10 Best Retinol Creams in the Philippines 2025 | Good Molecules, Luxe Organix, and More

With retinol, starting low and going slow is the key. If you’re a first-time user, look for a retinol cream with a low concentration to help your skin gradually build tolerance. Start with 0.1% or less, using it only twice a week, and observe its effects on your skin. Using a high percentage from the start can lead to peeling, dryness, and redness.

Dermatologists also recommend the “sandwich method” for new retinol beginners, where you apply a layer of moisturizer underneath and on top of the retinol cream to minimize possible irritation.

If you've been using retinol regularly without issues, you can opt for higher concentrations between 0.5% and 1% for more significant effects. However, keep in mind that higher strengths come with a greater risk of irritation, so only use the retinol cream twice a week in the beginning, then slowly build up to nightly use. Alternatively, you may apply the retinol cream every other night or use the sandwich method to prevent skin irritation, redness, or peeling.

Keep in mind that with retinol percentage, higher doesn’t always mean better. Even if you’re a long-time retinol user, you can still experience side effects once you introduce a higher strength. Monitor your skin’s tolerance and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Check the retinol cream’s ingredients for added fragrance, which is commonly listed as “parfum.” While it’s generally considered safe, some people might be sensitive to fragrance. Hence, it’s best to avoid it when choosing a retinol cream to prevent irritation and other reactions, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Additionally, when using retinol, avoid products with other active ingredients such as:

• AHAs
• BHAs
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Enzyme exfoliants

Using these along with retinol can over-exfoliate your skin and lead to adverse reactions.

One common side effect of retinol is dryness, so it’s essential to choose retinol creams with ingredients that hydrate and moisturize the skin. Look for the following key ingredients:

• Hyaluronic acid- draws moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated and plump.

• Glycerin- retains water in the skin, ensuring consistent moisture levels.

• Ceramides- strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and improving skin resilience.

Retinol is a common and effective treatment for acne. Other skincare ingredients with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties work well with retinol to help manage acne and speed up skin healing:

• Niacinamide - helps regulate oil production, reduces inflammation, and minimizes the appearance of pores.

• Bakuchiol - stimulates collagen production, prevents clogged pores, and evens out skin tone.

• Green tea - has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help heal acne. 

If your skin is prone to irritation, look for a retinol cream with soothing ingredients that can counteract retinol’s drying effects and help calm irritation. These ingredients should help:

• Allantoin - treats and prevents dry, scaly, itchy skin and helps retain skin moisture.

• Centella Asiatica or cica - supports the skin’s moisture barrier and calms down redness.

• Aloe vera - has a cooling effect that can soothe itchiness and irritation. 

Dry or mature skin often struggles with moisture retention, and retinol can exacerbate this issue by stripping away oils as it speeds up cell turnover. Therefore, individuals with these skin types should choose retinol creams with a thicker, more emollient consistency.

Heavier creams are typically formulated with ingredients like shea butter, squalane, and fatty acids that create a protective layer over the skin, sealing in moisture. These rich formulations ensure that the skin remains hydrated, minimizing the risk of flakiness and making the retinol experience more pleasant. Furthermore, the added hydration can help smooth out fine lines, providing anti-aging benefits.

Oily or acne-prone skin types may find that heavy creams feel greasy and clog pores, exacerbating breakouts and leaving a malagkit feeling—especially in the Philippines' humid climate. For these skin types, lightweight, water-based creams or gels are preferable. These formulations absorb quickly without leaving a residue, reducing the risk of clogged pores and excess oil.

Gel-based retinol creams often contain fewer oils and more water-based hydrators, like aloe vera and hyaluronic acid, which provide moisture without triggering breakouts. The lightweight texture also makes it easier to layer with other skincare products, keeping your regimen simple yet effective.