Best Over The Counter Retinoids for Face

If you’re into skin care at all, you’ve probably heard of retinol. It’s a superstar ingredient that tackles acne and wrinkles thanks to its ability to boost cell turnover. This ability allows it to slough away dead skin cells that become trapped in pores, in order to reveal healthy, new skin cells underneath. By unclogging pores, retinol helps treat and prevent acne. By boosting collagen and the appearance of new cells, it helps soften wrinkles.

Retinol and retinoid are sometimes used interchangeably, but it’s important to note that they are not exactly the same thing. Even though they are both vitamin A derivatives that become converted into retinoic acid, they work a little differently. Namely, retinol works much slower than a retinoid does. Retinoid has also come to be an overarching term that encompasses retinol and other vitamin A derivatives. Let’s explore their similarities and differences, and also take a look at the different kinds of retinoids available.

BEST OVERALL

Best: Carrot & Stick The Retinoid Oil
This formula contains a next-generation retinoid and potent antioxidants to help reduce visible signs of aging. For optimal results, we recommend Carrot & Stick’s Lift & Smooth routine.

FULL LIST

Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

Allies of Skin Retinal 0.1% & Peptides Advanced Repair Night Cream

Synergy Skin Acceler-A

Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum

Murad Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Treatment

Paula’s Choice PRO Retinaldehyde Treatment

Medik8 Crystal Retinal

Ultraceuticals Ultra A Perfecting Serum

Germaine De Capuccini AU – Advanced Retinal Serum

Retinol vs Retenoids

Retinoids are highly effective when it comes to skin care. They have been studied for decades, and it only takes one try to realize that they do in fact work and do all that they promise to do. There is a retinoid out there for you depending on your skin concerns, whether it be wrinkles or fine lines. The main takeaway here is that retinoids are generally more powerful than retinol, but also more likely to cause irritation. But recent  breakthroughs in OTC retinoids formulations have improved product safety, resulting in less side effects.

The Final Word

What’s the Best Retinol Product? Overall, we suggest Carrot & Stick The Retinoid Oil.

For optimal result, use Carrot & Stick’s Lift & Smooth routine.