Best Retinol Body Lotions and Creams for Smooth, Firm Skin Leave a comment

I’m not typically one to make resolutions, because historically, I’m not great at sticking to them. Instead, I like to set some beauty-oriented goals for myself that encourage me to explore new areas, products and skincare ingredients that I’m not already incorporating into my routine. This year, the goal is to look after my body skin with the same level of commitment I show to my face. My facial routine is built around consistency and proven active ingredients, but bodycare has been far more low-maintenance—at best, weekly exfoliation and body lotion when I remember.

Retinoids, in particular, have long been a staple in my skincare routine. They’re the ingredient I credit for keeping my acne-prone skin clear, but also do their bit when it comes to smoothing texture, brightening tone and giving me that elusive good-skin glow. So naturally, it makes sense to extend those benefits beyond my face. As bodycare formulations are increasingly becoming more advanced and ingredient-focused, retinol body creams and lotions have entered the market—balancing effective concentrations with barrier-supporting ingredients—they offer an appealing way to treat common body skin concerns, from rough texture to dullness and loss of firmness. They also make exceptional body creams for mature skin.

After spending the past month testing, researching and speaking to fellow experts, I’ve rounded up the best retinol body lotions and creams that actually work—formulas that balance powerful actives with barrier-supporting ingredients, so your skin looks smoother, firmer and healthier from the neck down.