Our Recommendations
Best Anti-Aging Retinol Serum –
Formulated with 1% retinol, this plum serum effectively boosts collagen and elastin production, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation. This serum is non-greasy, free of synthetic colours, fragrances and essential oils, and absorbs quickly, making it suitable for all skin types. It refines skin texture, repairs and reverses photoaging, kills acne-causing bacteria and reduces breakouts and dark spots.
Notes:
While retinol products may be effective in maintaining a youthful appearance, most formulas come with side effects, which is why it’s always a good idea to improve your skin from the inside out by taking supplements that contain multiple vitamins, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and more.
To improve overall skin health: It contains essential vitamins including Vitamins E, D3 and C, as well as SkinAx2TM, a powerful complex of natural plant extracts that stimulate collagen, slow down aging, reduce acne and lighten pigmentation.
Perfect for dry skin –
This serum uses squalane as its base to deeply hydrate without feeling heavy or greasy. Vitamin E and Coenzyme Q10 also help repair and hydrate the skin, providing that extra layer of moisture that dry skin needs. Fragrances can irritate dry skin, which is why our fragrance-free formula is gentler and perfect for sensitive, dry skin.
Ideal for oily skin –
This serum contains 0.5% retinol and 1% hyaluronic acid for hydration without clogging pores. The retinol in this serum helps regulate sebum production, and the lightweight formula is free of parabens, sulfates, and mineral oils, making it gentle and suitable for oily or acne-prone skin.
Perfect for sensitive skin –
This dermatologically tested serum is especially effective for sensitive skin. With a retinol concentration of 0.15% and encapsulated retinol, it is gentle on sensitive skin, reducing the risk of irritation and preventing breakouts. Ingredients such as kokum butter, allantoin and betaine help to heal minor skin irritations and provide moisturizing benefits, making this serum suitable for sensitive and irritation-prone skin.
Great for acne-prone skin –
Containing 2% Granactive Retinoid, this serum effectively boosts cell turnover, helping to unclog pores and reduce acne. Bactiol, a natural alternative to retinol, enhances the effectiveness of this acne-fighting serum without irritating skin. The creamy formula with Niacinamide, Shea Butter and Rosehip Oil hydrates without clogging pores, regulates sebum production, soothes skin and reduces pore size, making it effective for acne-prone skin.
Great for pigmentation –
WishCare Pro Collagen Retinol Serum is also effective in treating hyperpigmentation. It contains niacinamide to help fade dark spots and even out skin tone. Additionally, bactiol enhances whitening without irritation, while moisturizing ingredients shea butter and rosehip oil keep skin hydrated, essential for healing and reducing hyperpigmentation.
What is Retinol?
Retinol, a type of retinoid made from vitamin A, is extremely popular in skin care for its anti-aging properties. It boosts collagen and speeds up skin cell turnover, reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots. It also unclogs pores, making it ideal for acne-prone skin.
Retinol offers many skin care benefits, but it also comes with potential side effects. Read on to learn about retinol’s skin benefits, possible side effects, and the best ways to safely incorporate retinol into your skin care routine.
Types of Retinol
Here are the most common types of retinol used in skin care products to suit different skin types and conditions.
Retinoids, Retinoic Acid (Tretinoin), Isotretinoin:
-
Potent prescription retinoids are 20 times more potent than retinol.
-
Under the supervision of a dermatologist, it is used to treat acne, anti-aging, keratosis pilaris and pigmentation.
Retinol/Retinaldehyde:
-
Oxidized form of retinol, 10 times more potent.
-
It is increasingly being used in new formulations and for anti-aging purposes.
Retinol:
-
It is a mild form of retinoid that converts into retinoic acid, which has anti-aging properties.
-
It is a mild irritant and is commonly found in commercial products.
Retinyl Esters:
Tazarotene:
Adapalene:
-
A mild, over-the-counter, third generation retinoid for acne.
-
It is used to treat photoaging and age spots.
Plant-derived retinol (bakuchiol):
-
It is derived from the babchi plant and is an alternative to retinol.
-
It’s clinically proven to increase collagen, reduce wrinkles and age spots, and firm skin.
Benefits of using retinol serum for Indian skin
Retinol helps unclog pores and reduce oil production, which can help clear up acne, including whiteheads and blackheads. Your acne may initially get worse before it gets better (known as “clearing the skin”).
Retinol increases skin cell turnover, smooths the skin, and fades the appearance of sun spots and acne scars.
Retinol helps increase collagen and thicken the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes and neck.
Retinol is often used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation such as melasma. Use daily for best results, but it may take several weeks to see a noticeable change in your skin.
Side effects of using retinol serum
-
Common Side Effects of Retinol: Common side effects include dryness, irritation, redness, itching, and peeling of the skin, especially when you first start using a new product.
-
Managing side effects: To reduce irritation, start by using retinol every other day or every third day, gradually increasing to nightly use. If irritation persists or worsens, consult a dermatologist.
-
-
Serious Side Effects: Fewer than 10% of users may experience severe reactions, including worsening acne or eczema, skin discoloration, photosensitivity, blistering, stinging, and swelling.
-
Application Tips: To minimize irritation and maximize effectiveness, apply retinol within 30 minutes of washing your face.
-
A Note About Multiple Products: Using several retinol-containing products at the same time increases your risk of side effects. Be sure to read labels carefully, especially products labeled “anti-aging” or for acne.
-
-
Photosensitivity: Due to increased sensitivity to UV rays, apply retinol at night for optimal effectiveness and sun protection.
How to Choose the Best Retinol Serum
-
Identify skin concerns: Determine if you need retinol for anti-aging, acne, or pigmentation.
-
Check the strength: Select the appropriate concentration (e.g. 0.3-1%) according to your skin sensitivity.
-
Look for supplemental ingredientsChoose a serum that has added benefits like hyaluronic acid and antioxidants.
-
Consider your skin type: Choose the formula that suits your skin type (dry, oily, sensitive skin).
-
Ensure stability: Choose products with stable packaging to maintain potency.
-
Patch test: Always test on a small area first to avoid potential reactions.
