8 Best Retinol Alternatives for Sensitive Skin, According to Dermatologists

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular ingredients that dermatologists consider retinol alternatives?

Retinol might be the gold standard among skin-care products for smoothing texture, softening signs of aging, and helping clear blemishes, but dryness, peeling, and the whole adjustment phase can be a lot. That’s why dermatologists often point to gentler stand-ins, such as:

• Bakuchiol: a plant-derived ingredient Dr. Vieira recommends for patients who want retinol-like benefits without the irritation. “Bakuchiol may have similar effects as retinoids on fine lines and collagen production but is generally much better tolerated on the skin,” he says, adding that while the research is still growing, it’s looking promising.
• Niacinamide, azelaic acid, and peptides: While they don’t do everything retinol does, they can still target concerns like uneven tone, rough texture, blemishes, and visible signs of aging in a way that’s a lot easier for more skin types to handle.

Will I still get peeling or purging with retinol alternatives?

Short answer: usually not—or at least, not to the same extent. “This is one of the biggest benefits of going with a [retinol] alternative,” says Dr. Obayami. “Most patients will not experience the same level of peeling or purging that they would with retinol.” That largely comes down to side effects: Ingredients like bakuchiol, peptides, and vitamin C tend to be much more easygoing, so you’re less likely to deal with that flaky, in-between phase.

The one exception is exfoliating acids—like glycolic or lactic acid—where you might notice a little initial flaking as your skin adjusts. But even then, “it is typically much gentler than what retinol does,” she says. Still, it’s worth easing in slowly, especially if your skin runs sensitive.

Meet the experts

• Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MONA Dermatology, based in Cincinnati
• Aderonke Obayomi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor at Mount Sinai, based in New York City
• Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in East Norriton, Pennsylvania
• Carlos Vieira, a board-certified dermatologist at The Dermatology Specialists based in Philadelphia

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