The buyer question · week of Nov 2 – 8

Best Retinol for Beginners Ranking

Picked by AI, checked by people.

The weekly chart ?

The top 20 products brands right now.

Product chart

Current race ?

This week ?

La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum holds #1.

#1 in 2 of the last 25 weeks

1 debut1 back2 out

All 23 moves ↓

Tap a card for each AI’s place and the monthly check.

#Productprice ≈Place by weekLast weekWeeks in top 20Top-20 weeks
  1. #1same place as last weekRetinol B3 SerumLa Roche-PosayAlso #7 Skincare · #13 Beauty & Personal CareLast week #1 · 24 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#7
    2. Claude#4
    3. Gemini#2
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#10

    named by 4/6

    The card’s #1 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.57,921 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 9 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    9 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Here's What You Should Know About La Roche Posay Retinol B3 SerumYouTube: SkinZone · 58.9K views · Apr 2024

    Also in the top 20 of ?

    Search Google for La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
  2. #2same place as last weekResurfacing Retinol SerumCeraVeMonthly check: Passes the checkAlso #5 Skincare · #10 Beauty & Personal CareLast week #2 · 25 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#3
    2. Claude#1
    3. Gemini#1
    4. AI Mode#1
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#4

    named by 5/6

    The card’s #2 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Passes the check · buyers rate it highly ?
    • Buyers’ rating4.76,673 ratings · Oct 2026

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Cerave Resurfacing Retinol Serum Review| Dr DrayYouTube: Dr Dray · 595K views · Oct 2019

    Also in the top 20 of ?

    Search Google for CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
  3. #3same place as last weekRetinol 0.2% in SqualaneThe OrdinaryAlso #17 SkincareLast week #3 · 25 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#1
    2. Claude#2
    3. Gemini#5
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#7

    named by 4/6

    The card’s #3 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.621,462 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 9 threads read · Oct 2026
    • Press3/4outlets recommend · 0 with more cons than pros · Jul 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Press · 4 publications
    • Good HousekeepingRecommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • ByrdieRecommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • Refinery29Recommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • Lab Muffin Beauty ScienceMixed · Date not savedOriginal
    Owners

    9 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Watch · YouTube ?

    The Ordinary Retinol 0.2 in Squalane review after 1 monthYouTube: Juliya Yasmin · 77.6K views · Jun 2021

    Also in the top 20 of ?

    Search Google for The Ordinary Retinol 0.2% in Squalane
  4. #4same place as last weekCrystal Retinal 1Medik8Last week #4 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#10
    2. Claude#13
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#3

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #4 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.67,711 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 9 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    9 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Search Google for Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1
  5. #5up 5 places since last weekClinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol TreatmentPaula's ChoiceMonthly check: Passes the checkLast week #10 · 23 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#8
    2. Claude#5
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#9

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #5 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Passes the check · buyers rate it highly ?
    • Buyers’ rating4.74,200 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 7 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    7 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Search Google for Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
  6. #6up 1 place since last weekRapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating CreamNeutrogenanot checkedLast week #7 · 8 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#4
    2. Claude#3
    3. Gemini#3
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #6 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream
  7. #7down 1 place since last weekStarter Retinol SerumThe Inkey Listnot checkedLast week #6 · 3 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#1

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #7 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for The Inkey List Starter Retinol Serum
  8. #8up 1 place since last weekRetinol Youth Renewal SerumMuradAlso #18 Best Peptide SerumsLast week #9 · 25 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#11
    3. Gemini#12
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#25

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #8 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.65,455 ratings · Jun 2026
    • Press4/4outlets recommend · 0 with more cons than pros · Jul 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Press · 4 publications
    • Good HousekeepingRecommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • Refinery29Recommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • ByrdieRecommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • Harper's BAZAARRecommends · Date not savedOriginal

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Murad 🔂 Resurgence Retinol Youth Renewal Serum Review & How to UseYouTube: No BS Beauty · 13.7K views · Aug 2020

    Also in the top 20 of ?

    Search Google for Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum
  9. #9down 4 places since last weekPress Restart Gentle Retinol SerumVersedLast week #5 · 25 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#23
    2. Claude#20
    3. Gemini#9
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#26

    named by 4/6

    The card’s #9 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.6401 ratings · Jun 2026

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Versed Skincare 🆕 Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum Review and How to UseYouTube: No BS Beauty · 14.3K views · Aug 2020
    Search Google for Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
  10. #10up 1 place since last weekA-Passioni Retinol CreamDrunk ElephantSingle offer $76 · single offer, seen in OctLast week #11 · 23 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#19
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemini#11
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #10 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.37,161 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Score read from review videos4.2/5read from 5 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123

    Price · seen in Oct 2026 ?

    Single offer$76one-timesingle offer1 store

    View offer

    Watch · YouTube ?

    DRUNK ELEPHANT A-PASSIONI RETINOL CREAM REVIEW| DR DRAYYouTube: Dr Dray · 184K views · Oct 2019
    Search Google for Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
  11. #11down 3 places since last weekRetinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose SerumKiehl'snot checkedLast week #8 · 4 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#17
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #11 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Kiehl's Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
  12. #12same place as last weekRegenerist Retinol 24 Night MoisturizerOlaynot checkedLast week #12 · 11 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Mode#4
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #12 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer
  13. #13up 1 place since last weekRetinol 0.3SkinCeuticalsLast week #14 · 21 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#15
    2. Claude#10
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #13 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.6779 ratings · Oct 2026
    Search Google for SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.3
  14. #14down 1 place since last weekA+ High-Dose Retinoid SerumSunday RileyLast week #13 · 25 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#18
    2. Claude#14
    3. Gemini#16
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 3/6

    The card’s #14 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.65,579 ratings · Jun 2026
    • Score read from review videos3.4/5read from 5 videos · Oct 2026 ? 123

    Watch · YouTube ?

    Drunk Elephant 🐘 A Passioni Retinol 🆚 Sunday Riley A+ High Dose Retinoid SerumYouTube: No BS Beauty · 56.2K views · Oct 2019
    Search Google for Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum
  15. #15up 2 places since last weekAdapalene Gel 0.1%DifferinAlso #14 Best Acne TreatmentsLast week #17 · 25 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#8
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #15 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.517,650 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Owners’ threads: widespread, serious failures0serious failures · 9 threads read · Oct 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Owners

    9 threads read · 0 serious failure themes

    Also in the top 20 of ?

    Search Google for Differin Adapalene Gel 0.1%
  16. #16up 5 places since last weekRetinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle SerumRoCRe-entrynot checkedLast week #21 · 7 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claude#6
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexity#21

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #16 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum
  17. #17up 5 places since last weekRetinol24 Night MoisturizerOlayDebutnot checkedLast week #22 · 1 week in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#5
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #17 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Olay Retinol24 Night Moisturizer
  18. #18down 2 places since last weekRetinol SerumThe Inkey ListLast week #16 · 15 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#2
    2. Claude#27
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 2/6

    The card’s #18 is the 4-week average.

    People · October 2026 check ?

    • Buyers’ rating4.8735 ratings · Oct 2026
    • Press1/3outlets recommend · 0 with more cons than pros · Sep 2026
    Evidence
    Check evidence
    Frozen October 29, 2026
    Press · 3 publications
    • Refinery29Recommends · Date not savedOriginal
    • AllureMixed · Date not savedOriginal
    • ByrdieMixed · Date not savedOriginal

    Watch · YouTube ?

    The Inkey List Retinol Serum Review | Doctor AnneYouTube: Doctor Anne · 103K views · Sep 2020
    Search Google for The Inkey List Retinol Serum
  19. #19same place as last weekCrystal Retinal 3Medik8not checkedLast week #19 · 5 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPT#14
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemininot named
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #19 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3
  20. #20down 2 places since last week0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol TreatmentPaula's Choicenot checkedLast week #18 · 19 weeks in top 20

    AI places · this week ?

    1. GPTnot named
    2. Claudenot named
    3. Gemini#4
    4. AI Modenot named
    5. Groknot named
    6. Perplexitynot named

    named by 1/6

    The card’s #20 is the 4-week average.

    Not in the October 2026 check ?

    Search Google for Paula's Choice 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment

Dropped out of the top 20 ?

Show places 21–100Hide places 21–100
  1. #21RetrinAL 0.05 CreamAvène · last wk #26 1 wk in top 20
  2. #22FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25% Pure ConcentrateFirst Aid Beauty · last wk #30 4 wks in top 20
  3. #23Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum CapsulesRoC · last wk #23 13 wks in top 20
  4. #24Squalane + Retinol Night SerumBiossance · last wk #25 0 wks in top 20
  5. #25Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%Naturium · last wk #15 10 wks in top 20
  6. #26Regenerist Retinol24 Night MoisturizerOlay · last wk #27 3 wks in top 20
  7. #27Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing SerumRoC · last wk #28 3 wks in top 20
  8. #28Regenerist Retinol24 Night SerumOlay · last wk #49 0 wks in top 20
  9. #29Retinol Anti-Aging SerumThe Inkey List · last wk #20 3 wks in top 20
  10. #30Granactive Retinoid 2% EmulsionThe Ordinary · last wk #39 22 wks in top 20Passes the check
  11. #31Granactive Retinoid 2% in SqualaneThe Ordinary · last wk #33 0 wks in top 20
  12. #32Beginner Retinol Gel 0.1%cocokind · last wk #63 0 wks in top 20
  13. #33Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and PeptideKiehl's · last wk #48 0 wks in top 20
  14. #34Resurfacing Retinol Serum 2025CeraVe · last wk #32 0 wks in top 20
  15. #35Retinol 0.5% in SqualaneThe Ordinary · last wk #34 0 wks in top 20
  16. #36FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25%First Aid Beauty · last wk #29 0 wks in top 20
  17. #37Retinol Complex Serum 0.05%Naturium · last wk #36 0 wks in top 20
  18. #38Stargaze Retinol SerumMaelove · last wk #35 0 wks in top 20
  19. #39Skin Renewing Retinol SerumCeraVe · last wk #68 20 wks in top 20
  20. #40Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night MoisturizerOlay · last wk #38 0 wks in top 20
  21. #41Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily MoisturizerRoC · last wk #40 0 wks in top 20
  22. #42Retinol Smoothing Serum 0.5%Naturium · last wk #74 0 wks in top 20
  23. #43Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration CreamRoC · last wk #42 0 wks in top 20
  24. #44The Retinol CreamTatcha · last wk #83 0 wks in top 20
  25. #45A-Game 5Geek & Gorgeous · last wk #59 0 wks in top 20
  26. #46Gentle Retinol CreamGood Molecules · last wk #24 11 wks in top 20Passes the check
  27. #47Avocado Ceramide Recovery SerumGlow Recipe · last wk #51 0 wks in top 20
  28. #48Retinol Complex SerumNaturium · last wk #43 0 wks in top 20
  29. #49Retinoid 1 Vitamin A Face SerumSkin · last wk #47 0 wks in top 20
  30. #50Retinol ReformShani Darden Skin Care · last wk #45 0 wks in top 20
  31. #51Retinol For All Renewing SerumPeach & Lily · last wk #56 0 wks in top 20
  32. #520.3% Retinol Complex with PeptidesFirst Aid Beauty · last wk #37 0 wks in top 20
  33. #53Beginner Retinol Gelcocokind · last wk #31 7 wks in top 20Passes the check
  34. #54Positively Ageless Retinol CreamAveeno · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  35. #55Retinol 0.3% Refining Night CreamSkinCeuticals · last wk #46 6 wks in top 20
  36. #56Retinol B3 Face SerumLa Roche-Posay · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  37. #57Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil 3.0Neutrogena · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  38. #58Retinol Serum / Beginner DuoThe Inkey List · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  39. #59Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol EmulsionPaula's Choice · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  40. #60Clinical 0.3% Retinol + BakuchiolPaula's Choice · last wk #53 0 wks in top 20
  41. #61Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil MoisturizerNeutrogena · last wk #54 0 wks in top 20
  42. #62Press Restart Retinol SerumVersed · last wk #90 0 wks in top 20
  43. #63Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil-Free MoisturizerNeutrogena · last wk #58 0 wks in top 20
  44. #64Resurfacing Retinol Serum LatestCeraVe · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  45. #65Retinol B3 Serum 2025La Roche-Posay · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  46. #66Science AlphaRet Overnight CreamSkinBetter · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  47. #67Regenerist Retinol 24 Night CreamOlay · last wk #60 0 wks in top 20
  48. #680.1% Retinol Skin-Perfecting TreatmentPaula's Choice · last wk #64 0 wks in top 20
  49. #69Retinol24 Night Smoothing SerumOlay · last wk #65 0 wks in top 20
  50. #70Retinol 0.2% in Squalane 2026The Ordinary · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  51. #71Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Serum AdvancedRoC · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  52. #72Crystal Retinal 1 or 3Medik8 · last wk #66 0 wks in top 20
  53. #73Retinol Serum 0.25% Pure ConcentrateFirst Aid Beauty · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  54. #74Herbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative SerumHerbivore · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  55. #75Retinal 0.2% EmulsionThe Ordinary · last wk #69 2 wks in top 20
  56. #76Retinol Eye Cream 2.0The Inkey List · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  57. #770.1% Gentle Retinol SerumDr. Althea · last wk #85 0 wks in top 20
  58. #78Squalane + Phyto-Retinol SerumBiossance · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  59. #790.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol CreamPaula's Choice · last wk #73 0 wks in top 20
  60. #80Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil 0.3%Neutrogena · last wk #72 0 wks in top 20
  61. #81Luna Sleeping Night Oil New GenSunday Riley · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  62. #82Regenerist Retinol24 Starter Night Repairing LotionOlay · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  63. #83Luna Sleeping Night Oil 2026 EditionSunday Riley · last wk #76 0 wks in top 20
  64. #84Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Retinol Cream Fragrance-FreeNeutrogena · last wk #77 0 wks in top 20
  65. #85Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol SerumNeutrogena · last wk #81 3 wks in top 20
  66. #86Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil 2026Neutrogena · last wk #82 0 wks in top 20
  67. #87Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with CeramidesKiehl's · last wk #79 0 wks in top 20
  68. #88Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol CreamNeutrogena · last wk #80 0 wks in top 20
  69. #89Retinol Intense Reactivating SerumSOME BY MI · last wk #71 0 wks in top 20
  70. #90Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and PeptidesKiehl's · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  71. #91Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Cream 0.3%Neutrogena · last wk #89 0 wks in top 20
  72. #92Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% BakuchiolPaula's Choice · last wk #88 0 wks in top 20
  73. #93Adapalene Gel 0.1% 2026 FormulaDifferin · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  74. #94Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Hydrating MoisturizerOlay · last wk #93 2 wks in top 20
  75. #95Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Daily Moisturizer SPF 30RoC · last wk #92 0 wks in top 20
  76. #96Retinol Complex Cream 0.05%Naturium · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  77. #97Retinol Fusion PM Night SerumPeter Thomas Roth · last wk — 0 wks in top 20
  78. #98Retinol TonicPixi · last wk #95 0 wks in top 20
  79. #99Retinol Eye CreamThe Inkey List · last wk #96 0 wks in top 20
  80. #100Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Anti-Aging Night CreamRoC · last wk — 0 wks in top 20

Brand chart

Current race ?

This week ?

CeraVe holds #1.

#1 in 25 of the last 25 weeks

All 26 moves ↓

Tap a card for its products here, its price tier and other charts.

#BrandPlace by weekLast weekWeeks in top 20Top-20 weeks
  1. #1same place as last weekCeraVeModels here: #2 Resurfacing Retinol Serum · #34 Resurfacing Retinol Serum 2025 · +2Last week #1 · 25 weeks in top 20

    CeraVe products here ?

    4 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #2 Resurfacing Retinol SerumPasses the check: buyers 4.7★
    2. #34 Resurfacing Retinol Serum 2025below the top 20
    3. #39 Skin Renewing Retinol Serumbelow the top 20
    4. #64 Resurfacing Retinol Serum Latestbelow the top 20

    Where CeraVe is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for CeraVe retinol for beginners
  2. #2same place as last weekLa Roche-PosayModels here: #1 Retinol B3 Serum · #56 Retinol B3 Face Serum · +1Last week #2 · 25 weeks in top 20

    La Roche-Posay products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #1 Retinol B3 SerumBuyers’ rating 4.5 · 7.9K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #56 Retinol B3 Face Serumbelow the top 20
    3. #65 Retinol B3 Serum 2025below the top 20

    Where La Roche-Posay is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for La Roche-Posay retinol for beginners
  3. #3same place as last weekThe OrdinaryModels here: #3 Retinol 0.2% in Squalane · #30 Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion · +4Last week #3 · 25 weeks in top 20

    The Ordinary products here ?

    6 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #3 Retinol 0.2% in SqualaneBuyers’ rating 4.6 · 21.5K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #30 Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsionbelow the top 20
    3. #31 Granactive Retinoid 2% in Squalanebelow the top 20
    4. #35 Retinol 0.5% in Squalanebelow the top 20
    5. #70 Retinol 0.2% in Squalane 2026below the top 20

    Where The Ordinary is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for The Ordinary retinol for beginners
  4. #4same place as last weekOlayModels here: #12 Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer · #17 Retinol24 Night Moisturizer · +7Last week #4 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Olay products here ?

    9 products in the top 100 · 2 in the top 20

    1. #12 Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizernot checked
    2. #17 Retinol24 Night Moisturizernot checked
    3. #26 Regenerist Retinol24 Night Moisturizerbelow the top 20
    4. #28 Regenerist Retinol24 Night Serumbelow the top 20
    5. #40 Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Moisturizerbelow the top 20

    Where Olay is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Olay retinol for beginners
  5. #5up 2 places since last weekThe Inkey ListModels here: #7 Starter Retinol Serum · #18 Retinol Serum · +4Last week #7 · 22 weeks in top 20

    The Inkey List products here ?

    6 products in the top 100 · 2 in the top 20

    1. #7 Starter Retinol Serumnot checked
    2. #18 Retinol SerumBuyers’ rating 4.8 · 735 ratings · Oct 2026
    3. #29 Retinol Anti-Aging Serumbelow the top 20
    4. #58 Retinol Serum / Beginner Duobelow the top 20
    5. #76 Retinol Eye Cream 2.0below the top 20

    Where The Inkey List is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for The Inkey List retinol for beginners
  6. #6down 1 place since last weekPaula's ChoiceModels here: #5 Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment · #20 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment · +5Last week #5 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Paula's Choice products here ?

    7 products in the top 100 · 2 in the top 20

    1. #5 Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol TreatmentPasses the check: buyers 4.7★
    2. #20 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatmentnot checked
    3. #59 Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Emulsionbelow the top 20
    4. #60 Clinical 0.3% Retinol + Bakuchiolbelow the top 20
    5. #68 0.1% Retinol Skin-Perfecting Treatmentbelow the top 20

    Where Paula's Choice is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Paula's Choice retinol for beginners
  7. #7down 1 place since last weekNeutrogenaModels here: #6 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream · #57 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil 3.0 · +8Last week #6 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Neutrogena products here ?

    10 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #6 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Creamnot checked
    2. #57 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil 3.0below the top 20
    3. #61 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil Moisturizerbelow the top 20
    4. #63 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil-Free Moisturizerbelow the top 20
    5. #80 Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Oil 0.3%below the top 20

    Where Neutrogena is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Neutrogena retinol for beginners
  8. #8same place as last weekRoCModels here: #16 Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serum · #23 Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsules · +6Last week #8 · 25 weeks in top 20

    RoC products here ?

    8 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #16 Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Serumnot checked
    2. #23 Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum Capsulesbelow the top 20
    3. #27 Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Serumbelow the top 20
    4. #41 Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Daily Moisturizerbelow the top 20
    5. #43 Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Max Hydration Creambelow the top 20
    Search Google for RoC retinol for beginners
  9. #9up 1 place since last weekFirst Aid BeautyModels here: #22 FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25% Pure Concentrate · #36 FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25% · +2Last week #10 · 25 weeks in top 20

    First Aid Beauty products here ?

    4 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #22 FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25% Pure Concentratebelow the top 20
    2. #36 FAB Skin Lab Retinol Serum 0.25%below the top 20
    3. #52 0.3% Retinol Complex with Peptidesbelow the top 20
    4. #73 Retinol Serum 0.25% Pure Concentratebelow the top 20

    Where First Aid Beauty is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for First Aid Beauty retinol for beginners
  10. #10up 1 place since last weekKiehl'sModels here: #11 Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum · #33 Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptide · +2Last week #11 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Kiehl's products here ?

    4 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #11 Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serumnot checked
    2. #33 Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptidebelow the top 20
    3. #87 Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramidesbelow the top 20
    4. #90 Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum with Ceramides and Peptidesbelow the top 20

    Where Kiehl's is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Kiehl's retinol for beginners
  11. #11down 2 places since last weekMedik8Models here: #4 Crystal Retinal 1 · #19 Crystal Retinal 3 · +1Last week #9 · 24 weeks in top 20

    Medik8 products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 2 in the top 20

    1. #4 Crystal Retinal 1Buyers’ rating 4.6 · 7.7K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #19 Crystal Retinal 3not checked
    3. #72 Crystal Retinal 1 or 3below the top 20

    Where Medik8 is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Medik8 retinol for beginners
  12. #12same place as last weekNaturiumModels here: #25 Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05% · #37 Retinol Complex Serum 0.05% · +3Last week #12 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Naturium products here ?

    5 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #25 Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05%below the top 20
    2. #37 Retinol Complex Serum 0.05%below the top 20
    3. #42 Retinol Smoothing Serum 0.5%below the top 20
    4. #48 Retinol Complex Serumbelow the top 20
    5. #96 Retinol Complex Cream 0.05%below the top 20

    Where Naturium is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Naturium retinol for beginners
  13. #13up 1 place since last weekSunday RileyModels here: #14 A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum · #81 Luna Sleeping Night Oil New Gen · +1Last week #14 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Sunday Riley products here ?

    3 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #14 A+ High-Dose Retinoid SerumBuyers’ rating 4.6 · 5.6K ratings · Jun 2026
    2. #81 Luna Sleeping Night Oil New Genbelow the top 20
    3. #83 Luna Sleeping Night Oil 2026 Editionbelow the top 20

    Where Sunday Riley is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Sunday Riley retinol for beginners
  14. #14up 1 place since last weekMuradModels here: #8 Retinol Youth Renewal SerumLast week #15 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Murad products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #8 Retinol Youth Renewal SerumBuyers’ rating 4.6 · 5.5K ratings · Jun 2026

    Where Murad is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Murad retinol for beginners
  15. #15up 2 places since last weekDrunk ElephantModels here: #10 A-Passioni Retinol CreamLast week #17 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Drunk Elephant products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #10 A-Passioni Retinol CreamBuyers’ rating 4.3 · 7.2K ratings · Oct 2026

    Where Drunk Elephant is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Drunk Elephant retinol for beginners
  16. #16down 3 places since last weekVersedModels here: #9 Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum · #62 Press Restart Retinol SerumLast week #13 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Versed products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #9 Press Restart Gentle Retinol SerumBuyers’ rating 4.6 · 401 ratings · Jun 2026
    2. #62 Press Restart Retinol Serumbelow the top 20
    Search Google for Versed retinol for beginners
  17. #17down 1 place since last weekSkinCeuticalsModels here: #13 Retinol 0.3 · #55 Retinol 0.3% Refining Night CreamLast week #16 · 25 weeks in top 20

    SkinCeuticals products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #13 Retinol 0.3Buyers’ rating 4.6 · 779 ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #55 Retinol 0.3% Refining Night Creambelow the top 20

    Where SkinCeuticals is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for SkinCeuticals retinol for beginners
  18. #18same place as last weekDifferinModels here: #15 Adapalene Gel 0.1% · #93 Adapalene Gel 0.1% 2026 FormulaLast week #18 · 25 weeks in top 20

    Differin products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 1 in the top 20

    1. #15 Adapalene Gel 0.1%Buyers’ rating 4.5 · 17.6K ratings · Oct 2026
    2. #93 Adapalene Gel 0.1% 2026 Formulabelow the top 20

    Where Differin is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Differin retinol for beginners
  19. #19up 1 place since last weekAvèneModels here: #21 RetrinAL 0.05 CreamLast week #20 · 4 weeks in top 20

    Avène products here ?

    1 product in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #21 RetrinAL 0.05 Creambelow the top 20

    Where Avène is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Avène retinol for beginners
  20. #20down 1 place since last weekBiossanceModels here: #24 Squalane + Retinol Night Serum · #78 Squalane + Phyto-Retinol SerumLast week #19 · 10 weeks in top 20

    Biossance products here ?

    2 products in the top 100 · 0 in the top 20

    1. #24 Squalane + Retinol Night Serumbelow the top 20
    2. #78 Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serumbelow the top 20

    Where Biossance is strong · top 20 ?

    Search Google for Biossance retinol for beginners
Show places 21–90Hide places 21–90
  1. #21cocokindlast wk #22 4 wks in top 20
  2. #22Herbivorelast wk #23 0 wks in top 20
  3. #23Good Moleculeslast wk #21 14 wks in top 20
  4. #24Geek & Gorgeouslast wk #25 0 wks in top 20
  5. #25Aveenolast wk #32 0 wks in top 20
  6. #26Tatchalast wk #33 0 wks in top 20
  7. #27Glow Recipelast wk #31 0 wks in top 20
  8. #28Youth To The Peoplelast wk #24 0 wks in top 20
  9. #29Peach & Lilylast wk #27 0 wks in top 20
  10. #30Maelovelast wk #26 0 wks in top 20
  11. #31Shani Darden Skin Carelast wk #28 0 wks in top 20
  12. #32Skinlast wk #34 0 wks in top 20
  13. #33Shani Dardenlast wk #29 1 wk in top 20
  14. #34No7last wk #30 4 wks in top 20
  15. #35StriVectinlast wk #37 1 wk in top 20
  16. #36Eucerinlast wk #77 0 wks in top 20
  17. #37SkinBetterlast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  18. #38Peter Thomas Rothlast wk #38 0 wks in top 20
  19. #39Skinfixlast wk #46 0 wks in top 20
  20. #40Dr. Althealast wk #44 0 wks in top 20
  21. #41SOME BY MIlast wk #41 0 wks in top 20
  22. #42Pixilast wk #42 1 wk in top 20
  23. #43Dr. Dennis Grosslast wk #36 0 wks in top 20
  24. #44Dermalogicalast wk #47 0 wks in top 20
  25. #45Beauty of Joseonlast wk #35 0 wks in top 20
  26. #46Allies of Skinlast wk #49 0 wks in top 20
  27. #47Honest Beautylast wk #58 0 wks in top 20
  28. #48Laneigelast wk #79 0 wks in top 20
  29. #49Ultraceuticalslast wk #39 0 wks in top 20
  30. #50Obagilast wk #87 0 wks in top 20
  31. #51Prequellast wk #55 0 wks in top 20
  32. #52Summer Fridayslast wk #54 0 wks in top 20
  33. #53Shiseidolast wk #56 0 wks in top 20
  34. #54Ren Clean Skincarelast wk #51 0 wks in top 20
  35. #55Alpyn Beautylast wk #53 0 wks in top 20
  36. #56L'Oréal Parislast wk #59 2 wks in top 20
  37. #57Cetaphillast wk #60 0 wks in top 20
  38. #58Blisslast wk #75 0 wks in top 20
  39. #59Estée Lauderlast wk #62 0 wks in top 20
  40. #60Caudalielast wk #65 0 wks in top 20
  41. #61Garnierlast wk #66 0 wks in top 20
  42. #62CosRXlast wk #52 0 wks in top 20
  43. #63Dermaceuticlast wk #68 0 wks in top 20
  44. #64Revision Skincarelast wk #69 0 wks in top 20
  45. #65Cliniquelast wk #70 0 wks in top 20
  46. #66Image Skincarelast wk #72 0 wks in top 20
  47. #67Mad Hippielast wk #67 0 wks in top 20
  48. #68Byomalast wk #74 2 wks in top 20
  49. #69E.L.Flast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  50. #70PCA Skinlast wk #73 0 wks in top 20
  51. #71EltaMDlast wk #76 0 wks in top 20
  52. #72Alpha-Hlast wk #83 0 wks in top 20
  53. #73Geologielast wk #80 0 wks in top 20
  54. #74L'Oreal Parislast wk #86 1 wk in top 20
  55. #75The Body Shoplast wk #94 0 wks in top 20
  56. #76Eltalast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  57. #77Jordanlast wk — 0 wks in top 20
  58. #78Vichylast wk #40 5 wks in top 20
  59. #79Freshlast wk #85 0 wks in top 20
  60. #80Avenelast wk #57 0 wks in top 20
  61. #81Algenistlast wk #82 0 wks in top 20
  62. #82Ole Henriksenlast wk #88 0 wks in top 20
  63. #83SkinMedicalast wk #90 0 wks in top 20
  64. #84Elizabeth Ardenlast wk #64 0 wks in top 20
  65. #85Yeouthlast wk #91 0 wks in top 20
  66. #86BeautyStatlast wk #93 0 wks in top 20
  67. #87ZO Skin Healthlast wk #95 0 wks in top 20
  68. #88Beekman 1802last wk #96 0 wks in top 20
  69. #89Evelast wk #84 0 wks in top 20
  70. #90A313last wk #98 0 wks in top 20

The monthly check covers products; a brand is marked “Passes the check” only when its products here pass. See the product check → ?

The AI panel ?

Where the AIs disagree.

Each AI’s place for the top 10, in its own answer this week. Rows in chart order; an empty cell: not named this week.well above the other AIs well below not named this week ?
Place on this chartProductChatGPTClaudeGeminiAI ModeGrokPerplexityNamed by
#1Retinol B3 Serum742, well above the others10, well below the others4/6
#2Resurfacing Retinol Serum311145/6
#3Retinol 0.2% in Squalane1257, well below the others4/6
#4Crystal Retinal 11013, well below the others3, well above the others3/6
#5Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment8593/6
#6Rapid Wrinkle Repair Retinol Regenerating Cream4333/6
#7Starter Retinol Serum11/6
#8Retinol Youth Renewal Serum111225, well below the others3/6
#9Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum23209, well above the others26, well below the others4/6
#10A-Passioni Retinol Cream19, well below the others11, well above the others2/6

Further down: Grok’s #1 Retinol 0.2% in Squalane 2026 (#70 on this chart)

The AI panel ?

Where the AIs disagree.

Each AI’s place for the top 10 brands: where it put the brand’s highest-placed product this week. Rows in chart order; an empty cell: not named this week.well above the other AIs well below not named this week ?
Place on this chartBrandChatGPTClaudeGeminiAI ModeGrokPerplexityNamed by
#1CeraVe3111246/6
#2La Roche-Posay74225106/6
#3The Ordinary125175/6
#4Olay5964, well above the others23, well below the others86/6
#5The Inkey List2, well above the others27, well below the others10, well below the others371, well above the others6/6
#6Paula's Choice854495/6
#7Neutrogena433318, well below the others5/6
#8RoC6686145/6
#9First Aid Beauty9, well above the others15131524, well below the others5/6
#10Kiehl's1716151855/6

The monthly check · October 2026 ?

Where people agree with AI.

12 of the top 20 checked · No product in the top 20 fails the check, and none sits much lower with people than with the AI.

  1. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol SerumPasses the checkAI saysChart place#2named by 5 of 6People sayBuyers4.7/56,673 ratings
  2. Paula's Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol TreatmentPasses the checkAI saysChart place#5named by 3 of 6People sayBuyers4.7/54,200 ratings

See all checked products in the chart ↓ ?

Reviews by people · YouTube and TikTok ?

The reviews behind the chart.

23 review videos · one shown per product

4 more reviewsFewer reviews

The data behind this chart ?

What this ranking stands on.

From the AI panel 140 AI answers over 28 weeks from 6 assistants

From people

  • Buyer ratings177,002
  • Review videos42
  • Owner threads75
  • Press outlets12
  • Recall checks32

Before you buy

Questions buyers ask.

  • Who is #1 for “Best Retinol for Beginners”, and for how long?

    La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum is the #1 product this week, and has been #1 for 2 of the last 25 weeks. CeraVe is the #1 brand, #1 for 25 of those weeks.

  • What changed on this chart in the last four weeks?

    7 of the top 20 products were not in the top 20 four weeks ago. The #1 then was CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum; it is #2 now. Among brands, 2 new names joined the top 20.

  • Do buyers, reviewers, owners and the press agree with the AI?

    12 of the top 20 were checked in October 2026: none fails the check, and people place none much lower than the AI does. 2 pass the check: people back them.

Data as of November 2 ?

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New #1s, debuts and the picks that fail the check, from every chart. We will write only when there is news.