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12 Best Retinol Body Lotions for Smoother, Firmer & More Radiant Skin
Dryness, dark spots, wrinkles, and acne begone.
Talk to any dermatologist or scroll through your #BeautyTok feed, and you’d be hard-pressed not to come across the illustrious R word. Yes, we’re talking about retinol. “A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is one of the best skincare ingredients for improving the appearance of texture and pigmentation,” explains dermatologist Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali. “It exfoliates and promotes collagen synthesis to firm, brighten, smooth, and thicken the epidermis.”
Considering the sheer amount of retinol eye creams, face creams, serums, and oils now staking their claim as the best acne and Botox in a bottle products, it was only a matter of time before the dynamo ingredient made it into our favorite body lotions, too.
These formulas provide necessary hydration while tackling stubborn breakouts, plumping fine lines and wrinkles, smoothing strawberry skin, and lightening hyperpigmentation and age spots that can unfortunately crop up below the neck. Heck, the best retinol body lotions can even help minimize the look of unwanted cellulite on your thighs and rear end. (A blessing now that it’s bikini season.)
Although the one caveat to this multipurpose ingredient is that it can irritate sensitive skin, rest assured there are a range of top retinol body lotions designed to be gentle for reactive skin.
If you haven’t already invested, we’re about to rock your world. Below, shop the 11 best retinol body lotions for your most nourished and radiant skin yet, according to dermatologists, ELLE editors, and thousands of happy customers who have put them to the test.
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Lotion
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Body Lotion
Pros
- Helps tighten dimply skin & stretch marks
- Good value
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Some say the pump dispenser isn't the most effective
More than 46,000 customers gave this firming lotion a five-star rating, particularly for its ability to tackle cellulite. The fragrance-free cream combines powerhouse retinol and caffeine to tighten, as well as aloe vera, chamomile, glycerin, and green tea to plump and hydrate.
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’m 24 and got this product for stretch marks. In one week, they have been reduced so much!! Then I used it on cellulite, and wow, my skin is so elastic and smooth now. And to top it off, I had an old scar that was purple and ugly and after four applications, it is GONE!! This recipe is godsend!!! It’s so good! I will be using it for the rest of my life.”
Key ingredients: Retinol, caffeine, aloe vera, chamomile, glycerin, green tea, and ferulic acid
Skin Type: All
Size: 16 oz.
Versed Press Restart
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Affordable
Cons
- May take time to start seeing results
Dr. Bhanusali likes this affordable retinol body lotion since it’s packed with ultra-nourishing squalane and cocoa butter. It’s also a favorite of ELLE beauty editor Margaux Anbouba, who adds that it’s a great entry-level option. “When retinol body lotions first started coming to market, I was hesitant,” she shares. “My face went through a major peel-and-purge when I started using retinol to soften my wrinkles, and I didn’t want that happening on my entire body. But this body lotion with 0.1 percent retinol doesn’t cause any of those uncomfy side effects. Instead, it leaves you feeling soft and moisturized while giving you all the firming and smoothing benefits you crave.”
Key ingredients: Retinol, cocoa butter, squalane, vitamin E
Skin Type: Dry, aging, sensitive
Size: 6 fl. oz.
Medix 5.5 Retinol Body Lotion
Pros
- Affordable
- Protects against free radical damage
- Soothing
Cons
- Has a strong scent
Despite its under-$16 price tag, this retinol body lotion doesn’t skimp on quality. It boasts over 14,500 four and five-star reviews on Amazon, with shoppers saying this product “really works” for concerns like wrinkles, dark spots, and bumps associated with keratosis pilaris. The addition of ferulic acid and vitamin E makes it a potent cocktail for fighting hyperpigmentation and signs of aging. Plus, green tea, shea butter, and chamomile help hydrate and reduce redness.
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have dry skin and keratosis pilaris on the back of my arms and thighs…until I started using this retinol cream, however. I’ve used expensive oils, heavy creams, body mousse, exfoliators, and cleaners from countless brands, but this cream takes the cake. It wasn’t until this product that the back of my arms and legs are smooth, and the top of my thighs, which are always dry for some reason, are now soft and smooth. This is now a staple in my skincare arsenal.”
Key ingredients: Retinol, ferulic acid, vitamin E, green tea, shea butter, and chamomile
Skin Type: All
Size: 15 fl. oz.
Sol De Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream Body Cream
Sol De Janeiro Beija Flor Elasti-Cream Body Cream
Pros
- Gentle
- Plant-based
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Scent may not last long
As mild as certain forms of retinoids may be, some folks with hyper-reactive skin just can’t handle them. If you fall into this category, try the Beija Flor cream from TikTok-viral brand Sol De Janeiro, like ELLE.com Beauty Director, Danielle James. “I have sensitive skin but yearn for the results of retinoids. This plant-based answered my skincare prayers. I love the thick, creamy formula and the tropical smell is quintessential Sol De Janeiro with natural skin tightening benefits.” Instead of using traditional retinoids, it contains a buzzy retinol alternative called cacay oil—a nut-derived ingredient that’s been shown to have high levels of vitamins A—plus plant-based collagen to help boost skin density. In case you love a good sensory experience, this decadent formula also boasts a rich, creamy texture and fresh, fruity-floral scent.
Key ingredients: Cacay oil, squalane, plant-based collagen
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Size: 8.1 fl. oz.
Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Pros
- Lightweight
- Good for retinol beginners
- Antioxidant-rich
Cons
- May run out quickly
Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Treatment is great for anyone who prefers a lightweight, unscented option. The silky formula works to combat wrinkles and textured skin with a more mild 0.1 percent retinol, making it suitable for retinol novices. And it features antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E to help prevent crepey skin in the first place. Thanks to shea butter and evening primrose oil, you get an added boost of moisture, too.
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve battled ugly marks/pigmentation on my legs for a long time. I noticed a difference in my skin texture and the eczema patches when I woke up the morning after applying this for the first time! The patches have faded apart from some leftover hyperpigmentation, which I know will take some time to go away. I was worried this would be too strong for my sensitive skin, but it is exactly what I needed. I’ve been applying it morning and night (after showering) and haven’t experienced any irritation. Love that there is no added scent.”
Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamins C and E, shea butter, evening primrose oil
Skin Type: All
Size: 4 fl. oz.
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body & Face Lotion
Gold Bond Age Renew Retinol Overnight Body & Face Lotion
Pros
- Affordable
- Deeply hydrating
- Plumping
Cons
- Some users wish it absorbed better into skin
Another affordable pick, this overnight lotion from classic drugstore brand Gold Bond is designed to tighten and firm while you sleep. On top of retinol, it features a blend of seven moisturizers, three vitamins, and plumping peptides to keep skin bouncy and quenched. And the proof is in the pudding. In clinical studies, 93 percent of users noticed visibly smoother skin after just three days.
An Amazon reviewer says: “It’s a thick cream, so in the summer I sometimes use it with a urea lotion to make it spread more easily. After a few weeks, I’ve seen improvements in my skin texture and the lightening of dark spots on my arms and legs. No irritation issue. I recommend.”
Key ingredients: Peptides, glycerin, squalane, shea butter, niacinamide (vitamin b3), urea
Skin Type: Normal to dry skin
Size: 7 fl. oz.
iS CLINICAL Body Complex
iS CLINICAL Body Complex
Pros
- Gently exfoliates
- Soothing
Cons
- Pricey
Ideal for ultra-sensitive skin types, iS Clinical’s Body Complex “combines retinyl palmitate—a milder form of retinol—with fruit acids that aid in gentle exfoliation and optimal product absorption,” says dermatologist Dr. Rebecca Marcus. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid deeply moisturizes, and aloe leaf soothes.
Key ingredients: Retinyl palmitate, fruit acids, aloe vera, hyaluronic acid
Skin Type: All, sensitive
Size: 6 fl. oz.
Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate
Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate
Pros
- Helps tighten, brighten, plump, and soothe
- Gently exfoliates
- Good for sensitive skin
Cons
- Some may prefer an unscented option
When you want to get the most out of your retinol body lotion, Beauty Pie’s Youthbomb Concentrate is just what the doctor ordered. Literally—it was formulated by a world-renowned London dermatologist and is one of Dr. Marcus’ top picks. The multitasking formula features an exclusive complex of two percent granactive retinoid, which has been studied to be just as effective as retinol yet less irritating, as well as niacinamide to help brighten, plump, and strengthen the skin barrier. Also included are gentle chemical exfoliants like glycolic acid, as well as nourishing shea butter and glycerin and soothing allantoin to encourage a smooth yet balanced complexion.
Key ingredients: Granactive retinoid, niacinamide, shea butter, glycerin, glycolic acid
Skin Type: All, sensitive
Size: 6.7 fl oz
Nécessaire The Body Retinol
Nécessaire The Body Retinol
Pros
- Gently clears pores
- Helps with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Cons
- May have a strong scent
This luxe Nécessaire lotion is recommended by both Dr. Bhanusali and ELLE.com beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose for reactive, acne-prone skin, as it not only contains low-grade 0.1 percent retinol but is also high in exfoliating alpha-hydroxy acids. These gently buff away pore-clogging debris and have been shown to have some wrinkle-reducing benefits. Other standout ingredients include vitamin C to help reverse post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. “This is a non-irritating formula that absorbs quickly into the skin,” shares Penrose. “It keeps my chest and back acne in check so I can live my best wearing-less summer life.”
Key ingredients: Retinol, mandelic acid, glycolic acid, glycerin, vitamin C
Skin Type: All, acne-prone
Size: 5.1 oz.
Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Ultra-lightweight
Cons
- May rinse off easily
If you typically shy away from traditional body lotions and creams, this weightless formula has a milky, serum-like texture designed to instantly absorb and leave behind zero greasy feeling. Inside is encapsulated all-trans-retinol, a potent retinoid that’s released slowly into the skin for high-powered results with less discomfort. What’s more, a blend of exfoliating acids, urea, and squalane work together to moisturize and combat uneven texture.
An Amazon reviewer says: “Everything I’ve tried by this company is fantastic. This exfoliator works well. My pores are clearer and smaller after using this at night, and it’s easy to layer under other products.”
Key ingredients: All-trans-retinol, lactic acid, glycolic acid, urea, squalane
Skin Type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Size: 5 fl. oz.
NatureWell Clinical Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream
NatureWell Clinical Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream
Pros
- Also good for dark spots
- Non-greasy
- Minimizes irritation
Cons
- Some may not prefer the scent
Among over 9,000 glowing reviews, dozens of shoppers can’t stop raving about this retinol body lotion for mature skin. Customers love the lightweight texture and note that it’s effective for targeting fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and age spots without causing irritation. The key to its magic is micro-encapsulated retinyl palmitate (a slow-releasing, mild form of retinol), brightening grape seed oil, and a slew of juicy hydrators like coconut oil and glycerin.
An Amazon reviewer says: “I have used this once every evening for about a month. I am 72 years old. My skin is smoother, and this has helped lighten my dark spots until they are no longer visible. Skin is firmer too, but not to the point of looking like you had a facelift. Just looks natural. I will continue to use this product. It’s a great value.”
Key ingredients: Retinyl palmitate, grape seed oil, coconut oil, glycerin
Skin Type: All
Size: 16 oz.
Retinol Anti-Aging Hand Cream
Pros
- Antioxidant-rich
- Helps smooth wrinkles & cracked skin
Cons
- Some users dislike the scent
We know our hands can be some of the first parts of our bodies to reveal our age. Combat discoloration and crepey skin in the area with this popular retinol hand cream, which also features vitamins C and E for further brightening and smoothing perks. With green tea and glycerin, it’s also ideal for soothing dry, cracked skin and peeling cuticles.
An Amazon reviewer says: “My hands were in horrible shape, looking much older than my 65 years. This cream has transformed them. Please don’t hesitate, excellent!!”
Key ingredients: Retinol, vitamins C and E, green tea, glycerin
Skin Type: Aging, dry
Size: 3.52 fl. oz.
What other ingredients should I look for in the best retinol body lotions?
“I recommend hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and squalane,” says Dr. Bhanusali. “If you have acne-prone or combination skin, a retinol body lotion with a light alpha or beta hydroxy acid can also be helpful.”
Other essentials to look out for? Barrier-boosting ingredients like ceramides and shea butter, as well as wrinkle-busting antioxidants. “These are a wonderful complement to retinoids,” says fellow dermatologist Dr. Nicole Hayre. “They help fight off damage from environmental free radicals, which can cause the skin to age over time, and also protect the retinoid itself from oxidizing.”
Are there any other key considerations when shopping for the best retinol body lotions?
“I like brands that either are lead with science (have a scientific advisory board) or do independent studies,” says Dr. Bhanusali. “There are a lot of claims now, so it is important to make sure they are legitimate.”
Dr. Hayre also notes that folks with drier skin should opt for lotions or creams with a thicker consistency. These can be especially ideal for those with mature, dehydrated skin. Regardless of your age or skin type, though, she says people generally tend to need heavier products in the dry winter months and lighter products in the summertime.
What to look for in the best retinol body lotions for sensitive skin
“While most people can use retinoids, they can be a bit irritating for those with sensitive skin or eczema, especially in drier weather,” notes Dr. Hayre. She suggests those with sensitive skin choose formulas with hydroxypincalone retinoate—a less inflammatory form of retinoid—such as the Body Silk formula from her Schön skincare line. Dr. Marcus adds that retinol itself can work better for sensitive skin, as well as retinaldehyde and the gentlest form of retinoid, retinyl palmitate.
Additionally, seek options with a low concentration of retinoids. “Start with 0.1 percent and work your way up,” says Dr. Marcus. “The right level for you is the highest you can tolerate without side effects, such as redness and peeling.”
What’s more, “fragrance-free options are always best for those with sensitive skin, as fragrance can be irritating and allergenic,” she adds.
When should I start using retinol body lotions?
“Most people can start using topical retinoids in their 20s,” suggests Dr. Hayre. “Some teens who suffer from acne can also benefit. Those 30 or older should certainly use a retinol body product to help keep their skin healthy and looking more youthful.”
What’s the best way to apply retinol body lotions?
“Some people may take time to get used to the product and should start slow before working their way up,” says Dr. Bhanusali. He suggests applying a retinol body lotion post-shower two to three times a week, or daily, if tolerated.
Also, remember that applying sunscreen with any retinol product is especially important, as “retinoid usage can make the skin more sensitive to the sun,” says Dr. Hayre.
And some major don’ts? “Avoid combining a retinol body lotion with other acids to prevent over-exfoliation and irritation,” says Dr. Marcus. Additionally, Dr. Hayre warns retinol should never be used by pregnant women. The topical use of retinoids can contribute to high levels of vitamin A in the body, which may be toxic to the fetus.
Can I use retinol body lotion on my face, too?
Technically yes, but our experts advise against it. “Retinol for the body may be stronger than that which is tolerated on the face,” explains Dr. Marcus. “In addition, other ingredients added to the cream may be acnegenic when used on the face. For facial application, I prefer a noncomedogenic facial formula.”
Meet the Experts
Dr. Nicole Hayre is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of the Cosmetic Dermatology Center in McLean, Virginia. She is also the founder of skincare line Cutocin.
Dr. Dhaval Bhanusali is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Hudson Dermatology and Laser Surgery in New York, New York.
Dr. Rebecca Marcus is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MaeiMD.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
Sam Peters is a seasoned commerce writer and editor with over five years of experience covering fashion, beauty, and lifestyle topics. For this story, she interviewed three dermatologists about the best retinol body lotions and what to look for when shopping. She also spoke with ELLE editors about some of their favorite picks and scoured customer reviews for highly-rated formulas. Each product has been analyzed based on factors like texture and ingredients offered.
Sam Peters is a Senior Commerce Editor at Hearst covering fashion, beauty and lifestyle. Her writing has appeared in WWD, Footwear News, Real Simple, PopSugar and Bridal Guide, among others. She enjoys unpacking the latest trends and testing and reviewing some of the most innovative, emerging products on the market.
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