Buying guide · Skincare
The best retinol serums for beginners
Gentle, effective formulas for your first retinoid.
By Maya Okafor · Updated 7 October 2026
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Quick summary
Best overall: Lustro Renewing Serum. Use two to three nights a week to begin.
Start low and slow. These are the formulas we recommend for a first retinoid.
Our recommendations
- 01Best overall
Renewing face serum
£68 · Space NK
A gentle retinal serum for nightly use.
“Effective without the irritation.”
Shop at Space NK
Questions, answered
Can I use retinol every night?+
Build up gradually — start with two nights a week and increase as your skin tolerates it.
Beauty EditorMaya Okafor
Maya tests hundreds of products a year so you don't have to. Formulas first, packaging second.
