Best Retinol Serums & Creams 2026

Perfect for beginners and those with sensitive skin, The INKEY List Starter Retinol is specially formulated to gently introduce your skin to this powerful anti-ageing ingredient. Clinically proven to smooth fine lines in just 7 days without irritation*, this advanced formula is 2x more effective than standard retinol** while remaining incredibly gentle. Enriched with hydrating and soothing ingredients, this serum works to improve skin texture and tone over time, making it the ideal choice for retinol newcomers. * 4-week Clinical study on 30 participants ** Based on a 4-week In Vitro study

Key Benefits:
Gentle formula perfect for beginners and sensitive skin
Clinically proven results in just 7 days
2x more effective than standard retinol**
Smooths fine lines without irritation

Key Ingredients:
• Advanced Retinol Complex – Delivers effective anti-ageing results with minimal irritation
• Hydrating Actives – Support skin barrier health during retinol introduction

Suitable For: All Skin Types, especially beginners and sensitive skin

What our customers say: "Great starter retinol serum, I've used since end of November twice per week. It works for my dry, sensitive skin. Did not irritate my face. Will continue to use it. So far my forehead looks more smooth than before." - Mel

£12.00

For experienced retinol users ready to level up, The INKEY List Advanced 0.2% Retinal Serum is clinically proven to work 11x faster than traditional retinol***. This powerhouse formula smooths wrinkles, fades dark spots, and visibly firms skin in just 1 week*. Featuring 0.2% retinal (retinaldehyde), this advanced ingredient converts to retinoic acid more efficiently than retinol, delivering faster, more visible results for those who have built tolerance to retinol.

Key Benefits:
11x faster than traditional retinol
Smooths wrinkles and fades dark spots in 1 week
Visibly firms and improves skin texture
Advanced retinal technology for experienced users

Key Ingredients:
• 0.2% Retinal (Retinaldehyde) – Advanced vitamin A derivative that works faster than retinol
• Skin-Supporting Complex – Minimizes irritation while maximizing results

Suitable For: Experienced retinol users, all skin types

What our customers say: "After 2 weeks, I am starting to see visible results. My dark spots are starting to disappear and my fine lines are a little smoother. It definitely works! Can’t wait to keep using and seeing more results for the upcoming weeks." - Vuri

£15.00

Ideal for first-time users, The INKEY List Retinol Eye Cream is specially formulated to gently introduce the delicate eye area to the benefits of retinol. Featuring a slow-release 3% retinol compound, it helps to smooth fine lines and crow's feet while minimizing irritation. Infused with hydrating ingredients, this lightweight yet effective eye cream nourishes and refreshes tired eyes, leaving the skin looking brighter and more youthful over time.

Key Benefits:
Gentle slow-release formula ideal for the delicate eye area
Reduces the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet
Overnight treatment for smoother, refreshed under eyes

Key Ingredients:
• 3% Slow-Release Retinol Compound – Targets signs of aging with minimal irritation

Suitable For: All Skin Types

What our customers say: "I’ve been using The Inkey List Retinol Eye Cream for about two months, and I’m genuinely impressed. My under-eye area looks smoother, more even, and less tired — without any irritation, redness, or dryness. The texture is lightweight, absorbs quickly" - Andrea S..

£13.00