Editor’s tip: When using any type of retinol, always wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher during the day.
Key ingredients: retinol, granactive retinoid, niacinamide | Who it’s for: people looking to improve tone and texture | Fragrance-free: yes
Best Retinol Alternative: Isdin Melatonik Overnight Serum
Why it’s worth it: For plumper, smoother skin overnight, follow Dr. Robinson’s orders and grab Isdin’s Melatonik Overnight Serum, stat. “This nighttime serum contains bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative to retinol, alongside vitamin C to stimulate natural antioxidant defenses and encourage collagen production to restore skin vitality and elasticity for radiant, healthy skin,” she says. As a bonus, this retinol serum alternative also contains melatonin, an ingredient Dr. Robinson says provides overnight hydration and reinforces the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
Editor’s tip: The serum-in-oil formulation makes it especially nourishing, so you can forgo moisturizer if your skin isn’t dry.
Key ingredients: bakuchiol, melatonin, vitamin C | Who it’s for: those who can’t tolerate retinoids | Fragrance-free: yes
Best Vegan Formula: Caudalie Resveratrol Lift Instant Firming Serum
Why it’s worth it: People with sensitive skin may find intensive, retinol-infused formulas too harsh. And hey, that’s cool—at least according to the Caudalie Reversatrol Lift Instant Firming Serum, a French beauty favorite. As the resveratrol brightens uneven skin, the peptides refine skin texture by boosting firmness for a youthful appearance. Apply it morning and night to your face and neck, and watch the resveratrol work its magic. And, BTW, collagen is often sourced from animals, but this formula is totally vegan.
Editor’s tip: Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in red grapes and blueberries that acts like an antioxidant.
Key ingredients: Resveratrol, hyaluronic acid, mahogany bark extract | Who it’s for: those seeking firming skin sans irritation | Fragrance-free: no
Best for Menopause: Vichy Neovadiol Meno 5 Serum
Why it’s worth it: Carmen Castilla, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, says the Vichy Neovadiol Meno 5 Serum is a drugstore favorite specifically formulated to target multiple skin concerns related to menopause (like loss of elasticity) in one simple, lightweight formula. “It provides antioxidants to prevent free radical damage and fatty acids that can help repair the skin barrier,” she says. Also worth noting: It contains proxylane, an ingredient that inhibits collagen breakdown—keeping skin firm and smooth in the long run.
