The 15 Retinols That Derms *Actually* Use (...'Cuz I Asked Them)

As a beauty editor, there are two skincare things I can't live without: sunscreen and retinol. Sunscreen is a must for optimal skin health (UV exposure = skin damage, so if you're not protecting your face and body with SPF 30 or more everyday pls start right now). And retinol? It's also a must if you want clear, smooth, and glowing skin. And surprise: You don't need prescription formulas to reap the benefits—you can get all the line-smoothing effects from over-the-counter retinols too.

As a refresher, retinol is a well-studied derivative of vitamin A that helps plump fine lines, smooth skin texture, and even out your skin tone. Depending on the formula you choose, over-the-counter retinols can smooth fine lines and wrinkles, boost skin firmness, prevent breakouts, minimize the look of pores, and even fade discoloration, like sun spots and melasma too. To help you find the perfect over-the-counter retinol for your skin type and concerns, I rounded up the 15 best options (with the help of licensed aesthetician Joie Tavernise and board-certified dermatologists Karan Lal, MD and Rebecca Marcus, MD) that you can buy right now.

Keep reading for the full list of the 15 best over-the-counter retinols. There are retinols for treating acne, retinol face creams for fine lines and wrinkles, gentle retinols for those with sensitive skin, and more.