The best serums with retinol - TOP 5 ranking in 2025
Retinol serums are well-established as a key part of anti-aging skincare, dedicated especially to those who want to effectively fight the signs of ageing and improve the condition of their skin. As a powerful active ingredient, retinol is highly regarded for its ability to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and improve the overall appearance of the complexion. Its unique properties not only support the fight against acne by regulating sebum secretion and unclogging pores, but also help to improve elasticity and lighten pigmentation spots. In our ranking, we present five popular retinol serums for 2025 that stand out from the competition, delivering not only results in skincare, but also safety and comfort.
The ranking factors we took into account are:
- Anti-wrinkle effect
- Improvement in skin condition
- Price
- Consistency
- Efficiency
- No side effects
- Composition
What ingredients to look for in good retinol cosmetics?
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, activates skin cells to produce collagen, helping to smooth wrinkles and improve the overall condition of the skin. Depending on its concentration, the effect of the cosmetic becomes stronger.
Peptides, which are components of proteins, promote collagen synthesis, which contributes to the skin's elasticity. Ingredients such as glycerine and ceramides are essential to provide the skin with adequate hydration, which is key when using a serum with retinol.
Hyaluronic acid plays an essential role in keeping the skin hydrated, helping to maintain the right moisture levels.
Antioxidants, such as vitamin C and resveratrol, protect the skin from the damaging effects of oxidative stress.
Vitamin E, with its antioxidant properties, protects the complexion from free radical damage and can soothe irritation caused by retinol.
Allantoin is a soothing ingredient that speeds up skin healing and soothes irritation and is often used in skincare products.
Take a look at our ranking of the best retinol serums:
Nutridome's revitalising anti-wrinkle serum, enriched with 0.9% retinol, vitamin E and a blend of natural oils, offers an intensive rejuvenating action while maintaining an adequate level of skin hydration. Thanks to its carefully selected composition, even at high concentrations - 0.9% retinol - the serum does not lead to dry skin. Vitamin E protects blood vessels from damage and delays signs of ageing. With regular use of the serum, the skin regains its radiance, wrinkles and fine lines are reduced and discolouration and scars become less noticeable. Nutridome anti-wrinkle serum has undergone extensive testing to prove its effectiveness in preventing new wrinkles, improving skin elasticity and resilience. Nutridome Retinol is available in a package with a practical pipette for easy application.
erum Basiclab Esteticus with 0.5% retinol, coenzyme Q10 and squalane is a night-time formula in the form of a light emulsion that offers effective anti-wrinkle and corrective action. The serum stimulates skin regeneration and noticeably improves skin texture and firmness. Regular use also reduces the appearance of pores and wrinkles. Ingredients such as vitamin C and coenzyme Q10 promote renewal, while the content of soothing ingredients minimises the negative effects of retinol, such as redness and dryness. Effects include smoothed wrinkles, corrected facial oval and minimised discolouration and scarring. The downside, apart from the high price, is the oily texture and long absorption time, but for overnight use these are not disqualifying disadvantages, so Basiclab retinol ranks highly.
The retinol serum from The Ordinary contains 1% retinol in squalane and has received positive reviews for effectively smoothing the skin and reducing fine lines. Formulated with retinol and squalane, it effectively brightens and evens skin tone without causing dryness. However, when using it, it is recommended to use a high UV filter cream to protect the skin from new discolouration and irritation. Long-term use reveals the best results, although some users point out the sticky texture and potential clogging of pores and the possibility of irritation, which may be more likely with skin not used to high concentrations of retinol.
CeraVe Restorative Serum with Retinol, containing ceramides, niacinamide and liquorice root extract, is recommended for skin prone to blemishes and is considered safe for sensitive skin. Its mild formula does not irritate the skin, but may prove too gentle for those expecting more pronounced results, especially in terms of wrinkle reduction. The price of the product does not necessarily reflect the results obtained. The serum has a light texture, fast absorption and a neutral fragrance. A small amount of product per application is sufficient. Disadvantages include the lack of precise information on retinol content and the presence of alcohol and potentially irritating isopropyl myristate in the formulation.
LIQ CR Night 0.3% Retinol Silk Facial Serum offers skin care focused on correcting imperfections and reducing wrinkles, fine lines and spots. Pure retinol at a concentration of 0.3% is effective in slowing down the ageing process, increasing skin elasticity by stimulating collagen production. The addition of lactobionic acid and vitamin E supports the protection of the epidermal barrier, while balanced concentrations of acids, including glycolic acid, ensure effective exfoliation. The serum provides skin renewal at night, boosting hydration with hyaluronic acid. The positive picture is disturbed by the high price and potentially insufficient action with low concentrations of retinol, as well as the possibility of new imperfections appearing, which was reported by some test subjects.
