A few days ago, we talked about retinol and its properties and its benefits for the skin, so today we had to bring up the topic of the best retinol creams. Because it is important to know which brands work and provide good results and, after all, the ones that we all like the most, and that includes you guys too. After all, retinol cream for women also works well for men, so take note because here comes the list of the cosmetics that are generating the most buzz.
How to use retinol cream
Here, you don’t have to complicate things too much. Whether it’s a store-bought cosmetic or pharmacy retinol, the application method will be indicated. The usual recommendation is to use it at night and in the morning. Twice a day or just once. If it’s twice, the effects will obviously be much stronger. This doesn’t mean you have to do it that way. It’s best to always follow the instructions on the retinol cream you’ve purchased.
And do you know why?
Because the laboratory adding the ingredient calculates the concentration and the amount of the other elements. They make an estimation and conduct tests on real people. This way they can determine the effects on the skin, how many benefits it brings, and the maximum and minimum amount the body can tolerate. If the instructions say to use the retinol from the creams every 12 or 24 hours, it’s because for that concentration, the frequency is the most suitable. Trust me and follow the instructions.
And after this brief introduction, now let’s move on to the list of the best retinol creams.
Vichy Liftactiv retinol ha
This is a product for removing wrinkles and correcting signs of aging. The product is a small 30ml container that you can use at night. This is the recommended way to use Vichy Liftactiv retinol ha for the eyes.
Vichy Liftactiv retinol is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive ones. The manufacturer states that it is dermatologically tested, so there should be no contraindications. It also contains thermal water, which is so popular now, and one of its best features is that it is paraben-free.
Its application is simple and absorbs quickly, leaving no greasy residue on the skin.
Roc Retinol correxion eyes
Roc has several product lines with retinol cream. But here, we will focus on those designed to improve the appearance of the face and renew facial skin.
With a 15 ml format, this eye cream is meant to correct wrinkles around the eyes, improve the appearance of dark circles, and reduce crow’s feet.
Just like with Vichy Liftactiv, Roc retinol correxion is clinically tested. Instead of using it just at night, recommendations are for use both day and night. It’s oil-free, so your skin will remain grease-free. You can also find very related products such as ROC’s deep wrinkle filler with retinol, as well as others from different brands. Here are a few we recommend.
La Roche Posay Redermic R
A cosmetic for treating deep wrinkles and skin blemishes. Thanks to the action of retinol from La Roche Posay Redermic, it helps improve skin color and provides a more even skin tone. Small spots and discolorations are blurred over time with the use of this product.
You can use Redermic at night. Some sources say it’s for both day and night, but as you can see even on the bottle’s label, it says “night,” meaning for Spain and Spanish-speaking countries, it’s for night use.
Apply it on both the face and neck to achieve better color uniformity. Like the other products, it is hypoallergenic and tested.
Skinceuticals retinol
A cosmetic for treating deep wrinkles, developed with pure retinol at a concentration of 0.3%. It’s designed to minimize lines and reduce pores and skin imperfections. Its usage is at night, while you rest, so that retinol from Skinceuticals can provide all its regenerative and antioxidant benefits.
Remember:
When using a retinol cream, apply sunscreen of at least SPF 15, preferably higher. Since it works on the deeper layers of the epidermis, your skin will be a bit more sensitive, and the sun’s rays can cause imperfections. You can continue using retinol creams in the summer, but with sunscreen, it’s better.
Can retinol be applied with other creams?
Of course, and in fact, it’s even recommended to avoid some of the side effects that retinoids cause on the skin. Ideally, you should combine the use of retinol cream with another one that provides hydration, such as some of the hyaluronic acid face creams, or choose one of the best moisturizers.
For optimal results, apply them with a few hours of separation. You can apply the retinol cream at night and, in the morning, to avoid dryness and itching, use a moisturizing cream or an effective anti-wrinkle cream that isn’t greasy. It’s very important that it doesn’t leave any residue, as it could counteract the retinoid treatment. Serums are the best for this.
This way, by using two creams, you’ll have a complete beauty routine to eliminate facial spots, acne scars, and improve collagen production.
Hello, my doctor told me that retinoic acid removes freckles from the hands. I have many, and I’d like to know what I can apply, and if this acid is really effective for that. Thank you.
It’s very effective, not only for spots but also for all the effects of photoaging. At first, it might be uncomfortable because of the peeling and erythema it can cause, but over time, you’ll realize it’s worth using. It’s not just for spots but also for wrinkles in the long term.
Well explained… great. Thank you very much, Maria.
Can it be used on the face, in which areas?
Thank you.
It can be used all over the face, taking care around the eyes, mucous membranes, and lips.
Good morning, I wanted to ask, I have spots on my forehead and a little bit of wrinkles only on my forehead. When using creams with retinol, can I also use another cream on top? Thank you.
Hello Astrid. Use the retinol cream at night and the other cream during the day.
What a lovely blog, Marta! Thanks for the information.
Hello, I’m currently on a treatment with retinoic acid and Aclaranse, as they were both recommended together for nighttime use. Is this correct? Or can I use Aclaranse during the day and retinoic acid at night?
Hello, I’d like some recommendations on which creams I can use, as I have oily skin, enlarged pores, spots, and my laugh lines and the lines around my eyes are becoming more noticeable. I’m not that old; I’m 37 years old. Please recommend something that will work for me.
Hello Graciela, look for a cream with retinol or retinoic acid at 0.025% or 0.05%. This should work well for your pores, as an exfoliant, and for the spots. For expression lines around the mouth and eyes, you should get a moisturizing or anti-aging cream, preferably one for nighttime use.
Hello, I’m 61 years old, and I’m noticing my wrinkles becoming more prominent. I’m thin, and I’d like to reduce them a little to look better. Can you recommend a product for me to buy?
Hello Eliana, you’ll need a retinol cream or an anti-aging cream. If you’re not sure which one, it’s best to visit a store and get advice. They can assess which one will work best for you.
Hello, I have spots on my face, and I’d like to know where I can find those products. Thank you. I’m from Mexico.
There are different online stores that ship to Mexico. You can buy a retinol cream at a good price, as you’ll have lower or even free shipping costs. If you can’t find them, any perfume or pharmacy store should have them. If they don’t have these brands, they might be able to order the one you want.
Good morning, I’m 43 years old, and I have a rash on my face, especially on my forehead. I was told that with retinoic acid, it might fade. What cream do you recommend I buy? I’m from Mexico. Thank you.
Hello Luisa, is the rash constant, or is it recent? I ask because if it appeared suddenly, it might be an allergic reaction, and in that case, it’s better to wait a bit and see how it develops. If they’re just regular pimples, a retinol cream might work well for you.
Hello Maria, I’m 52 years old, and I wanted to use a retinol cream for the night, but I’m unsure if I should wait until after summer in case it might harm my skin. If that’s the case, what night cream do you recommend? I can’t complain, but I’m starting to notice some sagging along with the wrinkles. Thank you so much, and best regards.
It’s better to wait until after the summer since the sun increases the chances of spots appearing. In the meantime, you can use nourishing creams instead of a retinol cream. Whitening creams are best used with minimal sun exposure, and always use facial sunscreen during the day.
Hello, I have sun spots on my cheeks and marks from some pimples. Will these creams help me? And what would be the most suitable ones?
Hello Nancy, these are recommended: retinol, retinoic acid, vitamin A…
Hello, can I use these creams to get rid of spots on my face? They’re sun spots, and they appeared all over my face. I’m 26 years old. Thanks, and best regards.
Of course, that’s what retinol creams are for. Make sure to protect your skin well from the sun when using them to prevent new spots from appearing. Age doesn’t matter, but you’ll get better results since you’re young.
Hello, I’d like to know if this cream with retinol helps lighten the inner thighs since they are dark, or do you know of a cream that could help with this problem? I’m desperate. Thank you.
They can help lighten the skin, but you have to be careful in certain areas since the skin there is much thinner and more delicate. Be cautious and do a patch test on a small area the first day to avoid strong reactions or irritation.
I have stretch marks on my abdomen. I was told that creams containing retinol would help remove them. Can they help?
You have to use them for a long time. It’s a long-term treatment for stretch marks. With consistency and patience, stretch marks fade with retinol.
Hello, I have a retinoic acid cream, tretinoin cream at 0.05%. The EPS prescribed it to me, but I haven’t used it in a while, and I don’t remember why my doctor prescribed it. It expires in September this year. I’ve read about all the benefits of retinol. Can I use it? Is retinol the same as retinoic acid?
I appreciate your response. I’m from Colombia!
It’s similar. They come from the same origin.
Hello doctor, one question: How much retinol cream should I apply at night?
Thank you very much!
Before going to bed, should I apply the retinol cream to my skin?
My daughter is 42 years old, and when she was younger, she used to squeeze her pimples. Now her face is very marked and has spots. What cream do you recommend? I’m from Peru. Thank you.
It depends on where you live. You might find different brands. Look at the composition; it’s the best thing to do.
Hello Marta, I have many acne scars on my face, and I’m also experiencing some sagging. I’m 49 years old. I wanted to ask you what you know about the Retinolla cream and if it’s as good as they say. Thank you so much.
Hello May, I don’t know it. If you try it and feel like sharing how it works, let us know.
Hello doctor, I’m 42 years old, and I have skin with open pores and some dark spots and marks from pimples. I’d like to use a night cream to regenerate my skin. Which one do you recommend? I live in Mexico. Thank you!
Hello doctor, I’m 27 years old, and I have expression lines around my eyes and on the sides of my mouth. What can I apply? I’m from Venezuela.
Can retinoic acid be used on legs with spots?
Hello doctor, I want to know if I can use this retinol cream to lighten a scar on my abdomen that’s over 3 years old? Or what would you recommend?
Hello, I’m Carolina from Cali, and I’m 40 years old. My question is: I have bags under my eyes, especially one that’s very prominent. Can these treatments help, or should I consider surgery?
Thank you.
Hello,
My name is Rosi, and my question is: I’ve been using retinol for a long time, but I buy it in stores like TJ Maxx and Ross. This week, I bought it again, and I feel like the cream is burning my face. Could it be that these stores sell old creams? Also, how can I get it at the pharmacy, and how should I apply it?
Thank you.
Marta, I used Retin A cream, and it helped me a lot, but now I can’t find it in any pharmacy in La Paz, Bolivia. How can I get it, or what cream do you recommend? Please help me. Thank you.
Hello… My dermatologist prescribed Redermic R, but my skin is oily, and it made me break out… Could you recommend another retinol cream to help with dark spots and reduce wrinkles? I’m 33 years old.
Hello, excuse me, can you recommend one for me since I’m 21 years old, and I have acne scars that disappeared but left marks? I’ve had microdermabrasion and a peel, but they didn’t work at all.
I’ve been using retinol creams for many years, since they first came out, thanks to the recommendation of a dermatologist who advised me to use Ystial by Avene. I’ve always used creams like that, and the result is that at 76 years old, I look 15 years younger than my friends of the same age (well, I admit that genetics play a part, of course). Right now, I’m using Redermic R by La Roche, which is very good, like all the lines sold only in pharmacies. My specific question is this: What night cream would you recommend for this season? I’m from Buenos Aires, and we’re heading into summer, and the sun radiation here is extremely high. It’s so high that in this area of Argentina, we have the second highest sun radiation after the Sahara. That’s why I’m unsure if I should continue using retinol during this time.
Thank you very much.
Hello, I’m Julia, and I’d like to know if I can use a retinol cream since I have small veins on my chin. I’ve been told it’s from circulation, and I have sensitive skin.
Hello, I’d like to know if I can use retinol creams. I have small veins on my chin and marks, and I have very sensitive skin. I’m 54 years old.
Hello Julia: There are also combinations of creams that you can use. I’m 55 years old. I used Roc Pro-define until a few months ago, and it worked well for me. Today I’m going to buy Roc Pro-renove for the day (Vitamin C) and Roc Pro-define (Retinol) for the night. They say it’s an excellent combination (I also read it in another place). To make the retinol work better at night, it’s good to apply Vitamin C during the day. Oh! There are also excellent non-invasive treatments for veins and marks at our age, and they’re not that expensive. (Intense Pulsed Light for spots and dilated pores, for example). Well, Julia, good luck!!!!
Monica, Argentina
I’m 58 years old, I have wrinkles on my forehead and around my eyes, as well as bags and dark circles. Which retinol cream do you recommend?
Hello, my name is Rosa, I’m 58, and I have many spots on my hands. Could you recommend something for me, please, with retinol?
Hello Rosa Arciniega: For the spots on your hands, IPL (Intense Pulsed Light). It’s excellent and not excessively expensive! (For example, for the neck and hands, in Argentina, it costs about 135 dollars in a reputable and trusted clinic where famous people go). Afterward, continue with creams for maintenance. Good luck!
AH! And always use sunscreen for your hands.
Hello, I’m from Venezuela and wanted to know which cream you recommend for me. I have a lot of sun damage, and my face looks bad with many expression lines around my eyes.
Greetings, I’m 28 years old, and I’m starting to notice wrinkles around my eyes and mouth. Also, I’m getting small mild sunspots, but I want to protect, prevent, and possibly eliminate them. Which cream do you recommend?
Retinol works great for this, but be careful not to touch the mucous membranes and avoid applying the retinol cream near your eyes
Buenos días dra. mi pregunta es a tenido resultados en personas con problemas de vitiligo el producto que menciona?
For vitiligo, retinol doesn’t work well because there’s a lack of melanocytes. These are attacked by the person’s own immune system. It lightens dark spots caused by melanin, but in this case, melanin doesn’t exist or is present in very small amounts.
Hello doctor, I’m 35 years old, and I have many wrinkles and spots. I live in Cúcuta (Colombia), and it’s very sunny here.
Would you recommend using creams with retinol?
Thank you.
Hello, I’m 52 years old, and my problems are expression lines and age-related wrinkles, especially crow’s feet when I smile. I always use anti-wrinkle cream twice a day, but I still look the same. Do you recommend any other cream?
Thank you.
Hello doctor, I’m using retinoic acid cream with aloe and vitamin A at 0.1%. Please tell me your recommendations for use. As stated at the beginning, the stinging was strong but bearable. How long does it take to eliminate melasma?
Hello, I’m 42 years old, and I use azelaic acid for acne and spots. Can I combine it with a cream that contains hyaluronic acid, and which one would it be? I live in Colombia.
Thank you.
Hello doc,
I’m 25 years old, from Barranquilla, Colombia.
I have many expression lines around my eyes and forehead.
What retinoid do you recommend, how should I use it, and in what amount? I’m very young, and there are many, especially when I smile.
Good evening… I have milia… is it useful for treatment because I need a cream with retinoids? It’s for the eye contour. I look forward to your response, thank you.
I have a large, dark spot on my forehead caused by the sun. I’ve tried to remove it with lemon and hydroquinone but without success. Would retinol help? Thanks.
Hello, good afternoon. I’m 31 years old and would like to know which cream I can use to prevent wrinkles, especially the lines forming around my mouth. They aren’t noticeable yet, but I want to prevent them. I honestly don’t know what skin type I have, I don’t think it’s very oily, but I have open pores, especially on my cheeks, and I’ve been getting a lot of pimples and blackheads, and dark scars sometimes appear because I tend to pick at them. Thank you.
For dark spots left by pimples, what can I use to make them disappear? These spots are on my arms.
If they are small or mild, a depigmenting cream should work. If they are more pronounced, retinoic acid or retinoids are better options. Retinol creams are a product from the same family.
Hello! Are the ones sold at pharmacies effective, those with retinoic acid, or is it better to use a commercial cream?