Retinol may be harsh on certain skin types. Thankfully, its alternative options offer similar results with less side effects.
Try these retinol-free serums to effectively combat hyperpigmentation, dark spots and acne scarring; hydrate skin hydration; smooth texture; and diminish hyperpigmentation. Dermatologists advise using them once or twice weekly in order to give skin time to adapt and allow proper absorption.
1. Ambio Even & Clear Fade Serum
Clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of this gentle but potency dual-action formula at helping reduce dark marks and skin discolorations as well as improving complexion in as little as 4 weeks. Packed with non-irritating Encapsulated Retinol to penetrate deep into skin layers overnight while key ingredients Niacinamide, Hyaluronic Acid and Ceramides smooth skin imperfections and provide ample moisture levels for improved complexions.
Included with this kit is a brightening eye serum designed to minimize fine lines, plump up skin elasticity, remove under eye bags/circles and visibly even out skin tone – this product has been dermatologist tested and is paraben-free!
AMBI has long been considered a leading expert in skin tone care products that effectively cleanse, treat and moisturize all skin tones. Their popular fade creams have long been trusted by People of Color to fade dark spots quickly and correctly – like their Advanced Even & Clear Fade Cream or Even & Clear Fade Serum Retinol which are both hydroquinone-free solutions designed for people of color skin types.
2. CeraVe Encapsulated Retinol Serum
Dermatologist-recommended and gentle enough for daily use, this formula of retinol serum offers multiple advantages for acne marks and pores while improving skin smoothness. Licorice root extract brightens, while hyaluronic acid and 3 essential ceramides lock in moisture and help restore the protective barrier function of skin (ceramides are form of lipids that make up its outermost layer – acting like first defense against breakouts). MVE technology uses microencapsulation technology to gradually release retinol into skin gradually while helping minimize irritation risk.
Apply a pea-sized amount of the non-greasy serum after cleansing, prior to moisturizing. At first it may cause an initial tingle but that should subside once your skin becomes familiar with its active ingredients.
3. SkinCeuticals Retinol Brightening Serum
This serum utilizes encapsulated retinol to stimulate collagen production for firmer skin while decreasing pores and hyperpigmentation. In addition, botanical retinol-alternative extract and conditioning ingredients help ensure soft, balanced complexions.
Bryant and Mian recommend switching up glycolic acid treatments with this brightening serum (or using both as part of your routine). Its fragrance-free formulation contains niacinamide, which helps brighten post-acne marks while simultaneously controlling sebum production in oily skin types.
This night cream contains a concentration of 0.5 pure retinol that effectively diminishes fine lines and wrinkles while refining pores and skin discolorations. Furthermore, bakuchiol – a plant-based alternative retinol – and prickly pear extract help plump up complexion for an enriched skin experience.
4. Embryolisse Retinol Booster Cream
A go-to beauty secret that has quickly become a cult favorite across dressing rooms, backstages and film sets alike is this multitasking lotion! Perfect as a moisturiser, makeup primer, make-up remover, repairing mask, after shave cream or baby lotion; its benefits make it the ideal beauty product!
This deeply moisturizing cream provides instantaneous relief from dry skin with Shea Butter and Aloe Vera, helping accelerate cell turnover for smooth, soft and radiant complexion.
This gentle non-comedogenic formula is an easy way to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine. Packed with Shea butter, beeswax and soy proteins – including Shea butter! – this non-greasy solution makes Embryolisse an old school French brand which understands what essential components your complexion requires in order to look radiantly beautiful and glowy!
5. Skinceuticals Retinol Booster Serum
This potency yet gentle serum works to quickly diminish fine lines, wrinkles and age spots while simultaneously stimulating skin renewal and exfoliating dead cells. Containing concentrated facial retinol to help with visible signs of aging such as pores while simultaneously minimizing breakouts, it should be applied once or twice weekly (ideally weekly at first then every other night as tolerated) on clean dry skin in the evening, preferably avoiding eye area usage for best results; always use high protection sunscreen due to increased photosensitivity caused by using retinol.
This powerful nighttime treatment features 0.3% pure retinol that has been optimized with advanced stabilization and delivery technologies for an even, steady release. Plus, soothing bisabolol helps soothe irritation. All packaging helps ensure potency.
