Raemona Roundup // Your Guide to the Best Retinols on the Market

Retinol is one of the most talked-about ingredients in skincare, and it’s for good reason. It helps smooth out fine lines, fade dark spots, and improve skin texture over time. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know which one to choose.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your routine, here are some of the best retinols to try.

//Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1

This is a gentle yet effective vitamin A serum, perfect for beginners looking to introduce retinol into their skincare routine. It helps smooth fine lines, brighten skin tone, and boost collagen, all with minimal irritation. AED 223 from Lookfantastic.ae

//Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum

This advanced serum contains a 6.5% blend of retinoids to help reduce fine lines, fade dark spots, and improve skin texture. Balanced with soothing ingredients like honey and cactus extract, it offers high-strength results with less risk of irritation, making it a great pick for those ready to level up their retinol game. AED 475 from Sephora

//Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR Cream

This water-cream blends pure retinol with next‑generation HPR and hydrating ceramides to reduce wrinkles, refine pores, and firm skin, often visible in just one week. It’s also formulated with peptides, hyaluronic acid, and soothing botanicals to support skin renewal while maintaining moisture, making it gentle enough for daytime use (Just don’t skip SPF!). AED 493 from Ounass.ae

//The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid

This is a beginner-friendly retinoid that uses a next-gen retinoid complex to target fine lines, uneven texture, and signs of aging, without the irritation often caused by traditional retinol. Lightweight and fragrance-free, it's a great option for those on a budget who still want visible results. AED 55 from Sephora

//Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment

A true cult classic beloved by skincare enthusiasts. This high-strength retinol cream delivers 1% retinol along with peptides, ceramides, oat extract, and licorice to smooth fine lines, even skin tone, and firm texture, while supporting the skin barrier. Despite being potent, it’s praised for its creamy, fragrance-free formula that's well tolerated by many, though it may require gradual introduction to avoid irritation. AED 350 from Glamazle.com