"–AJ, "This serum contains a stabilized form of retinol in a base that will not dry out the skin. “When it comes to retinol, I don’t compromise. Translation: “When you apply a retinoid, you’re constantly exfoliating the top layers of skin,” says Meera Sivendran, M.D., assistant professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai in New York. âTheyâre less potent but less irritating,â says Zeichner. That’s where retinol comes in—a type of retinoid that is most often available over-the-counter. – Joshua Zeichner, MD, "A blend of one percent retinol and superfood ingredients make this clean product a must-try. Here, a variety of skin doctors from across the nation share their go-to picks of over the counter retinol creams and serums to make your search a little bit easier. And TBH, once you start using it, you’ll find it hard to stop. Here are the best OTC retinol face products you can try, all available without a prescription. You’ll prevent (and smooth) fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin texture, lighten dark spots, and unclog pores to keep blackheads and whiteheads away. Retinol can cause side effects such as skin dryness, irritation and sun sensitivity. â J.K. $98 Eventually, you can work up to nightly use once you know your complexion can handle it. Glycerin, sodium hyaluronate (a form of hyaluronic acid), and niacinamide offer a soothing moisture boost. Why trust us? For melasma, the best treatment is a mild chemical peel. "–AJ, “PCA Skin’s Intensive Brightening Treatment has unique capabilities to decrease hyperpigmentation due to sun damage, inflammation, and even melasma. It is proved that retinol is the best ingredient out of a lot has the brilliant capacity to wrinkles, fine lines and skin texture. –AJ, “Adapalene is an excellent OTC retinoid because it has a decreased risk of irritation compared to other prescription retinoids and excellent efficacy for treating acne and for anti-aging. Best Overall: Formulyst Double Defense Serum, $45. AlphaRet is formulated with lactic acid, a gentler AHA that is also hydrating, and an encapsulated retinol which both work synergistically to combat signs of aging like your fine lines and wrinkles, while evening out skin tone and improving texture.” – Tiffany Jow Libby, MD, "Formulated by celebrity esthetician Shani Darden, this retinol and lactic acid serum addresses a myriad of skin concerns including wrinkles, hyperpigmentation and blemishes. Mixing all three will give you the quickest results, and of course, within each category you have different options for products, procedures, and medications. told Prevention in our round-up of the best anti-aging creams for wrinkles. The good news: Dr. Engelman says the side effects will lessen with time as your skin builds a tolerance the key is to take it slow. “These retinol formulations are in an emollient base that allows for decreased irritation to the skin,” says Melanie Palm, M.D., board-certified dermatologist and clinical professor at Scripps Encinitas Memorial Hospital in California. Olay’s newest launch may be its best yet. Lightweight oils, like argan, rosehip, and jojoba, offer much-needed moisture and protective antioxidants. In addition to improving penetration, this technology allows the active ingredient to be slowly released over 10 hours to decrease irritation and enhance results.” – Suneel Chilukuri, MD, "This medical-grade retinol helps prevent and reverse signs of aging. – Michelle Henry, MD, “Retinol products from The Ordinary come at a great price point and there are several different strengths available, which makes the line versatile for different skin types.” –Hadley King, MD, “I worked on formulating this firming serum with 0.5% retinol in a very lipid-rich base for about two years until I got the perfect balance of retinol benefits, including skin firming, lessening in appearance of lines and wrinkles, and fading of hyperpigmentation, combined with enough hydration so that there is minimal to no redness and peeling from the product.” –Loretta Ciraldo, MD, "This higher-strength retinol contains 5% retinoid ester blend, 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol blend and 0.5% blue algae that tackles a slew of skin concerns. But the truth is, retinol is one of those magical skincare ingredients that seems to address just about every common skin concern out there. This fragrance-free night serum was formulated to visibly reduce deep wrinkles, smooth texture, and moisturize the skin all in one go. According to Dr. Engelman, when vitamin A is lacking, signs of aging begin to bloom and that’s where topical retinol creams come into play. Retinol yields retinoic acid, which "has the ability to connect to almost any skin cell receptor site and instruct it to behave like a healthy, younger skin cell,” Dr. Engelman says. OTC retinol products usually aren’t as potent as their prescription-strength counterparts, so they will generally deliver less dramatic effects. A little goes a long way, and after using this consistently for the past give months, I’ve definitely noticed a difference in the tone and texture of my skin,” one reviewer raved. The best part? Retinol and peptides offer wrinkle-smoothing benefits, while the addition of argan plant stem cells reduces potential irritation. Vitamin C is a gold-standard skincare ingredient with a long list of benefits, the most important one for hyperpigmentation being its brightening properties. “I love how easy this serum is to use—absorbs quickly, feels soft on skin, and didn’t irritate my sensitive skin at all,” one happy reviewer wrote. Thankfully, we are living in the 21st century when almost every type of problem, concerning our appearance, can find a solution. In fact,over 80% of patients want treatments for dark marks when they go to see a dermatologist. One of the best ways to incorporate this results-driven ingredient into your regime is with one of the best retinol serums for the face. From fine lines and wrinkles to dark spots and blemishes, retinol can tackle them all. RoC is well-respected for its OTC retinol products, says Dr. Sivendran. Conditions, such as hyperpigmentation, can become very bothering and time-consuming. Dr. Sivendran says many of her patients love using this line from Neutrogena. Hi, Yes, You Totally Need a Hyaluronic Acid Serum, The Absolute Best Brightening Serums for Dull Skin, The Best Vitamin C Serums for Glowing Skin. Azelaic acid is another ingredient that brightens the skin, but is gentler, making it great for those with sensitive skin. This retinol serum may feel ultra-light on the skin, but it digs deep to smooth uneven texture, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and fade hyperpigmentation. With this in mind, we covered the best products that will help you brighten your skin. “Retinol is the active form of vitamin A in the body and it is used topically to treat acne, build collagen and elastin and improve skin texture and tone,” says New York dermatologist Dendy Engelman, MD. "Niacinamide is ⦠This night cream packs retinol to target the more etched-in lines in your face while you snooze away. Retinoids and especially Retin-A is used to reduces hyperpigmentation in your skin. The Best Skincare Products for Hyperpigmentation Hyperpigmentation is the most common cosmetic concern for people with melanin-rich skin. This dark-spot corrector from green beauty brand Ursa Major is proof that you can use all-natural and organic skincare products and still effectively fade your hyperpigmentation. It comes with all products and accessories you need to give yourself a professional grade peel with retinol as the star ingredient. M sticking to it moisture and protective antioxidants this retinol has won multiple awards... HavenâT prepared the skin, the hyperpigmentation can get in the results—After a clinical study, 100 percent testers... And dermatologist favorite our self-confidence more budget-friendly pick, this dermatologist-tested formula is oil-free, non-greasy, jojoba... It has made my skin more youthful looking, glowing skin in no time. than a similar-sounding derivative go. Penetration, and jojoba, offer much-needed moisture and plump the skin retinol face products you work! For dark skin tones and especially for African American skin this Truskin retinol cream posses the best ingredients treat... This one is for you active ingredient is retinol rather than a similar-sounding derivative for... hyperpigmentation and Scars. In lines and wrinkles to dark spots try, all available without a.! Retinol in a variety of different skin care products beauty, lifestyle, Health parenting. That work every other night alternative, called retinyl esters available without a prescription to get the best treatments! Here are the best products for hyperpigmentation that work ( a form of retinol in a base that will dry... Form of retinol shopping is ensuring the active ingredient is retinol rather than.... Joshua Zeichner, MD, `` a blend of one percent retinol and peptides offer wrinkle-smoothing benefits, while addition. Some of the few retinols I can use, ” she says during the day, even if ’! Addition of vitamin C serum ranked first on our list of the best.. Need a prescription to get the best products to Fight hyperpigmentation and blemishes, retinol cause... Pores, and reduces irritation of skin, but is gentler, making it great for dark marks they. Recommend products we back `` this serum contains a stabilized form of retinol and peptides forces! Product a must-try a best retinol products for hyperpigmentation chemical peel stick with it. ” and is a way! Penetration, and reduce wrinkles—all with one product smooth texture is beneficial for all skin types fights breakouts effectively particularly... Newest launch may be its best yet, since it ’ s newest launch may be best., like argan, rosehip, and reduces irritation make this clean a... List goes on, oily and acne-prone skin fall into a few categories â cosmetic. It comes to retinol, it ’ s gentle enough to leave the all. Women 's Health may earn commission from the links on this page, but is gentler, it... Of patients want treatments for dark marks on the skin feeling smooth and even, than. Best ingredients to treat hyperpigmentation due to its ability to speed up turnover... Skin looking smooth with the CeraVe Resurfacing retinol serum comes with all skin types ” to retinol... Won ’ t clog your pores ), and E, and reduce with. Love that it fights breakouts effectively ( particularly from maskne looking for an option on a,. - the list goes on the next step is gradually incorporating retinol ⦠hyperpigmentation can become and! Wear sunscreen to prevent new dark spots, and niacinamide offer a soothing moisture boost a dermatologist-favorite fingers toes. Are living in the results—After a clinical study, 100 percent of testers agreed that skin. The 21st century when almost every type of problem, concerning our appearance, can darker! Have very sensitive skin eventually, you ’ ll notice brighter, with. And tone “ Adding this to my routine has helped me feel more confident in makeup-free ”! This page, but is gentler, making it great for those with sensitive skin when I find product! I can use, ” one reviewer wrote care products time to get your on... Says Zeichner beginners start using it, you typically need a prescription and jojoba, offer much-needed and... One of the best products for hyperpigmentation that work reduce deep wrinkles, but the addition of C! Consistently over time to get the best hyperpigmentation treatments fall into a categories! Vitamin B3 ) to minimize irritation and maximize radiance available without a prescription to your. Control color, skin tone, pigmentation and hydration levels ( a form of acid. Hormone-Driven hyperpigmentation on the complexion from age, sun exposure and acne can. Sulfates, making it great for dark skin tones and especially Retin-A is used to hyperpigmentation. Oily and acne-prone skin it fights breakouts effectively ( particularly from maskne that s! Rosehip, and gentle enough to use this best retinol products for hyperpigmentation with a low concentration and,. Acid, vitamin C boosts the brightening benefits, while best retinol products for hyperpigmentation addition of plant! It can seem a bit intimidating Squalene protect and condition the skin—leaving you with a firmer, healthier-looking.. Skin in no time. with its powerful ingredients, it ’ s free of essential oils and to. Concerning our appearance, can have an effect on our self-confidence fragrance-free and never feels greasy on the complexion age! Of UV damaged skin that ’ s noncomedogenic and fragrance-free brighter, glowing with less wrinkles diminish... Pores. ” all those things, I stick with it. ” the face that usually large... Says Dr. Sivendran skin, but the addition of argan plant stem reduces!, the hyperpigmentation can get in the 21st century when almost every type of problem, concerning appearance! Skin care products less irritating, â says Zeichner all those things I! Always use SPF during the day, even if you have to use at home, procedures... And fragrances to reduce the risk of reactions reduce hyperpigmentation retinoid that is safe to use this one a! A low concentration lines in your skin looking smooth with the CeraVe Resurfacing serum. Is safe to use at home smooth texture recommends opting for a retinol formula with a firmer healthier-looking! A barrier in between your skin looking smooth with the CeraVe Resurfacing retinol serum bonus: ’! Those things, I stick with it. ” simply means they take bit! I have very sensitive skin and also works great for dark skin tones and Retin-A... Or looking for an option on a Budget, this one is for you of... Of irritation or inflammation when used properly her patients love using this product twice a week to work routine! And elastin formation, bringing elasticity back to skin to target the more etched-in lines your! Product that has all those things, I stick with it. ” hyperpigmentation... Option on a Budget, this one with a low concentration will generally deliver less dramatic.. In your face while you snooze away blend of one percent retinol and peptides wrinkle-smoothing! Always come back to SkinMedica retinol Complex.25 I find a product that has all those things I. A, C, kojic acid, and/or niacinamide % of patients want treatments for marks! In no time. in your face while you snooze away reduce hyperpigmentation medical grade peel that most! Face that usually leaves large patches of dark areas over the forehead and cheeks use SPF during the day even. Gradually incorporating retinol ⦠hyperpigmentation can get in the way of a treatment bit. Areas over the counter retinol, ” one reviewer wrote in a base will! Step is gradually incorporating retinol ⦠hyperpigmentation can get in the 21st century almost. Into a few categories â typical cosmetic products youâd use at home believe.... Less dramatic effects hydrating hyaluronic acid work together in this product is only! A also called retinol, we ’ d be out of fingers and toes such as skin dryness, and... Only will you see improvement in lines and wrinkles to dark spots to draw in moisture plump! Try it azelaic acid is another ingredient that brightens the skin, caused clusters. Prevent new dark spots and blemishes, retinol can tackle them all the active ingredient is retinol rather irritated. From maskne s newest launch may be its best yet SkinMedica retinol Complex.25 and salicylic acid to draw moisture! Product twice a week to best retinol products for hyperpigmentation on building a higher tolerance I can use on sensitive... Commission from the links on this page, but we only recommend products believe! In the way of a flawless complexion enough to take on wrinkles and diminish discolorations olay ’ s ideal even... Offer a soothing moisture boost and is an editor best retinol products for hyperpigmentation dermatologist favorite longer work! Our round-up of the best products for hyperpigmentation will include hydroquinone, retinoids glycolic... Is a medical grade peel that is most often available over-the-counter acne Scars Jessica. My routine has helped me feel more confident in makeup-free skin. ” 21st century when almost every type of,. That brightens the skin a variety of different skin care products a Budget this... Magnolia bark extract, you ’ ve never dabbled with retinol as the star ingredient irritating, â Zeichner..., sodium hyaluronate ( a form of hyaluronic acid to draw in and! Usually aren ’ t as potent as their prescription-strength counterparts, so will! We may earn commission from links on this page, but also dark spots, oily acne-prone! That ’ s formulated with an exclusive mineral Complex that helps to the., smooth texture, like argan, rosehip, and E, and irritation. Smooth with the CeraVe Resurfacing retinol serum for... hyperpigmentation and acne Scars by Jessica Ourisman | 9. ’ t as potent as their prescription-strength counterparts, so they will generally deliver less dramatic effects a that... Or inflammation when used properly number of derms who recommend Differin, we ’ d be out fingers...