Dermatologists Told Me the Top 6 Retinol Creams for Aging Skin—and They’re Under $55

Many can relate: constantly buying anti-aging products in the hopes that something will make your wrinkles finally disappear. We’ve all been there as we wait for an immediate difference. And TBH — it can be frustrating because wrinkles are hard to reverse. While over-the-counter products won’t completely get rid of them, they can still improve the appearance of aging skin with enough time and effort, especially if you rely on skincare with retinol.

Dr. Asmi Berry, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, tells Shape it’s the “gold-standard ingredient,” particularly for those with mature skin. Another dermatologist and Founder of Skin Wellness, Dr. Corey L. Hartman explains that the production of collagen and elastin slows as we age. But thanks to retinol, it can “exfoliate by regulating cellular turnover and help stimulate collagen production, which helps with skin elasticity and appearing more plump and youthful.” But keep in mind, those who are pregnant or have skin allergies should avoid using it. 

If you’re tired of trying multiple products to see if they actually work, I’ve got you covered. I spoke to a few dermatologists to get their insights about what retinol creams are worth your time and money. Fortunately, they recommended budget-friendly picks that are even gentle enough for sensitive skin. Check out these complexion-renewing retinol creams for mature skin, from brands like Neutrogena, CeraVe, and La Roche Posay, starting at $22.

6 Affordable Retinol Creams That Dermatologists Swear By

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream

The Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Cream is a top favorite among multiple dermatologists. This creamy formula targets fine lines, deep wrinkles, dark spots, and dullness to reveal a smooth, even-toned complexion. The experts are fans of the fact that the now-$25 cream also includes hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture to plump skin and “help with any potential dryness” caused by retinol, according to Dr. Hartman, who dubbed it an ideal daily option. Plus, the product has more than 34,000 five-star ratings at Amazon. 

CeraVe Skin-Renewing Day Cream

Dr. Tiffany Alexander, a board-certified dermatologist with MetroDerm, recommends the CeraVe Skin-Renewing Day Cream for those who want extra sun protection for their skin. Retinol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, per the expert. Luckily, this daily lotion comes with a SPF 30 to defend skin, along with an encapsulated retinol (a more stable form) that improves texture while being gentler on skin. On top of this, the $24 product contains hyaluronic acid and ceramides to deeply moisturize, as well as strengthen your skin’s barrier. 

RoC Retinol Correxion Max Daily Hydration Cream

The RoC Retinol Correxion Max Cream is another great option if you want a boost of hydration and a smoother appearance — and Dr. Alexander recommends it if you’re on a budget. This lightweight moisturizer also contains hyaluronic acid and retinol to increase skin’s elasticity and firmness, helping to improve the look of wrinkles. Bonus: Hyaluronic acid’s soothing properties help reduce any irritation in skin.

Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Cream

The Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Cream comes with a host of skin-rejuvenating extracts that leave your complexion smoother and brighter. It utilizes retinol, peptides, and glycerin, which work together to increase collagen production and hydration, helping to plump the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 

At the same time, Dr. Berry explains that the cream’s other key ingredient, niacinamide, makes it particularly ideal for dry and sensitive skin types thanks to its number of benefits: “It helps strengthen the skin barrier, supports hydration, improves inflammation, and can even out skin tone,” said the dermatologist.

RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream

The RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream is a “classic, tried-and-true” wrinkle formula, according to Dr. Berry. It’s specifically formulated to target deep wrinkles on the face, like crow’s feet, forehead lines, along with lip lines for a firmer and more lifted appearance. The silky retinol cream also adds a plumpness to skin thanks to its squalene extract. 

La Roche-Posay Redermic R Retinol Cream 

La Roche-Posay’s Redermic R Retinol Cream is worth the extra splurge in your beauty budget. This $55 formula “smooths fine lines and improves skin texture without excessive irritation,” explained Dr. Berry. The expert credits its slow-release retinol, gentle exfoliating salicylic acid derivative, and soothing antioxidant components for making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.