UK's Top 5 Retinol Serums: 2024 Picks
UK's Top 5 Retinol Serums: 2024 Picks
Guided by comprehensive research and an understanding of skin's intricate needs, we present UK's standout Retinol Serums for 2024. Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is renowned for its ability to amplify cellular turnover and enhance skin's natural elasticity, giving way to a refreshed and youthful complexion.
Drawing a line between retinol and its potent counterpart, retinoic acid, is crucial. While retinoic acid provides swift skin-transforming benefits, it can, at times, cause sensitivity. Therefore, the serums we've selected harmoniously pair retinol with soothing elements, ensuring that you experience its age-defying benefits with minimised potential irritations.
Considering the essential role of Vitamin A in skin rejuvenation and the fact that our body cannot produce it naturally, it's no wonder retinol serums have earned their esteemed spot in many skincare routines. In our assessment, each product was rigorously evaluated not just for its immediate effects, but for safety, sustained results, and overall skin-enhancing benefits. Continue below to discover the unique attributes that make these the standout Retinol serums of 2024.
Guided by comprehensive research and an understanding of skin's intricate needs, we present UK's standout Retinol Serums for 2024. Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is renowned for its ability to amplify cellular turnover and enhance skin's natural elasticity, giving way to a refreshed and youthful complexion.
Drawing a line between retinol and its potent counterpart, retinoic acid, is crucial. While retinoic acid provides swift skin-transforming benefits, it can, at times, cause sensitivity. Therefore, the serums we've selected harmoniously pair retinol with soothing elements, ensuring that you experience its age-defying benefits with minimised potential irritations.
Considering the essential role of Vitamin A in skin rejuvenation and the fact that our body cannot produce it naturally, it's no wonder retinol serums have earned their esteemed spot in many skincare routines. In our assessment, each product was rigorously evaluated not just for its immediate effects, but for safety, sustained results, and overall skin-enhancing benefits. Continue below to discover the unique attributes that make these the standout Retinol serums of 2024.
Best retinol serum: At a glance
- Best Overall Retinol Serum: Habitual Skin Retinol Serum 30ml
- Best Acne Prone: Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream 30ml
- Best Splurge: Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream 50ml
Choosing the Right Skincare
Choosing the right skincare products can be difficult. Many of us are tempted to choose the cheapest option available, despite knowing that this may come at the expense of effectiveness. Yet, the reason some products are more expensive than others is they are significantly higher in quality. Although they require you to spend a bit more, you are likely to see better results and receive more of the expected benefits of the products you are using.
Choosing from an overwhelming amount of brands and products out there can feel difficult at times – which is why we have researched what each has on offer, tested, and narrowed down our choices for this ultimate list of five highly rated products.
The Good - What to Look For
Look for potent active ingredients, high potency, pure ingredients, and clinically advanced formulations for guaranteed results.
The Bad - What to Avoid
Avoid low potency, unnecessary ingredients (filler ingredients), animal testing, fragrances (can be toxic for your skin), and excessive cost – skincare doesn’t need to be expensive and usually means paying for fancy packaging & marketing. Check for effectiveness and key ingredients rather than marketing, packaging, or proprietary ingredients.
The System - Our 10 Step, Research Backed Ranking Method
There is so much more to choosing a Retinol Serum, than just taking marketing and labels at face value. That simply isn’t enough. Instead, we choose to test and compare each Retinol serum against our 10-point ranking system:
- 1 The purity and quality of ingredients and sourcing.
- 2 The presence or lack of artificial fillers, preservatives and additives.
- 3 Regulated manufacturing facilities and high-quality processes.
- 4 The information behind the product - science, research and development.
- 5 Level of Active Ingredients availability, digestibility and absorption.
- 6 Manufacturer governing bodies registrations and certifications.
- 7 Third-party testing to determine validity and accuracy of label information.
- 8 Filtering customer reviews to remove paid/fake reviews to highlight truthful customer experience.
- 9 Price and value for money.
- 10 Return and money-back guarantee policies.
Save on our favourite retinol serum
Right now at Habitual Skin, you can save up to 10% on best sellers and up to 35% off bundles. This includes the Retinol Serum from our roundup – an exceptionally potent serum that effectively targets fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, while also boosting collagen production for a beautifully smooth and radiant complexion. Use code JUNE24 at checkout to bring the price down to just £38.70.
Habitual Skin | Was £43.00 | Now £38.70
The Guide - How We Evaluated the Top 5
- 20 Hours Researched
- 5 Expert Evaluations
- 60 Customer Experience Interviews
Our Top 5 Retinol products were chosen based on studious research that dove deep into the quality of each individual product; consultation with leading skin care clinicians to gain their expert opinions; and a multitude of user experience interviews, to ensure the products you find below are the best on the market and most beneficial for your skin.
All products featured on Honest Reviews are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
TOP 5 RETINOL PRODUCTS IN 2024
#1 Habitual Skin
Habitual Skin Retinol Serum
- Quality Rating: 10/10
- Expert Rating: 9.9/10
- Users Rating: 9.8/10
Habitual Skin’s Retinol Serum is a skincare game-changer. Our in-depth testing process has revealed its remarkable ability to combat fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, making it the ultimate choice for those seeking youthful, radiant skin without the need for lasers or surgery.
This serum contains a unique blend of two 0.5% retinols, a powerhouse combination that delivers remarkable results. What truly sets it apart is its utilisation of Advanced ROVISOME® Delivery. This innovative approach ensures that it effectively addresses signs of ageing while remaining gentle on your skin.
Our expert testers were truly impressed by the outcomes. After consistent use, they witnessed a noticeable reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. Their skin became smoother, firmer, and more youthful in appearance.
But it’s not just about the results; it’s about the brand’s commitment to excellence. Habitual Skin’s Retinol Serum is cruelty-free, reflecting the brand’s ethical standards. Moreover, it’s free from parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances, making it a clean and safe choice for your skincare routine.
In summary, Habitual Skin’s Retinol Serum is the secret to unlocking youthful, radiant skin. Our rigorous testing process has shown that it delivers on its promises, making it a standout product in the world of skincare. Say goodbye to fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots – Habitual Skin has your back for a radiant transformation. Your skin will thank you, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t discover it sooner.
The Desirables
- Potent Dual Retinol Blend: The formula combines two 0.5% retinol varieties for powerful wrinkle reduction.
- Cutting-Edge Retinoid Technology: Utilising Advanced ROVISOME® Delivery for effective, yet gentle results.
- Dermatologist-Formulated: Developed by UK dermatologists, ensuring expert guidance in ingredient selection.
- Clinically Tested and Ethically Produced: Their cruelty-free, vegan formula is rigorously clinically tested, adhering to the highest ethical and quality standards.
- Clean and Safe: Free from parabens, phthalates, fragrances, and harmful chemicals for a safe skincare experience.
- Proudly Made in the UK: Crafted with care in the United Kingdom, adhering to stringent quality control measures.
- Complimentary UK Shipping: Enjoy free shipping within the UK on orders over £40, making it convenient and accessible.
- 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee: They offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, confident in the transformative results of our product.
The Undesirables
- Currently, it is only available for purchase on the official company website.
- Stock issues may occur due to the high demand for the product.
The Final Word
Of every Retinol serum we put up against our 10 point ranking system, Habitual Skin’s Retinol Serum was by far the highest quality product that delivered the most optimal results.
Our testers were impressed with their cruelty-free, vegan formula that is scientifically designed by chemists using the top-recommended dermatologic ingredients. It provided them with smoother, firmer skin and reduced wrinkle depth in just a few weeks of use.
It is clear that Habitual Skin is an inclusive brand that places importance on ensuring a positive experience for their Retinol Serum users through the use of moisturising ingredients to counteract the risk of irritation, detailed instructions for both beginner and experienced users, and its suitability for use with all skin types.
Habitual Skin offer free shipping on all orders over £40, which allows customers to spend more money on the actual products. They also offer a 90-day money-back guarantee, which gives customers significantly longer than other brands to trial products and determine if they achieve real results. This clearly demonstrates that they believe in their product and its ability to produce true, high-quality skin benefits.
Why Habitual Skin Is Our #1 Pick
After evaluating ingredients, reputability, customer service and experience across numerous brands of Retinol products, it is clear that Habitual Skin’s Retinol Product is the superior product on the market.
Their powerful dual blend of two high potency, intuitive retinol varieties provided testers with improved skin colour, a more even complexion and the reduced appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
By delivering a stabilised formula using Advanced ROVISOME® Delivery, the latest in Retinol technology, ensured testers received treatment to the deeper levels of their skin without the aggressive irritation experienced with some other brands. Their stabilised formula also protects the serum from the risk of degradation.
The inclusion of Hyaluronic Acid and the exclusion of harmful chemicals aids the reduced irritation testers experienced by creating a hydrated skin environment.
Alongside these core reasons for why Habitual Skin’s Retinol Product stood out from the rest of the brands, they frequently provide their customers with special offers that allow their buyers to capitalise on what they spend.
#2 Obagi
Obagi Retinol 1.0
- Quality Rating: 9.1/10
- Expert Rating: 9.0/10
- Users Rating: 8.9/10
The Obagi Retinol 1.0 not only delivers a punch of potent 1% retinol, it also promises to deliver that punch without any irritation. A unique entrapped delivery system gradually releases this powerful ingredient over time so your skin may be conditioned properly for handling its high concentration.
However, best practice is for beginner users or those with sensitive skin to start at approximately 0.25% and work their way to a higher percentage as their skin tolerates it; therefore, this product would not be suitable for those starting out on their retinol journey.
The Desirables
- Additional ingredients to nourish skin such as shea butter and jojoba oil.
- Antioxidant protection provided by addition of vitamins E and C.
- High concentration / high potency of retinol.
The Undesirables
- May be too strong for sensitive skin types and retinol beginners.
- Opened items cannot be returned.
- Unavailable for purchase on Amazon or their official website.
The Final Word
The inclusion of vitamins and other nourishing skin ingredients make the Obagi Retinol 1.0 cream gentler on the skin than some of the other retinol products on the market; however, the high potency retinol used unfortunately means despite these counteracting ingredients, it still may be too strong for beginner users or those with sensitive skin. Advanced users were pleased with the results but noted that they took longer to see than other brands they tested. Obagi Retinol 1.0 is not the easiest cream for consumers to get their hands on with it not being for sale on their official website or Amazon UK. We were disappointed to find Obagi do not allow the return of product once opened, which is the only way consumers will know if the product works with their skin and if it is worthy of on-going purchases.
#3 Drunk Elephant
Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
- Quality Rating: 8.7/10
- Expert Rating: 8.6/10
- Users Rating: 8.5/10
Testers always have high expectations for The Drunk Elephant brand due to its popularity. Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream is a potent dose of plant-derived, vitamin A rich formula meant to even out your skin tone and texture while reducing the look (and necessity) for makeup. It also contains a tripeptide blend that helps firm up skin. It is also designed to keep those wrinkles at bay thanks in part to the inclusion of vitamin F and its hydrating properties.
Unfortunately some testers found the high-potency slightly irritating on application to their skin and the metal packaging often caused excessive amounts of cream to come out simply from the pressure applied to remove the twist cap.
The Desirables
- Contains high concentration retinol.
- Cruelty-free and vegan friendly.
- Triple-peptide boosts retinol efficacy.
- The addition of Vitamin F hydrates and nourishes skin.
The Undesirables
- Consumers may experience slight irritation due to high potency.
- Packaged in a metal container similar to prescription retinol creams which can ooze more product than needed.
- Expensive compared to other retinol products.
The Final Word
Well known brands like Drunk Elephant come with a well-established level of trust when consumers purchase their products – and rightly so! Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream combines their high concentration of the active Retinol with boosting and nourishing ingredients; however, compared to other brands it has a higher price ticket which raises concern when considering the common issue of product waste due to their packaging expelling more product than necessary. Testers highlighted this as a main concern, as when spending a higher amount of money they hope for the product to last as long as possible.
#4 SkinCeuticals
SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0
- Quality Rating: 8.1/10
- Expert Rating: 8.0/10
- Users Rating: 7.9/10
SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 can be used with normal, oily & combination skin types. Despite it containing skin-calming ingredients derived from chamomile designed to soothe and comfort the skin, it remains unsuitable for use with dry or dehydrated skin meaning consumers with this skin type would need to purchase additional products to get their skin to a state where they could use this serum.
SkinCeuticals claim that their Retinol 1.0 fights breakouts and this could be true given the inclusion of Alcohol Denat; however, while reduced breakouts is desirable, the ingredient and its high quantity is likely to be very irritating to the skin and could even strain normal skin functions. Unfortunately there was no further evidence found to back their breakout fighting claim when we looked deeper.
We were surprised to find that SkinCeuticals have had several issues with counterfeit or ‘knock-off’ products being created that appear to be spoiled when received by consumers or have caused users facial discomfort on application. While they have tried to warn consumers in their company disclaimer, requesting buyers ensure they purchase authentic products from authorised retailers, they admit that it is “almost impossible to distinguish real from fake” leaving it difficult for consumers to feel reassured when making a purchase decision.
The Desirables
- Pure retinol 0.5%
- No additives or parabens used
- Suitable for combination, dry and normal skin types
- Free samples offered with each product purchase
The Undesirables
- Unconfirmed claims that it minimises breakouts
- Retinol is not in an encapsulated form
- Difficult to tell the difference between counterfeit and authentic products
- Unable to be used with all skin types particularly dehydrated and sensitive skin
- Expensive and made in the USA
The Final Word
SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0 uses pure retinol and is free from parabens and additives; however, its Retinol is not encapsulated which research suggests could mean the retinol is gentler on the skin, but is also not penetrated as deep into the skin before being activated as other brands. Unfortunately we were unable to find sufficient information to back their claims that this product minimises breakouts. SkinCeuticals do offer the cream in 0.5 and 0.3 concentrations to cater to the different levels of user from beginner to advanced; however, it does exclude dry and sensitive skin types.
#5 Murad
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal
Night Cream
- Quality Rating: 7.6/10
- Expert Rating: 7.5/10
- Users Rating: 7.7/10
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream uses progressive and advanced tri-action technology to deliver fast-acting retinol, time-released vitamin A derivative retinyl propinate, and a retinol booster to ensure users receive maximum results with as minimal irritation as possible.
Their technology is combined with hydrating ingredients such as squalane, shea butter and fatty alcohols, and reports that it is ideal for ‘thirsty’ skin. However, some testers with dry skin felt it did not live up to this statement, while other users felt the product itself was very small for £85.
The Desirables
- Time-released, fast-acting retinol combined with a retinol booster
- Skin calming ingredients such as niacinamide and picolinamide calms that support the skin barrier
- Low-irritation formula
The Undesirables
- Small product size in relation to cost
- Only available for purchase online
- Some reviews suggest it does not fully address skin sensitivity and is less effective for dry skin than it claims
The Final Word
What makes Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream stand out from other brands is their use of three different retinol concentrations – a fast releasing retinoid, a retinol booster and a time released retinoid. It is also pleasing to see the use of skin calming and barrier supporting ingredients such as niacinamide and picolinamide. Despite this, a number of testers with a dry skin did not feel they received the level of efficacy the brand claims and felt that the product size to price ratio was too high. Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream is only available for purchase online, which was a negative for our testers who like to physically see and handle a product before purchasing it.
Honourable Mentions
Sobel Skin Rx 4.5% Retinol Night Treatment
Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair
Shani Darden Retinol Reform
L'Oréal Paris Revitalift Derm Intensives Night Serum
Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Booster
Final Thoughts
From reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protecting collagen from degradation, to strengthening the skin barrier and reducing moisture loss; Retinol is one of the most popular and proven skin care ingredients when it comes to anti-ageing.
There are many advantages of using a Retinol product in your daily skincare routine, but it can be challenging to find the right product with the well-known concerns of skin irritation and ingredient instability.
After putting a multitude of brands up against our 10 point ranking system that takes into account the science, packaging, marketing and consumer experience, it is clear that Habitual Skin’s Retinol Product is the best on the market.
Citations
Retinoids: active molecules influencing skin structure formation in cosmetic and dermatological treatments
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6791161/
Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/
Improvement of Naturally Aged Skin With Vitamin A (Retinol)
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamadermatology/fullarticle/412795