If there is one skincare product you’ll have to pry from cold, lifeless hands, it’s retinol. And I’m not the only one. This wildly popular skincare routine is often the first line of defense for derms because of its anti-aging effects and ability to treat acne. But you don’t need a prescription to get your hands on the best retinols for men.

In fact, there are some benefits to over-the-counter retinol products. Although a prescription offers the highest strength, it requires a trip to the dermatologist, which can be costly and time-consuming. Over-the-counter options may not be quite as strong, but they’re easily accessible, typically affordable, and perfect for beginners. Because retinol for men takes some getting used to.

Before we dive in, let’s cover the basics when it comes to retinol for men.

What Is Retinol?

Retinol is a fat-soluble derivative of vitamin A. This beloved ingredient packs a serious punch by increasing skin cell production by turning over cells quicker and encouraging the regeneration of smoother, healthier cells. It also unclogs pores, regulates sebum production, exfoliates the skin, and even increases collagen production, which can reduce fine lines and wrinkles.

In addition to clearing acne and reducing signs of aging, retinol works on acne scars, dark spots, melasma, and hyperpigmentation, all while plumping skin to a youthful glow.

Who Should Use It?

Here’s the thing: retinol is strong and can be harsh on certain skin types. Because of its ability to regulate the skin’s oil production and calm inflammation, retinol is ideal on oily skin, especially if it’s acne-prone. Dry, sensitive skin types should start with a very low percentage and work their way up over time.

How To Use It?

Retinol doesn’t like to be slathered on. Doing so can cause redness, skin peeling, and major sensitivity. So, those new to retinol should take it slow. Apply twice a week in the evenings on the first week, every other night in the second week, and then every night in the third week. You might even need to go slower than that.

Some people find that a few times a week is all they need for good results on their dry or sensitive skin type. The bottom line is to listen to your skin and not push it.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

If you’re looking for a fast-working cure-all, then retinol might not be for you. It typically takes 3–6 months to start seeing results, but it’s worth it. Stick with it, and you’ll soon have enviously younger-looking skin.

What Not To Mix With Retinol

Because retinol is exfoliating, don’t use chemical exfoliants at the same time to decrease the risk of irritation. If you’re using a vitamin C serum, then it’s recommended to use it at the opposite time of day. Sometimes a product is formulated with both retinol and vitamin C; and if that’s the case, it’s safe to use.

With all that in mind, let’s take a peek at the 8 best retinols for men below.

Key Takeaways 

For this quest, I started by poring over hundreds of photos, customer reviews, and online forums until I whittled it down to the 8 finalists that you see on this list.

Overall, the best retinol for men is Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment because it’s beautifully formulated with skin-boosting ingredients, well-tolerated, and contains the highest percentage of OTC retinol. Another elegant formulation, Avene RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream, is a great gentle option for sensitive skin.

Why it’s great: Packed with a slew of skin-healthy ingredients, this retinol treatment is fast-working, effective, and elegantly formulated. It uses peptides, licorice extract, and vitamins C and E to soothe, brighten, and protect the skin against future damage.

All of that’s a nice plus alongside pure retinol, which is at 1%, the highest percentage available over the counter. That makes it easier for the skin to tolerate and helps it apply smoothly and absorb well.

Who is this for? A great option for sensitive skin, beginners, or those looking for an elevated retinol treatment.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: The big bottle is pricey; but reviewers say that it lasts a year. You get about 25 applications with the mini bottle.

Active Ingredients: Retinol, vitamin C, E, Hyaluronic acid, Licorice extract | Retinol Concentration: 1% | Dosage: 2–3 pumps | Size: 0.16, 1oz | Cruelty-free: No

Why it’s great: Effective yet pricey, this retinol for men is where it’s worth it to splurge a bit to get some great results. You’re going to get skin that looks firmer, feels smoother, and is downright radiant – thanks to a 3-in-1 triacrice retinol technology. Even though it’s super light on the skin, it’s capable of changing the texture of your skin entirely—for the better.

Who is this for? Those who desire smoother looking skin and want to improve their skin’s texture. Perfect for the mature guy.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: This serum is going to set you back some coin, but it’s worth it.

Active Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid | Retinol Concentration: 0.45–0.65% | Dosage: A thin layer nightly | Size: 0.33,1, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-free: Yes

Why it’s great: Derms worldwide love Avene because it’s gentle, and their retinol is no different. This is great news for sensitive skin types. That’s because they use retinaldehyde, which is clinically shown to be more effective and less irritating than retinol. Relastide gives your skin that juicy, plumped-up feeling as it mimics the ideal size of natural peptides.

Who is this for? If your skin reacts poorly to most skin types, then you might want to try this one because it’s so gentle.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: On the pricier side. 1 ounce should last about 60 days.

Active Ingredients: Retinaldehyde, relastide, pre-tocopheryl | Retinol Concentration: 0.1% | Dosage: 2 pumps nightly | Size: 1.01 oz | Cruelty-free: No

Why it’s great: Another fabulous high-quality formulation, this retinol for men uses a liposomal-encapsulated retinol blend plus blue-green algae, a natural retinoid alternative to improve congestion, repair damaged skin and improve the appearance of wrinkles. I love the way it smoothes skin and gives it a bright, glowy appearance in a matter of weeks.

Who is this for? A great choice for improving dull and/or acne-prone skin.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: This guy may smell weird to some.

Active Ingredients: Liposomal-encapsulated retinol, blue-green algae | Retinol Concentration: 6.5% retinol blend | Dosage: 1.5 pumps nightly | Size: 0.5, 1, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-free: Yes

Why it’s great: This drugstore brand provides the perfect entry to retinol for men. Even though it’s budget, it provides skin-smoothing and glowing properties that work well, even on sensitive skin. The texture is akin to a gel and feels lightweight, though you should make sure to let it absorb before applying the rest of your routine.

Who is this for? Thanks to its low percentage of retinol, this is a solid option for beginners and those whose skin doesn’t tolerate retinol very well.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: Some reviewers have said that it doesn’t feel like it absorbs well into the skin.

Active Ingredients: Encapsulated retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides | Retinol Concentration: 0.3% | Dosage: Apply small dots where needed | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-free: No

Why it’s great: If you use retinol every day, then an affordable option is a must. One reviewer sums it up well: “works without breaking the bank.” And I like that the retinol complex makes it a little easier on the skin by increasing efficacy, enhancing comfort and reducing irritation. In addition to making skin velvety smooth, it brightens, firm, and in a great turn of events actually hydrates the skin while minimizing wrinkles.

Who is this for? The low 0.3% and the retinol complex make it great for sensitive skin types.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: Although the low percentage may be a good thing for some guys, others feel that this retinol for men could be more effective.

Active Ingredients: Retinol, peptides | Retinol Concentration: 0.3% | Dosage: Two pumps | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-free: No

Why it’s great: At 0.3% retinol concentration, this is a great choice for beginners, though you might find that this is your retinol for life. It’s great for most skin types, even dry skin, because it provides moisturizing benefits thanks to ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid. Consumers love it because it’s powerful and leaves the skin radiant. Yes, please.

Who is this for? A great starter retiinol for men to smooth away wrinkles and brighten skin at an approachable price point.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: It might be irritating for sensitive skin.

Active Ingredients: Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, retinol | Retinol Concentration: 0.3% | Dosage: A few drops nightly | Size: 1 oz | Cruelty-free: No

Why it’s great: Really, retinol can be added into any product, so why not a moisturizer? Skip the extra step and use this cream that is non-greasy, fast-absorbing, and light enough for daily wear (so long as you follow up with SPF). Like any retinol for men, it should be worked up to, but it’s designed for use twice per day. Clinically proven to reduce fine lines, dullness, wrinkles, and dark spots, it can even reduce raised keloid scars.

Who is this for? This is an easy choice for the guy who wants to skip the serum for a simpler night routine involving fewer products.

Flaws but not deal-breakers: Though reviewers love the way their skin drinks it up, some feel it doesn’t help with wrinkles the same way it fades dark spots.

Active Ingredients: Retinol, hyaluronic acid | Retinol Concentration: 0.5% | Dosage: Pearl-sized amount 2x daily | Size: 0.5, 1.7 oz | Cruelty-free: No

Buying Considerations for the Best Retinols For Men 

Retinol Concentration

The highest concentration found in over-the-counter retinol products is 1%. Retinoids prescribed by your dermatologist will be stronger, but that isn’t always a good thing. Higher strengths may be more effective, but they cause more irritation, like redness and peeling. My advice is to start with an OTC retinol, or if you seek out the derm, slowly increase usage over time.

Ingredients

One advantage that OTC retinol has over prescriptions is formulation. Some of the best retinols for men combine retinol with other ingredients that hydrate, soothe, and boost the skin. They also make the retinol more tolerated on the skin. These can include peptides, hyaluronic acid, and various antioxidants and vitamins.

Product Type

The best retinol for men is usually found in serum form. This step comes after you tone and wash your face and before moisturizing. This is because retinol is photosensitive, it needs to be kept in a dark-colored bottle to keep it from degrading. You can find retinol in cream form, which is less common but often an easier, simpler choice for men.

How We Chose 

Plenty of retinol products claim to contain high-quality, pure retinol that reduces fine lines and wrinkles while plumping the skin. However, they often don’t perform like they should and contain synthetic ingredients. So, wherever possible, I chose products from reputable brands that are known to be effective and use high-quality ingredients.

I also sorted through hundreds of customer reviews, landing on my top 8 by choosing products that people rate highly and would buy again.

Company reputation: How is a company viewed by consumers? I always prioritize companies that are well-known for producing high-quality retinol products for years.

Customer reviews: What customers say about a retinol product indicates to me how it really works. Claims can be made all day, but until customers say that a retinol cleared their skin, improved their wrinkles, and boosted collagen, I won’t recommend it.

Price: It’s worth noting that pure, high-quality retinol isn’t exactly cheap. However, a product should strike a good balance between effectiveness and affordability. I made sure that every retinol I recommended toed this line.

Why Trust Us?

Staff writer Rachel Cascella is obsessed with skincare and beauty, which makes sense because she’s been writing about it for more than a decade. Through the years, she has pored over beauty forums, scoured ingredient lists, and even tested hundreds of products to determine which are the best and when/how you should use them.

She’s previously written about the best exfoliators and face serums for men according to skin type, price, and more. Her commitment to quality and detail ensures that you can trust her guidance in selecting the best retinol for your skincare needs.

Final Verdict 

The best retinols for men should be effective, non-irritating, and contain skin-healthy, hydrating ingredients. Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment is my top choice because it hits all those marks, lasts a long time, and absorbs beautifully into the skin.

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