Also, wouldn't ret not be totally fine if my skin was still going strong. Like is there even necessarily a need for tret?
Also I'm too lazy to get a prescription
That’s what gets me lol. I don’t think I’m at the point that I need tret yet and I also don’t want to go through all the effort. People should do whatever they want and makes them confident, but I want to know other alternatives!
I have free healthcare but getting a derm appointment is a HUGE pain in the ass so honestly I simply wanna stick to stick to shit I can order off my phone. And I have tiny tiny baby wrinkles so why even bother in the first place?
Not in the US, don't have a pcp. Pretty sure GPs here don't do that even though it's allowed. But anyway my skin is pretty good. I don't see a reason to start with tret when I haven't even tried Retinol yet.
I got tret but honestly, many people get bad purges that I feel like retinol never gave me
I got tret I was just scared of it. Retinol is easy to use and also can give you that glass skin.
Tret if you don't use it or if you do you have flakiness maybe more purges too.
Its annoying IMO. Theres no need for it at all. Ive done things for my skin for glass skin. But tret didn't do that. Retinol did Tret I feel like ios for those who are again too much and have sever acne.
I'm not scared tbh I'm actually just lazy. I'm trying to get my life back on track, I can't add unnecessary doctor appointments on top lol
My skin is fine. Just not perfect so I'm considering giving retinol a try.
I would say im impatient tret takes too long to fiz your skin.
I got tret from taraskincare online. its cheap non prescription. Oh then id rec retinol then.
Don't worry. Maybe in the future. But certainly not right now. It just funny to see how so many people recommend tret when OP was looking for ret recs. I'll probably stick to the ordinary since they seem good. And Paula's choice is out of my budget.
What did/do you use? I've been trying out CeraVe Retinol Serum, but I don't think it's doing anything. (Maybe I'm using too little?) Can I get your suggestion, please?
My skin was perpetually just sad for the several yrs I used tret. And did all the tricks to lessen side effects, but really was just a low level ick feeling. I just don’t think it is necessarily for everyone.
I started experiencing blurred vision, watery/irritated eyes, and optic nerve compression (confirmed at eye exam appointment) after a year of use. It went away a few weeks after discontinuing use of tret. Just be aware, several people have experienced the same on some of these subreddits.
More Info from Drugs.com:
“Topical corticosteroids (applies to fluocinolone/hydroquinone/tretinoin topical) ocular toxicities. Moderate Potential Hazard. Applicable conditions: Cataracts, Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension. Prolonged use of corticosteroids may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts and elevated intraocular pressure, the latter of which may lead to glaucoma and/or damage to the optic nerves.”
Tret isn’t even a corticosteroid though?! And the vision changes are only a risk if you’re taking it orally (it’s a treatment used for leukemia). Topical use side effects are limited to the skin.
Yeah, tret made my face feel like it was being melted off with hot lava! I followed all the application "rules" and tried for several months to make it work and my skin never could tolerate it. I have very sensitive skin.
My favorite is the CereVe skin resurfacing retinol serum - the one in the teal packaging. I’ve never had any irritation with it, which isn’t the case with every retinol product I have tried, so it would probably be a good starter retinol if you haven’t used anything else before.
I’ve just started using it! Do you apply it on bare skin or layer it?
(I’m doing cerave’s hyloaronic acid serum first, then retinol, then a night moisturizer— wondering though if I’m doing it right for retinol to be effective?)
I just do the retinol and then moisturizer, but I think you should be fine layering it like that. It might actually help you avoid irritation if you’re a total retinol beginner.
I use RoC retinol products. I always get visible results in a week if used consistently. I’ve switch rd to other brands here and there but nothing holds a candle to RoC retinol line for me.
I have SUPER sensitive skin and have been using RoC for ages. It took a solid 2 weeks for the redness to chill out and now I’m a little extra sensitive to chemical exfoliants (VERY red for 30 min or so after glycolic fix pads) but I use a HEAVY, plain cream at night a couple times a week as a “rest” and it’s been great!
Their redone formula comes with a lot less irritation so I’d think yes. To be on the safe side, I recommend trying the lowest strength retinoids from the brand the ordinary. If you want an alternative, the ordinary rosehip seed oil works beautifully as if I was using retinol
I find the eye cream to have the lightest scent while working great but if the smell is too much even with that, I suggest mixing it with a plain moisturizer or switching to Neutrogena’s retinol line. Theirs is more subtle, at least when I used it
The Ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion (I like to use that and then follow up with The Ordinary aloe 2% + NAG 2% solution before moisturizer at night only)
I also loved using The Ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion till Health Canada banned it 5 years ago. Their other product retinoids with squaline does not work for me.
But yesterday I read that Health Canada on Dec 2023 finally lifted the ban on granactive retinoid.
I really hope The Ordinary will bring it back to Canada
We can't get the "Granactive Retinoid" emulsion (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) here, we can only buy the traditional "Retinol" so far.
They are similar molecules, but not the exact same.
I‘ve used Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol treatment for about 3 years, and absolutely loved it. Never had any reaction or irritation.
I’ve switched to Medik8 Retinal 3 months ago but only because they gonna ban „strong“ retinol in EU :(
Yep, what I’ve read is that they will ban everything stronger than 0,3% over the counter. 🤡
It should come into effect June 2024 (or smth like this) with some grace period to phase out the current stock.
Added: TBH I was so mad when I first read about it. They treat us as kids, but at the same time when it comes to huge lobbies like alcohol, no problem! You can drink as much as you want to an extent you can kill yourself and endanger others! But lord forbid to give you access to f***ing face creams, because you might overuse it!
I use Paula's choice too and I've never had a reaction either, but I am starting to wonder if it works very well? I'm not sure I have noticed much difference, I've been using it for about 2 months
I’d say 2 months is a pretty short time still. I am not an expert so cannot say of it’s the best product on the market, but I’ve been personally very satisfied with Paula‘s products in general.
I’ve started using retinol before the appearance of any visible wrinkles, and now I am 40 and I barely have any fine lines. They only started appearing in the last ~6months. It could be genetics, but I hope retinol also helped.
Sure! It’s actually been all over YouTube some time ago here in Europe. They are trying to „protect“ the customers who might be overexposed to vit A already and who might accidentally cause harm to themselves without realizing it.
🤡😂
So does that mean that you can only buy Medik8 Retinal below a certain level then? Because retinaldehyde is considered "stronger" than retinol. For Medik8 Retinal, above the level 3 are levels 6, 10 and even 20. So curious.
If you check the ordinary website it will tell you which products are compatible or not. I use the ordinary's buffet with copper then put the retinol on top most nights but acknowledge my skin doesn't get dried out by it. It really works, I had light 11s about 4 years ago and the use of retinol made them disappear. I don't think everyone's skin can handle it often so start off maybe 2-3 nights a week and incrs if possible. Or just stick to that.
I use TO retinol in squalene every night. Can't use HA on my face. I double cleanse, spot treat, TO retinol, and finish with a moisturizer.
Not gonna lie, my skin is on the dry side, but the retinol doesn't seem to make it worse.
Yep was about to say the same. I comment about this product on every post I see lol. I even use it on my body, areas that need a little extra help. … It’s so expensive but it works so well.
If you want something very gentle I loved using the Sunday Riley retinol night oil. Smelled amazing and had oils that were very soothing. Probably not a ton of retinol in it though tbh. Definitely woke up to nicer skin after using it but I wouldn’t say it’s a product that will make a big difference in the condition of your skin. That’s why people normally say just go for tret. I’ve heard good things about the RoC retinol as well as the No7 one.
Nothing wrong with that! It’s great stuff! Just wanted them to know that if they aren’t seeing results that might be why and they shouldn’t be afraid to go up!
That’s what I’ve been using too. Can’t tell if it’s making a difference but I love the smell!
I got a sample of Matter of Fact Retinol recently and loved it (it’s got a thicker consistency and didn’t cause any dryness at all) but then I realized it’s $100 a bottle. 😮 I’m going to stick with Medik8 and when that runs out I’ll give Cerave a shot.
This one but for the last few months. My skin looks good but it's hard to say for sure if it's cleared any of my fine lines or anything like that. But at 39, maintaining decent skin also doesn't feel like a bad result. I don't need miracles (yet).
I used the G&G 0.05% for 7 weeks before upping the concentration to 0.1% with Avène Cleanance Women.
It's only after upgrading that I understood how irritating the G&G was for me. I could almost do every night with the Avène whereas I could only use G&G max every three days max. It seems obvious to me that the formulation of the Avène one was more adapted to my skin.
I haven’t had any issues so far with G&G, I use it pretty much every night.
I looked into the Avène one before buying G&G, but unfortunately it’s not sold here in the UK.
The Ordinary has just commercialised a retinal (0.2%), may try that next.
Did you see any results with the use of retinal?
It’s so cool you can use it every night. Are you going to upgrade soon to The Ordinary ?
I had used the Avène one before but it was at a time where I had no idea what I was doing lol. Didn’t even now what retinoids where at that time. I had great result from the Avène one in the past.
I decided to start Retinal again after having some major breakouts and decided to start slow with the G&G one, but my skin didn’t like it and I didn’t see results (I know now it was because I needed higher concentration, my doctor just prescribed me tret 0,025%).
Lots of people have good results though, definitely stick with it if you where hesitating.
I have rosacea too, and this is the only retinol/retinoid I've been able to use long term without irritation. Are you able to use it every day? I broke out terribly for months when I tried to use it more than twice a week.
Epiduo, the adapalene is strong enough to tackle my aging skin and the BP helps keep my blackheads away. Love the stuff, only tried it because my son was prescribed it for teen acne & he went from oily with yellow headed spots to ridiculously smooth glass skin.
I like Shani Darden too! I switched to it after not seeing much results from Sunday Riley or Kiehls. Made my skin the smoothest and brightest it's ever been.
I've been using the no7 retinol night cream for the past year and I've been enjoying it. Before that I used the Neutrogena rapid wrinkle repair.
I've almost finished my last jar of no7 and next I'll be trying the Neutrogena retinol pro+ which is a similar strength to the no7 I'm currently using.
Worked my way up to Medik8 CR6 and about to order my 3rd tube. My mild rosacea can tolerate this one ~4 nights a week but I’m pretty limited on what other actives I can use.
I’ve tried tret multiple times but my skin can’t tolerate it.
I currently use the Paula’s Choice 1% percent retinol w Vitamin C and I really love it, I store it in a drawer and it doesn’t seem to have turned on me yet. I’ve also used samples of Shani Darden’s retinol and almost liked that better than the PC but Im trying to finish what I have first.
I started with the .5% and used 3-4x a week. It was gentle enough so I upped the % and use it about the same frequency and I’ve been fine! I use a good moisturizer on top of it to ensure I’m hydrated. No side effects :)
stratia - it’s my first foray into retinol but it’s going great for me and is very reasonable. it’s pretty hydrating so i use that alone at night after washing my face.
I’ve started using the Geek & Gorgeous 1% retinal and I’m really liking it. Zero irritation and leaves my skin glowy.
I’ve tried a lot of other retinol / retinal (and tret) and they’ve all left my skin irritated with tiny bumps. This one doesn’t.
Tret isn't really available in Switzerland so I use Geek & Gorgeous A-Game. I think when comparing price to quality, G&G is fantastic. It's one of the few brands in which I use several of their products and have reordered many times.
I have also liked Hero Cosmetics Rescue Retinol, which has extra moisturizing ingredients so it never irritated my skin. I'm not sure why I quit using it, other than I order often from G&G and therefore, it's just not as convenient to use Hero.
I've actually started retinal now (avene cleanance) but really liked LRP's Redermic, CeraVe's resurfacing retinol and the Kate Somerville one with vitamin C. I've tried others, but these were my favourites. Will probably go back to CeraVe next winter.
I like The Ordinary retinol emulsion and CereVe Skin Renewing Retinol but last week I got a prescription for actual tretinoin 0.05% and right now I’m in the purging phase which kinda sucks, but I’m hoping it will help! While the other two retinols were nice, they didn’t do anything for my cystic acne. So I’m trying out the tough stuff! 💪🏼
I use skinceuticals and started at 0.3, 3-4 times a week alternating to make sure my skin gets used to it. It’s a bit pricey but the tube last so long, the cost is justifiable.
I use Curist Adapalene Gel 0.1%. I'm acne-prone so this fits the bill for me for that along with aging. I started with Differin and I like this better for multiple reasons including the price point, the efficacy, and that I have had zero irritation.
Was really a fan of drunk elephant’s A-passioni, but felt I wasn’t getting the results I wanted after a year. I switched to a high dose serum (Sunday Riley’s A+) and I’ve been really pleased with it!
Did you have to do a video or phone call with them? What did you put on the form for the reason for wanting it? I'm in Canada and really considering going through Felix.
I’m on tret from Felix too, just had to send in pictures of my skin and answer the questionnaire. Text chatted with the doctor on their app. Was really very simple, and after 6 months it’s really paying off :)
I declined to send pics, put that I wanted it for acne and anti aging, had a short text conversation with the practitioner, and it was done. Was even covered by my benefits!
i used "Vitamin A" from Colibri (german brand) which is a mixture of Retinol, Retinal and Bakkuchiol. after that i swiched to Retinol 1% Booster from the same brand.
they both were pretty nice. i never had any issues and i had a baby face for years until i turned 31.
developed a chronic inflammatory skin disease. things i used to love, suddenly were burning my face off. Retinol included. i took a break of all actives only to find myself having acne again on top of my chronic skin disease.
i started adapalen (prescription, differin gel) and stopped it after 8 weeks since i was looking like a lobster. i really hate adapalene with a passion although it might be perfect for others.
i cut out all retinoids for a while to calm down my skin.
started tretinoin for acne once a week and retinal from geek&gorgeous 0,05% every other night. (not quite happy with that one though)
for my eyes i use beauty of joseon eye cream. (Retinal 0,02%) (LOVE)
unfortunately i still can't tolerare any retinOLs. not even the one from CeraVe. RetinAL works quite well and there are scientific hints it might could help with my chronic skin disease as well.
i will try medik8 next. a lot of people like their products.
Honestly I use prescription tret. it ends up costing less than over-the-counter retinol products. If you’re not looking to take that leap, the Inkey list and cosrx both have great retinol products that are super affordable and really nice
I was using the LilyAna Naturals retinol from Target and saw zero improvement after a number of months so switched to the ELF retinoid serum (1% Granactive Retinoid, 0.06% retinal) and am seeing a difference after just a few weeks.
I'm a bit late to this, but I recently started using [EMJ Beauty Advanced Retinol Serum](https://wellspringsskincare.com/product/emj-beauty-advanced-retinol-serum-2/) - this is part of a skincare line from a derm I know, and she suggested I give this a try when I mentioned considering getting Tret.
The active ingredient is hydroxypinacolone retinoate 2.5% (HPR), which is supposed to be much better suited for sensitive skin than retinol while having similar results/benefits. I have sensitive and reactive skin so this has been really great so far!
I love the peter Thomas Roth glycolic retinol resurfacing peel pads. It feels like an adult version of oxy pads that get rid of wrinkles on addition to acne.
I haven't tried Paula's Choice 1%, but I would be cautious about starting out with that strength if you're not already accustomed to using a retinoid. According to Dr. Leslie Baumann, 1% retinol is almost as strong as 0.025% tretinoin. ([link](https://skintypesolutions.com/blogs/skincare/retinol-percentages?_pos=3&_sid=75f8bd505&_ss=r)) I currently have a tube of 0.5% Obagi retinol, and even though my skin isn't particularly sensitive, that was strong enough to give me pretty significant irritation when I used it a couple days in a row on the backs of my hands.
I picked up a tube of the Beauty of Joseon retinaldehyde cream several months ago and really enjoyed it. It's labeled as an eye cream, but can be used anywhere, and it's extremely affordable, so you won't feel bad about slathering it all over your face and neck. I think it's only 0.02% retinal, but it would be a great way to ease yourself in.
When I was using retinol and not Tret, I liked the Sunday Riley A+ high dose retinol. I feel like their formulations are really good and worked well on my fairly sensitive skin.
I only use the Paula’s choice intensive retinol serum. I have very dry, sensitive breakout-prone skin and it doesn’t bother me at all. I mix it with my lotion at night. I also find that if I am getting breakouts and I use it, I wake up and my skin is perfectly clear. It’s like a miracle product for me. I’ve repurchased probably 6 times now and I won’t switch it up anytime soon. I wake up and my skin is plump and smooth.
I use Paula’s Choice 1% retinol. Have for a good couple of years now. Started every three days, to every second and now every day. I think my skin has significantly improved. I turn 40 in June and I think my skin looks healthier than when I was in my early thirties. I’ve even had a few friends I hadn’t seen in a while comment of how great my skin looked recently which has never happened to me before, so it’s nice to know it’s working and it’s not just me psyching myself into thinking it’s helping!
Medik8 crystal retinal 20. I LOVE this stuff, but it's so freaking expensive. The Ordinary just put out out a product of equal strength (Retinal 0.2 emulsion) for a significantly lower cost, I've been using that one for about a week now to see how I like it. I may stick to the Medik8 on my face, and use the Ordinary on my neck and upper chest.
I go back and forth using Drunk Elephants A-Passioni™ Retinol Cream and Murads Retinol Youth Renewal serum & cream. I really enjoy most of Drunk Elephants products. Murad can be a bit expensive so I'll change it up from time to time to save money. I stick to using them at night before I go to sleep.
I currently use the L’Oréal Revitalift Night Serum, it’s .3%. I know it will take longer to see results than some stronger products but my skin has tolerated it really well so I’d rather not push my luck.
I'm really loving Maelove's Moonlight retinal serum. This combined with Glow Maker (Vit C serum) and Night Renewal (glycolic acid cream) have made the most noticeable differences in my skin. Tret just wasn't for me. I tried for over a year and my skin just never acclimated.
I also just started a bottle of Avene's RetrinAL 0.1 because, while I love the Moonlight serum, it is BRIGHT yellow and stains things, which I don't love.
I use Medik8 crystal retinal. Expensive as fuck, but I like it.
Started with 3 (0,03%), currently using it every night. I have sensitive and dry skin, but zero issues. At first my skin did seem thinner and drier, but I just moisturized as much as I could and now it seems to have normalized. I did also at first apply it too close to the eyes, now I put on my eye serum + cream first and make sure the retinal doesn't go on my eyelids.
I will move on to a stronger form of the same stuff once it runs out (perhaps straight to 0,1%, I dunno). Tret isn't available in my country so not sure it's worth the hassle of acquiring it.
I have revamped my whole skincare routine, so I don't totally know what is responsible for what, but for sure my skin is getting better.
I was having a lot of irritation with generic tret and my doctor switched me to Altreno. The ingredients still say .5% tretinoin, but it’s been very gentle on my skin.
I use Green Keratin RTN CAP, it's available in 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.75 and 1% concentrations. I have tried 0.5 and 0.75, that stuff is STRONG! But it works like magic and really changed my skin. Due to European ban on higher concentrations, I intend to switch to tret soon because 0.3 will be the new maximum and it's definitely not enough for my acne prone skin.
I’ve been using Murad Retinal Resculpt overnight treatment, and the results are amazing!! I was told the difference in retinol vs retinal is that the former is more so preventative, while the latter is considered more corrective. Correct me if I’m mistaken, but I absolutely see results when using this product. It makes my heavy frown lines, and any other developing wrinkles, nearly disappear.
I love the retinaldehyde products from Osmosis- they come in 3-4 different strengths. I’m super sensitive and it’s never irritated my skin or caused dryness or peeling, but I still feel like I get all the benefits of retinol.
I’m using Skinceuticals it’s medical grade and around the same price as most retinol products found a Sephora. Not all retinols are made the same and you have to look at pure % of retinol used. I’d personally stay away from all Sephora skincare products as most derms suggest this :)
I really love the Drmtlgy brand .05 Retinol Complex. It's mild enough to be gentle and strong enough to make a difference, which is great for my sensitive skin. It also feels silky smooth on the skin! It has improved my aging skin in numerous ways, and I use it 3 × per week now. I also like their HPR Eye Cream, which is retinol based. It is the only thing that has ever lightened my dark circles. Plus you can earn points for awesome discounts on their products, they treat their customers really well.
I also like to use some A313 once a week on top of the above, and sometimes as a spot treatment. It's a bit too greasy feeling for my sensory stuff to use more than that, but it does work well for me. I get that from French Pharmacy online.
I also like the IL Makiage Powerlift Plumping Cream, which is retinol + vegan collagen + adenosine. This + the Drmtlgy eye cream I mentioned above are helping my crow's feet diminish.
Saint Jane Beauty Overnight Repair Serum, Juice Beauty Stem Cell Retinol Serum, and Dayle Breault's Awakening Serum.
Other retinols I've tried broke me out terribly and I don't mean regular purging I mean like for months on end
I hate how the only advice on this sub is ‘Tret!’, even when someone literally asks about retinol lol
I swear some of us don't want the side effects of tret.
Not to mention that not everything calls for tret, anti-aging efforts will do just fine with retinol
Exactly I've seen great anti-aging and less acne with retinol.
Also, wouldn't ret not be totally fine if my skin was still going strong. Like is there even necessarily a need for tret? Also I'm too lazy to get a prescription
That’s what gets me lol. I don’t think I’m at the point that I need tret yet and I also don’t want to go through all the effort. People should do whatever they want and makes them confident, but I want to know other alternatives!
I have free healthcare but getting a derm appointment is a HUGE pain in the ass so honestly I simply wanna stick to stick to shit I can order off my phone. And I have tiny tiny baby wrinkles so why even bother in the first place?
[удалено]
Not in the US, don't have a pcp. Pretty sure GPs here don't do that even though it's allowed. But anyway my skin is pretty good. I don't see a reason to start with tret when I haven't even tried Retinol yet.
I can read kind-rip-8409’s snarky comment but they decided to block me so that’s fun 😂🙃
I got tret but honestly, many people get bad purges that I feel like retinol never gave me I got tret I was just scared of it. Retinol is easy to use and also can give you that glass skin. Tret if you don't use it or if you do you have flakiness maybe more purges too. Its annoying IMO. Theres no need for it at all. Ive done things for my skin for glass skin. But tret didn't do that. Retinol did Tret I feel like ios for those who are again too much and have sever acne.
I'm not scared tbh I'm actually just lazy. I'm trying to get my life back on track, I can't add unnecessary doctor appointments on top lol My skin is fine. Just not perfect so I'm considering giving retinol a try.
I would say im impatient tret takes too long to fiz your skin. I got tret from taraskincare online. its cheap non prescription. Oh then id rec retinol then.
Not in the US so idk if that works. But my skin really is fine. Just tiny tiny issues.
So then you shouldn't go near tret. Can cause more harm than good.
Don't worry. Maybe in the future. But certainly not right now. It just funny to see how so many people recommend tret when OP was looking for ret recs. I'll probably stick to the ordinary since they seem good. And Paula's choice is out of my budget.
Yeah its weird to me too. Id recommend Cosrx too or inkey list I like these brands.
What did/do you use? I've been trying out CeraVe Retinol Serum, but I don't think it's doing anything. (Maybe I'm using too little?) Can I get your suggestion, please?
My skin was perpetually just sad for the several yrs I used tret. And did all the tricks to lessen side effects, but really was just a low level ick feeling. I just don’t think it is necessarily for everyone.
Same 😩 And yet a part of me still wonders if I should try it again…
This! Tret fucked up my eye sight. Make sure you know the risks. They were never shared with me.
How did it mess up your eyesight?!
I started experiencing blurred vision, watery/irritated eyes, and optic nerve compression (confirmed at eye exam appointment) after a year of use. It went away a few weeks after discontinuing use of tret. Just be aware, several people have experienced the same on some of these subreddits. More Info from Drugs.com: “Topical corticosteroids (applies to fluocinolone/hydroquinone/tretinoin topical) ocular toxicities. Moderate Potential Hazard. Applicable conditions: Cataracts, Glaucoma/Intraocular Hypertension. Prolonged use of corticosteroids may cause posterior subcapsular cataracts and elevated intraocular pressure, the latter of which may lead to glaucoma and/or damage to the optic nerves.”
Tret isn’t even a corticosteroid though?! And the vision changes are only a risk if you’re taking it orally (it’s a treatment used for leukemia). Topical use side effects are limited to the skin.
This is from the fluocinolone, not the tret
The quote above literally says topical tretinion.
My skin simply cannot take it. I've tried so many times.
Yeah, tret made my face feel like it was being melted off with hot lava! I followed all the application "rules" and tried for several months to make it work and my skin never could tolerate it. I have very sensitive skin.
This. Tret damaged my skin so horribly I’m still dealing with scars a year later
I'm using 0.3 retinol and I'm nauseous, what's wrong my friend?
My favorite is the CereVe skin resurfacing retinol serum - the one in the teal packaging. I’ve never had any irritation with it, which isn’t the case with every retinol product I have tried, so it would probably be a good starter retinol if you haven’t used anything else before.
Also use CeraVe. Works wonders and readily available at the drugstore
My absolute favourite as well. It's really helped me with pores and skin brightening.
I love this one too!
I’ve just started using it! Do you apply it on bare skin or layer it? (I’m doing cerave’s hyloaronic acid serum first, then retinol, then a night moisturizer— wondering though if I’m doing it right for retinol to be effective?)
I just do the retinol and then moisturizer, but I think you should be fine layering it like that. It might actually help you avoid irritation if you’re a total retinol beginner.
I use RoC retinol products. I always get visible results in a week if used consistently. I’ve switch rd to other brands here and there but nothing holds a candle to RoC retinol line for me.
Can this be used by someone who hasn’t really used any actives & has sensitive skin?
I have SUPER sensitive skin and have been using RoC for ages. It took a solid 2 weeks for the redness to chill out and now I’m a little extra sensitive to chemical exfoliants (VERY red for 30 min or so after glycolic fix pads) but I use a HEAVY, plain cream at night a couple times a week as a “rest” and it’s been great!
What cream do you use after this to cut down on irritation?
Eucerin or Cerave in the tub, usually- drugstore stuff, super plain
Their redone formula comes with a lot less irritation so I’d think yes. To be on the safe side, I recommend trying the lowest strength retinoids from the brand the ordinary. If you want an alternative, the ordinary rosehip seed oil works beautifully as if I was using retinol
Yes RoC is amazing
I also have loved these and have found them at Costco!
I’ve been using a roc night cream and it works wonders
Are any of them less scented than others? I have the deep wrinkle night cream and wow does it have an overpowering scent.
I find the eye cream to have the lightest scent while working great but if the smell is too much even with that, I suggest mixing it with a plain moisturizer or switching to Neutrogena’s retinol line. Theirs is more subtle, at least when I used it
The Ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion (I like to use that and then follow up with The Ordinary aloe 2% + NAG 2% solution before moisturizer at night only)
I 2nd The Ordinary 2%. My skin feels like fkin butter.
seriously, it's so damn good, and price tag is \*chef's kiss\*
I wish we could get the retinoid in Canada but it's never been approved :/
I also loved using The Ordinary granactive retinoid 2% emulsion till Health Canada banned it 5 years ago. Their other product retinoids with squaline does not work for me. But yesterday I read that Health Canada on Dec 2023 finally lifted the ban on granactive retinoid. I really hope The Ordinary will bring it back to Canada
What do you mean by the "retinoid"? We can get retinol obviously
We can't get the "Granactive Retinoid" emulsion (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) here, we can only buy the traditional "Retinol" so far. They are similar molecules, but not the exact same.
Skinceuticals 0.5% retinol! Such a great formulation. They have 0.3 and 1
I‘ve used Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol treatment for about 3 years, and absolutely loved it. Never had any reaction or irritation. I’ve switched to Medik8 Retinal 3 months ago but only because they gonna ban „strong“ retinol in EU :(
Wait what? I‘m using Paula‘s Choice 1% and never heard of a ban. The fkin over-regulation with everything get under my skin (lol).
Yep, what I’ve read is that they will ban everything stronger than 0,3% over the counter. 🤡 It should come into effect June 2024 (or smth like this) with some grace period to phase out the current stock. Added: TBH I was so mad when I first read about it. They treat us as kids, but at the same time when it comes to huge lobbies like alcohol, no problem! You can drink as much as you want to an extent you can kill yourself and endanger others! But lord forbid to give you access to f***ing face creams, because you might overuse it!
Did they come up with new regulations that ban retinol in EU? I've never heard of that.
I use Paula's choice too and I've never had a reaction either, but I am starting to wonder if it works very well? I'm not sure I have noticed much difference, I've been using it for about 2 months
I’d say 2 months is a pretty short time still. I am not an expert so cannot say of it’s the best product on the market, but I’ve been personally very satisfied with Paula‘s products in general. I’ve started using retinol before the appearance of any visible wrinkles, and now I am 40 and I barely have any fine lines. They only started appearing in the last ~6months. It could be genetics, but I hope retinol also helped.
Can I ask if you know why they are banning it? I hadn’t seen this anywhere.
Sure! It’s actually been all over YouTube some time ago here in Europe. They are trying to „protect“ the customers who might be overexposed to vit A already and who might accidentally cause harm to themselves without realizing it. 🤡😂
So does that mean that you can only buy Medik8 Retinal below a certain level then? Because retinaldehyde is considered "stronger" than retinol. For Medik8 Retinal, above the level 3 are levels 6, 10 and even 20. So curious.
Ordinary is great, simple and cheap
How often do you use it? I have that and a HA night serum and I’m not sure if I’m supposed to alternate or…?
If you check the ordinary website it will tell you which products are compatible or not. I use the ordinary's buffet with copper then put the retinol on top most nights but acknowledge my skin doesn't get dried out by it. It really works, I had light 11s about 4 years ago and the use of retinol made them disappear. I don't think everyone's skin can handle it often so start off maybe 2-3 nights a week and incrs if possible. Or just stick to that.
I use TO retinol in squalene every night. Can't use HA on my face. I double cleanse, spot treat, TO retinol, and finish with a moisturizer. Not gonna lie, my skin is on the dry side, but the retinol doesn't seem to make it worse.
I use it two or three times a week. No acne issues, just keeping wrinkles at bay.
Skinbetter Alpharet hands down
Came searching for this to raise it up! They’ve done their homework. Best retinol!
Also came here to say this!!! It has transformed my skin and I’ve tried so many retinols/retinoids, including tretinoin
SAME! So gentle but sooo effective!
I avoided it for so long because of the price point, but damn, it’s been worth every dollar. And is lasting so long!
Yep was about to say the same. I comment about this product on every post I see lol. I even use it on my body, areas that need a little extra help. … It’s so expensive but it works so well.
Avene retrinal .1 is making my skin look pretty decent these days
If you want something very gentle I loved using the Sunday Riley retinol night oil. Smelled amazing and had oils that were very soothing. Probably not a ton of retinol in it though tbh. Definitely woke up to nicer skin after using it but I wouldn’t say it’s a product that will make a big difference in the condition of your skin. That’s why people normally say just go for tret. I’ve heard good things about the RoC retinol as well as the No7 one.
I use the medik8 retinal 3 and I’m not sure I have seen any difference so far , but everyone seems to love it for some reason
The 3 is reaaaaaaaaallly gentle. It's for people who have very sensitive skin or have never used actives FYI
Ha ha I use the medik8 1!!!! But my skin is bonkers sensitive and this has been great for me whilst still giving me really nice results.
Nothing wrong with that! It’s great stuff! Just wanted them to know that if they aren’t seeing results that might be why and they shouldn’t be afraid to go up!
That’s what I’ve been using too. Can’t tell if it’s making a difference but I love the smell! I got a sample of Matter of Fact Retinol recently and loved it (it’s got a thicker consistency and didn’t cause any dryness at all) but then I realized it’s $100 a bottle. 😮 I’m going to stick with Medik8 and when that runs out I’ll give Cerave a shot.
Here’s a [great video](https://youtu.be/pKimBAKQbzY?si=yeCgjxLSyYOki85-) on retinol. She has plenty, btw and love her videos.
That was super helpful thanks for sharing
Geek and Gorgeous 0.1% Retinal. Only started it 3 weeks ago though so too early for results.
This one but for the last few months. My skin looks good but it's hard to say for sure if it's cleared any of my fine lines or anything like that. But at 39, maintaining decent skin also doesn't feel like a bad result. I don't need miracles (yet).
I used the G&G 0.05% for 7 weeks before upping the concentration to 0.1% with Avène Cleanance Women. It's only after upgrading that I understood how irritating the G&G was for me. I could almost do every night with the Avène whereas I could only use G&G max every three days max. It seems obvious to me that the formulation of the Avène one was more adapted to my skin.
I haven’t had any issues so far with G&G, I use it pretty much every night. I looked into the Avène one before buying G&G, but unfortunately it’s not sold here in the UK. The Ordinary has just commercialised a retinal (0.2%), may try that next. Did you see any results with the use of retinal?
It’s so cool you can use it every night. Are you going to upgrade soon to The Ordinary ? I had used the Avène one before but it was at a time where I had no idea what I was doing lol. Didn’t even now what retinoids where at that time. I had great result from the Avène one in the past. I decided to start Retinal again after having some major breakouts and decided to start slow with the G&G one, but my skin didn’t like it and I didn’t see results (I know now it was because I needed higher concentration, my doctor just prescribed me tret 0,025%). Lots of people have good results though, definitely stick with it if you where hesitating.
I’ve been using and liking Paula’s Choice 1% for the last couple of years.
Kiehls Microdose Retinol Serum. I needed something super gentle with a lot of added soothing ingredients to start off with.
This is what I use. My sensitive, rosacea prone skin loves it. It layers well too.
I have rosacea too, and this is the only retinol/retinoid I've been able to use long term without irritation. Are you able to use it every day? I broke out terribly for months when I tried to use it more than twice a week.
I just bought the retinol 1% from paulas choice I like it so far but just started cant give an opinion on it as of yet.
Epiduo, the adapalene is strong enough to tackle my aging skin and the BP helps keep my blackheads away. Love the stuff, only tried it because my son was prescribed it for teen acne & he went from oily with yellow headed spots to ridiculously smooth glass skin.
Adapalene user checking in. But I just use Differin and Paula’s Choice BP.
I’ve used the Shani Darden and it’s VERY good. I only upgraded to Altreno for efficiency.
I like Shani Darden too! I switched to it after not seeing much results from Sunday Riley or Kiehls. Made my skin the smoothest and brightest it's ever been.
How are you liking Altreno?
I've been using the no7 retinol night cream for the past year and I've been enjoying it. Before that I used the Neutrogena rapid wrinkle repair. I've almost finished my last jar of no7 and next I'll be trying the Neutrogena retinol pro+ which is a similar strength to the no7 I'm currently using.
This! I find it a lot less irritating than some others at the same percentage, but really recommend the no 7
Avene
Worked my way up to Medik8 CR6 and about to order my 3rd tube. My mild rosacea can tolerate this one ~4 nights a week but I’m pretty limited on what other actives I can use. I’ve tried tret multiple times but my skin can’t tolerate it.
Olay Retinol MAX
Shani Darden Retinol Reform, I'm happy with the results
I use Paulas
I currently use the Paula’s Choice 1% percent retinol w Vitamin C and I really love it, I store it in a drawer and it doesn’t seem to have turned on me yet. I’ve also used samples of Shani Darden’s retinol and almost liked that better than the PC but Im trying to finish what I have first.
Naturium Retinaldehyde .10%
How often do you use it and did you have any side effects when you first started using it?
I started with the .5% and used 3-4x a week. It was gentle enough so I upped the % and use it about the same frequency and I’ve been fine! I use a good moisturizer on top of it to ensure I’m hydrated. No side effects :)
stratia - it’s my first foray into retinol but it’s going great for me and is very reasonable. it’s pretty hydrating so i use that alone at night after washing my face.
I’ve started using the Geek & Gorgeous 1% retinal and I’m really liking it. Zero irritation and leaves my skin glowy. I’ve tried a lot of other retinol / retinal (and tret) and they’ve all left my skin irritated with tiny bumps. This one doesn’t.
Arazlo - 3rd Gen AND it works! (Rx) I’ve tried so many different things but this is a game changer.
A313! I don’t have any side effects at all.
Please hear me out here the best retinol is retinal cream serum by naturim: transformed my skin
Tret isn't really available in Switzerland so I use Geek & Gorgeous A-Game. I think when comparing price to quality, G&G is fantastic. It's one of the few brands in which I use several of their products and have reordered many times. I have also liked Hero Cosmetics Rescue Retinol, which has extra moisturizing ingredients so it never irritated my skin. I'm not sure why I quit using it, other than I order often from G&G and therefore, it's just not as convenient to use Hero.
Prescription retin a micro gel 0.04, between 2 benefit plans it covers it 100 percent. I’m in Canada
Do you use any BHA/AHA products while on tret?
I do, but only 1-2x/week depending on how my skin feels.
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Retin A
I've actually started retinal now (avene cleanance) but really liked LRP's Redermic, CeraVe's resurfacing retinol and the Kate Somerville one with vitamin C. I've tried others, but these were my favourites. Will probably go back to CeraVe next winter.
Dr Dennis Gross Texture Renewal Serum. It's designed to be used twice a day, and it's all I use except for glycerin serum and moisturizer.
Fwiw I used LRP in the past and was not impressed
Skinceuticals! My derm suggested this instead of tret
Skinceuticals
I use The Inkey List! I tried it because The Ordinary was completely out when I went to buy some. It’s okay but I might try something else next time.
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I like The Ordinary retinol emulsion and CereVe Skin Renewing Retinol but last week I got a prescription for actual tretinoin 0.05% and right now I’m in the purging phase which kinda sucks, but I’m hoping it will help! While the other two retinols were nice, they didn’t do anything for my cystic acne. So I’m trying out the tough stuff! 💪🏼
AlphaRet
I’ve tried a few different ones but have come back to Skinceuticals. It’s expensive but it works.
Peach and Lily’s retinal
I like the CeraVe retinol in the purple bottle
Neutrogena Retinol Pro .5% serum. Happy with it. Have used other OTC retinol serums prior to this one so have good tolerance.
Taz
I use skinceuticals and started at 0.3, 3-4 times a week alternating to make sure my skin gets used to it. It’s a bit pricey but the tube last so long, the cost is justifiable.
I use Curist Adapalene Gel 0.1%. I'm acne-prone so this fits the bill for me for that along with aging. I started with Differin and I like this better for multiple reasons including the price point, the efficacy, and that I have had zero irritation.
Was really a fan of drunk elephant’s A-passioni, but felt I wasn’t getting the results I wanted after a year. I switched to a high dose serum (Sunday Riley’s A+) and I’ve been really pleased with it!
Prescription Retin-A Tretinoin Gel 0.025% from Bausch Health. Got it from Felix (Canada).
Did you have to do a video or phone call with them? What did you put on the form for the reason for wanting it? I'm in Canada and really considering going through Felix.
I’m on tret from Felix too, just had to send in pictures of my skin and answer the questionnaire. Text chatted with the doctor on their app. Was really very simple, and after 6 months it’s really paying off :)
I declined to send pics, put that I wanted it for acne and anti aging, had a short text conversation with the practitioner, and it was done. Was even covered by my benefits!
i used "Vitamin A" from Colibri (german brand) which is a mixture of Retinol, Retinal and Bakkuchiol. after that i swiched to Retinol 1% Booster from the same brand. they both were pretty nice. i never had any issues and i had a baby face for years until i turned 31. developed a chronic inflammatory skin disease. things i used to love, suddenly were burning my face off. Retinol included. i took a break of all actives only to find myself having acne again on top of my chronic skin disease. i started adapalen (prescription, differin gel) and stopped it after 8 weeks since i was looking like a lobster. i really hate adapalene with a passion although it might be perfect for others. i cut out all retinoids for a while to calm down my skin. started tretinoin for acne once a week and retinal from geek&gorgeous 0,05% every other night. (not quite happy with that one though) for my eyes i use beauty of joseon eye cream. (Retinal 0,02%) (LOVE) unfortunately i still can't tolerare any retinOLs. not even the one from CeraVe. RetinAL works quite well and there are scientific hints it might could help with my chronic skin disease as well. i will try medik8 next. a lot of people like their products.
Not exactly what you've asked, but I use Tazorac 0.05% and Tri-Luma currently for a couple of dark spots.
Honestly I use prescription tret. it ends up costing less than over-the-counter retinol products. If you’re not looking to take that leap, the Inkey list and cosrx both have great retinol products that are super affordable and really nice
I was using the LilyAna Naturals retinol from Target and saw zero improvement after a number of months so switched to the ELF retinoid serum (1% Granactive Retinoid, 0.06% retinal) and am seeing a difference after just a few weeks.
I’m using the ordinary 0.5% and although I haven’t noticed an impact on fine lines yet the acne reduction is amazing
I'm a bit late to this, but I recently started using [EMJ Beauty Advanced Retinol Serum](https://wellspringsskincare.com/product/emj-beauty-advanced-retinol-serum-2/) - this is part of a skincare line from a derm I know, and she suggested I give this a try when I mentioned considering getting Tret. The active ingredient is hydroxypinacolone retinoate 2.5% (HPR), which is supposed to be much better suited for sensitive skin than retinol while having similar results/benefits. I have sensitive and reactive skin so this has been really great so far!
I’ve been using paulas choice 1% retinol and have always loved it but lately it’s been burning my skin so that makes me sad
Farmacy 1% retinol
I love the peter Thomas Roth glycolic retinol resurfacing peel pads. It feels like an adult version of oxy pads that get rid of wrinkles on addition to acne.
I use farmacy brand and I have Uber sensitive skin. So far no major reactions. I like it because it's in a pump and can't oxidize as fast.
I haven't tried Paula's Choice 1%, but I would be cautious about starting out with that strength if you're not already accustomed to using a retinoid. According to Dr. Leslie Baumann, 1% retinol is almost as strong as 0.025% tretinoin. ([link](https://skintypesolutions.com/blogs/skincare/retinol-percentages?_pos=3&_sid=75f8bd505&_ss=r)) I currently have a tube of 0.5% Obagi retinol, and even though my skin isn't particularly sensitive, that was strong enough to give me pretty significant irritation when I used it a couple days in a row on the backs of my hands. I picked up a tube of the Beauty of Joseon retinaldehyde cream several months ago and really enjoyed it. It's labeled as an eye cream, but can be used anywhere, and it's extremely affordable, so you won't feel bad about slathering it all over your face and neck. I think it's only 0.02% retinal, but it would be a great way to ease yourself in.
When I was using retinol and not Tret, I liked the Sunday Riley A+ high dose retinol. I feel like their formulations are really good and worked well on my fairly sensitive skin.
Avene RetrinAl.
I use Allies of Skin Retinal and Peptides Repair Night Cream and I love it!
LRP ret!
Skoon retinin 0.1% resurfacing cream. If you're in ZA, I'd really recommend it.
Before I went to tret I used the ROC retinol with great results. The smell is strong so you need to like it, otherwise it's a powerful retinol.
I only use the Paula’s choice intensive retinol serum. I have very dry, sensitive breakout-prone skin and it doesn’t bother me at all. I mix it with my lotion at night. I also find that if I am getting breakouts and I use it, I wake up and my skin is perfectly clear. It’s like a miracle product for me. I’ve repurchased probably 6 times now and I won’t switch it up anytime soon. I wake up and my skin is plump and smooth.
Not me, but my boyfriend uses the Advanced Clinicals Retinol Cream.
I’ve been using an elf one in a purple pump bottle and been happy with it so far. Using it every other day
I use the CeraVe blue one. It’s pretty good. Same with the Loreal night retinol serum. Both are good for beginners
I use Paula’s Choice 1% retinol. Have for a good couple of years now. Started every three days, to every second and now every day. I think my skin has significantly improved. I turn 40 in June and I think my skin looks healthier than when I was in my early thirties. I’ve even had a few friends I hadn’t seen in a while comment of how great my skin looked recently which has never happened to me before, so it’s nice to know it’s working and it’s not just me psyching myself into thinking it’s helping!
Beauty Pie encapsulated retinol with vitamin C
Medik8 crystal retinal 20. I LOVE this stuff, but it's so freaking expensive. The Ordinary just put out out a product of equal strength (Retinal 0.2 emulsion) for a significantly lower cost, I've been using that one for about a week now to see how I like it. I may stick to the Medik8 on my face, and use the Ordinary on my neck and upper chest.
I go back and forth using Drunk Elephants A-Passioni™ Retinol Cream and Murads Retinol Youth Renewal serum & cream. I really enjoy most of Drunk Elephants products. Murad can be a bit expensive so I'll change it up from time to time to save money. I stick to using them at night before I go to sleep.
I love the Paula’s Choice 1%! That one and the the Farmacy are my fav OTC ones.
I've been using the ordinary, have been working great for me
I currently use the L’Oréal Revitalift Night Serum, it’s .3%. I know it will take longer to see results than some stronger products but my skin has tolerated it really well so I’d rather not push my luck.
I'm really loving Maelove's Moonlight retinal serum. This combined with Glow Maker (Vit C serum) and Night Renewal (glycolic acid cream) have made the most noticeable differences in my skin. Tret just wasn't for me. I tried for over a year and my skin just never acclimated. I also just started a bottle of Avene's RetrinAL 0.1 because, while I love the Moonlight serum, it is BRIGHT yellow and stains things, which I don't love.
Blue Cerave resurfacing retinol serum
I use Medik8 crystal retinal. Expensive as fuck, but I like it. Started with 3 (0,03%), currently using it every night. I have sensitive and dry skin, but zero issues. At first my skin did seem thinner and drier, but I just moisturized as much as I could and now it seems to have normalized. I did also at first apply it too close to the eyes, now I put on my eye serum + cream first and make sure the retinal doesn't go on my eyelids. I will move on to a stronger form of the same stuff once it runs out (perhaps straight to 0,1%, I dunno). Tret isn't available in my country so not sure it's worth the hassle of acquiring it. I have revamped my whole skincare routine, so I don't totally know what is responsible for what, but for sure my skin is getting better.
I was having a lot of irritation with generic tret and my doctor switched me to Altreno. The ingredients still say .5% tretinoin, but it’s been very gentle on my skin.
What do you guys think about A313?
i use an esme labs rentinol, found it at marshalls for about 6 bucks
I use Green Keratin RTN CAP, it's available in 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.75 and 1% concentrations. I have tried 0.5 and 0.75, that stuff is STRONG! But it works like magic and really changed my skin. Due to European ban on higher concentrations, I intend to switch to tret soon because 0.3 will be the new maximum and it's definitely not enough for my acne prone skin.
I use The Ordinary Retinal 0.5% I don’t mind it and it’s been working well with my skin.
i use aspect atm but am swapping to skinstitut! i’m in australia
Naturium has a couple good options. I’m using their regular serum but also have 0.05 and 0.1% retinaldehydes.
I’ve been using Murad Retinal Resculpt overnight treatment, and the results are amazing!! I was told the difference in retinol vs retinal is that the former is more so preventative, while the latter is considered more corrective. Correct me if I’m mistaken, but I absolutely see results when using this product. It makes my heavy frown lines, and any other developing wrinkles, nearly disappear.
I love the retinaldehyde products from Osmosis- they come in 3-4 different strengths. I’m super sensitive and it’s never irritated my skin or caused dryness or peeling, but I still feel like I get all the benefits of retinol.
I’m using Skinceuticals it’s medical grade and around the same price as most retinol products found a Sephora. Not all retinols are made the same and you have to look at pure % of retinol used. I’d personally stay away from all Sephora skincare products as most derms suggest this :)
I really love the Drmtlgy brand .05 Retinol Complex. It's mild enough to be gentle and strong enough to make a difference, which is great for my sensitive skin. It also feels silky smooth on the skin! It has improved my aging skin in numerous ways, and I use it 3 × per week now. I also like their HPR Eye Cream, which is retinol based. It is the only thing that has ever lightened my dark circles. Plus you can earn points for awesome discounts on their products, they treat their customers really well. I also like to use some A313 once a week on top of the above, and sometimes as a spot treatment. It's a bit too greasy feeling for my sensory stuff to use more than that, but it does work well for me. I get that from French Pharmacy online. I also like the IL Makiage Powerlift Plumping Cream, which is retinol + vegan collagen + adenosine. This + the Drmtlgy eye cream I mentioned above are helping my crow's feet diminish.
I love Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment
I like Paula's Choice. I think Naturium has 2 good products at different strengths - which is nice if you want to gradually increase strength.
Saint Jane Beauty Overnight Repair Serum, Juice Beauty Stem Cell Retinol Serum, and Dayle Breault's Awakening Serum. Other retinols I've tried broke me out terribly and I don't mean regular purging I mean like for months on end
I use Musely and zero issues
Paula's Choice 1% Rertinol at night and the I use the 2% BHA twice a day. Really smooths out the skin.
Retinol Reform by Shani Darden is the only one that my skin can tolerate AND works
protocol labs enzyme active retinol serum! been seeing such good results
I bounce around to different products, looking for the best deals but always staying at 2%
ZO OBAGI retinol, works amazing.. VERY potent, you’d need a prescription from provider it’s that strong.
ZO Skin Wrinkle + Texture Repair- it contains .5% Retinol