The best retinol creams for radiant skin

Best Retinol Cream: Our Favorites

Whether you struggle with wrinkles, suffer from acne, or just want a glowing complexion, a retinol cream could be the solution you've been looking for. We introduce you to our favorites.

Affiliate note about our recommendations

This article contains, among other things, product recommendations. We are free from third-party influence when selecting products. For a mediation via ourWhen a purchase or referral is made, we receive a commission from the relevant service provider/online shop, with the help of which we can continue to offer independent journalism.

From reducing wrinkles and acne to lightening pigmentation, retinol creams can do wonders for your skin.

The skin care industry is full of different products, all promising to improve skin and maintain a youthful appearance. However, one “ingredient” in particular has received a lot of attention in recent years – retinol. As a form of vitamin A, retinol has been shown to be extremely effective in treating skin problems such as acne, wrinkles and pigmentation.

The best retinol creams on the market

A retinol cream contains a concentrated amount of vitamin A, which penetrates deep into the skin and develops its effect there. It's high time we introduced you to our absolute favorites in more detail:

1. Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

Let's start with a real bestseller: ThisPaula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatmentis a highly concentrated retinol cream designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It contains an effective amount of retinol to renew the skin and promote collagen production. This cream is suitable for all skin types and can help achieve an even complexion.

2. La Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Aging Retinol Cream

DieLa Roche-Posay Redermic R Anti-Aging Retinol Creamis an intensive anti-aging cream that contains retinol to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This cream has a rich texture and is quickly absorbed into the skin. It can help improve skin texture and restore skin elasticity.

3. Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream

Those tooDrunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Creamis a powerful retinol cream that is great for improving the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation spots and blemishes. It contains a high concentration of retinol as well as soothing ingredients such as vitamin F and marula oil to minimize possible skin irritation. This cream can work to improve skin texture and promote a radiant complexion.

4. Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream

Let's continue with the care heroes: TheMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Creamis a luxurious retinol cream that is optimal for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It contains a unique combination of retinol, niacinamide and shea butter to firm and smooth the skin. This cream provides the skin with intensive moisture and helps to strengthen the skin barrier.

5. SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 Refining Night Cream

DieSkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3 Refining Night Creamis a milder cream suitable for beginners or those with sensitive skin. With a lower concentration of retinol, this cream helps improve the appearance of fine lines and pigmentation spots. It also contains soothing ingredients like bisabolol to minimize potential skin irritation.

6. M. Asam Retinol Intense 24h Cream

DieM. Asam Retinol Intense 24h Creamis again a rich retinol cream produced to revitalize the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. In addition to retinol, it also contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to moisturize the skin and protect it from harmful environmental influences. This cream can help improve skin texture and promote a youthful complexion.

7. Uncorrupted Beauty Retinol Nachtcreme

Another favorite is thisUncorrupted Beauty Retinol Nachtcreme: It contains an effective amount of retinol to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Free from parabens, sulfates and synthetic fragrances, this cream can help improve skin texture and promote skin renewal.

8. L'Oréal Paris Retinol and Niacinamide Night Cream

Favorite from the drugstore: TheL'Oréal Paris Retinol and Niacinamide Night Creamis an affordable retinol cream designed to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and pigmentation. It contains a combination of retinol and niacinamide to renew skin and promote a radiant complexion. This cream is quickly absorbed into the skin and leaves the skin feeling pleasant.

9. Elizabeth Arden Retinol and HPR Ceramide Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream

DieElizabeth Arden Retinol and HPR Ceramide Rapid Skin Renewing Water Creamis a lightweight retinol cream formulated with ceramides to intensely hydrate the skin. It contains retinol and HPR (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. This cream can help improve skin texture and promote a radiant complexion.

10. Neutrogena Retinol Boost+ Intense Care Cream

The list rounds offNeutrogena Retinol Boost+ Intense Care Creamab – a particularly moisturizing retinol cream to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and pigment spots. It contains a combination of retinol and hyaluronic acid to smooth and hydrate the skin.

What exactly is retinol?

Retinol is a form of, which is used in many skin care products. It has been proven to be extremely effective in treating skin problems such as acne, wrinkles andproven. A retinol cream contains a concentrated amount of vitamin A, which penetrates deep into the skin and develops its effect there.

The benefits of a retinol cream

A retinol cream offers numerous benefits for the skin:

  • It promotes cell renewal, improves collagen production and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
  • In addition, it can also help treat acne by clearing pores and reducing inflammation.
  • A retinol cream also helps lighten pigment spots and gives the skin a radiant complexion.

Application of retinol creams

To achieve the best results with a retinol cream, it is important to use it correctly.

  • Start with a small amount and apply to cleansed skin in the evening.
  • Avoid contact with the eyes and do not combine the retinol cream directly with other strong active ingredients such as vitamin C or glycolic acid.
  • Also, start with a lower concentration and gradually increase it to avoid possible skin irritation.

At what age should I start taking retinol?

It is recommended to start using retinol in your late 20s or early 30s as this is when skin aging gradually begins. However, it is important to note that every skin type is different and has individual needs. If you have specific skin concerns or are unsure about using retinol, I recommend consulting a dermatologist for a tailored recommendation.

Side effects and precautions

Although retinol offers many benefits, side effects can also occur if used improperly. These include redness, flaking and dryness of the skin. To avoid this, introduce the retinol cream slowly and always use sunscreen, as retinol can make the skin more sensitive to UV rays.

When should you not use retinol?

There are certain situations in which it is recommended to avoid using retinol. Here are some cases where you should be careful or avoid using retinol:

  1. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: It is recommended to avoid using retinol during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Although there is no clear evidence of negative effects, it is better to be safe than sorry as high doses of retinol can potentially be harmful to the unborn child.
  2. Sensitive skin: Those with sensitive skin should exercise caution when using retinol. The active ingredient may initially cause skin irritation such as redness, flaking or dryness. Start with a lower concentration and gradually increase it to acclimate the skin to the retinol. If severe irritation occurs, you should reduce or avoid using retinol.
  3. Skin diseases: For certain skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea or dermatitis, using retinol may cause additional irritation. In such cases, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist before using retinol.
  4. Sunburn or open wounds: Avoid using retinol on sun-damaged skin or open wounds. Retinol can increase skin sensitivity and delay healing.

Retinol Creme oder Retinol Serum?

The choice between retinol cream anddepends on your individual skin needs and preferences. Both products contain retinol, which is an effective ingredient for improving skin. Here are some differences that may help you decide:

  1. texture: Retinol creams tend to have a richer texture and are ideal for those with dry or normal skin. They provide intense moisture and can help strengthen the skin barrier. Retinol serums, on the other hand, have a lighter texture and are often suitable for people with oily or combination skin.
  2. concentration: Retinol creams often contain a lower concentration of retinol, while retinol serums may have a higher concentration. If you have sensitive skin or are new to using retinol, a lower concentration cream may be more suitable. Higher concentration serums may be more effective at treating specific skin concerns such as wrinkles or acne.
  3. Application: Creams are typically applied as the last step in your skincare routine, after you've cleansed your face and used other products like toner or serum. They can be applied to large areas and provide long-lasting moisturization. Serums are often used before moisturizer because their light texture allows them to penetrate deeper into the skin and work faster.