The 15 Best Retinol Body Lotions To Smooth Your Skin – 2024

Retinol is not just for the face— experience youthfulness again with these magical lotions.

Medically reviewed by Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD
Written by Shiboli Chakraborti, MA (English Literature), Certified Skin Care Coach
Edited by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness
Fact-checked by Arshiya Syeda, BA (Literature & Psychology), PG Diploma  • 

Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is usually incorporated in anti-aging formulations to improve collagen and elastin production to keep the skin younger. The best Retinol body lotions help combat aging signs like sagging skin, fine lines, and wrinkles. These aging signs can appear on any part of the body. So, you must not restrict the usage of retinol formulations only to the face. Hence, try body lotions that are formulated with retinol to keep your skin smooth, healthy, and with no signs of aging. Check out our expert-recommended list of the best body lotions. Keep scrolling

Top PicksCheck Price
Best Anti-Aging:Medix Retinol + Ferulic Acid Anti-Sagging Treatment
Price on Amazon
Best For Soothing Irritation:Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream
Price on Amazon
Best Dermatologist-Tested:NatureWell Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream
Price on Amazon
Best Sun Protection:pH Factor 5.5 Retinol+ Ferulic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Cream
Price on Amazon
Best Non-Greasy:Paula’s Choice Skin-Smoothing Retinol Body Treatment
Price on Amazon
Best For Improving Skin Tone:Rosen Apothecary Anti-Aging Retinol Body Lotion
Price on Amazon
Best Lightweight:Hemp Body Retinol Anti-Aging Body Lotion
Price on Amazon
Best Hydrating:Puritan’s Pride Retinol Body Lotion
Price on Amazon
Best Hypoallergenic:Arganatural Tightening Retinol Body Lotion
Price on Amazon
Best Clinically Proven:Replenix All-trans-Retinol Smoothing Body Lotion
Price on Amazon

Top 15 Retinol Body Lotions Of 2024

1. Best Anti-Aging: Medix Retinol + Ferulic Acid Anti-Sagging Treatment

4.3

This moisturizer has a pH of 5.5 and claims to promote smooth and healthy skin by enabling sun damage repair and improving your skin barrier function. It can be used on the face and as an all-over body treatment. It contains chamomile, black tea, and aloe vera extracts. This 100% vegan product provides visible results and imparts a radiant complexion. Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Philippine Dermatological Society, adds, “Ferulic acid in the formula serves as an antioxidant by fighting free radicals on the skin. These free radicals produce aging effects on the skin like fine lines and darkening of the skin.” In this YouTube video, you will find a detailed review of the Medix Retinol + Ferulic Acid Anti-Sagging Treatment.

Product Dimensions: 2.8 x 2.2 x 7.2 inches | Weight: 15.04 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Alcohol-free
  • PEG-free
  • No animal-derived ingredients
  • Dye-free
  • Talc-free
  • Mineral oil-free

Cons

  • The fragrance may be an issue for sensitive noses.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

With over 12,227 Amazon acclaimed reviews, this product is sure to find a place in everyone’s shopping bag.

2. Best For Soothing Irritation:Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream

4.3
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream Image: Advanced Clinicals

This clinically-tested anti-aging cream can also be used as a body lotion. So, you can use it both on your face and neck. It contains a decent concentration of hyaluronic acid that keeps your skin plump and hydrated. Apart from retinol, it also contains aloe vera and chamomile extracts that have proven efficacy. It prevents skin sagging and wrinkles and helps you achieve smoother skin.

Product Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 5 inches | Weight: 1.05 Pounds

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Not tested on animals
  • Soothes irritation
  • Improves skin elasticity

Cons

  • The pump might not work properly.
protip_icon Quick Tip

If you’re new to using retinol on your skin, ease into it gradually. Use it once a week at first to see how your skin reacts, then slowly increase the frequency of use.

Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 8,079 reviews claiming its efficacy.

3. Best Dermatologist-Tested:NatureWell Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream

4.4
NatureWell Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream Image: Naturewell
Now 47% Off

This dermatologist-recommended comforting moisturizer can be used on both the face and the body body for soft skin. It is developed with micro-encapsulated retinol that ensures maximum efficacy. It helps to boost skin firmness, promote skin cell turnover and elasticity, and improves your skin tone and texture. Click on this video to view the reviewer’s experience with this product.

Product Dimensions: 3.25 x 3.25 x 3.62 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

Pros

  • Clinically tested
  • Dermatologist-recommended
  • Paraben-free
  • Dye-free
  • No animal testing

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil
  • Contains synthetic fragrance

My Personal Experience

"This retinol body lotion makes the skin look visibly firmer and smoother. It is lightweight, has a nice fragrance, and absorbs quickly into the skin. It's suitable for regular nighttime use before bed."


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

More than 11,630 customers have given the product positive reviews on Amazon.

Medix Retinol + Ferulic Acid Anti-Sagging Treatment
Best Anti-Aging
Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream
Best For Soothing Irritation
NatureWell Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream
Best Dermatologist-Tested
Dimensions 2.8 x 2.2 x 7.2 inches 3.5 x 3.5 x 5 inches 3.25 x 3.25 x 3.62 inches
Weight 15.04 Ounces 1.05 Pounds 1 Pounds
Rating
Reviews12,2278,07911,630
Price$15.62$15.99$13.3

4. Best Sun Protection:pH Factor 5.5 Retinol+ Ferulic Acid Anti-Wrinkle Cream

4.2

This moisturizing cream combines retinol, a powerful anti-aging ingredient, and ferulic acid, an antioxidant. It claims to improve skin hydration levels by 88% and is excellent for both the face and the body. The nourishing professional-grade formula contains aloe vera, black tea, and chamomile extract that minimize sun damage, provide moisturizing benefits, and improve overall skin appearance, leaving you with soft, radiant skin.

Product Dimensions: 2 x 2 x 9 inches | Weight: 1 Pounds

Pros

  • Vegan
  • Cruelty-free
  • Paraben-free
  • PEG-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Formaldehyde-free
  • Dye-free
  • Mineral oil-free

Cons

  • Pump often doesn’t work.
  • The fragrance might irritate sensitive noses.

5. Best Non-Greasy:Paula’s Choice Skin-Smoothing Retinol Body Treatment

4.2
Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment Image: Paula's Choice

This is an anti-aging body treatment that claims to reduce uneven skin tone, hydrate the skin, and keep it replenished to feel smoother and younger. This lightweight retinol body lotion can be applied to the entire body and used for spot treatment to get visible results. This product offers smoothing effects and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Product Dimensions: 1.97 x 1.97 x 5.91 inches | Weight: 5.6 Ounces

Pros

  • Non-greasy
  • Paraben-free
  • Not tested on animals
  • Fragrance-free

Cons

  • Quantity is not enough for the price.
  • Users may find the fragrance unpleasant.

6. Best For Improving Skin Tone:Rosen Apothecary Anti-Aging Retinol Body Lotion

This retinol body lotion has an ultra-moisturizing argan oil base that helps keep the skin hydrated and soft. It contains retinol and caffeine that improve uneven skin tone and dark spots, keep it firm, and make it feel rejuvenated. The nourishing botanicals in this firming body lotion help brighten the skin, leaving you with radiant and smooth skin.

Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 9.37 x 3.46 x 3.43 inches | Weight :2 Pounds

Pros

  • Phthalate-free
  • No GMOs
  • Silicone-free
  • Cruelty-free

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil
  • Contains parabens
protip_icon Did You Know?

Retinol body lotion can not only improve skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, but it can also treat keratosis pilaris and ingrown hair.

7. Best Lightweight:Hemp Body Retinol Anti-Aging Body Lotion

This moisturizing lotion with antioxidant properties contains hemp oil and retinol. Both these active ingredients work together to support the elasticity of your skin and uneven texture and keep it firm and smooth. Dr. Patricia Gaile Espinosa, MD, Philippine Dermatological Society, adds, “Hemp seed oil acts on the skin barrier and locks in moisture in the skin. It can reduce inflammation and soothe dry flaking skin. It is also high in antioxidants like vitamin A, C, and E.” The product also claims to protect your skin from environmental oxidants and keep it healthy. It also contains hyaluronic acid, collagen amino acids, green tea, lemon, apple, and pomegranate extracts.

Product Dimensions:9.49 x 3.54 x 3.46 inches | Weight: 2 Pounds

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Dye-free
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil

8. Best Hydrating:Puritan’s Pride Retinol Body Lotion

4.1
Puritan’s Pride Retinol Body Lotion Image: Puritan’s

The retinol body lotion by Puritan contains 100,000 IU of vitamin A (retinyl palmitate) per ounce. It contains coconut oil and vitamin E that keeps the skin moisturized, hydrated, and soft to touch. It is a must-have in your skin care routine and can be used on the face and the body for soft and supple skin.

Number of Items: 2

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Not tested on animals

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil
protip_icon Quick Tip

Only apply retinol body lotion to clean, dry skin. Although damp skin absorbs products better, retinol should not be allowed to penetrate too deeply into the skin because it can cause irritation.

9. Best Hypoallergenic:Arganatural Tightening Retinol Body Lotion

This body lotion comes in a combo pack that also contains Arganatural Anti-aging Retinol Shower Gel. The body lotion contains retinol, caffeine, and hyaluronic acid that claim to address various skin concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, make your skin firm and toned, and keep it hydrated. It is suitable for all skin types.

Product Dimensions: ‎ 9.7 x 7.2 x 3.6 inches | Weight: 2 Pounds

Pros

  • Pleasant fragrance
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy texture

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil
  • Contains parabens

10. Best Clinically Proven:Replenix All-trans-Retinol Smoothing Body Lotion

4.1
Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion Image: Replenix

This deeply nourishing body treatment is developed with the latest stem cell technology and contains an antioxidant complex that reduces skin sagging, provides dry skin relief, helps even out bumpy skin, keeps it smooth, and protects it from harmful free radicals. It contains hyaluronic acid that keeps the skin plump and reduces signs of aging, thus improving skin texture as well. This video will offer you a deeper insight into the benefits of the Replenix All-trans-Retinol Smoothing Body Lotion. Check it out to find the reviewer’s experience with this product.

Product Dimensions: 6.75 x 3 x 3 inches | Weight: 8.16 Ounces

Pros

  • Suitable for all skin types
  • Oil-free
  • Paraben-free
  • Fragrance-free
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Non-comedogenic

Cons

  • Expensive

My Personal Experience

"This lotion is quite nourishing. It helps in softening rough and dry patches. It brightens the skin and improves the texture. It has a thick consistency and offers lasting hydration."


protip_icon Pro Tip

Retinol can cause the skin to become slightly dry. So, use body oil to lock moisture into the skin, especially if you have naturally dry skin.

11. Best Organic:Skincare Cosmetics Retinol Anti-Aging Body Lotion

This body lotion is an all-in-one lotion that offers moisturization, exfoliation, and nourishment to your skin to make it look luminous and youthful. This clinically-proven retinol body lotion contains ingredients like green tea extracts and vitamins A, C, and E that aid in wrinkle reduction and skin cell renewal. It keeps the skin nourished, moisturized, and soft. It is suitable for all skin types, especially dry and sensitive skin types.

Product Dimensions: 2.5 x 2.5 x 6.75 inches | Weight: 8 Ounces

Pros

  • Clinically proven
  • Lightweight
  • Non-greasy

Cons

  • Fragrance might irritate sensitive noses.

My Personal Experience

"This body lotion smoothes the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on my skin. It moisturizes the skin and eliminates dry patches. My skin feels soft and looks radiant with the regular use of this lotion. It also has a mild fragrance, which I find refreshing."


12. Best Mineral Oil-Free:Bloom Retinol+Green Tea Anti-Wrinkle Cream

The key ingredient of this body lotion is mineral oil. That means this is not non-comedogenic. Hence, if you have acne-prone skin, avoid this product. It contains retinol and green tea extracts that help with body acne and reduce age spots, discoloration, wrinkles, and fine lines. It also contains chamomile that has anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used as a face cream and a body moisturizer.

Package Dimensions: : 5.91 x 3.15 x 3.15 inches| Weight: 15 Ounces

Pros

  • Paraben-free
  • Not tested on animals
  • Contains botanical extracts

Cons

  • Contains mineral oil

13. Best Clinically Proven Formula:Cosmedix A-Lift Overnight Vitamin A Body Treatment

3.9
Cosmedix A-Lift Overnight Vitamin A Body Treatment Image: Cosmedix

This product contains two types of vitamin A – retinol and retinal – which help to gently exfoliate the skin and make it firm and smooth gradually. This is an overnight hydrating lotion for complete skin rejuvenation. This clinically-proven formula contains a blend of antioxidants, caffeine, safflower seed oil, and bakuchiol that rejuvenate the skin. This product is only for the body and not the face.

Product Dimensions: 2.25 x 2.25 x 6 inches | Weight: 4.8 Ounces.

Pros

  • Clinically proven
  • Paraben-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Mineral oil-free

Cons

None

14. Best For All Hair Types:E. Burnham Retinol Body Lotion

This retinol body lotion is formulated with vitamins A, C, D, and E, along with aloe vera and other botanical extracts. This product helps soothe your skin and keep it soft and nourished. It is suitable for all skin types, especially dry and aging skin, as it provides the necessary moisture boost to give you plump and firm skin.

Unit Count:1.00 Fl Oz

Pros

  • Contains natural extracts
  • Pleasant fragrance

Cons

  • Contains parabens
  • Contains Imidazolidinyl Urea
  • Contains artificial fragrance and color
  • Contains mineral oil

15. Best Nourishing:BEUNiQ Anti-Aging Retinol Body Lotion

This body lotion contains coconut oil and shea butter – two of the most skin-nourishing ingredients that help keep your skin soft and hydrated. Along with retinol, these ingredients keep your skin firm and moisturized and improve the skin layer and overall appearance. It also contains collagen amino acids that keep your skin healthy and promote a youthful appearance.

Product Dimensions: 9.75 x 3.25 x 3.25 inches | Weight: 2.33 Pounds.

Pros

  • Contains natural ingredients

Cons

  • Contains parabens
  • Contains PEG

If you are wondering how these retinol body lotions can help maintain the youthful glow and address specific skin issues, scroll down.

How Can A Retinol Body Lotion Take Care Of Your Skin?

Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A and is available in different forms. Usually, retinoids are stronger, and you need a doctor’s prescription to use them. However, body lotions and skin care products use mild versions of retinoids, like retinol and its derivatives. It helps your skin in the following ways (1):

  • Reduces transepidermal water loss (prevents dryness and helps with flaky skin)
  • Stimulates collagen production
  • Reduces UV-induced skin damage (like spots, pigmentation, etc.)
  • Improves fine lines and wrinkles
  • Reduces photoaging

Retinoids and their derivatives are considered one of the best anti-aging agents. But before you pick a retinol body lotion, you need to consider a few factors.

What To Look For Before Picking A Retinol Body Lotion?

It is quite obvious that you have to pick a product that says, “Contains Retinol.

However, the product may also contain different forms of retinol. Some are mild, less irritating, and take longer to show results, and some are high strength and give faster results.

Look for the following names in the ingredients list:

Weaker Type (slow results)

  • Retinyl Acetate
  • Retinyl Palmitate
  • Retinyl Propionate

Stronger Type (for fast results)

  • Tretinoin
  • Isotretinoin

Also, check for products that have at least 0.1% of retinol. Remember, you need to use the product for at least 3-6 months before you expect any visible results. You also need to ensure that you are using the product the right way to avoid the risk of skin irritation.

How To Apply A Retinol Body Lotion

Retinol products should be applied at night because:

  • UV rays can break down the retinoids.
  • Your skin absorbs products better and repairs itself when you are asleep.

Also, if you are using retinol products, make sure you are using sunscreen during the daytime. Retinoids make your skin sensitive to sun damage, so using sunscreen for UV protection is non-negotiable. Also, it is advised to do a small patch test on your wrist or elbows before using a retinol body lotion regularly.

Infographic: A Skin Care Junkie’s Guide To Retinol Products

Take a look at the following infographic before choosing any Retinol product or Retinol-based lotions. It will help you understand what retinols are and the multiple benefits of using retinol derivatives and products. Get plump, youthful skin with the help of the right retinol products for your skin type.

A-Skin-Care-Junkie’s-Guide-To-Retinol-Products

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Get the high-quality PDF version of this infographic.

Download Infographic in PDF version

The Bottom Line

Body lotions are a great way to keep your skin hydrated and pampered. But generic lotions can’t combat the aging signs. So aging skin needs specially formulated lotions to stay hydrated and combat aging signs. Retinol is one such magical ingredient that combats fine lines, wrinkles, and other aging signs. For instance, the Medix Retinol + Ferulic Acid Anti-Sagging Treatment has a 5.5 pH and helps repair and restore skin damage, and the Advanced Clinicals Retinol Advanced Firming Cream targets wrinkles to keep the skin plump, while the NatureWell Retinol Advanced Moisture Cream promotes smoother and hydrated skin. So invest in the best dermatologist-recommended retinol body lotions to minimize the aging signs and keep the skin young and healthy. And refrain from the lotions formulated with paraben as they might be harmful to the skin.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

Shiboli Chakraborti, the author of this article, is a certified skin care coach. She recommends using these retinol body lotions to improve collagen and elastin production and reduce the early signs of aging. She conducted extensive research into these products and went through all their reviews on multiple forums. She selected these products based on their ingredients and the absence of harsh elements like parabens.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of retinol is considered safe?

Use a product that has a minimum of 0.1% retinol. Usually, all OTC skin care products have mild retinol, which is well tolerated. For a stronger dosage, you need to have a doctor’s prescription.

What is the highest percentage of retinol?

The highest percentage of retinol that you will get without any prescription is 2.0%.

What shouldn’t you mix or use with retinol?

Never combine AHA and BHAs with retinol. Using both can make your skin excessively dry and cause redness and irritation.

How often should you apply retinol body lotion?

To understand how your skin reacts to retinol, apply the body lotion twice a week at first. If the results are positive, you can start using retinol body lotions regularly. However, it will be wise to contact your dermatologist before adding retinol to your skin care regime.

Is retinol good for crepey skin?

Yes. In fact, retinol helps reduce the crepey appearance of your skin. Retinol restores skin elasticity and boosts collagen production to offer a smoother look to your skin.

Does retinol reduce cellulite?

Yes, retinol can reduce the appearance of cellulite in four weeks. If you use it for a longer period of time, you might find more improvement in your skin, including better elasticity and a youthful glow.

References

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Mukherjee, Siddharth et al. “Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safety.” Clinical interventions in aging 1,4 (2006): 327-48.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2699641/

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