Antiaging Alternatives for People Who Are Too Sensitive to Retinol

By Patricia Shannon
September 06, 2019
Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.
Credit: Beautycounter
If retinols and retinoids are too harsh for your sensitive skin, there’s hope for your antiaging regimen yet. Skipping the harsher (read: highly effective) ingredients doesn’t mean your antiaging game needs to take a seat. There are still plenty of antiaging wonders out there that are specifically designed with sensitive skin in mind. Take a look through these picks for must-try products that will get those fine lines and wrinkles in shipshape, stat—but without the irritation.
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BYBI Beauty Bakuchiol Booster Facial Oil

Credit: urbanoutfitters.com

This budget-friendly serum gets its antiaging power from bakuchiol oil, a plant-derived alternative to retinol that’s gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Buy: $17; urbanoutfitters.com

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Beautycounter Countertime Regimen Set

Credit: Beautycounter

We’re not naming a specific product here, we’re just giving you the whole shebang. From the moisturizing essence to the eye cream, this lot is going to change your skin for the better—and without the irritation that comes along with many other age-fighting potions.

Buy: $267/set; sold separately starting at $49

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Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum

Credit: sephora.com

Here’s another bakuchiol winner. This time formulated along with Squalane and hyaluronic acid. The result is a line-smoothing, lightweight serum that not only moisturizes, but actually locks it in to ensure long-term hydration.

Buy: $72; sephora.com

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Skinceuticals C E Ferulic

Credit: Skinceuticals

It’s remarkable what a brightened-up complexion can do. This medicinal little bottle holds a serum that both defends against future environmental damage while also brightening and firming skin tone and texture, replenishing skin lipids, and firming lines and wrinkles. The 1-ounce bottle comes with a steep price tag, but just a few drops once a day will do you.

Buy: $166; dermstore.com

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Paula’s Choice Power Berry Serum

Credit: Paula's Choice

A powerful array of antioxidant-rich berries is the secret sauce in this serum. The pink, milky gel defends against aging and soothes and hydrates skin.

Buy: $31; dermstore.com

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DERMA E Vitamin C Night Cream

Credit: Ulta

A combination of rooibos and probiotics work to protect and strengthen the skin, reducing fine lines and wrinkles and delivering smoother skin overnight.

Buy: $19.99; ulta.com

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By Patricia Shannon