritate me one bit." —Elaine

Best Reparative Retinol Cream

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream

Best Reparative Retinol Cream

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream

Pros

• Firming

We consider this staple from Murad one of the best retinol creams because of its versatility. Not only is it ideal for firming skin and reducing fine lines, but the formula—also containing algae extract and niacinamide—also aims to help strengthen the skin barrier.

Customer Review:

"This product is amazing! After using nightly, my skin was smoother, more plump, and I noticed a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles." —RDarr

Best Firming Retinol Cream

Dr Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream

Best Firming Retinol Cream

Dr Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream

Pros

• Contains both a retinol and retinol alternative

Cons

• Best for Aging Skin

This face cream is a powerhouse of skin-restoring ingredients. In addition to retinol, it also contains plumping hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid to minimize hyperpigmentation, and the brand’s signature ECG Complex to keep skin firm.

Customer Review:

"Really loving this wrinkle cream, I just turned 40 and I’ve been using this cream almost twice daily for about three weeks. I can see a real difference! A lot of the fine creases around my eyes have diminished and the deeper smile lines are plumper. I feel like it’s easily taken five years off, maybe more. Would definitely recommend!" —misspriscilla96

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Best Brightening Retinol Cream

Kate Somerville Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer

Best Brightening Retinol Cream

Kate Somerville Retinol Vitamin C Moisturizer

Pros

• Great for dark spots

Another of our favorite retinol creams, this ultra-rich version uses hyaluronic acid and fatty acids to minimize irritation, and includes the brightening power of vitamin C for the ultimate glow up.

Customer Review:

"This moisturizer is amazing. I am 52 and have been using this for about a year—it has really made a difference in the appearance of my skin. I noticed a difference after a couple of weeks. My complexion is smoother, clearer, and the fine lines around my eyes are a lot less noticeable." —Tracy S.

Best Retinol Cream for Sensitive Skin

Glossier Universal Pro Retinol

Best Retinol Cream for Sensitive Skin

Glossier Universal Pro Retinol

Pros

• Vegan
• Safe for sensitive skin

Cons

• May not be intensive enough for some skin types

Containing 0.5 percent retinyl sunflowerate—retinol derived from sunflower seed fatty acids—plus stevia leaf extract, this cream is one of the gentlest on our list (and even deemed safe for sensitive skin). While it's effective at smoothing lines and wrinkles, it won't leave you feeling dry, since its formula is packed with humectants, like glycerin, to hydrate your complexion. That said, you may need another layer of moisturizer on top, especially if you have dry skin.

Customer Review:

"I was in search of a retinol product and I’m glad I found this one. I followed the instructions to apply at night a few times a week and gradually move up. I’m now using almost every night. I have very sensitive skin and this has not bothered me at all." —Chloe S.

Best Smoothing Retinol Cream

Paula's Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream

Best Smoothing Retinol Cream

Paula's Choice Resist Intensive Repair Cream

Pros

• Contains lower retinol concentration for easily irritated skin
• Hydrating

Cons

• Best for dry skin

This highly rated face cream has a little bit of everything: A low concentration of retinol (0.01 percent) provides line-smoothing benefits, while jojoba oil moisturizes and a whole host of antioxidants protect skin from environmental stressors. Retinol, antioxidant blend, hyaluronic acid

Customer Review:

"I use this product every day after my routine and it has become my favorite moisturizer. The visual results that come from this are amazing. It has helped keep me clear and my skin looking vibrant and fresh."—ST

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Best Soothing Retinol Cream

Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream

Best Soothing Retinol Cream

Skinceuticals Retinol 0.5 Refining Night Cream

Pros

• Features botanical extracts

Talk about a multi-tasking routine essential: This refining night cream from Skinceuticals uses encapsulated retinol and botanical extracts to calm irritation while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Customer Review:

"I’ve been using this product for a couple of months or so and have noticed an improvement in skin tone already. The key is consistency! I don’t have many wrinkles I am targeting and instead am trying to correct for some dark spots. Would recommend!" —Jgirl

Best Vegan Retinol Cream

Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

Best Vegan Retinol Cream

Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

Skincare TikTok is obsessed with this concentrated, one percent retinol from Drunk Elephant, that also features a peptide blend and vitamin F. It's not only ideal for improving skin dullness and uneven texture, but also happens to be entirely vegan.

Customer Review:

"The best retinol product I've ever used and the only one I've seen results from. Reduced my hyperpigmentation to the point that you can barely notice it. Be careful about how often you use it when you start as it is quite strong. Don't use it two days in a row until your skin is used to it." —krissy428

Best Refillable Retinol Cream

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream

Best Refillable Retinol Cream

Charlotte Tilbury Magic Night Cream

Pros

• Refillable packaging

Cons

• Has a heavier fragrance

It's no secret that Bazaar editors are big fans of Charlotte Tilbury staples, which includes this popular night cream from the brand. It uses a combination of time-released retinol, plant stem cells, and vitamin E to leave skin looking smoother and plumper as you sleep.

Customer Review:

"I love this cream. Once you get passed the strong unpleasant rose scent, it's a great cream. This is very thick, and petroleum jelly like, but better. It lasts all night for me and my skin wakes up feeling hydrated and soft . 4 stars because the price is heavy and I wish the fragrance was lighter."—JKAT20

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Most Popular Retinol Cream

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream

Most Popular Retinol Cream

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream

Now 19% Off

Pros

• Fragrance-free

You'll notice smoother, brighter skin and softened lines in just a week of daily use with this drugstore favorite, also containing hydrating hyaluronic acid. But as with all retinol, you'll need to keep using it for the results to stick around.

Customer Review:

"This stuff really works. If I get busy and don't use it for a few days I notice a difference and not in a good way. When used consistently this cream reduces my crows feet and other fine lines, keeps my skin perfectly moisturized, and just gives my skin a healthy glow. It also does not clog my pores. Use this at night so you get the full benefit of the retinol. I have very sensitive skin and allergies to fragrances. I have never had an issue with this cream." —Dani36

Best Retinol for Deep Wrinkles

Avène Retrinal 0.1 Intensive Cream

Best Retinol for Deep Wrinkles

Avène Retrinal 0.1 Intensive Cream

Pros

• Oil-free

Fans of Avène's Thermal Spring Water and tinted sunscreen should make room in their summer line up for this velvety retinol cream from the brand. In addition to vitamin A, it also uses ingredients like vitamin E to evening skin's tone and smooth deep wrinkles while protecting it against environmental stressors.

Customer Review:

"My aesthetician recommended this product a few years ago. I have sensitive skin, and have been very pleased with the results. I use it every other night." —Colleen

Best Retinol for Dry Skin

RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Crème

Best Retinol for Dry Skin

RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Crème

Now 34% Off

Pros

• Top-rated on Amazon
• Provides hydration for up to 24 hours

For those dealing with dry skin and fine lines, this hydrating retinol—also containing hyaluronic acid—should be right up your alley, since it's made to keep your skin moisturized for the long haul.

Customer Review:

"I saw a difference after one application. I applied the product and kinda forgot about it. I walked by a mirror and caught my reflection out of the corner of my eye, stopped, and did a double take—I could not believe the difference. It works, smells wonderful, and is affordable. I plan on trying other RoC products." —Rebecca D.

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Best Fragrance-Free Retinol Cream

Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer

Best Fragrance-Free Retinol Cream

Olay Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizer

Pros

• Provides hydration for up to 24 hours

This fragrance-free cream from Olay is one of Quinta Brunson's favorites, and perfect to slather on before bed. It delivers a big dose of hydration packed with fine line-minimizing retinol, which is still gentle on skin. Even better, it also contains peptides, niacinamide, and vitamin B3 for an all-around brighter, firmer complexion.

Customer Review:

"I absolutely love this product. It feels like velvet when I put it on—it's thick but not heavy. I always wake up in the morning with smooth, happy skin! I've been using this for a few months now, and I love how it's reduced some of the redness of my skin. I mostly use it in conjunction with the eye cream and serum, but sometimes I use just this step and I'm never disappointed." —Bev12122

Best Intensive Retinol Cream

StriVectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Face Moisturizer with Retinol

Best Intensive Retinol Cream

StriVectin Advanced Retinol Nightly Renewal Face Moisturizer with Retinol

Pros

• Top-rated on Amazon
• Anti-aging

Retinol, retinal (a relative of the former), and niacin combine to leave skin looking refreshed overnight. We love how this cream also has anti-redness ingredients, just in case your skin is a little more sensitive.

Customer Review:

"Great moisturizer and reduces the look of fine lines! I have purchased it before. This is a reorder. Buy it and your skin will thank you!" —Maura M.

Best Botanical-Infused Retinol Cream

Chantecaille Retinol Intense+

Best Botanical-Infused Retinol Cream

Chantecaille Retinol Intense+

Pros

• Features niacinamide and vitamin C

Cons

• May be intensive for sensitive skin

Apply this powerful cream—which combines encapsulated retinol, niacinamide, vitamin C, soy bean extract retinol and botanicals to brighten hyperpigmentation and soothe visible redness—to your face and neck to redefine beauty rest.

Customer Review:

"I have had issues using retinol in the past but this one is extremely gentle. I love the results. It's made my skin vibrant, smooth and clear. I suffered with acne and fine lines and it's helped with both."—Heathersbarre

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Best Acne-Fighting Retinol Cream

La Roche-Posay Redermic R Retinol Cream

Best Acne-Fighting Retinol Cream

La Roche-Posay Redermic R Retinol Cream

Pros

• Top-rated on Amazon

Made with retinol and lipo-hydroxy acid (a derivative of salicylic acid, which helps gently exfoliate), this lightweight cream helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet.

Customer Review:

"I would give this product 10 stars if I could. I have been using the La Roche-Posay Effaclar line of products for six months now. At around month four, I decided to add in this retinol product and it took my skin to the next level... I have never had this clear of a complexion, even when I was taking acne meds! I have also noticed a significant reduction in pore size and fine lines." —Cassandra K.

Best Anti-Aging Retinol Cream

L'Oréal Paris Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer

Best Anti-Aging Retinol Cream

L'Oréal Paris Triple Power Anti-Aging Moisturizer

Now 20% Off

Pros

• Top-rated on Amazon
• Features hyaluronic acid and vitamin C

The anti-aging all-stars—retinol, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin C—get cozy in this wallet-friendly formula. If you’re looking to get into retinol but don’t want to spend a small fortune, this jar is a good place to start.

Customer Review:

"I’m in my 60s, have sensitive skin and an occasional breakout and an aesthetician recommended multiple, pricey items but the cost wasn’t sustainable for me. This affordable product contains many of the same, key ingredients and after about a month of use I really like it. My skin looks and feels great with no irritation or breakouts. Bonus: It smells great!!"—Kathey

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