How do I Choose the Best Retinol Gel?

Odds are if you're trying to choose the best retinol gel, you're trying to improve the look of your skin. With that in mind, making the best choice — the right choice — for your skin is important. With a multitude of retinol gels available and each promising optimal results, choosing the best one is no easy task. Many factors, including ingredients, skin type and budget, should all be considered as you peruse the cosmetics counter for the best retinol gel for your skin.

Retinol, a vitamin A compound, is an antioxidant — a substance that neutralizes free radicals and helps to offset everyday damage that causes skin breakdown and wrinkles. Retinol gel is often effective alone but is typically combined with other nourishing ingredients, such as hydroxy acids, kinetin, copper peptides and coenzyme Q10. Look for these active ingredients as you skim the labels on prospective products, but keep in mind that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not evaluate cosmetic products, so their effectiveness is uncertain.

The time of day in which you want to apply your retinol gel should help you narrow your search. Retinol gels are available in various formulas, including daytime and nighttime varieties and gels designed specifically for the skin around the eyes. Skin undergoes a restoration and repair process at night, so many believe a nighttime product — one that works in accord with the body’s clock — is most beneficial.

Nighttime retinol gels do not need to be layered with other cosmetics and creams, which may help improve their effectiveness and reduce the possibility of skin irritation. If a daytime gel seems more appealing, the product should contain an added sunscreen, because retinoid ingredients can make skin sensitive to the sun. Experts recommend broad-spectrum sunscreen, meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays, with an SPF of at least 15.

Targeted eye gels may help if morning puffiness and under-eye circles are a problem. The skin under the eyes is thinner and more sensitive than other areas, so people with sensitive skin may experience irritation. There is no guarantee that any product, even one that your best friend adores, will be gentle on your own skin.

Some women feel a product’s price tag is indicative of its quality. There is some truth to that theory, because prescription gels contain higher concentrations of active ingredients and are often priced higher, it is not always an accurate measurement. When comparing products, ignore the prices and examine the labels instead.

In the end, the best retinol gel cannot counteract an unhealthy lifestyle. Getting proper sleep, exercise and maintaining a healthy diet — one that contains a variety of vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables — is the best anti-wrinkle formula. Combine good habits with a great retinol gel for the best possible results.