ALLURE MAGAZINE: best retinol alternative

By Tanne Snowden

13 Best Retinol Body Lotions of 2024 for Firmer Skin

These formulas tackle everything from creping skin to discoloration.
While you're probably familiar with the benefits of retinol in your face products, investing in one of the best retinol body lotions is key in addressing uneven tone, sagging skin, and breakouts below the neck. "Retinol works exactly the same on all skin, whether it's on the face or body," says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada—however, you'll typically find lower concentrations of retinol in body-care products versus their counterparts. Those with sensitive skin may be hesitant to try any retinol at all, but we've got options for everyone. Plus, Jenny Liu, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor in the Twin Cities, offers this sound advice: "When choosing a retinol body lotion, look for formulations with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to counteract the dryness and irritation that retinol can sometimes cause."
Ahead, we listed every retinol body lotion, cream, and serum that board-certified dermatologists (and our very own lot of beauty editors) swear by for skin that needs blemish-, dullness-, and crepe-reducing care.

Best Retinol Alternative: Tronque Everyday Revelation Exfoliating Refining Serum

Why it's worth it: Nervous to dive right into retinol and its derivatives? We've got you—or rather, Tronque does. The Everyday Revelation Exfoliating Refining Serum infuses bakuchiol (a gentle, plant-based retinol alternative) with seven natural AHAs and BHA (like bilberry and caviar lime extracts) to accelerate cell turnover, brighten tone, smooth uneven texture, and curb excess oil production. Because it's a body serum, it penetrates and absorbs quickly—leaving behind a smooth, barely-there feel. It's moisturizing enough to use on its own but layers well with a body butter if your skin craves more.

Tester feedback: "It's no secret I'm extremely lazy with my body-care routine—2025 is going to be the year that changes…fingers crossed," commerce editor Sarah Han says. "I'm already making progress because Everyday Revelation doesn't make my skin sticky, which is my biggest gripe with body-care products—I'm trying to dive into my bed ASAP. Though it's stocked with actives, it doesn't irritate my skin at all and the subtle citrusy scent is a nice touch, too. The best part: My legs felt noticeably smoother and softer the next morning."

Key ingredients: | Who it's for: people with rough, textured, or sun-damaged skin; people with KP or ingrown hairs | Fragrance-free: yes

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