Find your new skincare saviour among these retinol serums (2023)

You can always rely on Medik8 to launch incredible products that guarantee results. When it launched, crystal retinal was a breakthrough formula harnessing the power of retinaldehyde – which is part of the vitamin A family but one that works quicker than retinol.

Available in a few different strengths, 6 falls in the middle and is a good choice for anybody who’s already using vitamin A in their routine and is looking to increase the potency. The gentle formula is unlikely to cause irritation and the addition of hyaluronic acid, vitamin E and glycerin works to hydrate skin, too. Our tester loves how effective this is, and it really is up there with the very best of best in terms of results.

AlumierMD is one of those brands that doesn’t get as much attention as it should – its products are incredibly hardworking and it’s also a brand rooted in science. The only downside is that it’s only available to buy in approved salons and clinics, but don’t let that put you off.

This retinol resurfacing serum features microencapsulated retinol that is gradually released throughout the night in order to achieve maximum results with minimal dryness or side effects. Our tester did experience some peeling with this, but that’s not unusual, it’s just worth bearing in mind that it is a potent product so it’s best to introduce it slowly, or sandwich a thin layer between moisturisers if needed.

A quick scan at the cost of some of the retinol serums mentioned here will tell you everything you need to know: it’s not the most affordable of products. But The Ordinary changed everything when it launched, creating affordable and effective products, and its retinol serum is no exception.

The formula contains 1 per cent pure retinol, and it’s vital that you slowly introduce it into your routine to reduce the chances of irritation. There’s no doubt that this is effective, it’s easy to apply and, considering the price, feels like a much more expensive serum. It’s one of a couple of similar serums that The Ordinary sell, but our tester thinks this is the best in its retinol offering.

Alongside retinol, niacinamide is another effective ingredient that works to reduce pore size and strengthens the skin’s barrier, and super cool brand Youth To The People have combined it with retinaldehyde in this powerhouse serum. One of a few excellent products from this brand, not only does it help target fine lines and wrinkles, but it also works to soothe and improve uneven skin tone, too.

Our tester loved the texture of this serum and it sunk into skin quickly and easily without feeling sticky – but she would suggest layering it with a moisturiser for an added hit of hydration. Just make sure you leave around 10 minutes between applying products to ensure you’re getting full efficacy of the ingredients and aren’t diluting them.

Beauty Pie is no stranger to high quality, incredibly hardworking products and this retinol serum is no exception. It’s formulated with an excellent blend of hydrating ingredients, including ceramides and hyaluronic acid. The former helps to reduce visible signs of ageing while the latter helps ensure skin remains dewy and not dry.

Our tester liked that this is a fragrance-free formula, and after a couple of uses soon realised why it’s one of the most popular Beauty Pie products. She also liked the addition of lactic acid, an exfoliating ingredient that works to gently resurface the skin. This is a great entry point for anybody looking to start using retinol, and, if you’ve been looking for one, it’s the perfect excuse to sign up to Beauty Pie especially as member can grab this serum for just £16.50.

Chances are you’ve heard of bakuchiol: a natural, vegan-friendly and plant-based ingredient that’s been shown to work in a similar way to retinol. It helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles, while also targeting pigmentation, elasticity and firmness. Bybi’s booster can be added into your existing moisturiser to supplement existing products in your routine, helping them to work harder and smarter.

Our tester loves how affordable and easy to use it is – and that you can apply it directly onto skin instead of mixing it into another product, whatever suits you best. Bybi’s sustainability credentials shouldn’t be underestimated either, a brand that’s fighting the good fight and doing everything it can to build a better future for our planet.

This lightweight serum contains 5 per cent granactive retinoid, which is gentler than standard retinols. Its composition also features 10 per cent of brightening ingredient niacinamide and 2 per cent of the natural retinol alternative bakuchiol. Between these three key components our skin feels smoother and appears more balanced, minus any irritation or dryness.

We also really like how quickly it absorbs, and the silky soft gel feel on our skin. Recommended usage is half a pump every other night to start with, before gradually increasing to a full pump. As with all retinol serums, it’s best to see how your skin feels and titrate the dosage accordingly, but we think this is a great medium between natural bakuchiol buys and stronger retinols.