Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best retinol serum in India. No matter the skin problem, retinol, retinoids, or any other form of Vitamin-A-derivative in your skincare can be a helpful addition. From fine lines, and wrinkles, to acne, acne scars, and dull skin, they have the ability to work on any problem and transform your skin. In this blog, we have curated a list of the top retinol serums in India that have garnered rave reviews for their effectiveness and quality. Scroll to choose the best one for your skincare routine.
15 Best Retinol Serums In India
#1 Plum 1% Retinol Serum: Rs.553/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#2 Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Serum: Rs.1299/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#3 Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Face Serum: Rs.569/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#4 Pilgrim 0.5% Retnol & 1% Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Rs.617/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#5 Foxtale 0.15% Beginner-Friendly Retinol Serum: Rs.460/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#6 Kapiva Plant-Based Retinol: Rs.499/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#7 CeraVe Retinol Serum For Acne Scars: Rs.2055/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#8 E’Clat Anti-Aging Retinol Serum: Rs.1320/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#9 La Roche-Posay Pure Retinol Face Serum: Rs.3020/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#10 Minimalist 2% Retinoid Night Cream: Rs.664/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#11 Serumique Retinol Night Face Serum: Rs.599/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#12 Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule: Rs.950/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#13 Fixderma 0.05% Pure Retinol Serum: Rs.725/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#14 RoC Line Smoothing Night Serum: Rs.2497/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#15 Deconstruct Retinol Face Serum: Rs.599/- for 30 ml (Buy Here)
#1 Plum 1% Retinol Serum
Founded in 2013, Plum Goodness is the first Indian beauty brand to launch 100% vegan, cruelty-free products. It was only after their products, backed by technology and efficacy, performed well in the market that other brands followed suit. Besides being cruelty-free, their products are also sustainable and good for the environment too! Below, find a complete review of their beginner-friendly retinol serum in India.
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Plum 1% retinol serum in India comes in its standard white and purple packaging. It contains 1% retinol and comes in a dropper bottle for easier application. The product is also 100% vegan and fragrance-free so anyone with sensitive skin doesn’t experience any reaction. This one of the best retinol serums available in India comes in a 30 ml bottle and is priced at Rs.592/- at the time of the upload of this article.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
This one of the best retinol serum in India comes with retinyl palmitate, which is a derivative of Vitamin A that gets converted to retinoic acid in 3 steps, making it less irritating on the skin. Besides the retinol derivative, this product also contains bakuchiol, a naturally-occurring plant-based Vitamin A that enhances the powerful effects of the serum. The presence of both natural and chemical retinol derivatives just enhances the efficacy of this one of the best retinol serums for oily skin in India.
A key point to note in retinol serums is what other ingredients it’s accompanied with. The more hydrating and potent ingredients added, the more soothing it will be to the skin. This Plum’s best natural retinol serum in India comes with plant polypeptides and amino acids, both amazing ingredients in their own way. The former signals the cells to produce more collagen while the latter hydrates skin and promotes cellular repair.
“I really like this retinol serum. It suits my sensitive skin well and didn’t cause any reactions. I am on my third bottle in fact and it works quite well in my opinion. I actually liked it so much that I also got my mother hooked. She has aged skin and this has worked nicely to improve some of the fine lines and pigmentation. I’d absolutely recommend it because I think it’s a great product to try,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#2 Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Serum
Olay is a global skincare brand based in America and owned by Procter & Gamble. Founded in 1952, the company was acquired by P&G in 1985 and expanded its line-up and international presence massively. Their efforts made Olay the 13th billion-dollar company in the world. Their products are popular in India – both online and offline – and they also have one of the best retinol serum in India for dry skin or oily skin. Find a complete review of the product below.
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Olay Regenerist retinol serum in India comes in a cute purple bottle with a silver cap and has a pump dispenser. The bottle is completely opaque and rightfully so! – because the actives, even retinol (especially at lower concentrations), are quite sensitive to light and degrade even by indoor lighting. This is why it’s recommended to use it at night as the last thing to apply before bed. The price of the product at the time of the upload of this article is Rs.1099/- and comes in a 30 ml bottle.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Olay Regenerist retinol serum available in India is a fragrance-free night serum that comes with 99% pure niacinamide, one of the best ingredients to use in combination with retinol. Many dermatologists do recommend using niacinamide and retinol together so the niacinamide’s calming, hydrating properties reduce the irritation of retinol so it can work its wrinkle-reducing and acne-controlling magic without any side effects.
This serum is also fragrance-free and also doesn’t contain any other skin-irritating ingredients like essential oils, making this the perfect retinol serum for oily skin in India. To go with the serum, Olay also has a moisturizer to use with their retinol serum to complete the entire skincare routine and help you get the maximum benefits from this active ingredient.
“I don’t generally leave a review unless I am quite impressed with the product. I know it can be hard to know with so many fake reviews, but I paid full price for this product and it has shown noticeable effects in just 3 weeks! My husband complimented my skin as well. I used this retinol serum in the PM and a Vitamin C (15%) in the morning followed by moisturizer. I love how my skin feels and looks after this routine. If you’re thinking of buying it, just go ahead. Awesome job, Olay!” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#3 Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Face Serum
The Minimalist is an Indian brand founded in 2020 and formed on the basic principle of making skincare understandable, transparent, and affordable. The company offers single-ingredient, 100% safe, and tested products for its consumers so they are able to better comprehend their skincare needs and use products that are meant to target their specific issues. This includes the Minimalist retinol serum, which comes in 3 concentrations to benefit you at both beginner and advanced stages. Find the Minimalist retinol serum review below:
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Minimalist 0.3% best retinol serum in India comes in its classic white packaging with details mentioned in black. The product comes with 0.3% retinol in a squalane base and other ingredients like coenzyme Q10, tocopherol, and bakuchiol oil. This product is priced at Rs.569/- for a 30 ml bottle.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Minimalist retinol serum is one of the most-searched retinol serums in India because of its affordability and efficacy. The 0.3% retinol also comes with bakuchiol oil, a plant-based retinol that has been proven by studies to be as effective as retinoids. Besides bakuchiol, the serum also comes infused with coenzyme Q10, an antioxidant that’s naturally present in the body but decreases with age. This molecule can penetrate skincare and you can reap its anti-aging and cellular repair benefits with skincare.
This retinol serum available in India also has a squalane base instead of a water-base as the latter can degrade the retinol and reduces the chances of oxidation. The bottle is also UV protected to prevent oxidation but it’s still recommended to store it in a dark place! You can follow up the retinol serum with other hydrating Minimalist products like squalane oil or ceramide moisturizing cream.
“I have heard so much about the Minimalist retinol serums and finally decided to include them in my routine. This isn’t that powerful strength so I have been using it daily and it has definitely prevented any breakouts, plus given my skin a beautiful glow. I am thinking of going with a higher concentration when I repurchase and see the wonderful effects multiplied. Overall, it’s a great product at an awesome price,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#4 Pilgrim 0.5% Retinol + 1% Hyaluronic Acid
Ranked among 42 of India’s fastest D2C growing brands, Pilgrim is based entirely on K-beauty philosophies but has its roots in India. The brand was established in 2019 by two IIT & IIM alumni who wanted to make K-beauty affordable and accessible for Indian consumers. Today, they have more than 35 SKUs and a wide range of beauty products in the market, like their retinol serum, ranked as one of the best retinol serum in India for oily skin and acne scars.
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Pilgrim retinol serum comes in a translucent bottle with the company’s standard blue packaging. There’s a dropper with the product to dispense the serum and make it easier to use. All the active ingredients are sourced from Korea to make the product an authentic K-beauty one! The price of the product at the time of upload of this article is Rs.498/-, for which you receive 30 ml of the product.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Pilgrim retinol serum in India is a gorgeous blend of retinol and hyaluronic acid, just perfect for someone looking for the best retinol serum for dry skin in India. When purchasing anything retinol, it’s important that you check for other ingredients in the product as well. Oftentimes, those with hydrating ingredients, like in this case, hyaluronic acid, will negate any side effects of retinol so you can experience the benefits without any pesky reactions.
This best retinol serum product in India also contains pomegranate extracts that help to improve skin elasticity and skin tone. The Pilgrim retinol serum is also one of the few skincare products that are FDA-approved, which means it has gone through stringent tests to check for quality and safety. It’s also free of any parabens, sulfates, and mineral oils to make it completely safe for consumers.
“I am over 40 and in desperate need of anything that stops wrinkle-formation and reduces the appearance of fine lines. Heard some amazing things about retinol and tried this serum. It’s been 3 months and here’s my experience. I started using it on alternate days initially and didn’t experience any side effects as I followed up with a thick moisturizer immediately. Just a month ago, I started using this 6 times a week and I can surely see a difference in the lines around my eyes and forehead. I will keep using this and hopefully see more results in the future,” writes a reviewer on Amazon.
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#5 Foxtale 0.15% Beginner-Friendly Retinol Night Serum
Launched in 2021 with 4 basic products, Foxtale is a Mumbai-based brand creating high-performing formulations that are focused on one main ingredient and several other accompanying ingredients which helps the main one perform better and get delivered to the skin’s layers effectively. The start-up has had a repeat rate of 50% and is one of the leading D2C beauty brands now, competing with established names like WOW and MamaEarth. Find a complete review of their best retinol serum in India for beginners below!
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Foxtale 0.15% beginner-friendly retinol serum comes in a blue pump bottle. All Foxtale products come in vibrant packaging as the brand believes in choosing colors that evoke happy feelings in their customers. It contains 0.15% retinol in micro-encapsulated technology and the price of the product at the time of upload of this article is Rs.538/- for a 30 ml product.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Foxtale night serum comes with a very unique formulation and has ingredients that are quite different from the other best retinol serum in India. The first unique attribute is it has encapsulated retinol. Encapsulation involves enclosing the retinol molecule within a protective carrier system, typically a microsphere or a liposome. This encapsulation process helps to stabilize the retinol and improve its delivery and efficacy on the skin. It also helps to protect the retinol from degradation, light, and air exposure, ensuring its potency over time.
Other potent ingredients in this retinol serum available in India include betaine, a humectant known for its hydrating and resurfacing properties which improve skin tone and make it even, and kokum butter, an amazing naturally-occurring ingredient that has powerful moisturizing properties without clogging pores. It also has palmitoyl glycine – a lipo-amino acid that protects the protein content of the skin.
“I honestly think this product is incredible. It’s a pretty strong retinol and you can see changes within a week. I follow it up with the Foxtale Ceramide moisturizer – another favorite – and wake up with glowing skin in the morning. My skin type is dry and this hydrates it nicely. Not sure how it will work for other skin types though, but for anyone looking for retinol serums for dry skin in India, try this. It works beautifully,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#6 Kapiva Anti-Aging Oil With Plant-Based Retinol
An Ayurvedic brand, Mumbai-based Kapiva is founded by Ameve Sharma, whose grandfather is the founder and owner of Ayurvedic pharmaceuticals giant Baidyanath! The brand is mainly focused on functional foods to improve the health of consumers through the Ayurvedic route but has recently ventured into the skin care vertical. One of their newest addition – an anti-aging oil with plant-based retinol. Find a complete review of the product below:
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Kapiva anti-aging oil is one of the best natural retinol serum in India and comes in an oil form! The oil itself is golden and comes in a dropper bottle for easier dispensing of the product. The price of the product is Rs.499/- at the time of the upload of this article and there’s 30 ml of oil in the bottle.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
As a fan of all things Ayurvedic, I can’t even tell you how much I loved this product at first look. It’s made with plant-based retinol – Bakuchiol, an Ayurvedic plant extract that has the same acne-reducing, wrinkle-defying, and skin-glowing properties as retinol. Since bakuchiol is naturally derived, it often causes less irritation than chemically-derived Vitamin A products. The formulation also contains chirata actives, another Ayurvedic herb popular in age-defying formulas for its strong antioxidant properties and ability to stimulate collagen production.
The hero ingredient of the product is ashwagandha, a popular Ayurvedic herb already popular for its stress-reduction and brain-boosting properties, but is slowly gaining recognition in the skincare world as well. When applied topically, ashwagandha is proven to enhance skin quality by tightening pores, improving hydration, and balancing sebum levels. Besides, it’s also a powerful ingredient to prevent skin wrinkling by increasing telomere length, skin cells that shortens as we age and reduce elasticity, and giving you firmer skin.
“I am enjoying this face oil. I don’t have oily skin, but it’s sensitive and breaks out easily. This oil hasn’t caused any acne and goes on smoothly all over the facial skin. I would say it works because I have noticed a certain glow in my skin. It’s just been a week so can’t say much, but hoping to see better results in the next few weeks. Go for it,” writes one of the customers of Kapiva plant retinol serum in India on Amazon.
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#7 CeraVe Retinol Serum
CeraVe is one of the best dermatologist-recommended brands and if you’re looking for the best retinol products recommended by dermatologists, Cerave is the brand to trust. Established in 2005 in the UK and sold to Loreal in 2002, Cerave’s products are meant to cure one thing: compromised skin barrier which is thought to be the reason behind most skin conditions. They started with 3 skincare products: face wash, moisturizing cream, and moisturizing lotion, which are not best-sellers in most countries they sell! Below, find a review of their resurfacing retinol serum in India.
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Cerave best retinol serum in India comes in blue and white packaging, which is standard in all of the brand’s products. It has a pump bottle with a cap so you can travel with the product as well. The price of the product is Rs.2121 at the time of upload of this article and you receive 30 ml of the product with each bottle.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Cerave retinol serum is one of the best retinol serum in India for beginners because of its 0.3% encapsulated retinol, which is low concentration but also has a stable form so you can see results in just a few months. Encapsulated retinol is surrounded by a lipid or a fatty acid molecule that allows the active ingredient to penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin before being activated. If you’re going for lower-concentration retinol serums products in India, look for what the company has done to ensure stability so you reap maximum benefits from the product.
The Cerave serum comes with its 3 essential standard ceramides, ceramide 1, 3, and 6-II, along with licorice root to reduce any inflammation or itching caused by retinol, keep the skin barrier intact, and provide adequate hydration. This best retinol serum available in India for oily skin also comes with Cerave’s patent-pending MVE technology that provides a controlled release of ingredients to the facial skin so they can work their magic where they are supposed to!
“I have been using it daily and love it! Just a couple of weeks and you definitely see a difference. Cerave products have always agreed with me and my acne-prone, oily skin. The texture of all the Cerave products is great and they feel silky on the skin. Overall the condition has definitely improved and I’d recommend this to anyone looking for the best retinol serum in India for oily skin,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#8 E’Clat Superior Retinol A Serum 0.8%
Eclat Superior is a 2-year-old skincare startup that has revolutionized the skincare industry with its performance-driven products that use just the best ingredients with the right formulations to target specific skin concerns. They have more than 50 SKUs to target everyone’s needs and one of their best-performing product is the E’Clat Superior retinol serum with 0.8% concentration that’s ranked as one of the best retinol serum in India 2023. Check out the review below:
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The E’clat Superior retinol serum comes in an opaque bottle with all the details of the product mentioned on the outer packaging and key details included on the bottle itself. It’s a pump dispenser and it’s recommended to use 1 full pump of product for your entire face. The price of the product at the time of upload of this article is Rs.1320/- for which you receive 30 ml of the product.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The E’Clat superior serum contains 0.8% retinol which is somewhat a medium concentration of retinol and a beginner’s skin might or might not react to the product. Rest assured, it will deliver results as expected. If you have purchased a retinol product and it’s reacting, then we recommend using it just twice or thrice a week for a month or two and then, gradually increasing the frequency. You can also try the sandwich method which involves using a thin layer of moisturizer before the serum and then following up with a thick layer after the serum application.
Though, there are less chance this retinol serum will cause any pesky irritation because the formulation also contains hyaluronic acid, a hydrating superstar which restores skin’s moisture balance. It also contains a powerful antioxidant blend of ferulic acid and Vitamin E to further soothe the skin, improve its appearance, and protect it from free radicals.
“This is a little magical bottle of wonder-full. I have tried many retinol products on Amazon but none have made much of a difference. This stuff is awesome and I’ve seen noticeable results in 2 weeks. I’ve just turned 30 and have always had some fine lines on my forehead and pores around my nose. Not anymore! I use 2 pumps of the product 5 days a week followed by moisturizer and sunscreen in the morning. Will def be buying more of this product. Happy Shopping!” writes one of the happy customers on Amazon.
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#9 La Roche-Posay Pure Retinol Face Serum
La Roche-Posay was born in France in 1975 with a mission to develop skincare products with La Roche-Posay’s (a commune in France) healing thermal spring water. This water is rich in minerals and antioxidants that soothe and heal the skin. Besides incorporating water, the brand is also committed to creating products that can help all skin types thus, all their products are fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic, and don’t contain any harmful chemicals. Below, find a review of their popular skincare serum – the retinol B3 – that’s suitable for all skin types.
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The La Roche-Posay Retinol serum comes in a dark orange bottle so it protects the stability of the product whilst you also have an idea of how much product is left inside. All the details are mentioned on the outer packaging with the key ones mentioned on the bottle too. The price of the product at the time of upload of this article is Rs.3399/- for 30 ml of serum.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The La Roche-Posay is one of the best retinol serum in India recommended by dermatologists. The brand is recommended by more than 90,000 dermatologists worldwide and the retinol serum has received rave reviews on many global platforms in the world. This retinol serum comes with a complex that has both pure retinol and gradual release retinol which gradually acts on the skin to show its anti-aging and skin-resurfacing benefits.
This retinol serum is also enriched with B3, an essential nutrient that stimulates the production of ceramides and proteins in the skin to increase moisture levels and keep the skin firm and taut. Adding B3 to retinol is a smart choice as it reduces the irritation caused by the ingredient while also enhancing its benefits of reducing acne, pigmentation, and fine lines.
“I absolutely fell in love with this brand after having some sensitive skin concerns. I had tried 3 to 4 serums but they all irritated my red, inflamed skin, not this one though! Since using it, I haven’t had any reactions, just reduced acne and clearer skin in general. I follow it up with the La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume and wake up with better skin every day. Price is high-end, but this is the only brand that has worked for me,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#10 Minimalist 2% Retinoid
This Minimalist retinol serum in India is not for beginners and I’d not recommend it to anyone who is just starting to include Vitamin A derivatives in their skincare. Retinol works best when introduced slowly and at lower concentrations initially and then moving up with frequency and higher concentration. Otherwise, it just irritates the skin and also compromises the barrier. If your skin is doing well with the existing retinol, find the Minimalist Retinoid serum review below!
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Minimalist retinoid serum comes in its standard white and black packaging, though the bottle is opaque to protect the active ingredients from degrading. The pump bottle makes sure you get the right amount of product with each squeeze to have visible effects. This best retinol product recommended by dermatologists is priced at Rs.664/- at the time of the upload of this article and has 30 ml of product.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
This Minimalist retinol serum contains granactive retinoid as opposed to retinol. Granactive retinoid is the latest generation of retinoids and converts into retinol and retinoic acid when you apply it. The retinoic acid is what retinol also converts to in two steps when applied, so the retinol is milder and may not give faster results. Retinoic acid, which is also prescription tretinoin, gives faster results and since granactive retinoid gets converted to both, you get faster results but with just mild skin irritation. The Minimalist imports their granactive retinoid from the USA to give you the best form of premium retinol in their product.
This best retinol 2.5 serum in India also has amino acids, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E to nourish the skin’s barrier as the retinol works its magic. Whenever you’re applying any potent acid or skin-resurfacing agent on the skin it’s important to protect its barrier and therefore, just look at the entire formulation of the product to see what they have to offer besides the main ingredient. It’s also important to follow up with a hydrating face cream after using chemical exfoliation of any kind!
“I have been using prescription retinoids for a while and wanted to increase the concentration of retinoids in my skincare when I came across this best retinol 2% serum in India. It doesn’t irritate my skin and has a good consistency to spread all over the face. I have noticed faster results with this product and my skin just continues to get better and better. If your skin is used to Vitamin-A skincare, I urge you to try it,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#11 Serumique Retinol Night Face Serum
Serumique is another skincare startup that’s been doing pretty well in the market. Serumique is a concentration-conscious brand and its range of products includes serums with potent actives in quality formulations. One look at the Amazon reviews and you will be convinced to pick their product from the market. Below, find a complete review of their product, ranked as one of the best retinol serum in India!
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Serumique retinol night face serum comes in translucent packaging with a pump bottle and a plastic cap on the top. The retinol serum comes in three concentrations: 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%. This retinol serum available in India is priced at Rs.634/- at the time of upload of this article and contains 30 ml of serum!
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Serumique retinol night face serum comes in three concentrations: 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.3%, so you can move up the concentration as and when it’s comfortable for your skin. If it’s your first time using the best retinol serum in India, then we’d recommend starting with 2-3 times a week and avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes and around the mouth initially. Do follow up with a hydrating moisturizer and sunscreen the next day!
This retinol serum in India for oily skin comes with ingredients like glycerin and argan oil which hydrates the skin and prevents any irritation caused by retinol. Glycerin increases hydration in the skin, making it more plump, while argan oil’s strong anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties support the skin’s barrier so retinol’s coveted benefits can be achieved in no time!
“I was suffering from some acne after having a baby and heard many good things about retinol. Unfortunately, couldn’t use the product till I was breastfeeding so I waited and then purchased the Serumique retinol. I started applying it every other night on clean and followed it up with a moisturizer. After a month, I started using it 5 to 6 times a week now, and have a major difference in my skin. It’s more clear, smoother, and back to pre-baby. Can’t wait to use it consistently to see more results,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#12 Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule
Innisfree is a South Korean cosmetics brand popular for its affordable and efficient skincare products. All their products are curated with responsibly-sourced ingredients from Jeju Island, the largest island in South Korea with a unique volcanic ashy soil which makes it the perfect breeding ground for growing botanical ingredients. The brand has over 100 stores worldwide and has a strong offline & online presence in countries like the USA, India, Vietnam, Canada, Australia, and the UAE. Below, find a review of their retinol serum in India below:
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule comes in translucent white packaging with a pump dispenser on the top and all the key details of the product mentioned on the product. A few green accents on the bottle signify the brand’s commitment to using plant botanicals in their products rather than chemically-derived ingredients. The price of the product at the time of upload of this article is Rs.2850/- for which you receive 30 ml of the product.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
Innisfree has set the bar high for the best of the best retinol serums available in India by designing a formulation that has a high concentration of retinol but doesn’t cause any irritation! This makes it one of the best retinol for beginners that are dermatologist-recommended, but also those who want to continue it in later stages. The serum comes in a refreshing moisture ampoule-type formulation which has ceramides + Centella Asiatica + Jeju hyaluronic acid to provide adequate synergy for this skin-friendly retinol product.
The best part about Innisfree skincare is that the main ingredients in any skincare product are naturally sourced from Jeju Island. Plant-derived ingredients are not only potent but also gentler on the skin when compared with chemically-derived ones. So if you’re someone who has sensitive skin, definitely give Innisfree products a try – including their highly-rated retinol serum for face in India!
“I have been using this for two weeks and already see a difference. The only reason I have given it 4 stars is because I want to use it longer before giving it a 5-star rating. Till now, I love the consistency, smell, and how it feels on the skin. I will be updating the review within a few weeks of using this serum,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#13 Fixderma 0.05% Pure Retinol Serum
Fixderma is a dermatologically-tested and dermatologically-recommended brand in India that sells not just in the country, but also in 30 other countries worldwide. Their aim is to create skin-specific formulations that are in demand by the consumers and also give them the required results. Their result-oriented approach has made them popular in the Indian market, and one of their best-sellers is the 0.05% pure retinol reticuram serum. Find a complete review of the product below:
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Fixderma 0.05% retinol Reticuram serum comes in a white translucent bottle with a pump dispenser and a white cap on the bottom so the serum is also travel-friendly. This product is priced at Rs.775/- at the time of the upload of this article, but you only receive 15 ml of serum for the price, which is in stark contrast with the 30 ml of standard quantity all the other brands are selling!
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The Fixderma serum is the only one that contains Retistar, which is a stabilized version of retinol and contains an oily emulsion of retinol, tocopherol, sodium ascorbate, and PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil. When you’re opting for an active ingredient in the skincare product, it’s not just about the concentration, but also about the form and stability so the active gets absorbed into the skin and works from within. The Fixderma retinol serum ensures the same by using a mindfully-sourced and clinically-proven version of Vitamin A!
Besides the stable form of Vitamin A, the serum also contains moisturizing and anti-aging ingredients like Vitamin C, shea butter, and jojoba oil to elevate the effects of the serum. The paraben, silicon, and chemical irritants-free formula ensures anyone can benefit from the product without any side effects.
“I am amazed by this product. I like the texture, thick yet lightweight which quickly absorbs into the skin. It contains some nice ingredients which I am sure gives a moisturizing, plumping effect right after use. I’ve been using this at night and a Vitamin C serum in the morning along with sunscreen and I am convinced this will show some results in the long run. I will be purchasing this again,” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#14 RoC Retinol Smoothing Night Serum
The RoC skincare brand was established in France in 1957 by pharmacist Jean-Charles Lissarruague. This iconic brand has more than 60 years of experience in creating anti-wrinkle and anti-aging products, which is also the USP of many of its products. Developed by a pharmacist and approved by dermatologists worldwide, their retinol serum is one of the best in the entire world. Find a complete review of the skincare product below!
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The RoC retinol serum comes in a transparent bottle with a golden cover and a golden box on the outside. It has 30 biodegradable capsules inside and each one can be opened easily with a swipe. This one of the best retinol serum in India for beginners is priced at Rs.2799/- for which you receive 30 capsules!
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
The RoC 8-ingredient best retinol serum in India is perfection filled in a bottle. First, I really appreciate the smaller lineup of ingredients so anyone starting with their skincare can judge the goodness of this serum without getting confused. Second, because of the lesser number of ingredients, the retinol gets to be in a sufficient quantity so you can reap the benefits of this skincare active. Lastly, the capsule form ensures you get the right amount of product every time!
This one of the best Vitamin A serum in India is clinically proven to visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles from the first use itself. Within 4 weeks, consistent usage is proven to increase hydration, reduce wrinkles, and give visibly firmer skin to the test subjects. The serum is formulated with ceramides and antioxidants which enhance the plumpness of the skin, provide it with necessary oils, and boost the anti-aging benefits of the product.
“I bought this out of other retinol serums available in India because of the distinctive design which made me trust its stability and hence, efficiency. The capsules are easier to open and the serum has a thick, creamy consistency, which I love for my dry and acne-prone skin. It doesn’t feel oily though and I think even those with oily skin types can benefit. I’ve been using it for just a short time to comment but so far it has helped with sunspots and brightness. Just try it!” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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#15 Deconstruct 0.2% Retinol Serum
Deconstruct is a Bangalore-based startup founded in 2021 by Malini Adapureddy. Their philosophy is to help consumers understand their skincare ingredients so they can make an informed decision on what works for them. “Information over Impulse” is their brand motto and their skincare products are a testimony to the same. Below, find a complete review of the Deconstruct Retinol Serum.
Physical Attributes & Quantitative Measurements:
The Deconstruct Retinol Serum comes in a translucent brown bottle with a dropper dispenser. You will see the key details like the concentration of retinol and peptide mentioned on the bottle and all the details on the outer packaging. The price of the product at the time of upload of this article is Rs.663/-, for which you receive 30 ml of serum.
Benefits & How It Compares To Others:
This retinol serum in India has a noteworthy formulation because it comes with a blend of 0.2% retinol and 1% peptides. Retinol and peptides are one of the best skincare combinations because the peptides control the purging and irritation associated with retinoids while they both help boost each other’s anti-aging and skin-enhancing benefits. Both of them also boost collagen production so you can experience firmer, plumper skin quickly than other best retinol serum in India.
The Deconstruct retinol serum also contains other hydrating ingredients like rose water, pea extract, glycerin, and lecithin. The product is also fragrance-free, cruelty-free, and tested by dermatologists to suit all skin types. It does have a strong retinol concentration and if you experience any purging, try to reduce the number of uses or use a sandwich method to continue using retinol without any side-effects.
“I was looking for a retinol serum for oily skin in India when I came across the Deconstruct serum. Having oily skin means I also have frequent breakouts and inflammation, so retinol seemed like the answer to all worries. This serum is fast-acting and has worked great on controlling breakouts and acne scars. 2 months of using this and I am already receiving compliments. Highly recommend it!” writes one of the reviewers on Amazon.
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FAQ’s
What Are The Benefits Of A Retinol Serum?
Here are the top 5 benefits of retinol in skincare:
#1 Improves Acne
Retinol was first used for treating acne and only later did we find that it has other uses as well! It’s use as an acne prescription started in the 1970s when it was found that retinol improves cell turnover and unclogs pores. This will help reduce existing acne and prevent any further breakouts. Retinol is such a powerful treatment that it works for any kind of acne and is considered the best addition to your skincare routine if you’re suffering from acne breakouts or any other related conditions.
#2 Reduces Hyperpigmentation
If you’re looking for the best retinol serum in India for acne scars, you don’t have to search too much because all retinol products work for hyperpigmentation and you can choose any of them for your acne scars or dark spots. Retinol reduces epidermal melanin, which is the primary cause of pigmentation. More so, retinol also improves the absorption of other products, so if you’re using a moisturizer or serum for pigmentation, it’s likely it will work faster when you’re also using retinol in your skincare.
#3 Fights Signs Of Aging
Retinol has been proven not just by one but several studies to fight the signs of aging and improve the appearance of wrinkles within 3 to 4 months of consistent usage. Studies have proved that retinol improves the clinical signs of photoaging, stimulates fibroblasts to synthesize collagen fibers, increases epidermal thickness, and improved the appearance of fine lines with regular use. The results do vary depending on how many times you’re using the product, the concentration of retinol, and the time period of the treatment.
#4 Exfoliates Skin & Improves Sebum Production
Retinol gently removes the dead skin cells from the top and reveals the newer skin on the bottom. It does so while balancing the sebum production and hydration levels of the facial skin. Many users have claimed that retinol has changed the type of their skin to normal – doesn’t matter whether it was oily or a combination before! Retinol is effective at balancing hydration because it prevents moisture loss from pores and thus, it prevents any dryness in the long run even when it seems the opposite in the shorter span of time!
#5 It’s Cost-Effective
Retinol serums and prescription retinoids don’t cost a bomb as compared to other marketed products out there (like the best Vitamin C serums in India)! They are a skincare product that everyone can afford. Prescription retinoids start from around 200 to 300 and so do the cheapest retinol serums in India. Only about a few touch the 1000 mark and some exceed because it often has some other ingredient mixed in the formulation.
At What Age Should You Start Using Retinol?
It’s generally recommended to start using retinol in your mid-20’s and they become a must-have in your 30’s skincare routine. However, if you’re suffering from acne, your dermatologist might put you on a prescription retinoid treatment from your early 20s. Some of the best retinol serums for oily skin in India work well for acne and acne scars because retinol helps regulate sebum production, unclogs pores, and improves cell turnover to reduce acne breakouts.
For those who don’t have any major acne problems, it’s best to start incorporating retinol by the age of 25 as that’s when the elastin in your skin starts breaking down and you can see some fine lines on your face. The best retinol products recommended by dermatologists have anti-aging benefits. Retinol helps improve collagen production, improves skin texture, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles over time – with consistent usage.
Are There Any Side-Effects Of Using Retinol?
Yes, first-time users of retinol or those who jump to a higher concentration may experience some side effects of using retinol like dryness, itching, and irritation. This is normal because as the cell turnover increases and the skin peels, there can be some scaly patches and redness. If your skin is reacting to retinol, there are a few things you can do:
- Don’t use it every night. Try every other day or three times a week to see which frequency works better.
- Use the sandwich method where you apply a thin layer of moisturizer before using the retinol and then follow up with a thick layer of hydrating cream!
- Pick a lower concentration and then move up to higher concentrations. (See best retinol serums in India for beginners)
- Look for the best retinol serums for face in India that have hydrating ingredients in them like facial oils or ceramides or hyaluronic acid!
P.S.: Know that some irritation is normal with retinol and absolutely nothing to worry about! It just means the product is working, but do remember to follow up with sunscreen the next morning.
How To Minimise The Skin Reactions Associated With Retinols?
Many people start experiencing negative side effects from using retinol, but there is a way to reduce them.
#1 Sandwich Method
The “Retinol Sandwich Method” is a popular method to apply retinol on the skin and reap its benefits without causing any irritation. It basically involves applying a layer of moisturizer before using the retinol, then following it up with the serum or the prescription retinoid (whichever form you’re using), and then ending the skincare routine with another layer of moisturizer. This prevents the retinol from directly coming in contact with the skin and minimizes any irritation that may come with the application.
Though, this method is best recommended for those with sensitive skin or those who want to go all in with a higher concentration, just know that it can possibly also reduce the effectiveness of your best retinol serum in India. Moisturizers often contain occlusive agents which can block the penetration of the retinoid. But if you still want to use this method, choose a moisturizer that’s lightweight like the Cerave Daily Moisturising lotion.
#2 Use Sunscreen
Most retinol serums in India mention that they are meant to be used at night because retinol makes the skin more sensitive to sun rays and increases your chances of sunburn! Retinol is known to peel the outer layer of the skin and reveal the newer layers of skin. These layers are particularly sensitive to skin and can be damaged by UV radiation easily. Most retinol products recommended by dermatologists are also supposed to be used at night and a minimum SPF 30 should be used in the morning. You should reapply the sunscreen every 3 to 4 hours especially if you’re living in an area that receives too much direct sunlight. In fact, using sunscreen in proper amounts with retinoids will reduce the effects of photoaged skin, as also concluded by a 2015 study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology.
Here are some of our sunscreen recommendations to use with retinol:
- Neutrogena SPF 50 Sunscreen (Buy Here)
- Mamaearth Daily Glow Sunscreen (Buy Here)
- Banana Boat Sunscreen SPF 50 (Buy Here)
- Conscious Chemist Mattifying Sunscreen (Buy Here)
- The Derma Co 1% Hyaluronic Sunscreen (Buy Here)
What Are The Best Moisturisers To Use With Retinol Serum In India?
Here are some of the best face moisturizers to use with a retinol serum:
- Cerave Moisturising Lotion (Strongly Recommend) (Buy Here)
- LANEIGE Cica Sleeping Mask (Buy Here)
- Bioderma Atoderm Moisturiser (Buy Here)
- Klairs Rich, Moist Soothing Cream (Buy Here)
- Dot & Key 72 Hr Hydrating Gel (Buy Here)
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the best retinol serums in India are a skincare addition that almost everybody can benefit from! Given the popularity of the product, many new skincare brands are launching retinol serums in different concentrations as their first launch. You will also see many retinol being sold for exorbitant prices, but they hardly make any difference over the affordable ones we have mentioned. Retinol isn’t an expensive ingredient and when you do purchase a luxurious serums, it’s likely you’re paying for the branding or any other ingredient in the skincare product. Rest assured, you can receive the same results from an economical product, like our winners from the best retinol serum in India 2023.
