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Beauty/Skin/Serums & Treatments

Top 10 Retinol Oils

The Internet's Favorite Retinol Oils For Tackling Wrinkles And Fine Lines

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There's a good chance you've heard of retinol for its ability to help basically solve skin issues of every kind—but have you ever tried retinol oil? Retinol oil is a skincare product that combines retinol with a carrier oil. The addition of skin-boosting oil makes the retinol less likely to cause irritation or dryness, which is common with pure retinol, especially for those with sensitive skin. Retinol oil provides the anti-aging benefits of retinol, such as promoting skin cell turnover, reducing fine lines, and improving skin texture, while also offering the moisturizing and calming effects of the oil, making it a gentler option for incorporating retinol into your skincare routine.

It's important to note two things about retinol. Even though it's extremely effective, it does have some drawbacks. As mentioned earlier, retinol can cause irritation and typically comes at a high price point. To address the irritation part: using a retinol oil or serum is an excellent place to start, as they usually contain lower percentages of retinol (think .25%). As your skin adjusts, you can transition to stronger formulations and more frequent application. And as for the price point, there are options out there that won't break the bank, you've just got to find the good ones (see products #5 and #3).

Whether you're new to retinol or simply want something different, take a look at the list below. We've rounded up an edit of the best retinol oils out there, all of which contain gentle doses of vitamin A along with extra ingredients that nourish and hydrate the skin, too.

How We Found The Best Retinol Oils

To round up this list, we turned to the help of our data-driven algorithm. This proprietary tool factors in best-selling buzz, editor recommendations, rave reviews, and more to find and rank the best products on the internet. Scroll on to shop the Top 10 retinol oils that will tackle everything from wrinkles and fine lines to acne and hyperpigmentation.

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December 10, 2024

Written By:Naomi Venerable

Product Expert:Georgia Jones

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Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.

The Rankings


10
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Rank & Style Approved

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Naturally Serious Sleepover Retin-Oil Nighttime Treatment

Overall Score

4.4

10

Naturally Serious Sleepover Retin-Oil Nighttime Treatment

4.78

410 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

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Best Vegan Retinol Oil

WHO IT'S FOR
This powerful overnight treatment oil features 2% retinol combined with a carefully chosen blend of nourishing oils that work to visibly reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture while you sleep. Antioxidants from ingredients like pomegranate and green tea help protect your skin from environmental stressors, keeping signs of aging at bay. Additionally, the mixture of sunflower, chia, and rosehip oils provides your skin with nourishment, hydration, and a supple appearance.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This retinol oil is free of parabens, sulfates, and silicones. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Drunk Elephant A-Gloei Maretinol Oi

Overall Score

4.45

09

Drunk Elephant A-Gloei Maretinol Oi

4.4

501 User Reviews

2.8

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Gentle Retinol Oil

WHO IT'S FOR
This oil is suitable for both new and longtime retinol users. It is formulated with a blend of virgin marula oil, ceramides, and retinol to rejuvenate the skin while minimizing irritation. Together, these ingredients provide a gentle delivery of retinol, which can often cause sensitivity.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This retinol is vegan, cruelty-free, and made from recyclable packaging.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Naturopathica Holy Basil & Retinol Ageless Night Oil

Overall Score

4.5

08

Naturopathica Holy Basil & Retinol Ageless Night Oil

4.8

174 User Reviews

2.6

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Nighttime Retinol Oil

WHAT IT DOES
This nighttime oil contains a 1% retinol blend with holy basil that reduces fine lines and wrinkles and greatly improves the appearance of stressed, tired skin.

WHO IT'S FOR
This oil helps lighten pigmentation and ensures that skin feels and looks smoother, firmer, and more youthful.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Mara Evening Primrose + Green Tea Algae Retinol Oil

Overall Score

4.5

07

Mara Evening Primrose + Green Tea Algae Retinol Oil

4.72

818 User Reviews

3

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Natural Retinol Oil

WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
With ingredients like brown seaweed, evening primrose, green tea, and algae, this oil is a luxurious serum meant to hydrate and plump the skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and texture. In addition, it's cruelty, gluten, and alcohol-free, with sustainable ingredient sourcing and a vegan composition.

HOW TO USE
Start by applying 6-8 drops to clean skin in the evening two or three times a week, building up to nightly usage. Make sure not to use this during the day, and remember to wear sunscreen.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil

Overall Score

4.5

06

Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil

4.37

11158 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Drugstore Retinol Oil

WHY IT MADE THE LIST
This wrinkle repair oil, featuring retinol SA, nourishes the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines and dark spots. For under $40, it's an excellent choice.

REVIEWER EXPERIENCE
“I was a bit hesitant on trying an 'oil,' but this product is so lightweight, not at all greasy, and very clearly helped my skin look younger and less wrinkly. So glad I got to try it early—I'm a fan!”


COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil

Overall Score

4.55

05

COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil

4.5

3195 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Retinol Oil For Beginners

WHAT IT DOES
Formulated with 0.5% pure, stabilized retinol, this oil targets visible signs of aging, including loss of elasticity and dryness. The powerful formula supports the skin's natural renewal process, promoting a smoother, firmer, and more radiant complexion over time.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The oil helps the skin gradually adapt to retinol, making it an ideal choice for beginners introducing this powerful ingredient into their skincare routine.


111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Retinol Oil

Overall Score

4.55

04

111SKIN Celestial Black Diamond Retinol Oil

4.35

85 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

0

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Advanced-Formula Retinol Oil

WHAT IT DOES
This splurge-worthy treatment is formulated with 2.5% pure retinol, which helps to improve texture and tone. And since the retinol is paired with a blend of eight natural oils, the chances of irritation and peeling are at a minimum.

REVIEWER EXPERIENCE
“After the first night’s application, my skin was noticeably smoother without any signs of redness or irritation. I’m super impressed!”

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free


Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil

Overall Score

4.7

03

Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil

4.55

517 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

4

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Affordable Retinol Oil

WHAT IT DOES
The Good Molecules 1% Retinol Night Oil is an effective nighttime treatment designed to smooth, firm, and refine the appearance of your skin. Formulated with 1% retinol and plum oil, this product combines potent retinol with a hydrating base to address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, loss of elasticity, and dryness.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
At just $12, this quality retinol oil delivers high-performance skincare without breaking the bank. 

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Tata Harper Skincare Retinoic Nutrient Face Oil

Overall Score

4.85

02

Tata Harper Skincare Retinoic Nutrient Face Oil

4.75

931 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

3

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Retinol Oil For Dry Skin

WHAT IT DOES
The Tata Harper Retinol Face Oil is your all-in-one solution for radiant, youthful skin. This luxurious face oil is infused with natural Vitamin A, offering all the benefits of retinol without irritation. Designed to target signs of aging, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture while boosting skin’s elasticity for a firmer, smoother complexion.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Packed with brightening properties, this face oil works to enhance your skin’s natural glow, evening out tone and diminishing dullness. Made with Tata Harper’s signature commitment to clean beauty, it features a blend of potent botanicals and nourishing oils to hydrate and rejuvenate, leaving your skin soft, supple, and visibly transformed.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

Clean Beauty

Clean Beauty


Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil

Overall Score

4.85

01

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil

4.37

5713 User Reviews

5

Best Seller

5

Industry Recognition

4

Social Buzz

About Our Scoring System

In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.

Best Retinol Oil Overall

WHO IT'S FOR
This silky, nourishing oil is suitable for all skin types and is ideal for both new and experienced retinol users. Formulated with Blue Tansy and German Chamomile, it calms the skin while reducing redness, wrinkles, and the appearance of pores.

WHAT IT DOES
Throughout the night, this oil helps prepare the skin for a radiant, even tone in the morning. With an ultra-stable, gentle retinol ester and a collection of lightweight, nourishing oils, it soothes the appearance of surface redness for a calm, visibly even-toned complexion.

Cruelty Free

Cruelty Free

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