Sensitive Skin? We Tested Gentle Retinol Serums to Find the Best (2025)

Dr. Luke recommends this retinol booster serum “because it is an encapsulated retinol,” which means it has a slow-release delivery system. She also likes that it is formulated with antioxidants, making it tolerable for most people. Since it is designed to boost the effectiveness of other products already in your skincare lineup, Dr. Luke suggests mixing it with your favorite moisturizer as your skin gets used to the ingredient, “which makes it a great product to try if you are new to retinol.”

What reviewers think: “This is the first retinol I have found that does not have any ‘-cones’ or added fragrance, which always break me out,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I love that I can add this to my moisturizer or use it alone. My skin is clearer and brighter. All around fabulous product!”

This retinol serum from popular brand La Roche-Posay is formulated with vitamin B3 (niacinamide) to assist with soothing the skin and hyaluronic acid for an infusion of hydration and moisture. Alongside these sensitive-skin-friendly ingredients, the formula includes a gradual-release retinol—something Dr. Luke suggests looking for in a serum for sensitive skin—as it helps increase tolerability.

What we think: “As someone with sensitive skin who’s just beginning their retinol journey, this serum by La Roche-Posay has been incredible. I apply it at the end of my nighttime skincare routine, and so far I love the results. I’ve been using this twice a week for almost a year and have noticed clearer, brighter skin,” says Prevention Deputy Editor, Emily Goldman.

This affordable favorite from The Ordinary contains only two ingredients: Retinol and squalane. It contains retinol at 0.5% which is gentle yet effective at addressing the visible signs of aging, irregular texture, and uneven skin tone. The squalane in the formula acts as a buffer to the common side effects of retinol, offering nourishing hydration that tackles dryness on the spot. Plus, if you want something even more gentle, the brand offers the same formula at a 0.2% concentation—and if you’re looking for something more potent, you can opt for the 1% concentration.

What reviewers think: “I usually don’t write reviews, but I wanted to share my positive experience. After just one use, I noticed a big change in my skin. By day four, the blackheads on my nose were gone, and my pores looked smaller—it’s almost like magic! I didn’t experience any skin irritation,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I applied a moisturizer after the retinol dried. I was so impressed that I bought a second one for my daughter. I really appreciate that this product is affordable, making it easy for people on a budget to access!”

If you’re searching for a vegan option that packs a punch but is still gentle enough for sensitive skin, Dr. Luke and Dr. Shirazi recommend this serum. Dr. Shirazi notes that it’s “gentle with microencapsulated retinol combined with naturally derived ingredients including arophira and bakuchiol,” which are both retinol alternatives that are plant-based and thought to be gentler on the skin. “It’s vegan, fragrance-free, and at a great price point,” Dr. Shirazi adds. Dr. Luke recommends it for its antioxidants as well.

What reviewers think: “I have sensitive skin that will get red, dry, and itchy the second it comes into contact with something it doesn’t like. My skin liked this,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “It evened out my textured skin and made my face look so much fresher. The best part—it doesn’t cause any red patches or flakiness which I’ve experienced with other products.”

“I love this retinol because it comes in single-dose capsules (so you know exactly how much to use) and is formulated with retinol as well as antioxidants to deliver great results without irritation,” says Dr. Luke. It’s formulated to smooth lines and wrinkles overnight with continued use, per the brand.

What reviewers think: “Seriously astounded by my results. I feel like this took the entire pandemic off my face. Compliments daily. My skin texture has improved, wrinkles improved (I didn’t have a lot, but I’m 48), clarity improved, and dark spots improved. I feel like a million bucks!” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I can’t believe I have been paying $130 on a pricey serum for so many years. 5/5 recommend! I am also using this on my neck and chest, and again, it has shaved a few years off.”

Previously recommended by Dendy Engelman, M.D., a board-certified dermatologic surgeon in New York City, this serum uses a precise dose of retinol to boost collagen production and minimize side effects. The formula also contains peptides, hyaluronic acid, and ceramides, which help with providing “smooth, glowing skin without irritation,” Dr. Engleman explained.

What reviewers think: “So far, I really like this product. It is smooth going on, and feels like a normal moisturizer. I have been using it for about two weeks and have not had any adverse reactions. My skin already looks brighter and smoother, and I am excited to see the results of continued use,” wrote one Amazon reviewer.

For those in search of an affordable yet gentle retinol product, look no further than one of Dr. Luke’s drugstore favorites. The hydrating formula contains hyaluronic acid and a glucose complex to nourish the skin while the retinol gets to work. “This is a great affordable option that works well in many different skin types,” Dr. Luke explains.

What we think: “I’ve been using this before bedtime for a couple of years to treat the dark under-eye circles caused by lousy sleep. My sleep isn’t much better these days, but the dark smudges are gone! It’s not labeled for sensitive skin, but my irritation-prone skin has no trouble with it at all,” says Prevention Research Director, Sonya Maynard.

Another one of Dr. Luke’s favorite retinol serums, this formula from PCA Skin is formulated with 0.5% retinol in addition to a patented Omnisome technology that delivers the powerful ingredient deeper into the skin. “This retinol is a good option for people who struggle with hyperpigmentation since it is formulated with brightening ingredients such as resveratrol, hexylresorcinol, and niacinamide,” Dr. Luke says.

What reviewers think: “I have very sensitive skin and this product does not irritate it at all. It works really well and I can see a definite difference in the texture and pigmentation within a day of use,” wrote one Amazon reviewer.

Not only does this dermatologist-approved serum contain encapsulated retinol (which is known to be a more tolerable version of the ingredient), but it also contains an array of soothing ingredients—making it suitable for even reactive skin. “This serum is formulated with retinol, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides and is a great option for those with dry or sensitive skin,” Dr. Luke explains. “It is readily available in most stores or online.”

What reviewers think: “I’ve had zero irritation with this product. My skin feels so smooth and my dermatologist even complimented the texture and appearance of my skin at my last visit!” wrote one Ulta reviewer. “That felt great almost being 50!”

Dr. Shirazi says this gel is “wonderful for oily skin and those with acne-prone skin. A prescription-strength retinol that is available OTC.” Plus, it’s super affordable and has over 70,000 ratings on Amazon and nearly five stars overall. Though, it’s important to note that it is quite potent—follow application directions.

What we think: “I am diligent about using Differin Gel 0.1% every other night. It is a game-changer for collagen-boosting, brightening my skin and clearing pores, and preventing breakouts. EVERYTHING!!!! This is the formula that used to be available by prescription only, but now it’s OTC. I swear by it as an anti-ager and a secret to clear, radiant skin,” says Prevention Senior Editor, Gina Way.

Not only is this skin-loving night serum a fan-favorite and dermatologist-recommended, it’s also beloved by celebrities like Reese Witherspoon. “It’s formulated with squalane and hyaluronic acid to help support the skin’s moisture barrier,” explains Dr. Shirazi. Plus, the lightweight serum contains a blend of antioxidants to further nourish and protect the skin.

What reviewers think: “I was hesitant to try this at first because I have very sensitive skin,” wrote one Sephora reviewer. “At first I was using it twice a week; now I’m using it every night and my skin has never looked better! It looks and feels healthier, glowier, and fresher.”

If you’re looking for a cream instead of a gel or serum, Dr. Luke says this is a great option for you. Though it’s pricey, it packs a punch. “This retinol is a cream that is packed with antioxidants, peptides, and fatty acids to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve tone/texture,” notes Dr. Luke.

What we think: “I’ve been using this retinol cream a few times a week for over a year and have never had an issue with skin sensitivity. Don’t be afraid of its bright yellow hue. It contains vegan retinol to help reduce the look of wrinkles and sun damage,” she says. “Although it’s pricey, because you only need to use a pea-sized amount of product at a time, it lasts a long time,” says Christie Calucchia, Prevention senior commerce editor.

This drugstore staple is adored by celebrities, editors, and reviewers alike. It contains a powerful and effective percentage of retinol alongside a soothing complex of ingredients to nourish and protect the skin from irritation. It’s also formulated without mineral oil and dyes, which are common irritants.

What we think: “I’m not going to lie, I was hesitant to try this. Though Jennifer Garner is a huge fan, I have sensitive skin that has been reactive to products with fragrance. I thought the scent of this, coupled with the intensity of retinol, would wreak havoc on my complexion. But just the opposite. I find that a little goes a long way, it feels super-nourishing and hydrating when applied (something I’ve never thought of when using retinol, likely thanks to this formula’s emollients), and I actually love the scent. So pleasant! I’ve been using this for just over a year and have noticed a more even-looking complexion and less texture,” Goldman says.

Picking the best retinol for sensitive skin comes down to a few key factors:

• The amount and type of retinol. Each product containing the vitamin A derivative has varying amounts and even different types of retinol. If you’re concerned about having an adverse reaction, look for a product that has a low percentage of retinol to start.
• Additional ingredients. Seek serums, creams, and drops that include skin-nourishing ingredients like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants to help bolster skin.
• Price. You don’t need to spend all of your savings on retinol. While some products can definitely get pricey, there are affordable options that get the job done at a fraction of the price.

Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that help regulate skin cell turnover, Carolyn Stull, M.D., board-certified dermatologist previously explained. However, Dr. Stull noted that there are many different types and strengths of retinoids, including:

• Retinyl esters: The most gentle of all vitamin A derivatives, retinyl esters (like retinyl palmitate) must first be converted by your skin into retinol, then retinaldehyde, and finally retinoic acid (the active form of the ingredient) to begin working. These multiple conversion steps are what make it gentler on the skin.
• Retinol: The most common form of over-the-counter topical vitamin A products, retinol comes in varying percentages. Those with sensitive skin should opt for lower percentages before graduating to higher-strength products.
• Retinaldehyde: Also known as retinal, this form of vitamin A only requires one step to be converted into retinoic acid—making it stronger than both retinyl esters and the various strengths of retinol. This may be a good option for those seeking something stronger than retinol who don’t wish to use a prescription retinoid.
• Prescription retinoids: Prescription retinoids like tretinoin and tazarotene are already in the retinoic acid form, making them the strongest and most potent—meaning they also carry a higher risk of irritation.
• Adapalene: The only prescription-strength retinoid available over the counter, adapalene is a synthetic retinoid that does not need any conversion in the skin to become active.

In short, yes. “Sensitive skin can be really reactive to anything but more so when it comes to certain [skincare] ingredients,” Dr. Shirazi says. “There may be some initial redness and peeling when a retinol is first started, however, it’s temporary and resolves in two-to-three weeks utilizing application techniques to reduce irritation.”

One way to find out if a product is right for you, according to Dr. Luke, is to test it out first on a smaller patch of skin before applying it to your face and/or neck. “People with sensitive skin can still use retinol, however, I would recommend doing a test spot first: Apply the cream either to the skin right in front of your ear or along your jawline and then wait 24-48 hrs to make sure your skin doesn’t react,” she notes.

To reap all the benefits of your retinol product without irritating your skin, Dr. Shirazi recommends following these steps:

1. Cleanse. First, use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and then wait to apply the retinol (at night only)—using it right after cleansing can cause peeling and irritation, Dr. Shirazi says. “It’s best to wait 10 to 20 minutes or later in the evening.” If waiting longer than 20 minutes, moisturize right after cleansing rather than at the end of your routine.
2. Protect sensitive spots. After cleansing, apply a protective ointment like Vaseline to delicate areas like the eyes, creases of the nose, and the mouth. Doing so will create a barrier between these areas and the retinol, decreasing the risk of irritation and dryness.
3. Apply your retinol. Next, Dr. Shirazi suggests using a retinol with time-release technology and nourishing ingredients like licorice root, glycerin, ceramides, and Bakuchiol to reduce the risk of irritation. She advises using three to five drops if it’s a serum, or a pea-size amount if a cream or gel. She also says to apply from the outside in, rather than starting in the central face.
4. Moisturize. Once you’ve applied your retinol product, you’ll want to add some moisture and hydration to your skin with your favorite moisturizer for sensitive skin.