The Best Retinol Serums and Creams That Smooth Wrinkles and Brighten Skin

If you've tried it all—hydrating night cream, moisturizer, and face serum—but you're still showing signs of skin damage, it might be time for the gold standard in anti-aging: retinol. The over-the-counter vitamin A derivative clears acne flare-ups, evens out tone and texture, stimulates collagen, and minimizes age spots and wrinkles. "Retinol is the only topical ingredient that has scientifically proven anti-aging properties," says Tsippora Shainhouse M.D., a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.

While retinol is extremely effective, it does have its drawbacks (namely that it can cause irritation and can be pricey), so it's important to note two key things. First, use retinol at night. The ingredient may make your skin more sun-sensitive, so it's best to slather it on around bedtime. Also important to note: Serums generally contain higher concentrations of retinol, so there can be a greater chance for redness, peeling, and dryness (especially if they're paired with other powerful ingredients, like vitamin C). To reduce the risk of irritation, use a low percentage—like 0.025 percent—and ramp up as your skin adjusts, says Sonia Batra, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist. Retinol creams, on the other hand, tend to be thicker and infused with deeply hydrating and nourishing ingredients that may offset some of the potential redness and irritation.

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So, which retinol serum is the best? To help you navigate all the options available, we asked dermatologists to share the products perfectly suited for oily or sensitive skin, acne, dark spots, and, of course, wrinkles, that they most often recommend. These are their favorites—and some were even developed by dermatologists.