Shields CW, White JP, Osta EG, et al. Encapsulation and controlled release of retinol from silicone particles for topical delivery. Journal of Controlled Release. 2018;278:37-48. doi: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2018.03.023

Another product featuring retinaldehyde, this formula combines the powerful ingredient with a host of moisturizing ingredients, like glycerin and apricot kernel oil to combat its drying effects. It features a creamy, gel-like texture that feels like a hybrid between a cream and a serum, making it easy to spread out and absorb into the skin.Start, at the latest, when you see the first signs of reduced skin elasticity, fine lines and also irregular pigmentation,’ advises Dr Stefanie Williams. If you want to maintain a youthful complexion, there is one ingredient (Retinoid) an expert dermatologist will always prescribe. They consider these beauty products as the holy grail of noninvasive wrinkle-prevention. So we consulted an expert dermatologist to reveal the list of best retinol creams.

Retinoic acid is the only clinically proven anti-aging ingredient,” says dermatologist Patricia Farris. This formula is also gentle enough for senior news editor Nicola Dall'Asen, a self-described sensitive skin type, to use. "Most retinol formulas leave my skin red and aching the morning after application, but this one houses aloe vera, glycerin, and rosemary leaf extract to hydrate and soothe, leaving behind fresh-looking skin that's not tight-feeling or itchy every single time I use it," she says. However, sensitive skin types should still proceed with caution and patch test before applying to their faces, considering that the concentration percentage of retinol is not disclosed by the brand for this treatment. If your skin is a little bit sensitive and you may get to get irritation so try it in a small area first. If you’re pregnant however retinoids are best avoided. Right Time To Start It can be drying and irritate your skin. So my best advice is to use a pea-sized drop and remember you want to use it at nighttime. If you have dry sensitive skin or a redness-prone they need to be approached with caution and are probably best used under the guidance of dermatologists. They can be irritating especially when you use it for the first time.

Rule 1: You don’t need a prescription strength retinol for good results

Kligman, D. E., & Draelos, Z. D. (2004). High‐strength tretinoin for rapid retinization of photoaged facial skin. Dermatologic surgery , 30 (6), 864-866. The first thing board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, MD, recommends looking for in an over-the-counter retinol product is a moisturizing formula. "We know that retinol can cause skin irritation for the first two to four weeks of use, so it's important to look for a product that's also hydrating," he says. Look for formulas that include humectant ingredients like hyaluronic acid or oil-based emollients meant to deeply nourish parched skin. The Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream and the LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream both contain hyaluronic acid and other moisturizing ingredients to help counteract the drying effects of retinol. It's in this form, as retonic acid, that the benefits of retinol are truly felt on the skin. How to use retinol Another way to think about when you should start incorporating retinol on your skincare routine is to take a look at yourself in the mirror. Look at yourself with kindness. Try to think about what are the symptoms of ageing that you’re seeing. Typically we recommend retinol to someone who you can tell, she or he has been taking really good care of their skin, they have been using serums and eye creams and moisturizers and SPF and all those wonderful things. Huang ZR, Lin YK, Fang JY. Biological and pharmacological activities of squalene and related compounds: potential uses in cosmetic dermatology. Molecules. 2009;14(1):540-554. doi: 10.3390/molecules14010540