If you’re looking to add a retinol into your skin care routine, choosing from a list of the best retinol serums in Australia is an easy (and smart) way to do so.
As most retinoids need to be applied to clean, dry skin, the application of the serum form is straightforward and easy. Apply it post-cleanse and follow with the rest of your skin care routine on top (ie. other serums and moisturisers).
Retinol serum is also one of the most effective ways to reap the benefits of vitamin A while avoiding some of the drying side effects. Beginner’s to retinol can easily control their dose with a dropper and customise their frequency, plus anyone prone to sensitivity or dryness can load up on calming creams and moisturisers to comfort their rejuvenating skin.
The only question now is which retinol serum to try. Lucky for you, beautyheaven has plenty of helpful reviews to guide you towards the best…
The best retinol serums in Australia
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
We say: This red hot bottle partners retinol with vitamin B3 for an in-built skin comforter that’ll support your natural skin barrier. AKA it’s a premium pick for sensitive skin.
You say: “It’s the only retinol product I’ve used (and I’ve tried a few!) that actually respects my skin and I think it’s the B3 that’s the game changer. The B3 is enough of a buffer to compensate for any irritation the retinol may cause. I’ve noticed a reduction in the smile lines around my eyes and my skin has a plumpness that defies my now 43 year old face.” – Lucrecia629
$60.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Read more La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum reviews
BOOST LAB Retinol Night Renewal Serum
We say: If you’re after a retinol serum that won’t break the bank, this $30 buy comes highly regarded. And with a 4.5 star rating from our members, it’s certainly one of the best retinol serums in Australia.
You say: “I didn’t notice huge difference until after two weeks of nightly use. The condition of my skin improved and my dark spots reduced slightly. I would say this retinol serum is gentle on skin but takes longer to see improvement on skin. Therefore, I would recommend this serum to someone with sensitive skin or someone who never tried retinol serum and keen to try.” – Helen T
$29.95 at Adore Beauty
Read more BOOST LAB Retinol Night Renewal Serum reviews
Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum
We say: Paula’s Choice offers an array of retinol products, but this serum is particularly good for those new to the ingredient, as it features a lower concentration and anti-irritant formula.
You say: “I’ve been using this for over a year now and its become a staple in my regime. I’m 44 with fair skin, and I’ve found this has gradually reduced my fine lines. What makes it even more amazing is that you don’t need a separate product for your eyes. I used this for my under-eye are and also crow’s feet and I haven’t had any irritation.” – Mellyjane
$62 at Paula’s Choice
Read more Paula’s Choice Resist Intensive Wrinkle-Repair Retinol Serum reviews
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser X3 Pure Retinol Night Serum
We say: Looking for a potent concentration of retinol that’s still affordable? This serum is our top pick. Even seasoned retinol users should introduce this powerful formula into their routine slowly.
You say: “The milky consistency and colour is nothing I’ve ever experienced before when it comes to using retinol products. After almost a month I have not experienced any adverse reactions. My skin feels so smooth with less texture. I have also noticed it to feel firmer. I am more than happy to continue use and look forward to even more benefits that happen over time such as lightening of pigmentation.” -IndieAna
$51.95 at Adore Beauty
Read more L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Laser X3 Pure Retinol Night Serum reviews
Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum Fragrance Free
We say: For sensitive noses who prefer their skin care regimen fragrance-free, the Olay retinol serum is a goodie. The formula is also non-greasy and absorbs exceptionally well.
You say: “The serum itself is white in colour and truly is fragrance free. Over the trial period I used this product each night before bed. I have seen a reduction in the fine lines around my eyes in particular, and have not since any new lines or wrinkles appear in this time. My skin feels firmer, and I have even had compliments on my complexion!” – Hertinyvoice
$35.99 at Chemist Warehouse
Read more Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum Fragrance Free reviews
Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum
We say: Taking out a Best in Beauty award not once but twice, these metallic pink capsules are filled with a clever retinol and ceramide concoction. Each single-serve dose is protected from light and air exposure until you’re ready to apply. Genius.
You say: “These night capsules deliver a gorgeous pearly serum, which is odourless, it smooths effortlessly over and into the skin, making it feel so soft. I’ve been waking up in the morning, with super hydrated, smooth skin, which I feel is more even-toned, reduced the appearance of my fine lines, and visibly improved my skin’s texture.” – Margaret 322
$119 at Chemist Warehouse
Read more Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules Line Erasing Night Serum reviews
Ultraceuticals Ultra MD Ultimate A Refining Serum
We say: Being available from cosmetic medical practices only, this retinol serum is a little harder to come by, but still one of the best retinol serums in Australia. It can be a game-changer for those who’ve experienced sensitivity in the past.
You say: “My cosmetic nurse, who designed my skincare regime, said that this new Ultimate A Refining Serum is the perfect introduction of vitamin A (retinol). It’s clinically proven to work, and the new solution is apparently much milder than previous versions. I certainly haven’t experienced any irritation or side effects, and my skin is usually quite sensitive – I have pale skin and rosacea.” -ashlee.
$166 at Skinologie
Read more Ultraceuticals Ultra MD Ultimate A Refining Serum reviews
Frank Body REWIND RETINOL SERUM
We say: This gentle serum is formulated with one per cent retinol for your fine line-fighting, skin-smoothing needs. But that’s not all. Niacinamide prevents skin aging, ginger extract is a powerful skin-soothing antioxidant and pea peptide (yup, peas) work to deliver an incredible moisture boost. With the addition of those extra skin-loving ingredients that cohesively work to bolster the effects of the retinol, you’ll start to see your skin turning back time.
$30 at Frank Body
Do you use a retinol serum? Have you tried any of the ones above?
La Roche Posay all the way for me. I have sensitive combination skin and always wanted to try a retinol but thought I would never find one that would be kind to my skin and this one definitely does the trick- no reaction whatsoever!
That’s a glowing review just there!
I use serums but not something that identifies as Retinol serum. Not sure how much difference this would make to my skin.
I'd love to try la Roche. So far my fave for retinol are philosophy miracle pads and Peter Thomas Roth.
keen to try some of these retinols
Haven't tried any of these, but The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid is my favourite at the moment.
Ultraceuticals is amazing!!!
I skipped retinol and went straight for retin A.
I expected the Olay serum to be priced higher but yes, that’s because it’s on special. Some good alternatives to try if one doesn’t appear to work.