Best Retinol Serums for Acne Prone Skin

Retinol is a topical cream derived from Vitamin A. It is a milder version of Retin-A, which is generally available only on a prescription basis. Retinol, which is available for over-the-counter purchase, has long been used as an active ingredient in many skincare products, especially those for brightening and anti-aging. In recent years, this retinoid has become even more popular as cosmetic companies formulate and market their own retinol creams. Among their most significant markets are people with acne-prone skin because the benefits are incredible.

Benefits of Retinol for Acne-Prone Skin

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a combination of retinoids and benzoyl peroxide is one of the best ways to treat moderate to severe acne. While benzoyl peroxide is recognized as the leading topical acne medication, retinol helps improve its efficacy and overall effect. That’s because it offers the following benefits:

1) Minimizes Oil Production

Excessive oil production is one of the most common causes of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, and most especially acne. The combination of sebum and dead skin cells tend to clog hair follicles and cause acne flare-ups. Retinol helps by keeping oil production at a minimum. With continued use, you may be able to keep breakouts at bay permanently.

2) Unclogs Pores

Retinol helps unclog pores, which doesn’t just minimize acne breakouts but also helps topical medication work better. In fact, many dermatologists recommend using retinol as part of a salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide treatment. But, make sure that you consult with your dermatologist before you add retinol to your existing acne treatment regimen because it could potentially cause dryness, irritation, or even inflammation if used incorrectly.

3) Removes Dead Cells

Retinol is rich in antioxidants that boost cellular turnover. That means it speeds up the skin’s natural ability to shed dead skin cells and replace them with younger and healthier ones. That doesn’t just minimize clogging but also improves the appearance of scars typically caused by acne. In time, that will also lead to smoother and brighter skin.

4) Stimulates Collagen Production

Collagen is naturally produced in the body, and that’s essential to keeping the skin healthy, elastic, and supple. Retinol’s ability to stimulate collagen production is one of the reasons why it is a popular anti-aging ingredient. For acne-prone skin, that’s especially beneficial because collagen helps keep younger skin cells healthier and less prone to damage.

Top Retinol Products for Acne

1) LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream

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The Retinol Cream by LilyAna Naturals offers a potent concentration of 2.5% retinol. But, unlike many similar products, you don’t need to worry about dryness and irritation. It is formulated for twice-a-day use and includes a variety of organic ingredients to moisturize and nourish the skin. Some of them are hyaluronic acid, jojoba oil, shea butter, and vitamin E. It also contains green tea, which helps combat acne due to its antimicrobial properties. Additionally, it doesn’t contain any parabens, SLES, SLS, phthalates, petroleum, dyes, or artificial fragrances.

2) Eva Naturals Vitamin C+ Skin Clearing Serum

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Apart from 20% Vitamin C, the Vitamin C+ Skin Clearing Serum by Eva Naturals contains 2% retinol. Additionally, it is formulated with 2% salicylic acid, 3.5% niacinamide, and 10% methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), which have all been proven to improve acne conditions. It also has 5% hyaluronic acid, which is an incredible hydrator. With its formulation, the Eva Naturals Vitamin C+ Skin Clearing Serum has a unique ability to protect, repair, hydrate, and revitalize the skin. That allows you to avoid acne flare-ups, clear up your blemishes, and even minimize signs of aging.

3) InstaNatural Retinol Moisturizer

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InstaNatural doesn’t specify the concentration of retinol in its bestselling Retinol Moisturizer, but it was specially formulated for use once a day, with your evening skincare routine. Apart from retinol, it has vitamin C and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients further allow the product to improve the health and appearance of your skin. Plus, it is formulated with a number of natural ingredients that help improve acne. Some of them include meadowfoam seed oil, rosemary oil, Centella Asiatica extract, and green tea extract. Additionally, it contains ingredients like aloe leaf juice and shea butter, which further nourish and moisturize the skin.

4) RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

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Although the Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream is mainly marketed as an anti-aging product, it is one that has benefitted many people who suffer from acne. As the name suggests, it is meant to be used at night since that’s when your skin is better able to repair and renew itself. Because it is oil-free and non-comedogenic, it is perfect for acne-prone skin. Plus, its texture is rich but feels light when it has been applied. Lastly, it contains glycolic acid, which helps minimize clogging and, consequently, enables you to avoid future breakouts.

5) Eve Hansen Anti-Aging Serum

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The Anti-Aging Serum by Eve Hansen contains 2% retinol, which is supported by other beneficial ingredients, including hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, and green tea. Through this unique formulation, it is able to minimize acne flare-ups, control sebum production, and boost cellular turnover. Additionally, it helps clear up scarring caused by persistent acne. Obviously, as its name suggests, it also helps you maintain younger-looking skin. This is best used as part of your nightly skincare routine, after cleansing and toning but before moisturizing.

How to Use Retinol on Acne-Prone Skin

There’s no doubt that retinol can provide countless benefits to people with acne-prone skin. But, retinol products vary greatly in potency and efficacy, and could be unstable if used incorrectly. If you already have an existing regimen to treat your acne, make sure you consult your dermatologist before adding any retinol product to your skincare routine. Here are other tips to make retinol work for you:

• Don’t combine it with your acne medication. Instead, apply retinol first and give it time to absorb fully before applying your treatment. You might even consider using the two topical products at different times of the day. The best advice will come from your dermatologist.
• Don’t apply it right after washing your face. This is especially true if you use a face brush or an exfoliating facial wash. Give your skin some time to rest to keep the possibility of irritation at a minimum.
• Don’t wax. If you wax your facial hair, don’t do it while using retinol creams. Retinol could make your skin more sensitive, so it’s always best to stop applying retinol for a week before your waxing session.
• Always wear sunscreen. Retinol creams can make your skin more photosensitive. So, to avoid the risk of sun damage or burning, it’s best to apply sunscreen on top of retinol when going out during the day.
• Start slowly. Different people react to retinol differently. If your skin is extra-sensitive, you might want to try a product with lower retinol concentration. Also, apply only once every other day and increase frequency as you see fit. If you experience any itching or irritation, cut back on your dose or frequency of application.

Retinol can be one of the best products to include in your skincare regimen when you have acne-prone skin. Not only will it help improve the appearance of your scars and current flare-ups, but it will also help reduce breakouts over time. Additionally, it has potent anti-aging effects that will definitely improve the health and appearance of your skin. All you need to do is find the right product that’s compatible with your skin and won’t cause acne flare-ups. Hopefully, these five choices that other acne-sufferers swear by will help you as well.