12 Over-the-Counter Retinols Dermatologists Swear By

Differin Acne Treatment Gel ($16)

"While it's not technically a retinol, I recommend the Differin Acne Treatment Gel now that it is over the counter. (It was prescription until the last few years.) It is a retinoid called adapalene, which is different, but still helps with acne. A 45g tube will last you months and is much more affordable than the antiaging products that contain retinol." — dermatologist Curtis Asbury, MD

"The [Differin Gel] is great and used to be available only through a prescription years ago. It does a great job at resurfacing, keeping pores unclogged, and keeps breakouts in check. It is a very effective retinol but much less irritating than prescription-grade retinoids." — board-certified general and cosmetic dermatologist Kunal Malik, MD