Here's Everything You Need to Know About Vegan Retinol Serums And Creams!
Wondering why everyone seems to be talking about retinol lately? There's a good reason for that! This science-backed ingredient has shown to boost collagen production, thicken the skin, and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. It's even been used as an acne treatment! Keep reading to discover how you can incorporate an effective and cruelty-free vegan retinol product into your daily skincare routine!
What Are Retinoids?
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives that are used in skincare products for their anti-aging effect. Retinol esters, retinols, and retinals are available commercially, while retinoic acid (also known as tretinoin) is much stronger, and requires a prescription from your dermatologist.
Should I Use Retinol Esters, Retinol, or Retinal?
So, want to know which type of retinoid is best for your skin type and beauty goals? The first thing you should know is that retinol esters are the gentlest form of the three, while retinal is the strongest and most effective. That's why retinol is the perfect sweet spot for most.
If you have extra sensitive skin, you may consider going for a mild retinol ester like retinol acetate at first, and see if your skin can tolerate it 2-3x a week. Then, upgrade to a stronger retinol ester like retinol propionate and see if your skin can handle that. Next, go for a low concentration retinol at 0.25% or 0.3%, continuing to apply it 2-3x a week. Once your skin is comfortable with retinol, you may consider increasing application to 3-4x a week, and so on.
What's important with retinol use is consistency. You may only see improved uneven skin tone, fewer fine lines and wrinkles, and other benefits of retinol after a few months.
If you have normal skin, try going for a low-concentration retinol product at first and use it consistently for a few months to see results before opting for something stronger. It's a good idea to apply it 2-3x a week and add an extra day to your weekly routine if you feel as though your skin can handle it.
Finally, if you are a retinol veteran and have already tried many products without experiencing negative side effects or irritation, you can try venturing into the world of retinals. These are a bit stronger and more effective, so you may see quicker results with a retinal product.
Is Retinol Vegan?
Retinol is essentially vitamin A, meaning this ingredient can be vegan-friendly. In fact, the retinol used in skincare is often produced synthetically to remain stable for much longer than the natural extract.
However, that's not to say all retinol products are vegan. Many may contain animal-derived ingredients, and many cosmetic companies test their formulas on animals. If this is the case with the product you're eyeing, it's sadly not vegan-friendly.
There are plenty of 100% vegan retinol products on the market today, and many are made or paired with natural, effective, plant-based ingredients that could further improve your results and reduce negative side effects!
What To Look For in Vegan Retinol
Depending on your skin goals, you'll want to make sure you're familiar with your retinol's concentration, which may range from 0.1-1.0%. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you may want to go for a retinol oil or retinol cream with moisturizing ingredients. Meanwhile, those with oily, normal, or combination skin types may favor a serum or oil-free cream.
You can also look for retinol products that contain niacinamide. This ingredient has been shown to reduce redness and dryness, providing extra skin protection against retinol's adverse effects. Alternatively, you could apply a cream that contains niacinamide before applying a retinol oil or serum.
Lastly, you'll want to make sure your retinol comes in a dark bottle or opaque tube, and store it in a dry, cool place away from the sun. This way, you can extend its lifespan and effectiveness.
Cream vs. Serum: Which Is Best For Me?
There are plenty of retinol products available, which can make it tough to narrow down your options. However, choosing whether you want a retinol cream or a retinol serum is a great first step.
As mentioned earlier, those with dry or sensitive skin may prefer a moisturizing, low-concentration retinol cream. This type of retinol may also double as a safe option to apply around your eyes and mouth.
Serums can be very versatile, as you can add a few drops to your daily moisturizer to dilute their concentration. They can also be a great option for veteran retinol users, since they often contain a higher retinoid concentration. However, they may also be a bit less hydrating and protective for sensitive skin, unless described otherwise. So, if you have normal, combination, or oily skin, or have built up a high retinol tolerance, the best vegan retinol product for you may be in serum form.
How To Apply Vegan Retinol
It's important you know that retinol can be irritating, and will often cause a bit of flaking or dryness. This is usually a normal part of the process, especially at first. This is because it's actually speeding up your skin cell turnover, leading to healthy skin and improved skin elasticity. However, if you're getting an extreme reaction like burning, flare-ups, peeling, blistering, swelling, or excessive dryness, this may be a sign you are using too high of a concentration.
That said, there are ways to reduce the adverse effects of retinol treatment. A great way to protect your skin is by applying a moisturizing cream before the retinol oil or serum. Additionally, you'll want to apply your retinol over totally clean and dry skin, and avoid using any exfoliants the same day you use retinol.
You'll want to treat your skin with retinol at night, since the sun can easily break down this ingredient, causing you to waste your valuable product. Aim for 2-3 uses a week at first. If your skin seems to be comfortable with this, you can tentatively boost your application by one extra day a week, and so on until you are able to use it every day. Keep in mind, it may take months or even years to increase your skin's retinol tolerance to this point.
Where To Apply Retinol
Although you can apply retinol specifically on problem areas, it's best to use it all over your face to achieve better results. After all, it's meant to improve uneven skin tone, clear acne, and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, which our entire face can benefit from.
What about the eye area, you ask? You should be OK applying retinol on your under eyes, however your eyelids can be a bit more sensitive to this active ingredient. Luckily, there are specific retinol eye creams formulated to be non-irritating, which you should be able to apply around your eyes without experiencing negative side effects.
For the neck area, you'll want to be especially careful. If you'd like to use retinol on your neck and chest, try simply mixing a few drops of retinol serum into your daily moisturizer before application, or apply a hydrating cream before and after applying your retinol product. If you still experience a negative reaction, test out a retinol ester instead, or simply discontinue its use on this area. Otherwise, we'd recommend consulting your dermatologist for a gentler treatment.
Recommendations for Sensitive Skin
Those with sensitive skin may be wary of retinols, and for good reason. This product is notorious for causing flaking and peeling, so you want to watch out for its concentration and retinoid type. Avoid high concentrations or retinals at first, and instead start with a retinol ester or a 0.1-0.3% retinol formulation at first.
Make sure to apply vegan moisturizer under your retinol, and consider applying it over top as well, if needed. You'll also need to dry your skin completely beforehand. And finally, avoid using physical or chemical exfoliants that same day, as the retinol may have a stronger effect on your skin after exfoliation.
If your skin cannot tolerate lower concentrations or even retinol esters, it's possible retinol is not the ideal treatment for your skin. Either way, it's smart to consult your dermatologist before starting an intensive skin treatment.
What About Bakuchiol?
You may have heard of the natural 'alternative' to retinol -- bakuchiol. This antioxidant comes from the Psoralea corylifolia plant, and can affect your skin in the same ways retinol can. For instance, it's been used to treat acne, and has even been shown to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles with fewer complaints of irritation.
Although more studies are needed to further validate the efficacy of bakuchiol, it appears to be a safe and suitable plant-based retinol alternative for those with sensitive skin or skin concerns.
Products We Avoided And Why
We believe when it comes to intense vegan retinol skin care treatments, consumers need to know at what concentration their products are formulated. Transparency is key! This is why it was troubling for us to come across a few brands that did not disclose their retinol/retinol alternative concentration. Among these brands were Algenist and Monat.
Although these brands' products boast excellent reviews and use encapsulated retinol and bakuchiol, respectively (which tend to be gentler on your skin), we don't feel comfortable recommending products if you can't be sure how they will affect your skin. We made sure to include the retinol concentration of each of the products we recommended, so you can be sure they will work for your skin type and current retinol tolerance! That said, keep reading to discover the right vegan retinol product for you!
Our Favorite Vegan Retinol Products
Vegan Retinol Serums
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
Type of Retinoid | Bakuchiol, Encapsulated Retinol.
Concentration | 0.05%, 0.03%, Respectively.
Price | $21.99
Formulated with a blend of bakuchiol and encapsulated retinol, this serum seeps deep into the skin for slow release and enhanced absorption! Not only is it made with a low retinol concentration, it also features plant-based antioxidants and powerful anti-inflammatory ingredients for extra skin protection. So, if you're a new retinol user, this is a highly recommended product to start with!
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Acure Radically Rejuvenating Retinoid Night Complex
Type of Retinoid | Retinoic Acid Ester.
Concentration | 0.2%
Price | $19.99
Acure's Retinoid Night Complex combines a retinoic acid ester with hydrating glycerin and polyglumatic acid, as well as soothing aloe for a totally gentle formula! An affordable and non-irritating blend, this serum is an ideal starter retinoid product for all skin types.
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Fleur & Bee 'A' Game Retinol Serum
Type of Retinoid | Retinol.
Concentration | 0.1%
Price | $39.00
Over 20 active ingredients in one ultra-nourishing serum? Sign me up! Fleur & Bee's 'A' Game vegan retinol serum is combined with protective and hydrating aloe vera, squalane, and green tea to prevent any adverse effects. Formulated at a mild 0.1% concentration, this is a safer choice for first-time retinol users!
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Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum
Type of Retinoid | Bakuchiol (Plant-Based Retinol Alternative).
Concentration | 1.0%
Price | $72.00
Still unsure about synthetic retinol, or haven't had much luck with it in the past? This natural, plant-based bakuchiol serum is lightweight, non-irritating, and even EWG verified! Plus, it's boosted with squalane and niacinamide for enhanced results and protection for sensitive skin types. It's even packaged in light post-consumer recycled plastic with a 100% recyclable pump to protect our planet. If you're looking to upgrade your retinol treatment with a clean and cruelty-free choice, try out this ultra-effective vegan retinol serum now!
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Shani Darden Retinol Reform
Type of Retinoid | Encapsulated Retinol.
Concentration | 2.2%
Price | $88.00
Want to see speedy results with a lower risk of irritation? Shani Darden's Retinol Reform, although formulated at a higher 2.2% concentration, is made with encapsulated retinol. This means the active will sink deep into your skin before activating, which can avert any negative side effects or irritation. This serum is also a cleaner option than most conventional retinol products, made without parabens, silicones, or fragrances. Test out this gentle and vegan retinol serum to reveal radiant, rejuvenated skin!
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Youth To The People Retinal + Niacinamide Youth Serum
Type of Retinoid | Stabilized Retinaldehyde.
Concentration | 0.15%
Price | $68.00
The most potent option on our list, Youth To The People's retinal serum is made with stabilized retinaldehyde, so you can start to see glowing skin in just 1-4 weeks! Keep in mind that retinal is just one step below retinoic acid (tretinoin) products, which are prescription retinoids. So, while this advanced retinoid product may not be ideal for a beginner retinol user, it's certainly a step up from your standard retinol, and is PETA-approved vegan-friendly. Plus, it's enhanced with niacinamide so you can protect and replenish your skin barrier while receiving this rejuvenating treatment. See the results for yourself by giving it a try!
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Vegan Retinol Creams
Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream
Type of Retinoid | Retinol, Bakuchiol.
Concentration | 0.1%, 0.3%, Respectively.
Price | $8.00
An ultra-gentle and affordable retinol formulation, this product could be the smartest option to start with! Not only is it clean and vegan, it's also totally fragrance free and made with a low 0.1% retinol concentration for sensitive skin types. Improve your skin texture, boost collagen production, diminish the appearance of age spots, and combat deep wrinkles through the power of retinol and bakuchiol in Good Molecules' Retinol Cream!
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Three Ships Dream Bio-Retinol + Shorea Butter Night Cream
Type of Retinoid | Bio-Retinol From Picão Preto Plant.
Concentration | 1.0%
Price | $35.00
Enhanced with hydrating shorea butter and squalane, Three Ships' bio-retinol cream is the perfect lightweight, buttery texture to soothe and treat your skin simultaneously.
Made with traceable, non-GMO, plant-based ingredients and ZERO fragrance, this formula is a reliably clean choice to add to your vegan skincare routine! Each bottle will last you three months if used nightly, giving you the perfect trial to decide whether to make this clean vegan retinol a long-term part of your skin regimen. Try it today!
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Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
Type of Retinoid | Retinol.
Concentration | 1.0%
Price | $28.00
Drunk Elephant's retinol cream is made with a powerful and nourishing blend of retinol and superfoods like cherry, kale, and passionfruit! These antioxidants and actives help to rejuvenate your skin while protecting it from environmental aggressors. Try this gentle, ultra-effective treatment today!
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Earths Cure Natural Anti-Aging Cream
Type of Retinoid | Retinol.
Concentration | 2.5%
Price | $54.00
Using a slow-release form of retinol that is gentle on all skin types, Earths Cure offers the perfect solution for wrinkles and dark spots! Plus, it's boosted with plenty of additional soothing botanicals like green tea, aloe, dandelion, shea butter, and more. It also contains vitamins B5, C, E, and glycerin to promote bright, hydrated, and glowing skin!
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Vegan Retinol Eye Creams
Peach & Lily Pure Peach Retinoic Eye Cream
Type of Retinoid | Bakuchiol.
Concentration | 0.5%
Price | $42.00
A unique blend of plant-based alternatives to retinol; bakuchiol, rosehip seed oil, and fruit/vegetable extracts, Peach & Lily's retinoic complex promises brighter and smoother under eyes! These plant-based, natural ingredients are both gentle and effective, making them ideal for the sensitive skin around your eyes. Banish dark circles with the Pure Peach Retinoic Eye Cream!
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Versed Smooth Landing Advanced Retinoid Eye Balm
Type of Retinoid | Granactive Retinoid.
Concentration | 1.0%
Price | $17.99
Designed for dry or mature skins, Versed's potent eye balm is formulated with a 1.0% concentration of retinol. Using granactive retinoid, this product is meant to reduce the appearance of crow's feet with a gentler form of retinol. Then, it strengthens your skin barrier through the powerful antioxidant capacities of vitamin E and black currant seed oil! Enjoy the benefits of botanical actives by going for this vegan brand's advanced retinoid balm!
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The Inkey Retinol Eye Cream
Type of Retinoid | Vitalease™ Retinol.
Concentration | 3.0%
Price | $11.49
Safe for use around the eyes and mouth, The Inkey's vegan retinol eye cream features a slow-release and stabilized form of retinol known as Vitalease. This allows for less irritation, even at its higher concentration. To put things into perspective, its 3.0% concentration is comparable in strength with a 0.9% retinol product. However, you'll still want to avoid its use on the eyelids or too close to your waterline, and apply moisturizer over top (especially if you are new to retinol treatment)!
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Sunday Riley 5 Stars Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum
Type of Retinoid | Retinoids Ester, Liposome Encapsulated Retinol.
Concentration | 5.0%, 1.0%, Respectively.
Price | $65.00
This is the most concentrated vegan retinol product on our list, formulated with some of the least irritating retinoid forms available. So, 5 Stars' Retinoid + Niacinamide Eye Serum is both ultra-effective and gentle on your skin! It's also enhanced with niacinamide, which helps to counteract any of the potential negative effects of retinol use. This intelligent retinol supports natural collagen production and softens wrinkles for fresh and youthful results! Try it today!
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Our Pick: Earth's Cure Anti-Aging Cream
Type of Retinoid | Encapsulated Retinol.
Concentration | 2.5%
Price | $54.00
For our #1 choice, we had to go with Earth's Cure's Anti-Aging Cream, which is suitable for all skin types, including oily, acne-prone, combination, dry, normal, aging, or sensitive skin! We loved that this brand included soothing, non-comedogenic, and natural plant-based ingredients to counter any irritation and avoid breakouts. They also test their products in small batches to ensure their safety!
Earth's Cure uses a 2.5% formulation of encapsulated retinol, which sinks deep into the skin before activating. This helps to prevent the negative side effects of retinol treatments, like the common stinging sensation or peeling. It also allows for a higher concentration, which can speed up its anti-aging, firming, and brightening effects!
Simply apply a pea-sized amount and rub it into your skin evenly. If you're new to retinol, do this about two nights per week. Then, you can build up your tolerance and begin using it nightly. It's so gentle that you can even apply it to your neck, under eyes, chest, hands, elbows, and knees!
Earth's Cure's ingredients are organic, biodegradable, sourced from small farmers, and their products are packaged in recyclable materials. They even use 100% wind powered manufacturing facilities in the U.S. to craft their products! Go for this totally safe, sustainable, and most importantly, effective vegan retinol to get glowing, rejuvenated skin today!
BUY NOW
Ready to try out one of these effective and natural vegan retinol products? If you're struggling with problematic skin and worried about switching up your routine, remember that the clean, botanical ingredients used in vegan products can do a better job protecting your skin over time!
By switching to natural, organic ingredients, you can invest in your skin health long-term while avoiding the cruelty associated with conventional beauty products. We thank you for extending so much compassion toward animals and nurturing your inner beauty as well as the outer. Make sure to sign up to our weekly newsletter for more helpful vegan beauty tips and recommendations!
