Retinol Alternatives That Leave Skin Looking Firm and Youthful (2025)

Retinol has long been hailed as the gold standard in anti-aging skincare, and for good reason. This powerful ingredient boasts a wealth of benefits for women over 50, including improved skin texture, minimized pores and wrinkles and plumper, tighter skin. However, retinol isn’t without its drawbacks. For some, especially those with sensitive skin, it can be irritating. So, what are the retinol alternatives for women seeking youthful skin? We spoke with top dermatologists to discover the most effective options.

The pros and cons of using retinol

“Retinol is the most researched and reliable anti-aging ingredient,” explains Viktoryia Kazlouskaya, MD, PhD, dermatologist and owner of Dermatology Circle, in New York City. “The vitamin A derivative has numerous positive effects, including increasing skin cell turnover, which improves texture, pigmentation and tone. It also minimizes the appearance of pores and wrinkles and stimulates collagen production, leading to plumper, tighter skin.”

However, adds Vivian Chin, MD, MPH, a cosmetic physician and founder of Koru Wellness & Aesthetics NYC, if you use too much retinol too soon, your skin can be a little red, flaky and/or dry—and those with dry or sensitive skin will notice this more. “I usually recommend starting retinol every other night—or every two nights if you have dry or sensitive skin—and building up the frequency as your skin gets used to the retinol.

Dr. Kazlouskaya suggests incorporating a moisturizer, either a few minutes following retinol application, or using the “sandwich technique,” applying retinol between layers of moisturizer. She advises patients to begin their evening skincare routine a few hours before bed, allowing the retinol to set properly before sleep.

Effective retinol alternatives

Dermatologists recommend several effective alternatives for those who find retinol too irritating or are simply looking for other options. While they emphasize that retinol is unique in its anti-aging power, these ingredients offer significant benefits and are backed by scientific research. Keep scrolling for some of the top doctor-approved retinol alternatives.

Retinol alternative ingredient: Bakuchiol

A plant-based ingredient with retinol-like properties, bakuchiol improves skin turnover, leading to enhanced texture and tone. “It helps to increase collagen in the skin,” says Dr. Chin, and it’s often touted as a gentler alternative to retinol.

Retinol alternative ingredient: Vitamin C

This essential molecule is crucial for collagen synthesis and acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin from environmental damage. It brightens the complexion and helps to even out skin tone.

Retinol alternative ingredient: Peptides

According to Dr. Kazlouskaya, these small but mighty molecules “play a crucial role in skin regeneration and are effective in supporting anti-aging efforts by promoting collagen and elastin production. “They mimic your body’s natural signaling pathways to increase collagen (or other desired effects) in the skin, or act as carriers for specific molecules for improved cell functioning,” explains Dr. Chin.

Retinol alternative ingredient: Growth factors

These molecules stimulate the skin’s rejuvenation process and are increasingly found in skincare products, explains Dr. Kazlouskaya. “They can help to improve skin elasticity and firmness.”

Retinol alternative ingredient: Methyl Estradiolpropanoate

This ingredient binds to estrogen receptors, promoting hydration and skin plumping. Dr. Kazlouskaya highlights its particular benefit for women over 50, as estrogen levels decline, contributing to increased signs of aging.

6 effective products containing retinol alternatives

• Neutrogena Collagen Bank Face Moisturizer: One that Dr. Kazlouskaya recommends, this moisturizer contains peptides and small collagen molecules that stimulate skin regeneration.
• Biopelle Emepelle Night Cream: Formulated with Methyl Estradiolpropanoate, this night cream hydrates and plumps the skin, addressing age-related estrogen decline. It’s on the pricier side, but it’s study-proven to work wonders on mature skin.
• La Roche-Posay Pure 10% Vitamin C Serum: This serum combines the brightening power of Vitamin C with hyaluronic acid for hydration and salicylic acid for mild exfoliation, leaving the skin brighter and more radiant.
• Herbivore Botanicals Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Smoothing Serum: A gentle, plant-based serum featuring bakuchiol to improve skin turnover and texture, says Dr. Kazlouskaya.
• The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C + EGF Serum: At just $16, this affordable serum combines growth factors with vitamin C for a powerful anti-aging boost.