Vitamin A and its derivatives are some of the most effective and scientifically proven ingredients that safely rid most of the cosmetically related skin concerns today. Be it pigmentary changes, texture or redness, Retinol has got your back!
While the ingredients are scientifically proven to transform the skin for the better, there are some side effects to be anticipated before attaining beautiful and desirable skin.
When it comes to Retinols, it is always good to start low and go slow. This means not taking a huge amount of the ingredient or it can cause irritation. With that, we have prepared a list of the best retinol products in Malaysia that caters to different groups of people.
Whether you’re just starting Retinols or in search of the best anti-ageing product in Malaysia, this list covers the products that would suit your needs every step of the way.
10 Best Retinol Products in Malaysia
Table of Contents
Why It’s Our Top Pick
Our top pick for a versatile retinol product goes to the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Aqua Milky Toner. It excels in softening, smoothing, and firming the skin, making it ideal for those who want a well-rounded solution for their skincare concerns. The innovative Dermalift Technology and the power of Pro-Retinol A make it a compelling choice for achieving a refreshed, youthful complexion.
Overview
The L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Aqua Milky Toner is a remarkable choice for those seeking a comprehensive retinol solution. This innovative toner features a deep-action, high-performing formula that harnesses the power of Dermalift Technology and Pro-Retinol A to give your skin a natural lift and firming effect. It's a powerful ally in regaining firmness and diminishing fine lines while defining your face's contour for a more youthful appearance.
Details
- Skin concerns: wrinkles, dry skin, fine lines
- Key ingredient: Pro-Retinol A
- Texture: Light-weight, thin texture
- Volume: 200ml
Suitable for: All types of skin (including sensitive skin)
Who is this for
This product is an excellent fit for individuals looking to incorporate a reliable retinol solution into their skincare routine. If you're concerned about fine lines, loss of firmness, and desire a refreshed, youthful complexion, the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Aqua Milky Toner is your go-to choice.
More: Top 14 Toners in Malaysia to Prep Every Skin Type
Overview
If you are afraid to start Retinol for similar reasons, the good news is that Ordinary produces a skin-friendly formula suitable for dry or sensitive skin types.
The Ordinary Granactive Retinoid, 2% in Squalane, is a water-free serum that contains 2% Retinoid as its star ingredient to promote skin cell turnover. Unlike other Vitamin A products, this serum uses Retinoid instead of Retinol to cater to those with sensitive skin, as Retinoids are a less irritating derivative of Vitamin A.
Details
- Skin concerns: fine lines, dullness, uneven skin tone
- Key ingredients: Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalane
- Texture: Light texture (Oil-like serum)
Who is this for?
As a gentle serum containing a small concentration of 0.2% Retinol, this serum is a great start for beginners to Retinol serums. Plus, this product works like a charm to lessen the redness and flakiness on the skin! It is notably less irritating than other Retinol formulations with a lesser downtime as well.
Furthermore, you can get healthier, glow, and a smoother texture on your skin if you use it consistently.
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Overview
Have you ever dreamed of having soft, glowing and plump skin like actresses in K-drama? Even Jeon Jungkook from BTS has the glass skin! So, let's gear up and pause the dream, as this retinol product by CLEF is here to fulfill your wish. CLEF Anti-Aging Moisturiser can help lock your precious skin's moisture and nutrients.
Additionally, it can control the existing fine lines by making them less visible so you will achieve a youthful look. Other than controlling, this moisturiser can prevent new wrinkles or fine lines from forming. With its Vitamin B3, it maintains your skin's moisture, nourishes and strengthens the skin barrier.
Details
- Skin concerns: Dryness, bumpy and rough skin, fine lines
- Key ingredients: Aloe vera, Squalane
- Texture: Light texture
- Volume: 50g
- Suitable for: Dry, sensitive, oily, combination skin
Who is this for?
Are you afraid of the possibility of the signs of ageing as you get older? Fear no more, as this product caters to all your needs. It suits every skin type and makes your skin plumper and radiant. Plus, you can easily carry the moisturiser anywhere as the product comes in travel size. You can say hello to hydrated and soft-looking skin by using it daily!
More: 8 Best Eye Creams That Are Gentle On Users With Sensitive Skin
Overview
Who says Retinol has to be expensive to be effective? Vibrant Glamour Natural Retinol Cream contains a high concentration of Retinol to provide the best skin benefits at an affordable price. Their formula has one of the highest concentrations of Retinol in comparison to other brands in the market today.
Suitable for all skin types, this potent Retinol cream contains 2.5% pure Retinol which helps combat five visible signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, rough texture, and loss of skin elasticity. It is a great anti-ageing skincare option as its formula has other ingredients like Vitamin E and Ascorbic Acid to ensure adequate anti-ageing effects on the skin.
Details
- Skin concerns: Hyperpigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, enlarged pores
- Key ingredients: 2.5% of pure Retinol, Vitamin E, Arbutin
- Texture: Creamy texture
- Volume: 30ml
- Suitable for: All types of skin
Who is this for?
This Retinol cream is commonly praised for its ability to transform dull-looking skin into healthy, glowing skin. Hence, this product suits those who want to revitalise their skin to a more youthful-looking face. As a result, your face will look brighter and younger than before!
More: Hydrate Your Skin with these Top 17 Face Moisturisers for Every Skin Type
Overview
Are you dreaming of smoother, firmer skin? Good Molecules' Gentle Retinol Cream might just be your skincare saviour. If acne has been a persistent concern, this fragrance-free retinol treatment is made to help you achieve that clear, radiant complexion.
With a gentle 0.1% retinol formula, it's designed to target fine lines, wrinkles, and elasticity issues, all while keeping dryness and irritation away.
Details
- Skin concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, lack of elasticity
- Key ingredients: 0.1% retinol
- Texture: Creamy texture
Who is this for?
This retinol cream is perfect for those battling acne and looking to improve the texture and appearance of their skin. It's especially well-suited for individuals with sensitive or dry skin types, offering a gentle yet effective solution to address your skin concerns.
Whether you're dealing with occasional breakouts or persistent acne, this product could be your secret weapon to healthier, happier skin.
More: These 8 Best Acne Skin Care Products Are Great For Your Stressed Out Skin
Overview
If you are looking for a serum that contains multivitamin ingredients, you can try this DESLY The All-In-One Retinol Serum. It has various vitamin combinations, including Vitamin B3, Vitamin C, and Vitamin E. First-time Retinol users can also use this serum as it is gentle enough on the skin despite its potent formula.
What makes it stand out from other retinol is, the product gives minimal irritation and less than 50% of redness. The combination of advanced technology of retinol with multivitamins delivers skin-renewing benefits by giving the optimum concentrated retinol for maximum results with minimal irritation.
Details
- Skin concerns: Blemishes, dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles
- Key ingredients: Vitamin B3 Niacinamide, Vitamin C and Vitamin E
- Texture: Light texture
- Volume: 30ml
- Suitable for: All types of skin
Who is this for?
Are you in your late 20’s or early 30’s? If yes, you might want to add and use retinol in your skincare routine to start treating or preventing ageing signs such as fine lines, wrinkles or pigmentations. Moving forward, you can purchase this serum by DESLY as it can help increase your skin collagen for a youthful-looking face.
Plus, it can brighten your skin and reduce the existing dark spots. Say adios to dullness and Hola to radiance!
Overview
Korean skincare has taken the world by storm with its innovation and nature-themed ingredients. So far, their skincare performance has yet to disappoint any skincare lovers. If you prefer Korean skincare products, then check out the latest innovative Retinol product from one of the most popular Korean brands, Innisfree.
Innisfree Retinol Cica Ampoule contains a formula that delivers a wide range of benefits for the skin. Infused with all-star ingredients like Retinol, Cica, Niacinamide, Salicylic Acid, Tocopherol, Adenosine, Allantoin, Beta-Glucan and Hyaluronic Acid, this ampoule provides gentle exfoliation, sebum control, helps soothe the skin and prevents future breakouts.
Details
- Skin concerns: Acne scars, oily skin, blemishes, enlarged pores
- Key ingredients: Retinol, Jeju Cica-Liposomlogy™
- Texture: Light texture
- Volume: 30ml
- Suitable for: All types of skin
Who is this for?
Innisfree is a force to be reckoned with for its gentle yet effective skincare lines. Despite being newly released, this product has become one of the top retinol skincare as it is gentle on the skin, helps soothe irritated skin, and brightens and reduces fine lines.
Furthermore, if you need something that can reduce the appearance of your acne scars, Innisfree Retinol Cica Ampoule is the solution. Most importantly, it does not cause breakouts and irritation to your skin!
Overview
Easily accessible from your nearest drugstore, this popular pharmacy retinol allows many individuals to enjoy the benefits of retinol thanks to its well-made formula and great price point.
This popular Japanese brand infuses Elasgrow and Fermented Soymilk in their lifting and firming lotion to boost the skin’s collagen and elastin production. As a result, there are visible improvements in skin density, firmness, and elasticity. Moreover, the formula contains powerful antioxidants that help fight against environmental stressors and keep the skin looking healthy.
Details
- Skin concerns: dullness, dry, enlarged pores
- Key ingredients: Elasgrow, Retinol (Vitamin A), Fermented Soymilk, Super Hyaluronic Acid (SHA)
- Texture: Thick texture
- Suitable for: Normal, dry skin
Who is this for?
Hada Labo Lifting + Firming Lotion is gentle on the skin and suitable for users with dry skin. Aside from hydrating the skin, it also can reduce skin flakiness and fine lines after 2 weeks of usage. Plus, if you use this in your daily skincare routine, the skin feels more lifted, firmer and smoother.
Overview
Hyperpigmentation spares no one. It affects all skin tones and may have a significant impact on self-confidence. Aside from wearing sunblock, other skin care products can aid in the reduction of these unsightly spots. This product is co-developed with dermatologists and uses a revolutionary dermatology science to develop a robust skin barrier.
What sets this formula apart from other Retinol products in the market is- the product is formulated with Derma Mimic complex. Together, the ingredient effectively strengthens the skin barrier by locking the skin moisture. The outcome? Your skin feels healthier and hydrated compared to before!
Details
- Skin concerns: Dryness, fine lines, deep wrinkles
- Key ingredients: Retinoic Ester, Retinol Ester
- Texture: Light texture
- Volume: 30ml
- Suitable for: All types of skin (including sensitive skin)
Who is this for?
Have you ever looked in the mirror and noticed the wrinkles are getting obvious? Fret not; This Dr Dermis Agedefy Double Power Retinol Concentrate is suitable to combat the problem. It helps in anti-ageing and skin brightening. Plus, you don’t need to use two different serums (day or night) to achieve these skin benefits, which is convenient and helps cut down on cost.
Overview
If you're looking for products that could help with fine lines and wrinkles, then the INKEY List's Retinol Eye Cream is the one for you. This product aims to give support to the most fragile skin which is your eye area. Formulated with a slow release of vitamin A, it has been shown that it can support natural collagen production, thus, providing a youthful and radiant appearance.
Details
- Skin concerns: Blemishes, dark spots, fine lines, wrinkles
- Key ingredients: Matrixyl 3000 peptide
- Texture: Light texture
- Volume: 15ml
- Suitable for: All types of skin
Who is this for?
Eye creams are rarely worth buying as they usually sell at high-priced. However, this eye cream is a bargain as it can reduce the appearance of the dark and puffiness under your eyes. The additional Matrixyl 3000 peptide, helps lessen the visibility of fine lines.
According to user reviews, you need to use it every night. Thus, your eyes look and feel more moisturised the next morning! Say goodbye forever to eyebags and puffiness.
FAQ:
- What does Retinol do for your skin?
First of all, retinol is a type of vitamin A derivative that can promote skin cell turnover. This physiological process is important in reducing the appearance of acne scars and it also stimulates collagen production which improves the skin texture of pitted scar variants.
It’s the only anti-ageing ingredient that’s scientifically proven to work, hence why it’s placed on a high pedestal in the skincare realm. Moreover, retinol has also been effective in fighting against dull skin, acne and scars due to its brightening abilities.
- Can retinol harm your skin?
Although highly effective in minimising fine lines, retinol can be drying and damaging for those with skin sensitivity. Therefore, it’s important to look for gentler formulas or better yet, consult with your dermatologist before diving into retinol.
If you’re ready to incorporate this powerhouse anti-ageing treatment into your arsenal, make sure to check out our list of recommended skincare products that are packed with retinol to promote young, beautiful skin.
- How often should you use Retinol?
The usage frequency of Retinol varies from person to person but the main determining factor would be if the skin is new to Retinol or has adapted to consistent use of Retinols. In other words, those without experience with Retinols in skincare should use Retinol sparingly in their skincare routine.
The suggested frequency of use would be once a day, every 2 to 3 days. If the skin isn’t able to tolerate the side effects of Retinol, then bigger gap days would be advisable. Our skin adapts to Retinols at a different speed. But rest assured that side effects such as peeling and redness are not red flags. Once the skin adapts to the use of Retinols, it can be applied on a daily basis.
- How do I take care of my skin while I’m using Retinol?
There is a downtime period for the skin to adjust to Retinol, especially for beginners that just started including Retinol into their skincare routine.
Downtime refers to the period for the skin to return to its normal state after initiation of use. Yes, you read that right. Whenever your skin reacts to Retinol within 24 hours, its downtime will typically last for a week.
For beginners:
- During this period, you may experience peeling, redness, discolouration and irritation.
- Before taking any steps to treat these symptoms, you should stop using Retinol temporarily.
- Next, you may use skincare that includes Aloe Vera or Witch Hazel to facilitate the healing process. Only use hypoallergenic formulas as the skin is in a vulnerable state.
- Make sure to moisturise and apply sunscreen to protect the skin barrier.
- Furthermore, you may apply Over The Counter (OTC) hydrocortisone cream sparingly on affected areas to calm the skin reaction.
Intermediate Retinol users:
- Intermediate Retinol users too have skin reactions after stepping up their Retinol concentration in their skincare routine. The downtime for this group of people is shorter in comparison to naïve skin.
- However, the steps to care for their skin during downtime are the same.
- Stop Retinol, for the time being, and focus on protecting the skin with hypoallergenic moisturisers and sunscreens. Work on soothing and facilitating healing with Aloe Vera or Witch Hazel.
- Lastly, users may apply OTC hydrocortisone to reduce skin reaction.
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