I’ve tried a bunch of retinols over the past few years, and here are the reviews:
A313. This is a French retinol that is over-the-counter. Don’t be fooled by the pomade texture. It is pretty strong. You can get it on Amazon!
Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Booster. This is a retinol that they’re saying you can mix into other creams, but why take the chance and lessen its efficacy? I use it on its own.
The Ordinary Retinol in Squalene. I loved using this but because of the large molecules of oil, it’ll mostly sit on top of your skin instead of sinking in. So not my top pick but great for people with dry skin.
Alumier MD 1% Retinol Resurfacing Serum. Kind of a powdery silicone finish and dry to the touch but it works. Comes in different percentages.
Skinceuticals Retinol. Also comes in different percentages and also a bit of a powdery finish. Great formula though. This is the one that got me on the retinol bandwagon.
Differin Gel. Prescription only in Canada but it’s a great formula without any bells or whistles. I have the 0.1% but it also comes in a 0.3%. Way stronger than over-the-counter formulas.
Reversa Retin[A]List 0.3 Retinol Cream. Loved this formula because it has hyaluronic acid in it. This is probably my favourite formula but I wish it was stronger.
Pixi Collagen and Retinol Serum. Not strong at all. If it doesn’t say the percentage on the bottle then it’s probably not that strong.
Beautycounter Countertime Collection. Uses Bakuchiol which is an alternative that can help lessen wrinkles. It’s not like retinol but has some of the same effects. But so do lots of other things. *shrugs*. These products are very nice. But they’re not retinol. But I did like them.
