Best Retinol Serum In India: In this article I’ll be sharing some of the best retinol serum available in India. Retinol is a star ingredient for anti-aging and without this your anti-aging regime is incomplete. Retinol comes in different forms but mainly in creams and serums. It is full of benefits but don’t forget you can experience some side effects if not used correctly. However, these over-the-counter retinol products are safe and not as irritating as tretinoin (prescription retinol). Therefore, one can use these serums without going through any irritation or damages.
However, skincare is subjective. So, there is no guarantee each and every product will suit your skin. Specially, if you have sensitive skin, always do patch test before using any serums or actives.
Benefits of Retinol for skin:
- Tighten skin
- Reduce the appearance of age spots
- Smoothen fine lines
- Thicken the dermis
- Cause less or no irritation compared to prescription form
- Have skin exfoliating properties which eliminates dead skin cells
Apart from benefits, let’s take a view on some don’ts you should not do with retinols.
Do not make thes e mistakes while using retinol:
1. Forgetting sunscreen – This is the worst thing you can ever do to your skin. Skipping sunscreen can be really damaging. Even when you’re staying home or it’s a rainy day, wear sunscreen no matter what. Initially, retinol can make skin a little sensitive so it’s very important to wear sunscreen to prevent any UV or environmental damage.
2. Layering with different actives – If a serum is formulated with retinol and AHAs together, it is okay to use (if it doesn’t cause irritation). But layering different actives from different brands can be damaging to skin barrier and even neutralize results. I would suggest, avoid retinol with AHA & BHA like glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C and benzoyl peroxide.
3. Not moisturizing skin properly – Retinol has drying effect on skin. Also, it exfoliates skin so you should use good moisturizer that contains ceramide, vitamin E or have skin repairing properties. Use it twice a day or whenever your skin feel dry.
4. Using retinol over damaged skin barrier – If you have inflamed, itchy or dry skin, avoid using retinol on such condition. Even I would suggest not to use any actives for few months and let your skin barrier heal.
5. Overuse – Including so many retinol based products like serum, night cream and day cream together in your skincare routine can be also quite damaging. Just use either one of them and it will be enough.
List Of Best Retinol Serum In India
- Olay retinol 24 night serum
- Minimalist 0.3% retinol serum
- ROC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum
- Suganda 2% Granactive Retinoid Serum
- Plum 1% Retinol Serum
- The derma co 0.3% retinol serum
- The ordinary retinol 1% in squalane
- Foxtale 0.15% Encapsulated Retinol Night Serum
- Pixi collagen & retinol serum
- Deconstruct retinol and peptide serum
- Neemli naturals retinol and peptide serum
- Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule
- E’clat superior retinol A+ 0.8% serum
- Palmer’s cocoa butter formula skin therapy oil
- Pilgrim retinol & hyaluronic acid lift and firm serum
- St. Botanica retinol 2.5% facial serum
Best Retinol Serum Available In India
1. Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum
Olay retinol 24 night serum is a quite popular product formulated with niacinamide, retinol and amino peptide. Therefore, beside of anti-aging benefit, it also rejuvenates skin with niacinamide. This serum has ability to penetrate ten layers deep into the skin with 24 hour potency. No matter what your skin type is, this retinol serum will adjust to it. However for sensitive skin, patch test is must. Moreover, this serum is free of toxic chemicals like sulphate, phthalate, fragrance/ perfumes and artificial dyes or oil. With regular use this makes skin plump and youthful.
PROS
- Powerful anti-aging combination of niacinamide, retinol and amino peptide.
- Rejuvenates skin.
- Does not contain toxins like sulphate, phthalate, fragrance and artificial dyes or oil.
- Makes skin plump and young.
CONS
- Expensive
Suitability
All skin types except damaged and extremely sensitive skin.
Best Niacinamide Serum In India
2. Minimalist 0.3% Retinol Serum
If you are going to include retinol for the first time having a dry skin type. Minimalist retinol serum is perfect one to try out because it is oil-based and comes at affordable price too. For this particular serum minimalist uses squalane as its base. Squalane is an oil that works as an emollient for skin. It mimics skin’s natural oil that makes it a great moisturizer too. Besides, with retinol, coenzyme Q10, bakuchoil and vitamin E in the serum boost anti-aging effect. In case you want to use retinol for skin exfoliation, I would not recommend it. This serum improves skin health and reduce the signs of aging. Moreover, if you are looking for an anti-aging facial oil, it is absolutely recommended. The best thing is it does not have any fragrance or toxic chemicals in it.
PROS
- Inexpensive.
- Contain retinol, squalane, coenzyme Q10, bakuchoil and vitamin E.
- Moisturizes skin.
- Give gentle exfoliation.
- Prevent pre mature aging of skin.
- Makes skin youthful
- Fragrance free formula.
CONS
- Oil-based formula may not suit oily and combination skin.
Suitability
Normal to dry skin types.
3. ROC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum
It is an excellent serum if you want to use over the counter retinol for aging skin. Though, anyone above the age of 25 can use this. ROC serum claims to reduce deep set wrinkle, makes skin firm, smooth, revitalized and radiant. Well, apart from the claims, it does improve skin texture, reduce fine lines and adds a glow to skin. ROC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum is lightweight and non-greasy in texture that will suit oily-combination skin too. Whereas, dry/normal skinned people should use a good moisturizer that does not have skin irritating ingredients. Furthermore, this product might not suit extremely dry skin type because of the main ingredient ‘retinol’.
PROS
- Improves skin texture.
- Reduce fine lines effectively.
- Makes skin youthful.
- Non-greasy.
- Does not feel heavy on the skin.
CONS
- Expensive.
Suitability
All skin types except extremely sensitive skin.
4. Suganda 2% Granactive Retinoid Serum
Suganda 2% Granactive Retinoid is lightweight oil-based serum. For the base, it contain squalane, besides it also has carotenoids, vitamin E and of course 2% granactive retinoid. Even though, it is an oil-based serum, it does not feel heavy, greasy or sticky and gets absorbed quickly too. Suganda granactive retinoid is suitable for mature, dry and normal skin types and you can also use it in winters. It makes skin youthful, firmer and reduce aging signs like fine lines and prevent wrinkles. Overall, it is a really good formula by an Indian brand because it is cruelty-free, non-comedogenic, fragrance and essential oil free product. This serum is also adaptable for beginners because it cause less irritation compare to other retinols.
PROS
- Light weight on the skin.
- Non-sticky and non-greasy.
- Suitable for winters.
- Makes skin appear youthful.
- Cruelty-free.
- Non-comedogenic.
- Fragrance and essential oil free.
CONS
- Oil formula will not suit oily skin.
- Avoid layering with different products.
Suitability
Normal to dry skin types.
5. Plum 1% Retinol Serum
Here is a retinol serum from Indian brand that comes with powerful blend of 1% retinol, bakuchiol, squalane and plant polypeptides. Plum retinol serum is available in two different sizes, so you can also try out the smaller version first. The serum is water-based, non-greasy and feels light on the skin. It speeds up cell turnover and boost collagen, elastin production in your skin. When used regularly, it smoothens skin texture, fine lines, wrinkles and reduce hyperpigmentation too.
Moreover, the formula is little strong, so start with using twice in a week or use on alternate days. Plum suggests this serum to use in your late 20s. However, in my opinion, people in mid twenties can use it too. Furthermore, this product is 100% vegan and free of fragrance, essential oil, synthetic colors, paraben, phthalate.
PROS
- Powerful and strong retinol.
- Water based formula that will suit oily skin too.
- Non-greasy.
- Boost collagen production.
- Smoothen skin.
- Improve skin texture.
- Vegan product
- Free of fragrance, essential oil, synthetic colors, paraben, phthalate.
CONS
- Not beginner friendly.
Suitability
Oily, combination and normal skin.
6. The Derma Co 0.3% Retinol Serum
Searching for a retinol based exfoliating serum to get rid of blemishes and pigmentation? Get your hands over The Derma Co retinol serum that contain 0.3% retinol along with vitamin C and glycerine. Now with this serum you can also have the benefits of vitamin C. Whereas, glycerine increases skin hydration to prevent any dryness caused by retinol. Powerful combination of retinol and vitamin C boost anti-aging process and also brightens and even out skin tone.
When you make this serum part of your daily skin care routine, it help reduce pigmentation and acne spots too. Additionally, retinol itself is an amazing ingredient for acne prone skin as it exfoliates skin and reduce the formation of new pimples. This lightweight serum absorbs fast without contributing oil. Therefore, people with oily and combination skin can use it too. However, for sensitive skin it is mandatory to do patch test before application.
PROS
- Affordable
- Gently exfoliates skin.
- Light weight.
- Acne skin friendly.
- Anti-aging and skin brightening properties.
CONS
- Works slow.
Suitability
All skin types except sensitive skin.
7. The Ordinary Retinol 1% In Squalane
The ordinary retinol 1% in squalane is a water based formula and is highly stable. Since it has 1% of pure retinol this might be little strong for beginners. Therefore, I would suggest it to those who already got used to retinol products. This powerful formula helps smoothens your skin by reducing the appearance of fine lines. Additionally, this serum also refines skin and reduce scars when you make this part of your daily skincare regime. Moreover, it is a vegan product and does not contain alcohol, silicone or gluten.
PROS
- Water based serum.
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles.
- Refine skin pores.
- Vegan product.
- Free of alcohol, silicone or gluten.
CONS
- Can be a bit irritating for some.
Suitability
All skin types except sensitive skin.
8. Foxtale 0.15% Encapsulated Retinol Night Serum
Foxtale Encapsulated Retinol Night Serum is a unique formula which is suitable for beginners. Unlike most of the retinol serums this does not cause purging. At the same time, it slows down aging process of the skin boosting collagen production and tighten skin. The serum has the ingredients such as encapsulated retinol, allantoin and palmitoyl gylcine to do all the work it claims like tighten pores and prevent fine lines and wrinkles. All in all, if you are new to retinol, go for it because this serum is also suitable for sensitive skin.
PROS
- Sensitive skin friendly.
- Adaptable for beginners.
- Very less of skin purging.
- Tighten skin and pores.
- Slow down aging process.
- Inexpensive.
CONS
- Takes time to show results.
Suitability
All skin types including sensitive skin.
9. Pixi Collagen & Retinol Serum
This Pixi serum is an another good option of retinol. It is formulated with acacia collagen that plump up and elastin your skin. On the other hand, retinol improve overall skin’s quality and smoothens its texture. It has niacinamide, ascorbic acid and chamomile that calms skin. In long run, this serum will improve the appearance of fine lines and make your skin glow as well. The brand claims to suitable for all skin types but sensitive skin people should do patch test. Furthermore, it is paraben free and not tested on animals.
PROS
- Smoothen texture.
- Improve skin’s appearance.
- Even out complexion.
- Plump up the skin.
- Cruelty free.
- Paraben free
CONS
- Expensive.
Suitability
All skin types.
10. Deconstruct Retinol And Peptide Serum
This Deconstruct serum is an anti-aging blend with 0.2% retinol and 1% peptide. If you are looking for an affordable, anti-aging serum for beginners it is a perfect serum to involve in your skincare. Beside of these two anti-aging duo, it has hyaluronic acid, palmaria palmata extract to hydrate and even out skin. This formula works effectively for anti-aging and fights fine lines and wrinkles. In addition to this, it is free of fragrance, SLS, pthalate, silicone, paraben and is vegan.
PROS
- Double anti aging benefits with retinol and peptide.
- Good for beginners.
- Evens skin complexion.
- Affordable.
- Free of fragrance, SLS, pthalate, silicone, paraben.
- Vegan.
CONS
- Takes time to show results.
Suitability
All skin types.
11. Neemli Naturals Retinol And Peptide Serum
This neemli naturals serum is a wholesome product for anti-aging because it has peptide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and niacinamide along with retinol. It firms, lifts your skin and reduce the signs of aging by stimulating collagen production. Additionally, retinol exfoliates skin at cellular level and helps get rid of clogged pores. All in all, this serum reveals a smooth, bright and healthy skin. If you have oily, acne-prone or combination to normal skin you can go for this serum. Neemli retinol and peptide serum does not contain paraben, SLS, phthalates, petroleum, mineral oil and animal based ingredients.
PROS
- Vegan.
- Packed with retinol, peptide, hyaluronic acid, vitamin C and niacinamide.
- Vegan.
- Free of paraben, SLS, phthalates, petroleum, mineral oil.
- Makes skin youthful.
- Acne skin friendly.
CONS
- Little expensive.
Suitability
All skin types including acne-prone skin.
12. Innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule
This innisfree retinol serum is gentlest retinol serum in the list. It contain pure retinol but in lower percentage, therefore it will be suitable for beginners and sensitive skin too. However, don’t confuse it with damaged skin and simply avoid all the skincare actives, if you have damaged skin barrier.
Another main ingredient is cica that soothes and repair inflamed skin. Apart from these two ingredients, it also contain niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, ceramide and plant oils to benefit your skin. On application, it feels lightweight, non-sticky while providing a moisture boost to the skin. Highly recommended, if you are looking for a gentle and hydrating retinol serum.
PROS
- Contains pure retinol.
- Beginners friendly.
- Does not cause irritation.
- Gentle.
- Hydrating formula.
- Light weight.
- Non-sticky.
CONS
- Pricey
Suitability
All skin types.
13. E’clat Superior Retinol A+ 0.8% Serum
E’clat superior retinol serum comes with 0.8% retinol combined with ferulic acid, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid. With retinol and ferulic acid, this serum provides gentle exfoliation and help clears acne. On the other hand, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E nourish and protect skin from further damage. It comes with lower concentration of retinol. Therefore, this will suit beginners too. Retinol stimulates cell turnover in skin and boost collagen production. In result, skin look smoother, firmer and brighter in long run.
PROS
- Suitable for acne-prone skin too.
- Gently exfoliates skin.
- Boost collagen production.
- Can suit beginners.
- Nourish skin.
- Dermatologist recommended product.
- Makes skin smooth and firm.
CONS
- Little pricey.
Suitability
All skin types.
14. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil
Palmer’s cocoa butter formula skin therapy oil is a complete beauty blend. It is formulated with beauty oil such as argan oil, sweet almond oil, macadamia nut oil, apricot oil, rosehip oil and sunflower oil along with cocoa butter, vitamin E, C and retinol. Due to the oil formula, it will be more suitable for dry to normal skin type. On the other side, oily/combination skin beauties can use it mixing with moisturizer during winter. This lightweight, non-comedogenic oil hydrates, nourish your skin while healing damage and scars. It also has anti-aging benefits that targets fine lines. Furthermore, it is free of paraben, sulfate, mineral oil, phthalate and is hypo allergenic.
PROS
- Mixture of different ingredients along with retinol.
- Good for dry skin.
- Non-comedogenic.
- Light weight.
- Does not contain paraben, sulfate, mineral oil and phthalate.
- Hypo-allergenic
- Anti aging benefits.
- Nourish skin.
CONS
- Not for oily and combination skin.
Suitability
Dry skin types.
15. Pilgrim Retinol & Hyaluronic Acid Lift And Firm Serum
In case you are looking for a simple retinol formula that has no other actives. Here’s Pilgrim retinol & hyaluronic acid serum for you! Along with retinol, it has only hyaluronic acid and pomegranate extracts. Both are gentle and non-irritating. This combination helps hydrate skin, maintain its elasticity and makes skin firmer with continuous use.
You can start using it since your early or mid 20s because “prevention is always better than cure”. Pilgrim retinol serum is 100% vegan, cruelty free and does not contain toxic chemicals including paraben and SLS.
PROS
- Gentle.
- Cruelty free.
- Does not irritate skin.
- Hydrates skin.
- Makes skin firm.
- Free of paraben and SLS.
- Affordable.
CONS
- May take some time to show results.
Suitability
Dry, normal and combination skin.
Best Hyaluronic Acid Serum In India
16. St. Botanica Retinol 2.5% Facial Serum
St. botanica serum is formulated with 2.5% retinol, vitamin C, E, hyaluronic acid and several botanical extracts. This lightweight serum has gel based formula which is suitable for oily and combination skin too. It help improve skin’s texture, pigmentation, hydration and prevents the signs of aging. Furthermore, this botanical serum is free of silicones, parabens and mineral oil. For best results, use this before going to sleep and don’t forget to layer a moisturizer on top. During the day use a high SPF sunscreen for protection.
PROS
- Infused with retinol, vitamin C, E and hyaluronic acid.
- Does not feel very heavy.
- Free of silicones, parabens and mineral oil.
- Prevent the signs of aging.
- Makes skin firm.
CONS
- May not suit very sensitive skin.
Suitability
All skin types except sensitive skin.
Conclusion
These are the best retinol serum in India currently. Go for water based formula if you have very oily skin. Whereas, Oil-based retinol serums are perfect for dry skin and during winters. Retinol is a bit drying on the skin, therefore don’t forget to use a good moisturizer for best results. Plus, avoid using retinol with other skin care actives to avoid skin irritation.
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Nisha is a full-time blogger who has been passionately writing since 2018. She covers a wide range of topics, from lifestyle, reviews, consumer guidance to wellness. When she’s not writing blog posts, you can find her learning something new.