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Already using retinol on your face?
Photo:Real Simple
Time to try it for your body, too.
The best body retinol canimprove uneven skin textureand tone, fine lines and wrinkles, and loss of firmness.
We tested three types of body retinol: creams, lotions, and serums.
PHOTO: Amazon
Our tester almost finished the bottle in 6 weeks after using ittwo to three times per week.
For one, this dermatologist-developed body retinol visibly improves the skins texture after a few days.
Despite the thick consistency, this hydrating lotion absorbs quickly into the skin and doesnt leave a greasy residue.
PHOTO: Real Simple
It’s got a non-sticky feel, and it’s possible for you to apply lotion right after.
We loved this fast-absorbing body retinol serum for its lightweight formula.
When I look closely or feel the skin on my arms and chest they feel and look smoother.
We also tested a diverse range of retinol concentrations ranging from 0.1% to 1%.
While testing, we paid special attention to consistency and how well the product absorbed into the skin.
Your body can sometimes tolerate higher concentrations than what it can tolerate on the face.
At the same time, they still deliver improvements to skin texture, tone, and minor pigmentation.
While reactions like flaking, dryness, and redness can occur, these issues are often temporary.
We didn’t include any of those on our list since there is more of a tradeoff risk.
it’s crucial that you keep a closer eye on your skins hydration when using these.
Always layer amoisturizerover a highly concentrated retinol to avoid excessive drying and irritation.
Tretinoin is the most potent, and is only available by prescription.
The other three choices, however, are commonly found in over-the-counter products.
For those who can tolerate a strong OTC option, retinaldehyde is a good choice, Dr. King says.
Those with moresensitive skinmay benefit from a retinol or retinyl palmitate.
Avoid hydroxy acids, alcohol, and clays since theyre all drying, Dr. King says.
If youre dry and have sensitive skin, opt for this.Gold Bondis your pick here.
Serums, for their part, typically have a more concentrated formula compared to lotions and creams.
Like lotions, serums are lightweight and absorb quickly thanks to their gel-like consistency.
Serums are not ideal for those with dry andsensitive skinas they may be potentially drying or irritating.
FAQs
When should I start using a body retinol?
Theres no better time to start than the present.
Do retinol body lotions really work?
Some products definitely work faster than others, but we stand by the four products in this story.
PHOTO: Amazon
For expert tips on what to look for in a body retinol, we spoke withDr.
Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City,Dr.
Jennifer Gordon, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, TX, andDr.
PHOTO: Real Simple
Mamina Turegano, a triple board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans, LA.
PHOTO: Necessaire
PHOTO: Real Simple
PHOTO: Sephora
PHOTO: Real Simple
