10 Best Retinol Serums in the Philippines 2026 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
When it comes to anti-aging skin care products, retinol almost always comes up. It is considered the gold standard for its ability to reach deeply into your skin, renew skin cell production, and push renewed skin to the surface, minimizing fine lines and wrinkles. It has also been raved about for its ability to give you youthful and glowing skin! However, as much as it is praised, retinol is also often misunderstood and feared.
We're here to put those fears to rest! We have prepared a buying guide to help you understand how retinol works and how to integrate it into your skincare routine. Dermatologist Dr. Meg Sison also shares some of her comments and tips regarding this topic! Later on, we'll also share our picks for the best retinol serums in the Philippines!
Dr. Sison is a board-certified dermatologist who practices in the Philippines and sees both medical and cosmetic dermatological cases on skin, hair, and nails.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
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What Are the Benefits of Retinol?
Retinol, a derivative of vitamin A, holds a prominent place in skincare routines due to its remarkable benefits. Retinol can effectively address hyperpigmentation and combat the signs of photoaging. One of its key mechanisms is stimulating collagen production, a crucial factor in maintaining the skin's elasticity and firmness.
Retinol is a type of retinoid that is an umbrella term for structural and functional analogs of vitamin A. Retinoids are classified according to first, second, or third generation. First-generation retinoids include tretinoin, isotretinoin, and alitretinoin. Second-generation retinoids are acitretin and etretinate. Third-generation retinoids include adapalene, tazarotene, and bexarotene.
Retinols (retinol esters) are over-the-counter retinoids commonly found in skin care products like moisturizers and serums. They are the least irritating among all retinoids, but they require three steps before they can be converted to tretinoin and see their benefits on the skin.
A Word of Caution: Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women Can't Use Retinol
Although retinol is well-received by all skin types, we must warn, though, that it is not for everyone. As advised by our expert, pregnant and lactating individuals cannot use retinol. This is because high concentrations of vitamin A can affect the development of the fetus.
How to Choose a Retinol Serum - Buying Guide
Know the Retinol Percentage That's Appropriate for You
Retinol has different levels of concentration, and its application depends on whether you are a bonafide user or a newbie to it. It's not as simple as selecting one with the highest potency in hopes of seeing immediate results. It is meant to be incorporated into your skincare routine gradually; otherwise, you'd risk irritation.
For Retinol Beginners: 0.25% or Less to Build Up Tolerance
If it's your first-time retinol user, it is best to incorporate it into your skincare routine low and slow. A concentration of 0.25% or less and applying it twice a week is what many dermatologists recommend. Keep in mind that retinol is a potent ingredient, so even the lowest concentration can bring benefits to your skin.
For those who will be using retinol for the first time, start with the lowest concentration and use it twice a week before gradually increasing the frequency of usage.
Make sure to apply first on a small area (for example, back of ears or jawline) and observe for any reactions like stinging, burning, peeling, itching, or redness within 24 to 72 hours. You can also apply moisturizer before and after applying retinol to lessen the chances of skin irritation ("retinoid sandwich").
For Experienced Users: 0.3-1% for More Significant Results
For those who have already incorporated retinol in their skincare routine and feel like low-strength retinol serums bring minimal to no effects, try concentrations between 0.3%-1%. Since this is more potent, you can expect more significant effects on your skin's appearance.
For those who want to use higher-strength retinol, start twice a week. You can also opt to use this 2 to three times a week instead of every night to lessen the chances of skin irritation. The retinoid sandwich technique is recommended to prevent skin irritation, redness, or peeling.
Double-Check for Ingredients That Will Counteract Possible Irritation and Further Nourish the Skin
Retinol, when used alone, can be quite drying, so many serums incorporate ingredients that bring moisturizing and nourishing effects. Learn more about the best ingredients to pair with retinol and what not to mix with retinol below.
Hyaluronic Acid, Niacinamide, Ceramides, and Panthenol Amplify Skin Benefits
Dermatologists maintain that retinol paired with ingredients that have moisturizing properties are a must. Furthermore, there are also ingredients that can amplify the benefits of using retinol.
- Hyaluronic acid is one of the ingredients that could be safely paired with retinol. It is a humectant, which draws water to the surface of your skin. This keeps it moisturized and plump, so your skin won’t feel too dry.
- Niacinamide has oil-controlling as well as moisturizing properties. It can help soothe the skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
- Ceramides are also a great moisturizing ingredient to combine with retinol, as it locks moisture into your skin. It also improves visible signs of aging, such as fine lines, and blocks environmental damage.
- Panthenol helps maintain the skin's barrier as it hydrates and helps calm irritations too.
Avoid Using Retinol With AHAs, BHAs, Benzoyl Peroxide, and Enzyme Exfoliators
While certain ingredients enhance retinol's effects, combining it with others can lead to adverse reactions. Using retinol alongside AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, and enzyme exfoliators can harm your skin as it over-exfoliates it. This can dry the skin, making it more susceptible to irritation.
Chemical exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs can increase cellular turnover like retinol, so they should not be used at the same time to avoid skin irritation. You can use a face wash that contains these ingredients but make sure to apply moisturizer prior to applying retinol on your face.
Prefer Retinol Packaged in a Dark Bottle
Serums are often housed in pumps and droppers, which aren’t just for aesthetic purposes. It also has something to do with the product’s efficacy and shelf life. Retinol is relatively unstable; this means that when you take it out to use it, it oxidizes a little.
When shopping for serums, opt for a dark-colored bottle; this is to protect it from exposure to sunlight as it could spoil easily and render it useless. Pump bottles are great as it protects the product from being oxidized, seeing as you can just pump what you need. It is also great when you want to use your hands to apply the product.
Look for retinol serums packaged in dark bottles or pumps, as they prevent the retinol from becoming unstable. Ensure that the dropper does not touch your face and neck when applying the retinol serum to prevent contamination by microorganisms. Your hands should also be clean before applying the product to your face and neck.
Disclaimer: These products are recommendations made by our team at mybest Philippines. Our expert, Dr. Meg Sison, is not affiliated with, nor is she endorsing any of the brands we mention below.
10 Best Retinol Serums to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Retinol Strength | Packaging | Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | Net Weight | Notable Ingredients | ||||
1 | CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum |  | 0.3% | Pump Bottle | 30 mL | Encapsulated Retinol, Ceramides, Niacinamide, Licorice Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate | ||
2 | La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum |  | 0.3% | Dropper Bottle | 30 mL | Pure Retinol, Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Glycerin | ||
3 | COSRX The Retinol 0.5% Oil Serum |  | 0.5% | Dropper Bottle | 20 mL | Pure Retinol, Squalane, Tocotrienol (Vitamin E) | ||
4 | Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment with Peptides + Vitamin C |  | 1% | Dropper Bottle | 30 mL | Retinol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Licorice Root Extract, Oat Kernel Extract | ||
5 | The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane |  | 0.2% | Dropper Bottle | 30 mL | Retinol, Squalane, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tomato Fruit Extract, Rosemary Leaf Extract | ||
6 | Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Serum |  | unknown | Tube | 5 g | Retinol, Retinyl Propionate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 | ||
7 | Isntree Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum |  | 0.1% | Dropper Bottle | 20 mL | Retinol (0.1%), Retinyl Palmitate (0.3%), Bakuchiol (0.6%), Niacinamide, Peptides, Ceramides, TECA (Centella Asiatica) | ||
8 | Some By Mi Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum |  | 0.1% | Dropper Bottle | 30 mL | Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Ceramide NP, Centella Asiatica Extract, Peptides | ||
9 | Skintific Retinol Skin Renewal Serum |  | 0.1% | Pump Bottle | 20 mL | Retinol, Adenosine, Ergothioneine (EGT), Symsitive™ | ||
10 | Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil |  | 0.3% | Pump Bottle | 30 mL | Retinol SA, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Bisabolol, Isohexadecane | ||
| Retinol Strength | 0.3% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Pump Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Encapsulated Retinol, Ceramides, Niacinamide, Licorice Root Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users report noticeable improvements in skin texture and brightness within weeks of use, praising its gentle formula for sensitive skin. Many appreciate the hydration and reduced redness, though some recommend starting slowly to avoid initial dryness. Consistent use with sunscreen is advised to protect skin during retinol treatment.
| Retinol Strength | 0.3% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Dropper Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Pure Retinol, Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Glycerin |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users praise its effectiveness in smoothing wrinkles and improving skin texture while being gentle enough to avoid excessive dryness. Many appreciate the nourishing feel and reduced irritation compared to other retinol products. Some recommend starting slowly to build tolerance and pairing with moisturizer for best results.
| Retinol Strength | 0.5% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Dropper Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Pure Retinol, Squalane, Tocotrienol (Vitamin E) |
Paula's Choice1% Retinol Treatment with Peptides + Vitamin C
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users highlight visible improvements in fine lines and skin texture after regular use, appreciating the calming effect on sensitive skin. Many find it effective for brightening and reducing wrinkles, though some recommend starting slowly to build tolerance. The lightweight texture is favored for layering under makeup.
| Retinol Strength | 1% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Dropper Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Licorice Root Extract, Oat Kernel Extract |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users appreciate this serum as a gentle starter retinol that improves skin smoothness and brightness without harsh dryness. Many find it effective for reducing early signs of aging and acne-related blemishes, though some advise gradual introduction to avoid irritation. The lightweight, non-greasy texture is well-liked for easy layering in nighttime routines.
| Retinol Strength | 0.2% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Dropper Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol, Squalane, Jojoba Seed Oil, Tomato Fruit Extract, Rosemary Leaf Extract |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users report noticeable improvements in skin texture, brightness, and reduced wrinkles with consistent use. Many appreciate the lightweight, non-irritating formula suitable for sensitive skin. Some advise pairing with sunscreen and gradual introduction to retinol to avoid dryness.
| Retinol Strength | unknown |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Tube |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 5 g |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol, Retinyl Propionate, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users praise its ability to improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and even out skin tone without causing excessive dryness or irritation. Many find it moisturizing and gentle compared to other retinol products, though some recommend starting with lower frequency to build tolerance. The serum’s lightweight texture is appreciated for easy absorption.
| Retinol Strength | 0.1% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Dropper Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol (0.1%), Retinyl Palmitate (0.3%), Bakuchiol (0.6%), Niacinamide, Peptides, Ceramides, TECA (Centella Asiatica) |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users praise its gentle yet effective formula that improves skin elasticity, reduces fine lines, and evens skin tone without causing irritation. Many appreciate the moisturizing feel and the combination of retinol and bakuchiol for balanced anti-aging benefits. Some recommend starting with a small amount to build tolerance gradually.
| Retinol Strength | 0.1% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Dropper Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Ceramide NP, Centella Asiatica Extract, Peptides |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Many experience smoother skin and fewer blemishes after use. Some wish the 20 mL size were larger for better value, but they still highlight that the formula is gentle and effective for sensitive, acne-prone skin.
| Retinol Strength | 0.1% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Pump Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 20 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol, Adenosine, Ergothioneine (EGT), Symsitive™ |
Features and benefits:
Reviews mention:
Users report visible improvements in fine lines, deep wrinkles, and skin brightness within weeks. Many appreciate the nourishing, non-greasy texture and find it suitable for dry or mature skin. Some recommend gradual introduction to avoid initial irritation and always pairing with sunscreen during the day.
| Retinol Strength | 0.3% |
|---|---|
| Packaging | Pump Bottle |
| Dark-Colored or Opaque Packaging | |
| Net Weight | 30 mL |
| Notable Ingredients | Retinol SA, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Bisabolol, Isohexadecane |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered By Dr. Meg Sison
To jumpstart your journey to younger-looking skin, here are some of Dr. Meg SIson's answers to the most asked questions on the web!
How Often Should You Use Retinol Serum?
Start at the lowest concentrations (twice a week at night for at least 1 month), especially if it's your first time, and gradually increase the frequency of application once you are able to tolerate it.
Take note that we do not need higher concentrations because they can result in skin irritation, leading to discontinuing the retinol altogether. Make sure to wear broad-spectrum sunscreen during the day.
Does Retinol Serum Cause Purging?
Retinol serums have the potential to cause purging, but this is only temporary. Not all individuals will experience purging from retinol.
When Should You Use Retinol Serum?
Retinol serums are recommended for nighttime use because they can make your skin more sensitive to UV rays if used during the day. In addition, sunlight can also degrade retinol which can make it less effective.
All You Need for Glowing Skin
Retinol isn't the only skincare ingredient to maintain youthful-looking and glowing skin. If you're not a fan of retinol or want a much gentler alternative, here are other skincare products you could use!
Re-editor: Danielle Trinidad
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
