While facial skincare gets a ton of attention, skincare for the rest of the body is often neglected, and many people go about their days and nights without using a quality body lotion. There are many to choose from—hydrating moisturizers, body serums, even in-shower exfoliators—but my personal favorite body skincare routine item is one of the best retinol body lotions.
"Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative that is available over the counter in a variety of formulations, including serums, creams, eye creams, and more," says Lauren Penzi, M.D. F.A.A.D, and board-certified dermatologist. Most consumers are aware of the acne-fighting, skin-renewing properties on the face, but using retinol from the neck down poses similar benefits.
"It helps to boost collagen production, may help with blemishes and discoloration, can be used for rough and bumpy skin, and may also help with stretch marks." says Marisa Garshick, M.D. F.A.A.D and board-certified dermatologist of MDCS Dermatology.
Incorporating a retinol body cream into my personal care routine has mitigated my back acne, calmed the keratosis pilaris on my arms, and even lessened the appearance of old scars. I've tested my fair share and am bringing you the best retinol body lotions ahead.
The Best Retinol Body Lotions
- Best Retinol Body Lotion Overall: Naturium Retinol Body Lotion
- Best Firming Retinol Body Lotion: Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream
- Best Lightweight Retinol Body Lotion: Nécessaire The Body Retinol Repair Serum
- Best Retinol Body Lotion for Acne: Paula's Choice Resist Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
- Best Retinol Body Lotion for Hyperpigmentation: Mutha Body Butter
Naturium’s retinol body lotion has received rave review after rave review, with customers swearing that the cream improved every condition from acne and crepey skin to hyperpigmentation. The formula isn’t too thick and doesn’t leave skin feeling oily or sticky. On the flip side, it also doesn’t dry skin out, even after consistent, frequent use, and features a fragrance-free formulation to avoid irritating sensitive skin.
Pros: Vegan; Cruelty-free; Affordable; Clean; Free of parabens, gluten, and fragrance
Cons: None found
This affordable option, with its unisex packaging and fragrance-free formula, is perfect for sharing with your partner or family. It absorbs into the skin quickly without any oily or sticky feel. The tub, which weighs in at an impressive 16 ounces, lasts for ages, particularly since a little goes a long way. Plus, the cream contains ingredients like chamomile, aloe vera, and green tea extract, which soothe existing irritation and prevents further dryness or inflammation.
Pros: Affordable; Large container; Contains skin-calming ingredients; Free of parabens and fragrance
Cons: None found
Lightweight and easy to apply (thanks to its handy pump packaging), this product is ideal for anti-aging and evening skin tone, alleviating body acne, and lessening the appearance of scars. It’s been vetted by dermatologists, resulting in a clean, hypoallergenic formula that works on all skin types. It features ultra-hydrating glycerin so that you don’t end up dried out. Dr. Camp loves it, too. "Made with 0.1 percent retinol, alpha-hydroxy acids, and peptides, this body lotion helps target crepiness, lines and wrinkles," he adds.
Pros: Vegan; Clean; Expert-approved; Editor-approved; Clinically tested
Cons: Some users dislike the smell
If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, or body acne, treat yourself to this lotion from Paula’s Choice, which contains both BHA and salicylic acid. “This product contains a moderate concentration of both antioxidants and retinol," says Dr. Penzi. "It is great to improve the texture and tone of the skin.” Reviewers agree, writing that with consistent use, this lightweight treatment lessens the appearance of hyperpigmentation and scarring (particularly from shaving) and relieves acne on the back and butt.
Pros: Good for acne; Expert-approved; Good for hyperpigmentation and scarring; Lightweight
Cons: Some users dislike the smell
This might just be my favorite lotion of all time. I love melting this body butter in my palms and spreading it on the driest parts of my skin. A little goes a long way with this lotion, and when it settles, it has a luxurious oil-like consistency that immediately alleviates any itching or aggressive dryness. Over time, it even helps fade scars. Plus, because its vitamin A-infused formula is balanced with ingredients like shea butter, mango seed butter, and avocado oil, I can spread it on my just-shaved legs without burning or discomfort.
Pros: Editor-approved; Clinically tested; Long-lasting hydration; Good for scarring and hyperpigmentation; Pregnancy-safe
Cons: Rich formula takes some time to absorb on skin
Also Recommended
"This body lotion uses a YB-GLY-Retinol Complex to help firm the skin and improve elasticity," says Dr. Garshick. "It is formulated with granactive retinoid and exfoliating acids to brighten the skin but is also supported by soothing oils and moisturizing butters to minimize irritation."
Pros: Expert-approved; Brightening; Non-irritating; Improves skin elasticity
Cons: Need to sign up for a Beauty Pie membership to get the reduced price ($44 vs. $74)
Dr. Shokeen loves this formula and recommends it because it is "known for its fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula. It provides hydration and retinol benefits, and is suitable for overnight use to reveal smoother skin."
Pros: Expert-approved; Hydrating; Suitable for sensitive skin; Contains SPF
Cons: Formula too thick for some users
I love Kopari Beauty for their lightweight sunscreens, so I was over the moon to discover that the brand also carries a retinol body lotion. "The retinol in this product is encapsulated, meaning that it is gradually released for improved tolerability and stability," says Dr. Camp. Reviewers especially love the impact it has on loose skin.
Pros: Expert-approved; Lightweight; Great for beginners to retinol
Cons: Not available at major retailers
When you need an affordable option that still gets the job done, Dr. Penzi says to consider this option from Gold Bond, which is gentle enough to be used on both the body and face. “This product contains a powerful Retinol and Peptide Complex that exfoliates to support the skin's renewal process,” she shares. “It also is nourishing and hydrating, which helps to avoid any potential irritation.” Free of fragrances and dyes, it’s also ideal for anyone with sensitive skin.
Pros: Expert-approved; Affordable; Works on body and face; Free of fragrance, dyes, phthalates, and parabens
Cons: Some users find the formula too rich
Dr. Garshick stands by this affordable option from Versed. She explains, "This lotion works to improve texture and reduce dullness in the skin. It also incorporates cocoa butter and squalane to help lock moisture in."
Pros: Expert-approved; Affordable; Brightening; Moisturizing; Cruelty-free
Cons: Some users find it too streaky
For many (myself included), Skinceuticals is the holy grail of skincare, with high-potency products that quickly deliver noticeable results. This retexturing treatment is no different, with a blend of hydroxyethyl urea, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid that exfoliates and increases cell turnover while simultaneously keeping skin hydrated. The result is a smooth, healthy glow and noticeably even skin tone. The brand recommends massaging it over your whole body just after bathing and says it's particularly effective in smoothing out dry spots like elbows, feet, and knees.
Pros: Free of fragrance and parabens; Clean; Visible results
Cons: Small container
Dr. Barbara Sturm is yet another tried and true, fan-favorite brand that’s more than earned its glowing reputation. It took Dr. Sturm four years to develop this innovative formula, which is made with sensitive skin in mind. It includes extracts of elderberry blossom and white almond, which firm skin, along with essential oils, which moisturize skin and restore elasticity. On an even more luxurious note, the cream is infused with pure glacier water.
Pros: Good for sensitive skin; Large container
Cons: Strong scent
If you’re searching for prescription-strength skincare solutions but are currently in between dermatologists, you’re in luck. Musely was founded to deliver customers prescription-strength results without actually having to visit a doctor. Developed by board-certified dermatologists, their body cream has been lauded by people of all ages for its ability to banish body acne, keratosis pilaris, wrinkles, and scars. Because it’s so potent, the brand recommends mixing it with a non-retinol, fragrance-free moisturizer when you’re starting.
Pros: Created by dermatologists; Works for acne, scarring, and keratosis pilaris
Cons: May be too potent for beginners
According to customers, this body butter from Josie Maran feels smooth and rich to the touch, yet it doesn’t make skin feel greasy or sticky upon application. While the container it comes in is small, a little goes a long way, and users with keratosis pilaris report fast, noticeable results. The clean, sweet-smelling formula also contains 100 percent pure argan oil, which conditions skin and prevents the potent retinol from causing dryness, redness, or peeling.
Pros: Clean; Cruelty-free
Cons: Small container
If you fear retinol is too strong or irritating, consider this option from Sol de Janeiro. It contains cacay oil and plant collagen, which mimic retinol's firming effects without any peeling or sun sensitivity. Plus, like all Sol de Janeiro products, it's a fragrance you'll love.
Pros: Retinol alternative; Gentle; Firming properties; Hydrating
Cons: Scent may not be for everyone
This retinol body lotion from Glow Recipe specifically targets uneven skin tone and texture, so it's great for mitigating issues like hyperpigmentation, scarring, and keratosis pilaris. While its retinol speeds up cell regeneration, ingredients like watermelon seed butter and hyaluronic acid ensure skin looks and feels hydrated.
Pros: Hydrating; Clean; Award-winning
Cons: Sweet scent may be polarizing
Skincare brand Topicals is known for the effective active ingredients they include in their products. This lightweight body serum is a great example of this ethos, with its powerful formula of AHA, glycolic acid, and retinol. It's great to wear on its own or layered under a thicker, non-retinol lotion for extra hydration.
Pros: Lightweight; Hydrating
Cons: Some users say that the packaging is challenging to manage (a lot of formula comes out at once)
Why not add a bit of luxury to your daily skincare routine? This body lotion has a rich formula that both soothes and resurfaces. Its gentle scent makes it an even more indulgent sensory experience. It's especially recommended for those with sun damage and dry skin as a restorative overnight treatment.
Pros: Soothing; Hydrating; Gentle scent
Cons: Expensive
The Benefits of Retinol
Divya Shokeen, M.D. F.A.A.D, board-certified dermatologist, and Oathology founder, loves a premium body retinol for its slew of benefits. "Retinol encourages cell turnover, helping cells to promote the emergence of new skin," she says. "This helps in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles." Regular use can lead to smoother skin, help to fade dark spots and hyperpigmentation, prevent the clogging of pores, and potentially reduce the occurrence of body acne.
"Retinol has also been shown to stimulate collagen production, improving skin elasticity and firmness." says Brendan Camp, M.D. F.A.A.D and board-certified dermatologist. "Retinol is also great for tightening crepiness and loose skin.
Where to Apply Retinol Body Lotion
"Retinol body lotion can be beneficial for any part of the body but is particularly effective on areas that show signs of aging or damage, such as the arms, legs, and décolletage," says Dr. Shokeen. "It’s also helpful on areas with rough skin texture or keratosis pilaris, such as the legs."
Dr. Camp adds, "The chest, shoulders, and back, which have a higher concentration of sebaceous glands and are more prone to sun exposure and sun damage, may benefit most from the retinol body lotions." Retinol body lotions can also be used on the hands, which are often overlooked.
What Concentration of Retinol Should I Use on my Body?
When choosing one retinol body lotion over another, you should keep concentration and potency in mind. "Start with a lower concentration of retinol and use it every other night," Dr. Penzi suggests. Generally speaking, the product should fall between .25 and one percent.
How Often Should I Use a Retinol Body Lotion?
Start using a retinol body lotion twice per week. "Gradually increase the frequency as your skin tolerates it. This helps your skin adjust to the retinol and reduces the risk of irritation," says Dr. Garshick. While all skin types can benefit from retinol, those with dry or sensitive skin may want to ease into it especially slowly. In a similar vein, Dr. Shokeen and Dr. Camp say that people with rosacea, eczema, dry skin, or expecting mothers should avoid retinol or should speak with a doctor before use.
"I recommend applying at nighttime, as retinol can make your skin sensitive to sunlight, and using it during the day may increase the risk of sunburn," says Dr. Penzi.
What Should I Avoid With a Retinol Body Lotion?
Because retinol increases the rate of cell turnover, you should avoid using it in tandem with acids like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and azelaic acid, as well as with acne-fighting ingredients like benozyl peroxide. Rather, if you're looking for a retinol lotion that specifically targets acne, find one that incorporates anti-acne ingredients in delicate combinations and dosages approved by scientists and dermatologists.
You should also avoid applying retinol lotion on already fragile skin patches. Dr. Penzi, Dr. Garshick, Dr. Camp, and Dr. Shokeen all say users should avoid using retinol directly after shaving because razors create micro-abrasions on the skin and compromise the skin barrier, resulting in a temporarily hyper-sensitive environment.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Lauren Penzi, M.D., is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York state. A graduate of Loyola University Maryland and New York Medical College, she specializes in medical and cosmetic dermatology and is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the Society for Pediatric Dermatology, the American Society for Laser Medicine & Surgery, and the Women’s Dermatologic Society.
Marisa Garshick, M.D., F.A.A.D is a leading board-certified dermatologist serving patients throughout Manhattan, New York at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, as well as an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell New York Presbyterian Medical Center. Dr. Garshick provides a wide variety of cosmetic and medical procedures and services including treatments for acne, eczema, hyperhidrosis, moles, psoriasis, rosacea, signs of aging, skin cancer, skin tags, vitiligo, and wrinkles.
She completed her undergraduate education at Emory University and attended medical school at Tufts University School of Medicine, where she graduated with Research Honors and Alpha Omega Alpha. Dr. Garshick’s post-graduate training in dermatology began with an internship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. She completed her dermatology residency at Cornell’s New York Presbyterian Hospital, where she served as Chief Resident in Dermatology.
Dr. Divya Shokeen is a board-certified dermatologist. She has published a number of peer-reviewed articles on dermatology and dermatologic surgery, and is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, American Society of Dermatologic Surgery, and Women’s Dermatology Society. She is currently based in Southern California.
Brendan Camp, M.D., is double board-certified in dermatology and dermatopathology and sees patients at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. Hie expertise is in managing medical conditions like acne, rosacea, eczema, warts, psoriasis, moles, and skin cancer, as well as cosmetic concerns and treatments with Botox, fillers, lasers, and other skin rejuvenation devices.
Dr. Camp graduated with honors from Cornell University, earning a degree in biochemistry. As a medical student at SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, he participated in a one-year epidemiology fellowship at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, where he participated in viral outbreak investigations. He completed his internship in internal medicine at the University of Chicago and later completed additional residency training in dermatology at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center.
Dr. Camp is the author of several scientific articles that have been published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, the Journal of Cutaneous Pathology, and the Journal of Clinical Oncology. He has also presented at meetings of the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society of Dermatopathology, and the Society for Investigative Dermatology.
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