Retinoids
Retinoids — retinol, retinal, and their relatives — are the most evidence-backed topical for aging and acne, speeding cell turnover and building collagen. They reward patience and consistency, and demand daytime sun protection alongside them.
The DermFND database contains 90 products in the Retinoids category, with retinol, hyaluronic acid, squalane, niacinamide, vitamin e, ceramides, peptides, vitamin c, retinal, and chamomile appearing as the most common ingredients. Product pricing within this category ranges from $8 to $185, with an average price of $62. The data indicates that formulations in this category frequently combine retinoids with various supporting ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, squalane, and niacinamide. Based on the analyzed ingredient lists, the average DermFND score for products in this category is 74.9/100. This category offers a wide variety of price points for consumers.
DermFND has scored 90 retinoids on ingredient evidence, value, and safety. They average a 75/100 score (well above the catalog norm), topped by Geek & Gorgeous A-Game 5 Retinal Serum at 88/100.
36 formulas score 80 or higher in our analysis. Coverage skews toward normal and combination skin. The median price here is $64.