Retinol for Acne (Acne Vulgaris)
Speeds up how fast your skin renews itself so old, dull cells shed faster and fresher skin shows through. Builds collagen over time, smoothing fine lines.
Why it works for Acne (Acne Vulgaris)
Helps keep pores clear so fewer clogs and breakouts form. It is an over-the-counter retinoid (a vitamin A treatment). Your skin converts it into the same active form as tretinoin, just in two steps, so it works the same way but more gently. The proof behind it is not as strong as tretinoin's, but it is a solid choice when you cannot get a prescription. Start at 0.025-0.05% and build up slowly.
How Retinol works
Converts to retinoic acid in skin; accelerates cell turnover and stimulates collagen synthesis.
Evidence
4 citations from our ingredient database. Full citation list on the Retinol ingredient page.
Products with Retinol in our catalog
These are the catalog products that list Retinol as a tracked ingredient.
Hada Labo
Hada Labo Tokyo Anti-Aging Hydrator
$19 · Serum
The Ordinary
Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$9 · Treatment
Innisfree
Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule
$39 · Treatment
The Ordinary
Retinol 1% in Squalane
$8 · Treatment
Paula's Choice
1% Retinol Booster
$60 · Treatment
Paula's Choice
Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
$67 · Treatment