Best Overall: Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
This cream contains hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate, amino peptides to firm the skin, as well as niacinamide (a.k.a. vitamin B3), a potent antioxidant that helps improve the appearance of enlarged pores and dullness, says Debra Jaliman, M.D., board-certified dermatologist. It also doesn’t hurt that the brand is trusted by celebrities like Jennifer Hudson, Drew Barrymore, and Quinta Brunson.
One reviewer joked they looked “20 years younger” after using the product. “My skin looks great and well nourished. It is thick and creamy and absorbs well,” they wrote. We also love that it’s at a great price point, unscented, and free of parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes.
Best Value: Roc Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
This product “has the needed retinol to treat and prevent wrinkles, along with effective hydrating ingredients to minimize the irritation that most will experience with retinol-containing products,” says Dr. Ilyas. Made with pure RoC Retinol, it’s quite potent. It’s also oil-free, non-comedogenic, and under $20.
Not only is it Prevention’s pick for the overall best retinol cream, but it also has thousands of five-star ratings. “I’ve been using retinol for a while. So far, this is my favorite,” one noted. “It does not dry my skin. It feels great, and I see a difference in my fine lines.”
