La Roche-Posay Redermic R Retinol Face Cream, Anti Aging, 1oz

Why it's worth it

Redermic R uses pure retinol rather than a weaker derivative, plus lipo-hydroxy acid for light exfoliation and the brand's booster complex to blunt the sting. It's for people who want to take wrinkles and texture seriously without jumping to a prescription retinoid.

Most drugstore anti-aging creams lean on retinol derivatives, which are gentler but slower. Dermstore places Redermic R in the stronger over-the-counter tier because it uses pure retinol, which is why it comes up as a bridge product for people stepping down from a prescription retinoid or working their way up to one. If you've been using a mild retinol serum and seeing nothing, this is the sensible next rung.

The formula is built to make retinol tolerable, not just potent. The brand's retinol booster complex and thermal spring water are there to cut the discomfort that usually comes with this ingredient, and the micro-exfoliating lipo-hydroxy acid works on surface texture while the retinol does slower work underneath. Owners with sensitive skin repeatedly say they got through the adjustment period on this when other retinols wrecked their barrier.

From our review of 8 la roche-posay skincare

What we like

• +Most drugstore anti-aging creams lean on retinol derivatives, which are gentler but slower
• +The formula is built to make retinol tolerable, not just potent
• +The texture is light and velvety rather than heavy, and it layers under a moisturizer without pilling for most people

What to know

• –Retinol is retinol. Expect some dryness, flaking, or redness in the first few weeks, and expect breakouts to look worse before…
• –It makes your skin more sun-sensitive, so daily sunscreen isn't optional while you use it