The superhero ingredient in the most powerful anti-aging skin-care products (and arguably in dermatology in general)is, and always has been, retinol. This isn’t a new revelation—experts have touted this ingredient as a powerful line smoother for ages, a worthwhile staple in almost any skin-care routine. When applied to the skin, the topical vitamin A derivative works on different layers of the skin. On the upper the layers of the skin, it stimulates cell turnover and has an exfoliating effect; this helps remove dead skin cells to improve skin texture, tone, and even ward off breakouts. But it also goes to work on the deeper layers of the skin, where it boosts collagen production to help treat and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. The final result? A smoother, clearer, more youthful complexion after about three months of consistent use.
But it hasn’t always been easy to find a retinol cream or retinol serum that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Only in the past few years have more affordable and accessible options become available to the general public. Of all the nonprescription, non-prestige retinol offerings now on shelves, what actually works? We asked six derms for their favorite picks that fall under $50. Spoiler: you can find many of these retinol products in your local drugstore.
Related: Retinol vs. Vitamin C for Skincare: Know the Difference and What’s Right for You
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Hyaluronic Acid Night Moisturizer ($18)
“This is a great over-the-counter retinol product, formulated with hyaluronic acid to combat dryness, while the retinol helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and discoloration or dark spots. The ingredients are of good quality [and] free of parabens and dyes, so it’s great for dry, sensitive skin. I have never had anyone complain about any skin reaction or irritation with this retinol. It’s also readily available.” —La Jolla, California, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi
Roc Deep Wrinkle Night Cream ($25)
“[This] night cream is great because it contains pure retinol with a mineral complex [containing zinc gluconate, magnesium aspartate, and copper gluconate]. Minerals are crucial for healthy skin—helping to keep pH levels balanced while playing an important role in cell structure. Most important, [the retinol cream is] oil-free and noncomedogenic, so you don’t have to worry about breakouts. It goes on smoothly, and patients see visible results.” —New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sapna Palep
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer ($39)
“This has retinol and peptides, for powerful anti-aging effects, [and] includes niacinamide, to soothe and combat irritation and dryness. [Plus it’s] formulated by a trusted brand.” —Danville, California, board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sonia Badreshia-Bansal
Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Regenerating Face Cream ($32)
“You can’t beat the price of this [cream], and Neutrogena always makes quality products that are gentle for almost any skin type. It delivers hyaluronic acid and a high concentration of [a fast-acting ingredient called] accelerated retinol SA—[which combines retinol, a glucose complex, and hyaluronic acid]—deep into the skin’s surface. It smooths the appearance of fine lines and helps with evening and brightening skin tone.” —Boston board-certified dermatopathologist Dr. Gretchen Frieling
Related: 9 Retinols That Rival Their Rx Counterparts
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion ($10)
“For less expensive retinoids, I am interested in The Ordinary’s new retinoid formulation, which contains all-trans-retinoic acid. This technology is able to deliver the benefits of a retinoid without the irritation associated with it. The combination of [nonprescription] all-trans-retinoic acid with traditional retinol gives you the best of both worlds, providing the effectiveness of retinol while mitigating some of the unpleasant side effects, such as dry skin. The [brand] combines this retinoid technology, in a light but creamy base, with a little bit of traditional retinol and some plant-based antioxidants, to make a popular formula. —New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jessica Krant
Differin Gel ($29)
“The most effective retinoid that’s available otc at a great price point is Differin, a form of adapalene. Retinoids are wonderful for helping with skin cell turnover and exfoliating, improving the signs of sun damage, and inducing collagen [production] over time. They can be drying and irritating when first started, so I recommend using two nights per week in the beginning and working your way up to using nightly as you see how your skin can tolerate it.” —Seattle board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sonia Lamel
