Best Non-Toxic Retinol in 2024

• Features encapsulated time-release retinol and retinal to reduce signs of aging with minimal irritation.
• Delivers visible results gently across 8 hours using time release technology for deeper penetration of retinoids.
• Incorporates proven and natural ingredients like encapsulated retinol, retinal, and squalane which hydrates the skin.
• Enriched with a blend of antioxidants to support skin health.
• Recommended for application at night as part of a daily skincare routine, starting with twice a week usage and gradually increasing.
• Advises use of moisturizer after application and SPF protection in the morning.
• Committed to clean beauty standards including being vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens, synthetic fragrances, or PEG.

Pros Mentioned

• Moisturizing
• Gentle
• Absorbent

Cons Mentioned

• Ineffective

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Squalane, C13-15 Alkane, Niacinamide, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Bakuchiol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Rosa Canina Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Peel Oil, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Yeast Extract, Soy Amino Acids, Lecithin, Hexylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Citric Acid, Linalool, Geraniol, Limonene

• Powered by a 5% active blend of plant-based retinol alternatives, this moisturizer smooths wrinkles and firms skin.
• Provides a boost of antioxidants.
• Gentle enough for day and night use.
• Can be used alongside retinol alternative serum for enhanced protection without irritation.
• Contains Bakuchiol and Alfalfa to strengthen and smooth skin.
• Incorporates a natural peptide and ceramide blend that tightens and locks in moisture.
• Designed for application on the face, neck, and décolleté in the morning and evening after serum.
• Uses certified organic ingredients.

Pros Mentioned

• Moisturizing
• Refillable
• Hydrating

Cons Mentioned

• Pricey

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Water (Aqua, Eau), Glycerin^, Rosa Canina Seed Oil*, Isoamyl Laurate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Betaine, Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Lactobacillus Ferment, Bakuchiol, Xylityl Sesquicaprylate, Lysolecithin, Sclerotium Gum, Lactobacillus, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Anhydroxylitol, Morinda Citrifolia Fruit Extract*, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Oil*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Silica, Tocopherol, Sodium Benzoate, Beta-Sitosterol, Squalene, Sodium Hydroxide, Geraniol**, Limonene**, Linalool**, Farnesol**, Citronellol**

• Contains 0.5% retinol to reduce the appearance of fine lines
• Formulated with squalane for added hydration

Pros Mentioned

• Luxurious
• Effective
• Non-irritating

Cons Mentioned

• Oily

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Retinol, Solanum Lycopersicum (Tomato) Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone, BHT

• Features Bakuchiol derived from the babchi plant, commonly used in traditional Indian Ayurvedic treatments.
• Offers similar benefits to Retinol such as skin firming, line-softening, and retexturizing, but without causing irritation or sensitivity.
• Contains Arginine, an essential amino acid that serves as a building block of protein and functions as an antioxidant.
• Includes Ceramides that help protect against environmental irritants and pollution while maintaining skin hydration and health.
• Designed as an anti-aging moisturizer that aids in improving skin tone and radiance.
• Formulated as a gentle, plant-based alternative to Retinol, suitable for reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without harsh chemicals.
• Helps restore and maintain the skin’s barrier function and moisture retention with ceramides, countering age and sun exposure effects.

Pros Mentioned

• Moisturizing
• Smoothing
• Hydrating

Cons Mentioned

• Scent

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Glycerin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Oil, Tetradecane, Glyceryl Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Bakuchiol, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-37, Sodium Hyaluronate, Ceramide Np, Arginine, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Oil, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Oil, Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood) Wood Oil, Jasminum Grandiflorum (Jasmine) Oil, Helichrysum Italicum Flower Oil, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexyglycerin, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Xanthan Gum

• Formulated as a plant-based alternative to synthetic retinol, designed to minimize skin sensitizing side effects such as redness, irritation, or peeling.
• Delivers provitamin A carotenoids which convert to retinoic acid in the skin, promoting a youthful appearance by tackling wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven skin tone.
• Features an easy-to-use design with vegan capsules that are twisted and applied topically to the face, neck, and décolleté.
• Incorporates high-quality plant actives like Amaranth, Carrot Root Extract, and Buriti, rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to nourish the skin.
• Offers compatibility for daytime use and can be combined with other skin care products typically avoided with synthetic retinol use, such as Vitamin C and exfoliators.
• Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and non-photosensitizing formulation making it suitable for all skin types, tones, and textures.
• Cruelty-free, vegan-friendly, and free from parabens, silicones, and phthalates.

Pros Mentioned

• Glowing
• Smoothing
• Natural

Cons Mentioned

• Greasy

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil*, Mauritia Flexuosa (Buriti) Fruit Oil*, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Extract*, Salvia Hispanica (Chia) Seed Extract*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Hippophae Rhamnoides (Seabuckthorn) Oil*, Calendula Officinalis Flower*, Tocopherol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract*, Amaranthus Caudatus (Amaranth) Seed Extract*, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Extract, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract*

• Derived from Babchi seeds, the serum softens the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while reducing the look of pores.
• Rich in antioxidants, Bakuchiol targets photodamaged skin to enhance the appearance of pigmentation and dark spots and provides protection against environmental stressors.
• Certified Organic, Cruelty-Free, Vegan, Gluten-Free, GMO-Free, and made in the USA.
• Formulated without harsh chemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, dyes, or petrochemicals.
• Contains 93% organic ingredients.

Pros Mentioned

• Gentle
• Hydrating
• Smooth

Cons Mentioned

• Pricey

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride* (From Coconut), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Mauritia Flexuosa (Buriti) Fruit Oil*, Sambucus Nigra (Elderberry) Fruit Extract, Bakuchiol (From Babchi Plant), Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Boswellia Serrata (Frankincense) Resin Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Tocopherol (From Sunflower Oil)

• Contains 15% Bakuchiol extract which is a natural alternative to Retinol, designed to rejuvenate and repair skin without irritation.
• Formulated to visibly reduce enlarged pores, fine lines, and wrinkles, while improving skin tone, texture, and elasticity.
• Includes organic ingredients such as turmeric, centella, spirulina, horsetail extract, aloe, sea moss, jojoba oil, and yarrow extract, enhancing skin hydration and health.
• Rigorously developed to be effective for all skin types, including sensitive skin, without causing increased sensitivity to UV rays.
• Vegan friendly and cruelty-free, this serum is free from parabens, fragrances, and gluten, ensuring a gentle yet effective skincare treatment.
• Supports skin clearing and anti-aging with a plant-based formula rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and phytonutrients, helping protect against environmental stressors.
• Easily absorbed and suitable for both morning and evening use as part of a daily skincare regimen.
• Made in the USA, promising to deliver a smoother, brighter, and more radiant complexion with regular use.

Pros Mentioned

• Radiant
• Non-irritating
• Affordable

Cons Mentioned

• Ineffective

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Aqua (Deionized Water), Aloe Barbardensis Organic Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice, Psoralea Corylifolia (Bakuchiol) Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel), Dimethyl Sulfone (MSM), Sea Water Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil (Organic Jojoba) Seed Oil, Curcuma Longa Rhizome Extract (Organic Turmeric), Chondrus Crispus (Irish Moss) Extract, Spirulina Maxima (Spirulina) Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow) Extract, Equisetum Arvense (Organic Horsetail Plant) Extract, Geranium Maculatum (Wild Geranium) Extract, Centella Asiatica (Organic Gotu Kola) Extract, Taraxacum Officinale (Organic Dandelion) Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin

• Combines powerful probiotic extracts and skin superfoods for balanced and glowing skin
• Formulated without live cultures
• Includes a botanical retinol alternative with bakuchiol, alfalfa sprouts, and stevia to minimize wrinkles and soothe the skin
• Designed for daily use, both morning and night, to refresh and renew skin
• Offers a 30-day return policy, ensuring satisfaction with the product

Pros Mentioned

• Hydrating
• Gentle
• Effective

Cons Mentioned

• Greasy

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Diisopropyl Adipate, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Glycerin, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Polyglyceryl-2 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Isoamyl Laurate, Lactococcus Ferment Lysate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Triethylhexanoin, Stearalkonium Hectorite, Bakuchiol, Stevia Rebaudiana Leaf/Stem Extract, Lycium Barbarum Fruit Extract, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Beta-Carotene, Lactic Acid, Gluconolactone, Lactobacillus, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Magnesium Sulfate, Squalene, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Alpha-Glucan Oligosaccharide, Propanediol, Lecithin, Polymnia Sonchifolia Root Juice, Sodium Phytate, Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Extract, Hydrogenated Phosphatidylcholine, Lysolecithin, Maltodextrin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Calcium Gluconate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Beta-Sitosterol, Phenoxyethanol, Potassium Sorbate, Phytic Acid

• Helps to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, boosting overall skin clarity and achieving an even skin tone.
• Formulated with retinol to promote skin renewal and enhance complexion brightness.
• Suitable for all skin types including normal, oily, dry, and combination.
• Features a slow release technology that targets signs of aging with less risk of irritation.
• Usage instructions: Apply in the PM 1-2 times per week after cleansing and hydrating. Increase frequency as tolerated, and always follow with a moisturizer or oil.

Pros Mentioned

• Effective
• Glowing
• Moisturizing

Cons Mentioned

• Smell

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Water (Aqua / Eau), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Dicaprylyl Carbonate, Dimethicone, Retinol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Caprylyl Glycol, Phospholipids, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides, Squalane, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Carbomer, Sodium Ascorbate, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 60, Tocopheryl Acetate, Glycolipids, Sodium Hydroxide, Disodium Edta, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterol, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Hyaluronic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Phenoxyethanol

• Contains Bakuchiol and Peptides
• Smooths skin
• Reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and puffiness
• Plant-based and vegan
• Cruelty-free

Pros Mentioned

• Gentle
• Effective
• Smooth

Cons Mentioned

• Expensive

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Glycerin, Psoralea Corylifolia Seed Extract, Leuconostoc/ Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Populus Tremuloides Bark Extract, Gluconolactone, Amethyst Extract, Sodium Phytate, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit/Leaf Extract, Vaccinium Angustifolium (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Coccinia Indica Fruit Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Solanum Melongena (Eggplant) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Flower Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Ocimum Basilicum (Basil) Flower/Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract

• Vegan and cruelty-free formula
• Designed as a botanical alternative to retinol that doesn't cause skin irritation
• Fast-absorbing and lightweight with active, plant-derived ingredients
• Works overnight to deliver firm, youthful skin
• Contains white tea high in phenols to strengthen collagen and elastin for smoother skin
• Includes bakuchiol for improved skin tone and protection from free radicals
• Resveratrol enhances skin elasticity
• Formula enriched with skin-restoring copper to boost collagen and elastin production
• Niacinamide included to help improve blemishes and acne-prone skin
• Free from toxic chemicals, non-GMO, and uses plastic-free packaging

Pros Mentioned

• Gentle
• Moisturizing
• Nourishing

Cons Mentioned

• Sticky

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), Pentylene Glycol, Panthenol (Vitamin B5), Pantolactone, 3-Aminopropan-1-Ol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acacia Senegal Gum, Xanthan Gum, Cocoyl Proline, Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract, Bakuchiol, Resveratrol, Lactic Acid, Gluconolactone, Copper Gluconate, Thioctic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Squalane, Sodium Hydroxide, Calcium Gluconate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Sodium Benzoate

• Contains vegan retinol from carrot seeds, avocado butter, and plant oils to enhance firmness, tone, and elasticity.
• Designed to deeply moisturize, restore skin and reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
• Operates overnight to leave skin softer and more supple by morning.
• Formulated with vitamins and antioxidants to improve skin’s natural glow.
• Aims to support skin texture, tone, reduce dark spots, and protect against free radical damage with vitamin C and E.
• Scented with organic jasmine essential oil for a light, toning fragrance.
• Base of avocado and shea butters turns silky when massaged into the skin.
• Recommended for daily use after scrubbing and should be followed by SPF sunscreen in the morning.
• Cruelty-free, ethically sourced, and free from toxic chemicals, heavy metals, fragrances, or dyes.
• Product is gluten-free, vegan, and made in the USA.

Pros Mentioned

• Moisturizing
• Effective
• Natural

Cons Mentioned

• Greasy

Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.

To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.

Ingredients: Persea Gratissima Oil (Avocado Butter), Helianthus Annuus (Organic Sunflower) Seed Oil, Olea Europaea (Organic Olive) Oil, Organic Beeswax, Butyrospermum Parkii (Organic Shea Butter), Jasminum Officinale (Organic Jasmine) Essential Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E), Retinol, Ascorbyl Palmitate (Vitamin C)