Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Renewal Serum, 1 fl oz

Why it's worth it

Neutrogena's pure retinol serum pairs a modest dose with antioxidants and a soothing complex, in a lightweight formula that suits oily and combination skin. It's the low-commitment way to find out whether retinol agrees with you.

Buy this one if you're not sure retinol is for you. It costs a fraction of the picks above, you can find it in nearly any drugstore, and the formula is deliberately mild. Beginners in the owner feedback describe it as surprisingly gentle, including people who'd braced for irritation. If it works out, you can graduate to something stronger later. If it doesn't, you've lost very little.

The texture is thin and absorbs fast, which makes it a better fit for oily and combination skin than the richer creams in this guide. Neutrogena includes carnosine, an antioxidant, and a soothing complex intended to blunt the initial sting. The formula skips parabens, mineral oil and dyes. It isn't a stripped-down product just because it's inexpensive.

From our review of 10 retinol serums, by Sarah Wright, Editorial Associate

What we like

• +Buy this one if you're not sure retinol is for you
• +The texture is thin and absorbs fast, which makes it a better fit for oily and combination skin than the richer creams in this…
• +A caveat worth knowing: the retinol percentage isn't printed on the label

What to know

• –It contains fragrance components, which is a real problem if your skin is reactive
• –Results tend to plateau