The best retinol serums and creams for smoother, brighter skin

“Retinoids work by increasing collagen production, as well as increasing the rate of skin-cell turnover,” says Shari Marchbein, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York. “They also help treat acne, clogged pores, and blackheads by reducing the stickiness of the cells that clog pores, as well as speeding up the rate at which the skin turns over and regenerates.” Because of this, the best retinol serums and creams are ideal for evening out skin tone, minimising fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin's overall texture, and decreasing pore size. They're also perfect if you're looking to target pigmentation. You generally don't need to use much either – for most formulas, a pea-sized amount is more than plenty.

Although everyone is free to use retinol serum, figuring out how to make it work is an entirely different question. 30 has long been considered the age for introducing retinol as part of a skincare regimen, though many people choose to do so earlier rather than later. In other words, there's no particular rule as to when you can and should start using retinol serum, so feel free to start using it if you’re approaching your mid-20s and feel as though you’d benefit from it.

Most dermatology experts recommend easing into retinol serums and creams, starting with one or two applications a week to build up your tolerance. You can also try buffering – i.e., sandwiching retinol between two layers of moisturiser – to keep retinol burn, dryness, flaking and breakouts at bay. It's also worth noting that retinol works best when used at night. “Most retinoids are not stable in the sun,” says Tsippora Shainhouse, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles. Not to mention all retinoids can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage due to their exfoliant properties, so be sure to wear a reliable sunscreen every day, she adds.

Dr. Wassim Taktouk, Dermatologist and Medical Director of Taktouk Clinic in Knightsbridge, London, recommends REN’s Bio-Retinoid Youth Serum. “It’s an effective retinol alternative for those who are sensitive, pregnant or planning, or who face frequent sun exposure. It uses a plant chemical called phyntantic acid that behaves like a retinol but isn’t within the vitamin A family,” he says.

For Sadaf Jaffari, it’s got to be Obagi Retinol 1.0. “This is a prescription brand but they only offer 1% retinol, so it’s not suitable for first-time users unless under the supervision of a qualified skin care professional,” she says. “My second choice would be the SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 Corrective Treatment, though.”

Looking to upgrade your skincare routine? Make sure to check out our roundups on best moisturisers and lotions, best hyaluronic acid serums, best eye creams and the best face cleansers.

For more makeup, skincare, haircare and wellness content from Glamour UK Commerce Writer Denise Primbet, follow her on Twitter @deniseprimbet and Instagram @deniseprimbet.