10 Best Retinol Products in the Philippines 2025 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
Retinol has gained popularity for its impressive anti-aging effects. This powerful skincare ingredient can target multiple signs of aging and rejuvenate the skin. Fine lines, wrinkles, dull complexion, and dark spots are just some of the top concerns that retinol can effectively address.
To know how to get the right retinol product, we collaborated with board-certified Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz for a detailed buying guide. We also scoured the online platforms like Lazada and Shopee, and listed down the 10 best retinol products you can buy now!
Quick List - Top Retinol Products
Klued
Infused With a Powerful Duo for Refined Skin Texture and Tone
Luxe Organix
Prevent Early Signs of Aging With This Powerful Retinol Cream
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.
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.
Table of Contents
- Why You Can Trust Us
- What Is Retinol Good for?
- Is Retinol Effective for Treating Acne Breakouts?
- 10 Best Retinol Products to Buy Online
- No. 1Good Molecules | Gentle Retinol Cream
- No. 2Klued | 0.1% Retinol + 0.3% Bakuchiol Serum
- No. 3Luxe Organix | Retinol+ Bakuchiol Overnight Glow Gentle Treatment Cream
- No. 4Olay | Retinol 24 Anti Aging Face Cream Skincare
- No. 5COSRX | The Retinol 0.1 Cream
- 5 more products
- Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
- How Many Retinol Products Should I Use?
- Is Retinol Cream a Moisturizer?
- Can Retinol Cream Cause Acne?
- Combat the Signs of Aging With These Skincare Essentials
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Why You Can Trust Us
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
Infused With a Powerful Duo for Refined Skin Texture and Tone
Prevent Early Signs of Aging With This Powerful Retinol Cream
Microencapsulated Retinol Formulated to Minimize Irritation
What Is Retinol Good for?
Is Retinol Effective for Treating Acne Breakouts?
Although it can be effective for acne, it is best to manage expectations, especially when it comes to treating breakouts. Keep in mind that acne is a medical condition, so prescription medicine is recommended. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina states that retinol has more promising results as an anti-aging product.
There have been studies that retinol's 'cousins,' adapalene and tretinoin, have effects in controlling acne breakouts and are more potent than retinol. However, it is best to consult a dermatologist for proper assessment and advice for the usage of retinol as acne treatment.
How to Choose Retinol Products - Buying Guide
When choosing a retinol product, it is important to consider the overall formulation of the product, the concentration that's appropriate for you, and the ingredients that can complement its effects. Check our expert advice on finding the right retinol product for you.
Consider Your Skin Type When Choosing a Retinol Formulation
If you want to incorporate retinol into your skincare routine, it’s important to pick a formulation that would best suit your skin type and preference.
Oily and combination skin - gels and lightweight, thin, and silky creams, lotions, and serum work well for those with oily skin.
Dry and sensitive skin - creams, serums, and other products with thicker textures generally work better for those with dry skin.
Do take note that although serums work for all skin types, they are best suited if you have resilient skin because they have concentrated formulations.
Know The Retinol Percentage That’s Appropriate for You
Higher is always not necessarily the better, and this applies to retinol. Starting low and slow is always better to prevent any adverse effects like redness and irritation.
Beginners: Start Low and Slow, Begin With 0.01% First
Since retinol is a potent ingredient, even the lowest concentration can bring about effects on the skin. As advised by dermatologists, it is best to start with the lowest concentration available, which is 0.01% to 0.03%, to check how the skin will respond to the product.
Starting with a low concentration ensures a lower risk of sensitivity and irritation. This will also make the skin build up tolerance before the user can move up to a higher-strength product. Since each person has his/her own individual sensitivities and tolerances, note that the percentage of retinol may vary per person.
Retinol is meant to fight premature signs of skin aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Thus, it is ideal to start it before these signs appear. A good age would be around early 20s, but of course, it's always best to consult a board-certified dermatologist for proper assessment and individualized advice.
Experienced Users: Work Your Way Up from 0.3% to 1% for More Significant Results
When considering increasing the strength of your retinol, first check what percentage you've currently been using. If you've tolerated a lower strength retinol well for some time, you may want to gradually step up the percentage. You can opt for a moderate-strength retinol between 0.03% and 0.3% or a high-strength retinol up to 1%. However, higher does not always mean better.
Consider how long you've been using retinol, any side effects you may have experienced, and whether your skin goals require a stronger formulation. Remember to introduce any higher strength slowly and discontinue use if irritation occurs. Monitoring your skin's tolerance by gradually increasing strength can help you find the ideal retinol percentage for your individual needs.
For retinol veterans, higher doesn't necessarily equate to better. Even if you've been using retinol for long periods of time, you can still develop the side effects the moment you step up your retinol percentage.
Check the Ingredients List: Know Which Ingredients Work Well With Retinol and Which to Avoid
There are ingredients that can be used along with retinol and those that shouldn't be mixed with it. Knowing these would help you get your desired result.
Combat Retinol’s Drying Effects With Moisturizing Ingredients Like Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and Ceramides
One of the known side effects of retinol is its drying effect, which can increase the risk of skin irritation and redness. To counter this, it's essential to use moisturizers in conjunction with retinol. A stand-alone moisturizer is key, but having moisturizing ingredients incorporated with the retinol itself can also be a great add-on.
Look for products that contain ingredients like ceramides, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to help maintain your skin's moisture balance. Additionally, incorporating retinol with skin barrier-strengthening ingredients such as niacinamide can further mitigate dryness and promote healthier, more resilient skin.
Given that retinol has potential side effects such as dryness and irritation, consider a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and, of course a sunscreen in your skincare routine. Try the sandwich technique! Moisturizer first, followed by the retinol, sealed in with a moisturizer!
To Prevent Irritation, Don’t Mix Retinol With Exfoliating Acids or Vitamin C
As previously mentioned, retinol can cause dryness, which can lead to skin irritation. It is best to avoid mixing this with vitamin C or exfoliating ingredients such as glycolic acid and salicylic acid, which may cause further irritation, skin damage, and over-exfoliating the skin.
Apply retinol and vitamin C at different times of the day. For instance, vitamin C in the AM, and retinol in the PM, or on alternate days,
10 Best Retinol Products to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Product Type | Skin Type | Retinol Concentration | Key Ingredients | Net Weight | |||||
1 | Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream | | An Ultra-Gentle Retinol Cream Suited for Beginners | Cream | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | 0.1% | Glycerin,Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil | 30ml | |
2 | Klued 0.1% Retinol + 0.3% Bakuchiol Serum | | Infused With a Powerful Duo for Refined Skin Texture and Tone | Serum | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | 0.1% | Bakuchiol, Panthenol, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Grape Seed Oil | 30ml | |
3 | Luxe Organix Retinol+ Bakuchiol Overnight Glow Gentle Treatment Cream | | Prevent Early Signs of Aging With This Powerful Retinol Cream | Cream | Normal | 0.1% | Panthenol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Adenosine | 30g | |
4 | Olay Retinol 24 Anti Aging Face Cream Skincare | | A Retinol-Infused Night Cream to Revitalize Your Skin | Moisturizer、Face Cream | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | unknown | Retinol, Niacinamide, Collagen, Hyaluronic | 50g | |
5 | COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream | | A Beginner-Friendly Cream That Targets Early Signs of Aging | Cream | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | 0.1% | Glycerin, Panthenol, Shea Butter, Soybean Oil, Carrot Root Extract, Allantoin, Palm Oil, BHT | 20ml | |
6 | Dermorepubliq 0.3 % Microencapsulated Retinol + Bakuchiol + Ceramide NP Face Cream | | Microencapsulated Retinol Formulated to Minimize Irritation | Cream | Sensitive | 0.3% | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Ceramide, Niacinamide, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Cucumber Extract, Allantoin, Vitamin E | 50g | |
7 | The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane | | A Water-Free Serum for Retinol Beginners | Serum | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | 0.2% | Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Tomato Fruit Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, BHT. | 30ml | |
8 | La Roche Posay Retinol B3 Pure Retinol Serum | | A Gentle and Hydrating Serum for All Skin Types | Serum | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | 0.3% | Retinol, Niacinamide, Glycerin | 30ml | |
9 | Belo Essentials Retinol Deep Repair Serum | | A Potent Serum that Targets Wrinkles and Blemishes | Serum | Dry | 3% | Retinol, Peptide Complex | 30ml | |
10 | Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol Plus 2% Bakuchiol Treatment | | Elevate Your Glow With This Triple-Acting Retinol Cream | Cream | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive | 0.3% | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Peptides | 30ml | |
Good MoleculesGentle Retinol Cream
An Ultra-Gentle Retinol Cream Suited for Beginners
This ultra-gentle cream is perfect for first-time retinol users or those with sensitive skin. With a low 0.1% retinol and 0.3% bakuchiol concentration, it targets fine lines and wrinkles without being harsh. Its pH of 6 also helps protect the skin’s barrier, preventing dryness and irritation.
Nourishing ingredients like glycerin, grape seed oil, and vitamin E hydrate, while allantoin and green tea extract soothe and protect. Many say their skin looks brighter and feels smoother without redness or stinging. Plus, it's vegan, cruelty-free, and fragrance-free—great for all skin types!
| Product Type | Cream |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.1% |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin,Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil |
| Net Weight | 30ml |
Infused With a Powerful Duo for Refined Skin Texture and Tone
According to users, the serum visibly improves skin texture and tone within weeks of use. Pores appear smaller, oil production is balanced, and hyperpigmentation diminishes. Many report a firmer, more supple complexion that boosts their confidence, with noticeable results even after a short period of consistent use.
| Product Type | Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.1% |
| Key Ingredients | Bakuchiol, Panthenol, Sunflower Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Grape Seed Oil |
| Net Weight | 30ml |
Luxe OrganixRetinol+ Bakuchiol Overnight Glow Gentle Treatment Cream
Prevent Early Signs of Aging With This Powerful Retinol Cream
In addition to these two active ingredients, this cream includes five types of hyaluronic acid to help smoothen and hydrate the skin. As a result, this product has received high ratings, with reviewers praising the refreshed feeling of their skin after use.
| Product Type | Cream |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.1% |
| Key Ingredients | Panthenol, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Adenosine |
| Net Weight | 30g |
A Retinol-Infused Night Cream to Revitalize Your Skin
Wake up to softer, smoother skin with Olay Regenerist Retinol 24-Night Moisturizer! This blend of niacinamide and retinol hydrates and improves skin texture overnight. With regular use, fine lines appear reduced, and skin looks more refreshed in the morning.
Additionally, the gentle formula is free from fragrance, phthalates, mineral oils, and synthetic dyes to help minimize irritation. It also delivers 24-hour hydration without feeling heavy or greasy. Customers appreciate its lightweight texture and moisturizing effect.
| Product Type | Moisturizer、Face Cream |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | unknown |
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, Niacinamide, Collagen, Hyaluronic |
| Net Weight | 50g |
A Beginner-Friendly Cream That Targets Early Signs of Aging
Looking for a beginner-friendly retinol product to add to your skincare routine? Try this cream from COSRX. Formulated with only 0.1% pure retinol, this cream effectively fights skin aging and improves the skin's elasticity. It also minimizes acne blemishes and reduces excess sebum, lending a youthful and radiant appearance.
Moreover, this cream is infused with Super Vitamin E and Adenosine, enhancing the anti-aging efficacy of the retinol. Plus, it delivers low to no irritation, perfect for acne-prone and sensitive skin! Users of this product say this product helped with hyperpigmentation and left their skin soft.
| Product Type | Cream |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.1% |
| Key Ingredients | Glycerin, Panthenol, Shea Butter, Soybean Oil, Carrot Root Extract, Allantoin, Palm Oil, BHT |
| Net Weight | 20ml |
Dermorepubliq0.3 % Microencapsulated Retinol + Bakuchiol + Ceramide NP Face Cream
Microencapsulated Retinol Formulated to Minimize Irritation
But that’s not all! This product is also infused with Bakuchiol to smooth fine lines and Ceramide NP which provides essential hydration. Lightweight and non-comedogenic, this face cream is easily absorbed by the skin, making it a perfect addition to your evening routine. Users love its mild scent and effectiveness as well, saying this is a great purchase for an affordable price.
| Product Type | Cream |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.3% |
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Ceramide, Niacinamide, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Cucumber Extract, Allantoin, Vitamin E |
| Net Weight | 50g |
A Water-Free Serum for Retinol Beginners
What sets this formula apart is its gentle, non-greasy nature, making it ideal for sensitive skin. The squalene not only boosts hydration but also enhances the absorption of retinol, ensuring your skin gets all the perks without the potential dryness. It's no wonder that many users commend this product for its hydrating and nourishing formula, saying their skin has become smooth and their skin tone improved.
| Product Type | Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.2% |
| Key Ingredients | Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinol, Tomato Fruit Extract, Jojoba Seed Oil, BHT. |
| Net Weight | 30ml |
A Gentle and Hydrating Serum for All Skin Types
Aside from these active ingredients, this product is also paraben and sulfate-free, making it suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin! It is also dermatologist-tested, non-comedogenic, and allergy-tested!
| Product Type | Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.3% |
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, Niacinamide, Glycerin |
| Net Weight | 30ml |
A Potent Serum that Targets Wrinkles and Blemishes
While this product has a bit higher retinol content of 3%, it is dermatologist-tested and non-comedogenic so you may worry less about irritation and blocked pores. Plus, it is paraben-free and is compatible with most skin types! Just do a recommended patch test first to ensure you won't have irritations from this product.
| Product Type | Serum |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Dry |
| Retinol Concentration | 3% |
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, Peptide Complex |
| Net Weight | 30ml |
Paula's ChoiceClinical 0.3% Retinol Plus 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
Elevate Your Glow With This Triple-Acting Retinol Cream
This product caters to all skin types - normal, oily, dry, or combination types. Plus, it is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it a perfect addition to your daily routine. Get ready for smoother, clearer, younger-looking skin!
| Product Type | Cream |
|---|---|
| Skin Type | Normal、Dry、Oily、Combination、Sensitive |
| Retinol Concentration | 0.3% |
| Key Ingredients | Retinol, Bakuchiol, Peptides |
| Net Weight | 30ml |
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina.
How Many Retinol Products Should I Use?
Is Retinol Cream a Moisturizer?
Can Retinol Cream Cause Acne?
Combat the Signs of Aging With These Skincare Essentials
As we grow older, preventing fine lines, wrinkles, and age spots from appearing becomes a difficult feat. However, there are products out there with anti-aging benefits to help ward off these skin problems. Check out the links below for more products that will help you achieve that younger-looking skin!
Author: Mic Florendo
Re-editor: Rowena Embuido
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.
Top 5 Retinol Products
No. 1: Good Molecules｜Gentle Retinol Cream
No. 2: Klued｜0.1% Retinol + 0.3% Bakuchiol Serum
No. 3: Luxe Organix｜Retinol+ Bakuchiol Overnight Glow Gentle Treatment Cream
No. 4: Olay｜Retinol 24 Anti Aging Face Cream Skincare
No. 5: COSRX｜The Retinol 0.1 Cream
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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