Want Baby-Smooth Skin? Try One of These Retinol Body Lotions

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I'll give it to ya straight: Retinol is the most effective skincare product—right behind sunscreen—for bright, smooth, and even skin. And though you typically hear about retinoids—the term used for all vitamin-A derivatives, including retinol—in the form of a face moisturizer or face serum, retinol is actually a hero ingredient for your body as well. Retinol body lotions are the MVP choice for anything from chest acne, back acne, and keratosis pilaris to hyperpigmentation, dullness, and discoloration. In a nutshell: You should be adding one to your skincare routine rn.

A retinol body lotion can be applied to your legs, arms, chest, back, and even the back of your hands for skin-smoothing, anti-aging effects. There's just one catch: For results, retinol needs to be used consistently and over time—trying to speed up the process by incorporating higher concentrations or more frequent use will only cause redness, irritation, and really pissed-off skin. That's why I personally tested and reviewed 12 of the best retinol body lotions on myself and consulted an expert dermatologist, Mona Gohara, MD—as well as referenced tips from dermatologist Anar Mikailov, MD, and plastic surgeon Finny George, MD—for everything you need to know about retinol body lotions, below:

Now keep reading for the full breakdown of the best retinol body lotions, according to my own testing and product reviewers, along with tips from dermatologists on choosing the best retinol body lotions, how to safely incorporate one into your skincare routine, and what to look for before you buy.

Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment

This bb is my tried-and-true retinol body lotion. Retinol's ability to trigger collagen and elastin production gradually leads to smoother, firmer skin. But what makes this body treatment so great is the fact that it's also loaded with plant oils and body butters, meaning while it exfoliates your skin, it also softens it. I diligently massage this cream over the rough and bumpy areas on my skin (i.e., the backs of my arms and thighs) a few nights a week and always layer up with sunscreen every morning.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); primrose oil (moisturizes); grapeseed oil (protects with antioxidants); glycerin (hydrates)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

THE REVIEW: "This lotion is the best I have ever tried—it really has improved the look of my neck, chest, shoulders, and arms,” writes one reviewer. "My 50-year-old skin looks ten years younger ."

Retinol Body Lotion

Yes, the price tag is right, but that doesn't mean it lacks in quality. This best-selling Amazon retinol body lotion is it. It's formulated with retinol (of course) for some skin-firming and collagen-boosting power and aloe vera and glycerin, which will soothe and hydrate your skin. Though, there's a quick catch. It's a v intense formula. "It definitely works, but it’s hella drying,” says Chloe Metzger, Cosmo’s deputy beauty director. “So make sure to incorporate it slowly into your skincare routine, and either follow up with a rich moisturizer or apply it over moisturizer to dilute its intensity,” she says.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); green tea extract, glycerin, aloe (soothes)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

THE REVIEW: "I have only been using this for about three months, but I could tell a difference in just a few days in—consistency is key and so is knowing your skin,” one tester's review reads. “I will definitely keep buying this."

Anti-Aging Retinol Body Lotion

Filled with retinol, argan oil, and caffeine, this cellulite cream is jam-packed with hero ingredients for smooth, tight skin. Plastic surgeon Finny George, MD, has told Cosmo that topical caffeine can dehydrate fat cells in your skin so they temporarily flatten, helping to make your cellulite look a little less visible. Because the formula contains a smaller potency of retinol (0.05%), it's gentler on your skin, meaning that those with skin on the sensitive side will find that it's easier to incorporate into their skincare routine. I like to apply this retinol body lotion after drying off post-shower.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); caffeine (tightens); argan oil (moisturizes)

• Fragrance: Lightly scented fresh fruit

THE REVIEW: "I’ve noticed since using this that my skin seems more moisturized than other moisturizers," writes one tester, adding, "I’ve used and that my skin seems much smoother and less wrinkled."

Press Restart Gentle Retinol Body Lotion

Dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, says this is her favorite retinol body lotion: "I use it nightly on my arms, legs, chest, butt, abdomen, and thighs to firm, tone, and reduce wrinkles," she says, noting that it doesn't irritate her skin in the slightest. Using encapsulated retinol (which is less intense on your skin), this body lotion is formulated to be used daily, though it's best to incorporate it into your routine slowly to ensure your skin reacts well.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); cocoa butter, squalane (moisturizes); vitamin E (soothes)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

THE REVIEW: "I absolutely love this lotion—it's retinol, but actually affordable enough that you can use it on your whole body!" one review reads. "It leaves your skin super soft and absorbs immediately. I can get dressed when I'm done without that sticky feeling other lotions always leave. My main concern is anti-aging and it is wonderful for that."

Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

This exfoliating milky body serum is a powerful skincare product for tackling dry patches and exfoliating dead skin for a smooth, baby-soft look and feel. My favorite part about this formula is that it uses encapsulated retinol, which works by slowing down absorption, so it's less intense on your skin. I found that this product works wonderfully on the backs of my arms to address my keratosis pilaris.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); lactic acid, glycolic acid (exfoliates); niacinamide (anti-inflammatory); urea (hydrates)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

THE REVIEW: "Such a great product," one tester writes. "I’ve been using it for a month, and noticed a huge difference in texture, breakouts, ingrowns, and dark spots. I’ve got some sensitive 'problematic' skin and this is both effective and non-irritating."

Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter

Unlike other lotions on this list, this one is formulated with retinyl palmitate—i.e., the weakest form of retinol, meaning it's more effective as an antioxidant than as a reparative like other traditional and stronger forms of retinoids. Offering an unscented version for those with irritable, sensitive skin and a vanilla version for those who like a little sweetness, this body butter packs a punch when it comes to moisture thanks to its super thick consistency and shea butter.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinyl palmitate (protects with antioxidants); argan oil, shea butter (moisturizes); vitamin E (soothes)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free or vanilla

THE REVIEW: "I’ve been using this pro-retinol body butter for a while now, and it is fantastic!" one reviewer notes. "This thick, yet lightweight, body butter provides deep and long-lasting hydration, while also smoothing skin to resolve my texture issues."

Retinol Body Lotion

Another bestselling Amazon beauty product is this retinol body lotion with 31,000+ glowing reviews. Other than the superstar ingredient retinol, this formula also includes ferulic acid—which, if you didn't know, is a super powerful antioxidant that acts as a shield for your skin against premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and irritation. So when you combine ferulic acid with retinol, you know you have a super effective anti-aging moisturizer.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); ferulic acid (protects)

• Fragrance: Chamomile, sweet and fresh with a hint of herbal-ness

THE REVIEW: "It absorbs into my skin quickly and feels very light—it leaves my skin feeling so firm and smooth," one tester notes.
"The scent is a bit strong right after applying, but I found that if I wash my hands right away, just the right amount of light floral fragrance lingers."

Retinol Body Treatment

This super luxe and very pricey retinol body lotion is worth the splurge thanks to its incredible formulation that includes moisturizing ingredients (see: macadamia oil), hydrators (see: glycerin), and loads of antioxidants (see: vitamin E and vitamin C derivatives). Plus, the luxe consistency will make you feel like you just walked out of a spa. Yes, pls.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); vitamin E, vitamin C (protects with antioxidants); macadamia oil (moisturizes); glycerin (hydrators)

• Fragrance: Rose

THE REVIEW: "I’ve been using this body lotion for years," one reviewer writes. "It leaves skin smooth and silky soft with a light rose scent."

Body Complex

Made with retinyl palmitate—i.e., the weakest form of retinol that is better at protecting with antioxidant properties rather than repairing—this body treatment is a great option for those with sensitive skin that normally would not be able to tolerate a higher form of retinoid. The formula also includes white willow bark extract, which is a great exfoliator for textured, uneven skin, and one of my favorite hydrators: hyaluronic acid.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinyl palmitate (protects with antioxidants); hyaluronic acid (hydrates); aloe (soothes); white willow bark extract (exfoliates)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

THE REVIEW: "My skin looks so healthy!" one tester notes. "The redness and 'chicken skin' I get on my thighs has calmed down a lot and my skin has this beautiful sheen to it."

Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Moisturizer

Bakuchiol—aka a natural retinol or retinol alternative—is "considered a 'phytoretinol,' or a plant-based ingredient with similar functions and benefits of retinol, but is still gentle enough for very sensitive skin," dermatologist Anar Mikailov has told Cosmo. Though it can be pretty safe to use on most skin types every night without working up to it, those with rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, or other skin conditions and irritation should absolutely still take it slow. Because this bakuchiol moisturizer is typically made for the face, it comes in a smaller product size so I typically reserve it for smaller areas like my chest and the backs of my hands.

• Key ingredient(s): Bakuchiol (smooths and boosts collagen); squalane (moisturizes)

• Fragrance: Fragrance-free

THE REVIEW: "I have seen a difference in the texture of my skin," one reviewer notes. "For maximum effectiveness, I apply it with a moisturizer over top, during my PM skincare routine. Don't let the tube size scare you—you only need a pea size amount to cover your face."

Melting Body Balm

What makes the Oui the People Melting Body Balm amazing (and super spa-like) is that it offers the moisture of a lotion with the luxe experience of a body balm. Upon application, you'll love how hydrated and plump your skin is thanks to the added oils (see: sunflower, olive, carrot, castor, etc.) and the sea fennel (which works to potentially help support collagen production). I massage this on my body on a daily basis for the smoothest and most healthy-looking skin ever.

• Key ingredient(s): Sea fennel extract (supports collagen production); olive oil, sunflower oil, shea butter (moisturize)

• Fragrance: Warm, earthy, and herbal

THE REVIEW: “The silky balm melts into my skin without being greasy,” writes one reviewer. “I look forward to applying it every night after the shower, and after consistent use, my skin is noticeably softer and smoother!”

Anti Cellulite Body Mask

So this retinol product isn't technically a lotion per se, but it's just as effective and a pretty luxe treatment considering it's meant to be used similarly to a leave-on mask. Rub it all over your targeted areas on your body, and it'll blast your skin with retinol (hi, collagen, and elastin production), coconut oil (hello, hella hydration), and grapeseed oil (nice to see ya, antioxidants). After using this bb a couple of times a week consistently, you'll begin to see smoother and glowier skin.

• Key ingredient(s): Retinol (smooths and boosts collagen); coconut oil (moisturizes); grapeseed oil (protects with antioxidants)

• Fragrance: Citrus

THE REVIEW: "This stuff really works, and it's become an everyday staple for me,” one tester notes. “I mostly use this on my legs and butt, and my skin is much firmer and healthier looking. It's not a miracle in a bottle; there is no such thing, but if you have realistic expectations, this stuff really does make a difference."

Does retinol body lotion really work?

Yes, retinol body lotions absolutely work. "Retinoids are a class of vitamin A derivatives that help to increase collagen production, decrease collagen breakdown, regulate elastin production, even out skin tone, help acne to resolve, prevent acne from coming, reduce oil and pore size, and regulate hair follicle shedding," says dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD. There's just one catch: It takes time to see results (see: a few weeks to three months), and you must be diligent about using a retinol body lotion consistently. This brings us to:

Can I use retinol on my body every day?

Yes, Dr. Gohara suggests using retinol on your body every day—as long as your skin can handle it, and you’re also not currently pregnant or breastfeeding. Just remember that retinoids can be irritating, so anyone with a pre-existing inflammatory skin condition, like eczema and psoriasis, should either avoid use or use just once or twice a week to start. It's best to work up to daily use gradually, "apply it one night a week for one week, two nights a week for two weeks, three nights a week for three weeks, then every other night from there on out," she says.

How to choose the best cellulite cream:

Evaluate the ingredients

Though retinol is the most proven and backed skincare ingredient for premature aging and its smoothing and firming abilities, you'll want to look at the ingredients combo'd with it in these retinol body lotions to ensure it's right for your skin type. Dr. Gohara suggests looking for moisturizers, such as shea butter or cocoa butter, and barrier repair ingredients, such as squalene. If you want a soothing effect, look for aloe vera.

Know the strength

"Generally, retinol body lotions come in .1 percent formulations," says Dr. Gohara. These formulas should be worked into your skincare routine gradually over time until you're up to an everyday basis. Other retinol alternatives and lower-strength retinol (see: bakuchiol, retinyl palmitate, and plant-based alternatives) can be used and incorporated much quicker and are generally safe for sensitive skin, though, again, those with pre-existing inflammatory skin conditions should use caution.

Meet the experts:

• Mona Gohara, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Hamden, Connecticut, President of the Women's Dermatologic Society, and Associate Clinical Professor at Yale. Her areas of expertise include medical and surgical dermatology and skin of color.

• Anar Mikailov, MD, is not only a board-certified dermatologist at the Lahey Hospital & Medical Center in Burlington, MA, but also the founder of KP Away, a skincare line devoted to treating keratosis pilaris. Dr. Mikailov has previously spoken to Cosmo about bakuchiol skincare products.

• Finny George, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon and partner at New York Plastic Surgical Group. He specializes in cosmetic procedures such as breast augmentations, liposuction, and more. Dr. George has previously spoken to Cosmo about cellulite creams.

Why trust Cosmo?

Siena Gagliano is an associate editor who writes beauty at Cosmopolitan and has three years of experience writing about beauty, fashion, and lifestyle news. She’s an expert at researching and writing skincare stories, like the best stretch mark removing creams and the top cellulite creams. She regularly tests and analyzes retinol body lotions on her own skin for efficacy while working with the industry’s top dermatologists to assess new treatments, formulas, and products.

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