Top 16 best creams with retinol for facial skin: pros, cons, methods of use, reviews

Retinol is vitamin A. It was discovered in 1913. It is a fat-soluble substance and therefore accumulates in the body. In uncontrolled doses it causes toxic reactions and overdose. Participates in more than 30 biological processes: from sperm maturation to regulation of skin renewal processes. Neither man nor animal can live and develop without this substance. A deficiency or excess of the vitamin threatens a huge number of pathologies. Retinol is called a hormone-like substance because it acts on human cell receptors. Of course, in its pure form it is not capable of this. To act on cells, Vitamin A must enter the body and be converted into its active form - retinoic acid.

Retinol in cosmetics

Vitamin A has an unstable compound that oxidizes in air and loses its functionality. Therefore, using it in cosmetics is problematic. Manufacturers are trying in different ways to preserve the beneficial properties of the substance and make it more stable:

• embedded in microcapsules;
• connect with additional molecules.

One of the most popular forms of retinol used in cosmetics is retinol palmitate. The substance is not capricious, but not very active either. To work on the skin, it must be converted into vitamin A, then into retinoic acid.

There is a noticeable pattern: the more stabilizing molecules are added to vitamin A, the better it is preserved in air, in cream, but at the same time it becomes less active. Pharmacology does not stand still. Recently, a new hybrid of the molecule was developed that behaves more stably and does not lose much activity. It's called retinyl retinoate. The substance is actively used in cosmetics.

In addition to vitamin A and its derivatives, there are preparations with retinoic acid. The active form of retinol acts directly on cells. Retinoic acid is a pharmaceutical substance. Unlike retinol, which is used in anti-aging cosmetics, acid is used to treat diseases. Often found in medications designed to relieve acne. Diferin, Retinoic ointment and other similar products are medicinal drugs and should not be used for skin rejuvenation.

Read also: Why B vitamins help with problems with the nervous system and memory impairment

Retinol for facial skin

The stratum corneum of the epidermis becomes thinner over time, and the number of fatty layers increases. Retinol enhances the synthesis of collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid. Due to biological processes, the skin becomes fresher, more hydrated, smoother, and fine wrinkles disappear.

It is recommended for people to use retinol:

• over 30–35 years old;
• with photodamage to tissues.

The symptom complex of early aging is manifested by thinning tissues, a large number of wrinkles and pigmentation disorders.

Rules for using retinol

Most retinol molecules are unstable in the sun. For this reason, the substances are used in the evening. Fat-soluble vitamins can be accumulated by the body, so preparations with retinol are used in a course. The duration of treatment is usually from one to three months, repeated every other year.

1. Can be applied to the area around the eyes.
2. They have an irritating effect, the higher the activity and concentration, the stronger the side effects.
3. The skin gets used to vitamin A.
4. Begin therapy with mild forms with a lower concentration of the active form.
5. When using strong drugs, there is a possibility of side effects: allergies, irritations.

The use of external medications should not be combined with internal ones. To avoid an overdose, it is not recommended to drink even fish oil.

Amount of vitamin A per 100 g of product

Features and purpose

First, let's talk about the features of retinol. In other words, it is called vitamin A - a fat-soluble vitamin that has an excellent effect on vision, skin and hair, as well as the overall normal functioning of the immune system. Retinol restores skin damage, rejuvenates it, penetrating deep inside.

After using the creams you will notice the following effect:

• Visible smoothing of wrinkles, both facial and more pronounced age-related.
• Lightening pigmentation, evening out skin tone thanks to the ability of retinol to regulate melanocyte activity.
• Evening out skin texture, narrowing pores - they become less noticeable. Retinol renews the skin due to the proliferation of epidermal layers.
• Increased skin elasticity.

There are a few key points to know before you start using it.

1. Retinol increases overall skin sensitivity and is recommended for night care. Start using it in the fall and let your skin adapt.
2. During pregnancy and lactation, we advise you to avoid products containing retinol.
3. Apply the product to thoroughly cleansed dry skin with massaging movements. After the first use, you may feel a slight tingling sensation, but do not worry: it will disappear as the skin gets used to the component.
4. Don't forget to use protective creams, moisturizing serums and masks in the summer.

Otherwise, there are no special prescriptions or recommendations for use, but consultation with a specialist before starting the course is a prerequisite.

Scheme for using retinol creams for beginners

Retinol cream is applied in the evening to dry, cleansed skin. The procedure is carried out 20–30 minutes after washing:

• the first two weeks - once;
• the third and fourth - twice each;
• fifth week - three times.

Further on the feelings. If there are no side effects, the number of applications is increased to every night. Sometimes at the adaptation stage, after retinol, dryness and tightness of the tissues are felt. In this case, after 15 minutes you can apply moisturizer, but it is not advisable.

Indications and contraindications

Creams with retinol are distributed by age category: 35+, 45+, 55+, 60+. A certain amount of the substance is prescribed for each age; it is very important not to exaggerate with the dosage.

Indications for use of retinol cream:

• Eczema and dermatitis, including the atopic variant;
• Superficial abrasions and skin cracks;
• Cheilitis;
• Age-related skin changes;
• Skin diseases associated with disruption of the processes of keratinization and protein formation;
• In order to activate reparative processes in dermatoses after therapy based on glucocorticoids.

Despite all its beneficial properties, the cream has a number of contraindications. Vitamin A is essential, but it has a very strong effect on the body and if you take too much of it, it will contribute to the occurrence of allergic reactions.

Before buying a retinol cream, apply a little of it to the skin of your hands. If within a couple of days you continue to feel well and the skin where you applied the cream does not change in any way, then buy the product.

Contraindications to the use of retinol cream:

• Presence of cholelithiasis;
• Increased sensitivity of the epidermis to the ingredients of the drug, leading to irritation;
• Diseases of the circulatory system;
• Individual intolerance to vitamin A, causing allergies;
• Pregnancy.

Often, at first, products with retinol cause drowsiness, mild headache, and lethargy. These side effects go away quickly once your body gets used to the composition. One of the basic rules: small dosage. To begin with, purchase a cream with a small concentrate of retinol; if your skin reacts painlessly, then you can gradually increase the dose.

How to store vitamin A cream

Retinol must be stored correctly. The bottle with the substance should be kept in a dark, cool room. A refrigerator is suitable for this purpose. Once the package is opened, retinol in its pure form evaporates within two to three months. To increase shelf life, containers are of great importance. It is not recommended to store retinol in a jar. Give preference to products in a vacuum dispenser. In such bottles, contact with oxygen is minimal. The chances increase that beneficial substances will remain active longer.

Creams with retinol: ranking of the best

The list of the best creams includes 16 products that, according to user reviews, deserve special attention:

1. Redermic R Anti-Aging (La Roche-Posay)
2. Liftactiv Advanced Filler (Vichy)
3. Anti–Age Ystheal + (Avene)
4. Retino–A Tretinoin
5. Christina Retinol E Active Cream
6. Librederm Aevit nutritional
7. Holy Land Alpha–Beta Restoring Cream
8. Retinol Real White Cream
9. SesDerma Retises 0.25%
10. CAVIALE Vitamin A
11. Sefite anti-aging
12. L'OREAL PARIS REVITALIFT NIGHT CREAM
13. Natura Siberica Anti-Age
14. Milky Piggy Egf Elastic (Elizavecca)
15. Bielita Vitex Retinol+Mg
16. Tolk Retinol (Spring)

Vitamin A supplements are really effective. The usefulness is confirmed by various clinical trials and time.

Russian-made products

Companies involved in the production of cosmetics in Russia do not produce preparations with modern forms of vitamin A: microencapsulated or liposomated pure retinol. Production is labor-intensive and the cost of such products will be high.

Creams, serums and gels use retinol esters (retinyl palmitate), they are not as effective, but are resistant to light and air. The pharmacy sells Videstim ointment with 0.5% retinol palmitate or Radevit Active with 1% concentration.

CAVIALE Vitamin A

The Russian company produces a cream whose recipe, in addition to vitamin A, contains vitamin E, retinyl palmitate, shea butter, macadamia (a nut with B vitamins) and other components. The cream has a light texture, spreads well and is absorbed. The main function of the product is to even out the tone and moisturize. The manufacturer does not recommend applying the cream to wounds and abrasions, as well as for dermatological diseases.

The instructions say that systematic use of the cream promotes cell regeneration.

Manufacturer: Russia.

Price - from 90 rub. 50 ml.

cream CAVIALE Vitamin A

Advantages:

• Light structure;
• Moisturizes;
• Low price.

Flaws:

• An allergic reaction is possible.

Top 16 creams with vitamin A

Vitamin A comes in various molecular forms, which differ in their stability and severity of action. In cosmetics, derivatives are used to improve appearance: retinyl retinoate, retinol palmitate. Retinoic acid is used to treat acne, which is prescribed by a doctor. Retinol cream is not intended for permanent use and is used in courses. Initially, they use cosmetics with a lower concentration, and then move on to high doses.

La Roche–Posay Redermic R Anti–Aging

The composition of anti-aging cosmetics contains a sequential release retinol molecule. This allows you to gradually achieve the maximum concentration of nutrients. The drug has a positive effect on tissue relief, evens out, smoothes, and reduces pigmentation. Recommended for use from 35 to 55 years. It is advisable to use the product in the evening.

Prices in pharmacies are 1,800 – 2,500 rubles.

pros

1. A special form of Retinyl Linoleate + Adenosine.
2. Suitable for problem skin.
3. Reduces pigmentation.

Minuses

1. High price.
2. One tube is enough for 2-3 months.

“I use cosmetics once a year. The tube lasts for 2.5 months. The cream moisturizes and evens out. Easily copes with pigmentation. Every spring I get freckles and the ointment lightens them well. The product helps against subcutaneous acne. A smeared, swollen tubercle that disappears in the morning. I recommend it for problem fabrics and lightening age spots.”

Vichy Liftactiv Advanced Filler

The wrinkle filler is suitable for preventive use. Pure retinol, combined with hyaluronic acid, adenosine and the LR 2412 molecule, not only visually corrects wrinkles, but actually smoothes them out. Anti-aging components help effectively combat pronounced and even vertical folds.

Price at the pharmacy is 2,000 rubles.

pros

1. It is used economically.
2. Aligns.
3. Reduces the depth of wrinkles.

Minuses

1. Expensive.
2. Pure retinol evaporates quickly.

“I’m 35 years old and wrinkles are already showing up. There are interglabellar and nasolabial ones. I purchased the retinoid at a nearby pharmacy after an advertisement in a magazine that promised to get rid of wrinkles in a month. I used cosmetics from March 10 to April 18. During this time I noticed a real smoothing of wrinkles. The skin has become healthier and smoother. This was my first time using a product with vitamin A, but I didn’t notice any side effects. More than two weeks have passed since the cancellation, and the creases have not returned. I had positive impressions from using the product and have a desire to repeat the course.”

Avene Anti–Age Ystheal +

Contains retinaldehyde. The substance is considered identical to retinol retinoate. Used in cosmetics for problematic and sensitive skin prone to rosacea. Retinaldehyde easily penetrates tissues, but its effect occurs slowly. Anti-aging cream is approved for use from 25 years of age and has a rejuvenating effect.

The price tag in pharmacies is 2,000 – 2,500 rubles.

pros

1. Evens out the color.
2. Moisturizes, nourishes.
3. The vacuum dispenser increases the shelf life of useful substances.

Minuses

1. Expensive.
2. Side effect in the form of tingling.

“I have combination skin with emerging wrinkles in the nasolabial fold. After a month of use, I noticed: my face looks rested, the wrinkles in the nasolabial folds have disappeared. In the first days of use, a slight tingling sensation was felt. I did not experience any other side effects. After a course of use, the pores breathe, wrinkles disappear. There was a desire to repeat a successful purchase.”

Retin-A Tretinoin

Tretinoin is the first retinoid developed specifically for the treatment of acne and photoaging. Removes wrinkles and slows down tissue aging. It has a powerful rejuvenating effect and fights acne. Contains tretinoin 0.05%. Possible side effects such as redness, peeling, burning. The drug requires getting used to. Tretinoin reduces cell adhesion, so it can easily treat acne vulgaris. When treating open comedones, it evens out the surface of tissues. Closed acne turns into open acne and it heals quickly without scarring.

Price 500 – 600 rub.

pros

1. The medicinal drug is used in a course.
2. Works great on acne.

Minuses

1. Adaptation to the drug is required.
2. Order via the Internet.

“I have problem skin and it responds to improper care with clogged pores. I ordered the cream online. I used it according to the instructions once at night. All the delights of an overdose began after one week. The skin became inflamed, the corners of the lips became painful, the face took on an exhausted appearance. I had to stop using it without achieving a rejuvenating effect. But the ointment was useful to me to eliminate acne. I apply the drug precisely to the inflammations, and they quickly disappear. It might be worth repeating the course for a rejuvenating effect using a gentle scheme, but I don’t have time for experiments.”

Christina Retinol E Active Cream

The retinoid is approved for use from the age of 25. Refers to corrective drugs. Suitable for any skin type. Solves the problems of hyperkeratosis, hyperpigmentation, and fights signs of aging. 2–4 months after the start of use, the microrelief improves, wrinkles smooth out, and tone increases. At the adaptation stage, slight flaking and dryness are possible.

Price 2,800 – 3,500 rub.

pros

1. Suitable for face and eye area.
2. Replaces whey.
3. Can be used for rosacea.
4. Contains vitamins C and E
5. Contains herbal ingredients

Minuses

1. Expensive.
2. One bottle lasts for 30 days.
3. Side effects: dryness and irritation.

“Very happy with my purchase. After use, the skin is even and smooth, like after Photoshop. I used other ointments with retinol before, but the effect of this drug exceeded all my expectations.”

Librederm Aevit nutritional

Cream with vitamins A and E has an anti-aging, smoothing effect. Tones, refreshes, stops the aging process of cells. After application, it helps tissues produce their own collagen and rejuvenate from the inside.

Cost: 280 – 400 rub.

pros

1. Natural ingredients.
2. Additional vitamins.

Minuses

Contains a tiny amount of Retinyl Palmitate.

“This is the first nourishing cream that didn’t make my face break out in spots. After using it I feel comfortable, there is no feeling of tightness or burning. Quite satisfied with the drug. I got a good effect for my sensitive skin at a low cost.”

Holy Land Alpha–Beta Restoring Cream

A retinoid with alpha-beta acids lightens age spots, evens out the texture, and normalizes the activity of the sebaceous glands. Thanks to its unique composition, Holi Land has a wide spectrum of action. Active ingredients include: pure retinol, salicylic acid, vitamin C.

Price 3,000 – 3,500 rub.

pros

1. With UV filter.
2. Can be used during the daytime.
3. Has healing properties.
4. It contains a large complex of useful substances.

Minuses

1. Expensive.
2. In the bank.
3. There is no cumulative effect.
4. Retinol in combination with salicylic acid and AHA provokes redness and flaking.

“Before purchasing the cream, I used various medications to eliminate acne and red spots. I am 28 years old, but no treatment helped clear my skin of acne. Used: 3 months twice a day, the rest of the time at night. At first, a slight tingling sensation was felt, then the symptoms of addiction disappeared. After some time, the red spots appeared and the black dots disappeared. Six months after stopping the drug, my face became covered in acne again. I had to buy a second jar. Expensive, but worth the money."

Retinol Real White Cream

The cream belongs to luxury cosmetics. Designed for the periorbital and nasolabial areas. The composition is rich in vitamins, Shea butter and herbal elixirs of youth. Reduces pigmentation, dark circles under the eyes, smoothes wrinkles. Its main function is deep hydration and nutrition.

Cost: 800 – 1,000 rub.

pros

1. Maintains a long-lasting effect after use.
2. Moisturizes.
3. Tightens pores.
4. Economical consumption.

Minuses

1. Retinol is not in the first place in the composition.
2. It stings the eyes if it gets on the mucous membrane.

“I’m already over 30. My skin is sensitive and prone to dryness. I used the ointment daily, as recommended by the manufacturer, twice a day. The drug is comfortably distributed and absorbed well. After a course of use, wrinkles in the nasolabial folds are less noticeable.”

SesDerma Retises 0.25%

Cream with retinol stimulates the production of elastin and collagen. Suitable for those who have prepared the skin for higher doses of the vitamin. The active ingredients are placed in special lipid containers that easily penetrate into tissues. This technology helps to quickly reduce wrinkles and restore tone. Recommended for use in autumn and winter, in the evening. Should be used with caution. On unprepared skin, peeling, redness, and irritation are possible. Use the diagram proposed at the beginning of the article. If you have previously applied preparations with vitamin A, but at a lower concentration, then use Sesderma 0.25% every other day for the first 2–3 months. Next, look at the condition of the skin. If there are no side effects, it is possible to switch to nightly use.

Price 3,000 – 4,500 rub.

pros

1. NANOTECH™ technology was used in the development.
2. Retinol is the main active component.
3. Smoothes out wrinkles.

Minuses

1. Expensive.
2. Adaptation to the drug is required.

“I purchased a retinoid on the recommendation of a cosmetologist. Which assured me that the non-comedogenic drug tightens pores, removes blemishes, reduces tone, and eliminates fine wrinkles. During the consultation, they explained to me that the cream should be used first once a week, and then monitor the skin’s reaction and gradually switch to nightly use. During the day, UV protection is required. I used it according to the regimen suggested by a specialist, so I didn’t notice any special side effects. I saw the first positive results a month after starting use. The skin noticeably tightened and became smooth. After sleep I look rested. The tube of cream is small, but the consumption is small, so it lasted me for 2 months.”

Caviale Vitamin A

The cream, from a Russian manufacturer of parapharmaceuticals, is designed to reduce the depth of wrinkles and improve appearance. Contains: herbal ingredients, Shea butter, Ceramide II. Vitamin A, which proudly appears in the name, is at the end of the list. According to the developer, the ointment is classified as a cosmetic product.

Price 80 – 90 rub.

pros

1. Budget price.
2. Well moisturizes.
3. Suitable as a base for cosmetics.
4. Preventative to prepare for higher dosage products.

Minuses

1. There is no pronounced effect of retinol.
2. Oily.

“At forty years old, I take a comprehensive approach to caring for my appearance. I never use expensive cosmetics, but there are no obvious age-related changes on my face. I purchased this ointment at Fix Price at a budget price. I use it daily in the evening. 10-15 minutes after washing, I apply the toner, then the preparation. You feel good hydration and comfort after nine to ten hours spent wearing makeup. I use this product constantly and with pleasure.”

Sefite anti-aging cream with retinol

The American brand's cream is produced in China. The balanced composition is intended for mature skin that requires intensive nutrition and restoration. Contains: vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and herbal ingredients. Working together, the ingredients transform tissues in a few weeks. Wrinkles become less noticeable. Signs of aging, which appear especially quickly on dry skin, disappear.

Price 700 – 900 rub.

pros

1. Easily absorbed.
2. Doesn't leave the feeling of a mask.
3. Protects from the sun.
4. The first results are visible after a few days.
5. The jar is protected by a pump dispenser.

Minuses

No.

“The product does not leave a sticky film and does not clog pores. I apply it every evening after washing my face. One small pea is enough for the entire face. After a month of use I noticed an improvement in tone. Unevenness disappeared, elasticity appeared, small wrinkles disappeared. After using the product, the skin becomes soft and velvety.”

L'oreal Paris Revitalift

Cream for women 40+ years old. Contains: pro retina A nanosomes, minerals, vitamins, plant components that quickly fight the first signs of wilting. The product renews the skin at the cellular level. Results are visible immediately after use. The next morning the face looks fresh and young.

Price tag 500 – 700 rub.

pros

1. Skin hydration by 29% immediately after the first use.
2. Hypoallergenic.
3. Affordable.
4. A good replacement for luxury brands.

Minuses

Strong smell.

“The thick consistency of the product does not leave marks on the pillow and is quickly absorbed. After a week of use, the first results are noticeable. The face looks toned and rested. Of course, it cannot be compared with the effect of salon procedures. You shouldn’t expect miracles, but a fresh, well-groomed face is guaranteed.”

Natura Siberica Anti-Age

Hypoallergenic cream designed for aging skin. It has a pronounced lifting effect and regenerating ability. Natura Siberica is the only company in the world that creates products based on Siberian cedar oil components. An amazing plant - a source of polyunsaturated acids, vitamins E and F. Usnic acid and oligopeptides in the cream slow down the aging process of the skin.

Cost 300 – 800 rub.

pros

1. The rashes disappear quickly.
2. Contains anti-aging components.
3. Convenient packaging.
4. Skin tone increases.

Minuses

1. Pungent smell of cedar.
2. Minimal amount of retinol.

“I’ve been using the cream for 4 months, 3-5 times a week. After the first thirty days, I noticed a fresher complexion, small inflammatory elements disappeared, and the skin stopped flaking. I saw the main effect after the second month of use: skin tone increased, unevenness smoothed out, peeling and the feeling of tightness completely disappeared. After three months of use, I began to look five years younger.”

Elizavecca Milky Piggy Egf Elastic Retinol Cream

Anti-aging cream has a rejuvenating effect, tightens the oval, increases skin tone. The ointment has a rich composition: niacinamide, oligopeptide, adenosine, arginine. EGF protein stimulates cell growth, which promotes rapid restoration of aging skin. The cream contains a large number of additional components designed to improve the appearance of tissues.

Cost from 1,100 to 1,800 rubles.

pros

1. Contains EGF protein.
2. Most components are aimed at restoring aging skin.
3. Tightening effect.

Minuses

Minimal amount of retinol.

“I was surprised by the incredibly rich composition aimed at rejuvenation. Hoping that it all worked, I decided to buy it. The result is felt immediately, and after 10 minutes you can see it, irregularities disappear. I have been using the cream for more than a month, the skin seems toned, fine wrinkles have decreased. I decided to conduct an experiment and applied the cream on one side of the face to the folds near the corner of the eye. Surprisingly, they disappeared. The skin became soft, moisturized, and tightened.”

Vitex Retinol+Mg

The cream is intended to correct age-related changes. Retinol - renews tissue cells. Magnesium - relaxes the muscles on the face. The composition affects the deep layers of the skin, smoothes wrinkles from the inside. The anti-aging product is applied before bed to cleansed skin along massage lines.

Price 170 – 250 rub.

pros

1. Does not contain dyes.
2. Smoothes out wrinkles.
3. Pleasant floral honey aroma.

Minuses

Small volume, enough for 2 months.

“Retinol plus Magnesium, dense consistency. In the first week of use, it leaves a slight tingling sensation that goes away after a few minutes. After applying the product, the skin breathes, and in the morning you feel moisturized. Two weeks later: the face looks fresh and rested. At the end of the two-month test, wrinkles are less noticeable. A friend of mine also used it, but for the décolleté area. I was surprised by the results obtained; the tissue in this area smoothed out. I’m happy with the cream, I didn’t expect this from a budget product.”

Tips for choosing a product

Vitamin A is easily destroyed by exposure to sun and air.

• Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to the packaging, which must be air-tight and light-tight. The cosmetic product cannot be in a container with a screw cap or a dispenser spout.
• The vitamin A component works especially effectively when combined with oils or antioxidants in the form of vitamins and plant extracts.
• The formulation must contain moisturizing components that neutralize the ability of retinol to dry the skin. Such elements can be: vegetable oils, vitamin C, ceramides, hyaluronic acid.
• It is not recommended to independently introduce retinol preparations into your daily care. Consultation with a cosmetologist is necessary.
• An indicator of the quality of a product is the reputation of the manufacturer's brand.
• Cosmetic preparations with pure retinol have a high price, which is due to the complexity of production. To place the ingredient in the product, complex manipulations are carried out to enclose it in microcapsules, which dissolve after the retinol penetrates the skin. The component does not interact with air and light.
• Retinol esters will help fight the signs of photoaging; they are not able to activate the process of collagen production, which means they will not help reduce deep wrinkles.

Time frame for seeing positive results

For middle-aged people, the course of using vitamin A products is 9 months; for older people, positive changes will be noticeable after a year. When using the product around the eyes, the effect occurs after 6-8 weeks.

About the manufacturers

As mentioned above, high-performance microencapsulated retinol products are expensive. Their production is carried out by world-famous companies that guarantee the quality and presence of pure retinol in their products.

How to use

A small amount of cream should be applied to cleansed skin, avoiding the eye area. You need to use it gradually, 2 times a week. Then, if there are no negative reactions, you can apply the product every day. Adaptation takes about 2-3 weeks.

After stopping the drug with retinol, you need to use a sunscreen for a week. There are special creams and serums for the eyelids with a minimum content of vitamin A.