Beauty and skincare enthusiasts are always searching for the next breakthrough ingredient in their pursuit of glowing and youthful skin. One ingredient, in particular, has earned enormous popularity and appreciation among the plethora of skincare products is retinol. Retinol serum has emerged as a game-changer in the skincare world, providing plenty of benefits beyond the scope of traditional creams and lotions.
With its proven efficacy in tackling common skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, and acne, retinol has become a staple in many skincare routines. The skincare industry has been growing, and companies have created their retinol. Here, we have listed the top 10 best retinol serums in Malaysia.
How Does Retinol Work?
Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, influences various cellular processes in the skin. Here’s a brief breakdown of how retinol works:
Are There Different Concentrations for Retinol?
Retinol comes in different strengths to suit various skin types. Lower concentrations (0.25% to 0.5%) are gentle for beginners and sensitive skin. Moderate ones (0.5% to 1%) offer more noticeable results. Higher concentrations (1% and above) are potent and best for those accustomed to retinol. Start with a lower concentration, gradually increasing, and use sunscreen to protect your skin. Always consult with a dermatologist for personalised advice.
When Should You Use Retinol In Your Skincare Routine?
Retinol is best used at night as it can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight. It should always be applied to dry skin during your night-time routine.
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10 Best Retinol Serums in Malaysia 2025
1. Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
Experience the power of Paula’s Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment, a potent solution for effective anti-ageing results. The controlled-release delivery system ensures even absorption, delivering a high-strength 1% retinol concentration. This light lotion texture absorbs quickly, diminishing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Antioxidants, liquorice, and oat extract enhance hydration and soothe the skin. Recognised with the 2022 NewBeauty Award for Best 1% Retinol Serum, Paula’s Choice products are fragrance-free, non-irritating, and cruelty-free.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Dimethicone (skin-softening), Glycerin (skin-replenishing), Butylene Glycol (hydrating), Isononyl Isononanoate (emollient), Castor Isostearate Succinate (skin-softening ), Glyceryl Stearate (texture enhancer), C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate (emollient), Dimethicone Crosspolymer (texture enhancer), PEG-33 (stabilizer), Polysorbate 20 (texture enhancer), Behenyl Alcohol (texture enhancer), PEG-100 Stearate (texture enhancer), Pentaerythrityl Tetraisostearate (stabilizer), Polymethylsilsesquioxane (texture enhancer), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (vitamin C/antioxidant), Retinol (skin-restoring), Ceramide NG (skin-replenishing) , Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 (skin-restoring), Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (skin-restoring), Sodium Hyaluronate (skin-replenishing ), Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate (antioxidant plant extracts/skin-soothing), Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract (licorice extract/antioxidant/skin-soothing), Avena Sativa Kernel Extract (oat extract/antioxidant/skin-soothing), Arctium Lappa Root Extract (burdock extract/antioxidant/skin-soothing), Salix Alba Bark Extract (willow bark extract/antioxidant/skin-soothing), Glycine Soja Sterols (antioxidant/skin-softening ), Lecithin (skin-restoring), Allantoin (skin-soothing), Tocopheryl Acetate (vitamin E/antioxidant), Hydrolyzed Soy Protein (antioxidant/skin-softening), Sorbitan Laurate (texture enhancer), Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester (skin-soothing), Disodium EDTA (stabilizer), Hydroxyethylcellulose (texture enhancer), Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (skin-restoring), Sodium Hydroxide (pH adjuster), Tribehenin (emollient), Caprylyl Glycol (skin-softening), Ethylhexylglycerin (skin-softening), Pentylene Glycol (hydrating), PEG-75 Shea Butter Glycerides (emollient), PPG-12/SMDI Copolymer (stabilizer), PEG-10 Phytosterol (fatty acid-based emollient), PEG-8 Dimethicone (skin-softening), PEG-14 (texture enhancer), Magnesium Aluminum Silicate (texture enhancer), Arachidyl Glucoside (texture enhancer), Arachidyl Alcohol (texture enhancer), Sclerotium Gum (texture enhancer), Carbomer (gel-based texture enhancer), Phenoxyethanol (preservative), Benzoic Acid (preservative).
- Country Of Origin: United States of America
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Advanced Hydration
✅ Diminishes wrinkles
✅ Lightweight formula
Price: RM330.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
2. Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum
Revitalise your eyes with Dr Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum. This fast-absorbing serum features a Phyto-Retinol Blend™ that addresses ageing eyes in three ways: firming skin, boosting hydration, and reducing wrinkles and creepiness. Suitable for all skin types, this serum combines retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid for a synergistic effect. Clinically proven to lift, smooth, and hydrate the eye area visibly, it also serves as an excellent eye primer. The unique blend targets fine lines and wrinkles and promotes collagen production.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Propylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Bakuchiol, Retinol, Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract, Ferulic Acid, Ubiquinone, Quercetin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Saccharide Isomerate, Phospholipids, Centella Asiatica Extract, Caffeine, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Salicylic Acid, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Morus Alba Bark Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Glycolic Acid, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Tetrapeptide-21, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Mandelic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Maltodextrin, PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492)
- Country Of Origin: United States of America
- Size Available: 15ml
Pros:
✅ Beginner friendly
✅ Silicone-free
✅ Alcohol-free
Price: RM370.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
3. Laneige Perfect Renew 3x Signature Serum
Combat visible ageing with LANEIGE Perfect Renew 3X Signature Serum, an anti-ageing serum combining three potent serums in one bottle. This serum delivers a healthy glow by addressing wrinkles, firmness, and radiance simultaneously. With Triple-layer Targeting Technology™, it effectively targets signs of ageing in each skin layer, resulting in reduced wrinkles, improved firmness, and enhanced glow. The serum’s innovative packaging design ensures freshness, and its 7-Free formula makes it suitable for sensitive skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Polymethacrylate, Dipropylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Xylitol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Lactobacillus Ferment, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Haberlea Rhodopensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Tranexamic Acid, Dextrin, Theobroma Cacao (Cocoa) Extract, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Bioflavonoids, T-Butyl Alcohol, Ferulic Acid, Inonotus Obliquus (Mushroom) Extract, Tocopherol, Water/Aqua/Eau, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Polysilicone-11, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Polysorbate 20, Boron Nitride, Sclerotium Gum, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Beheneth-25 Methacrylate Crosspolymer, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Sodium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Caprylyl Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA, Adenosine, Hydrolyzed Collagen, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2, Tocopherol, Water/Aqua/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Diphenyl Dimethicone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Diphenylsiloxy Phenyl Trimethicone, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Gellan Gum, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Fragrance/Parfum, Sodium Chloride, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Magnesium Sulfate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Retinol, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Gold, Tocopherol, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, BHT, Beta-Carotene, Ceramide NP
- Country Of Origin: South Korea
- Size Available: 20ml & 40ml
Pros:
✅ Fragrance-free
✅ Paraben free
✅ Contains ceramides
Price: RM189.00 – RM315.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
4. Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules
The Elizabeth Arden Retinol Ceramide Capsules are the perfect choice for the skincare lover who enjoys luxurious products. It is a unique retinol serum as it comes in a bottle with airtight individual capsules containing the serum. This makes it easy to put on your retinol serum with the right amount needed to avoid over-applying. Ceramides are added to this serum to prevent dryness of the skin.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, BHT, C18-36 Acid Triglyceride, Camellia Senensis Leaf Extract, Ceramide NP, Ceramide NS, Cyclohexasiloxane, Dimethiconol, Ethylhexyl Cocoate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Laurylmethacrylate/Glycol Dimethacrylate Crosspolymer, Lecithin, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Phytosphingosine, Phytosterols, Polysorbate 20, Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Retinol, Sorbitan Laurate, Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, Phenoxyethanol.
- Country Of Origin: America
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Capsule form
✅ Minimises pore
✅ Easy to use
Price: RM404.60
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
5. La Roche Posay Retinol B3 Serum
The La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum is a skincare product that combines the power of retinol and vitamin B3 to treat several indications of ageing and improve skin look. This serum has a high concentration of retinol, which is well-known for its ability to minimise the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin texture. The inclusion of vitamin B3 promotes a more uniform skin tone by improving the skin’s barrier function.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua / Water, Glycerin, Cyclohexasiloxane, Alcohol Denat, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Dimethicone, Glycine Soja Oil / Soybean Oil, Ppg-6-Decyltetradeceth-30, Sodium Hyaluronate Retinol, Adenosine, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl, Taurate, Caprylyl Glycol, Citric Acid, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Xanthan Gum, Polys Ilicone-11, Retinyl Palmitate Tocopherol, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum / Fragrance.
- Country Of Origin: France
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Gentle for skin
✅ Contains Vitamin B3
✅ Helps premature sun damage
Price: RM240.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
6. Kiehl’s Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum
Kiehl’s Micro-dose Anti-aging Retinol Serum is a powerhouse in daily-strength micro-dosing, visibly reducing wrinkles, firming skin, and enhancing skin tone and texture with minimal discomfort. Formulated with Pure Retinol, Ceramides, and Peptides, this serum promotes gentle skin turnover, delivering visible results without redness or peeling. The lightweight, fast-absorbing cream is paraben-free, fragrance-free, and suitable for all skin types. After one bottle, users reported reduced wrinkles, improved firmness, and refined texture. It is a perfect addition to any skincare routine, day or night.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Pentylene Glycol, Niacinamide, Cetyl Alcohol, Isohexadecane, Isononyl Isononanoate, Diisopropyl Sebacate, 2-Oleamido-1,3-Octadecanediol, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Adenosine, Ceramide NP, Hydroxypalmitoyl Sphinganine, Lauroyl Lysine, Octyldodecanol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Retinol, Tocopherol, Dicaprylyl Ether, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Behenyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Glycine Soja Oil / Soybean Oil, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil/Sunflower Seed Oil, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Lecithin, Phenethyl Alcohol, Poloxamer 188, Polycaprolactone, Sorbitan Laurate, Steareth-100, Ci 40800, Beta-Carotene, Chlorphenesin, Phenoxyethanol
- Country Of Origin: United States of America
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Precise micro-dose formulation
✅ Clinically proven results
✅ Paraben-free
Price: RM270.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
7. BIOSSANCE Squalane + Retinol Night Serum
Revitalise your skincare routine with BIOSSANCE’s Squalane + Retinol Night Serum, featuring an innovative formula with an encapsulated duo of time-release retinol and retinal. This serum targets fine lines, wrinkles, discolouration, and texture concerns with minimal irritation. Infused with a blend of squalane and saffron antioxidants, it hydrates the skin and enhances radiance.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Squalane, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Retinol, Retinal, Allantoin, Crocus Sativus Stigma Extract, Pseudozyma Epicola/Evening Primrose Oil Ferment Extract, Tocopherol, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Cetearyl Alcohol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Hydroxyapatite, Dextrin, Carbomer, Sodium Gluconate, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Hydroxide
- Country Of Origin: United States of America
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Smoother wrinkles
✅ Optimised by Squalane
✅ Sustainably-sourced ingredients
Price: RM355.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
8. DRUNK ELEPHANT A-Passioni™ Retinol Cream
DRUNK ELEPHANT A-Passioni™ Retinol Cream is a revolutionary formula that redefines retinol, combining 1.0% vegan retinol with superfood-rich ingredients to address fine lines, deep wrinkles, and sun damage, unveiling a vibrant, youthful complexion. This cutting-edge cream, fortified with supportive peptides and nourishing oils like passionfruit, apricot, marula, and jojoba, restores bounce, resilience, and brightness while maintaining even skin tone and texture. The addition of antioxidant-packed kale, winter cherry, and xanthophylls defends against environmental stressors. Packaged for ingredient stability, this retinol cream is free of essential oils, silicones, and fragrance, making it a vegan and cruelty-free skincare essential.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate, Stearic Acid, Coconut Alkanes, Glyceryl Stearate, Niacinamide, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Pentylene Glycol, Passiflora Edulis Seed Oil, Retinol, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Brassica Oleracea Acephala Leaf Extract, Brassica Oleracea Italica (Broccoli) Extract, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Chrysin, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Ceramide Np, Xanthophylls, Phytosphingosine, Phytosterols, Jojoba Esters, Physalis Pubescens Fruit Juice, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Oryza Sativa (Rice Bran) Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Carthamus Tinctorium (Safflower) Seed Oil, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Cetyl Palmitate, Trehalose, Lauric Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Glucosamine Hcl, Tocopheryl Acetate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract, Tocopherol, Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Trideceth-6 Phosphate, N-Hydroxysuccinimide, Ceteareth-20, Sodium Hydroxide, Laureth-23, Steareth-20, Propanediol, Chlorhexidine Digluconate, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Chlorphenesin, Potassium Sorbate, Ethylhexylglycerin.
- Country Of Origin: United States of America
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Cutting-edge 1.0% vegan formula
✅ Superfood-rich oils
✅ Free of silicones
Price: RM360.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
9. CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum is essential to any anti-ageing skincare routine, effectively targeting fine lines, wrinkles, and skin texture. This serum provides multiple anti-ageing benefits with a gentle yet effective daily retinol blend, hyaluronic acid for hydration, and niacinamide for soothing. Three essential ceramides support the skin’s protective barrier, and MVE Technology ensures efficient delivery and slow release over time. This serum offers a comprehensive solution for visible skin improvement and is non-comedogenic, fragrance-free, and dermatologist-developed.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Caprylic/capric Triglyceride, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Hydrogenated Palm Glycerides, Polysorbate 20, Peg-40 Stearate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Potassium Phosphate, Ceramide Np, Ceramide Ap, Ceramide Eop, Carbomer, Niacinamide, Isoceteth-10, Dimethicone/vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Triethanolamine, Cetearyl Alcohol, Behentrimonium Methosulfate, Cichorium Intybus Root Extract / Chicory Root Extract, Lecithin, Retinol, Silica, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Cholesterol, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopherol, Alcohol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Citric Acid, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Phytosphingosine, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter / Shea Butter, Ethylhexylglycerin
- Country Of Origin: United States of America
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Gentle for skin
✅ Contains three essential ceramides
✅ Non-comedogenic
Price: RM165.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
10. Frank Body Rewind Retinol Serum
Return in time with Frank Body Rewind Retinol Serum, a gentle yet effective retinol blend designed to reduce fine lines, fight acne, and improve skin texture. The 1% retinol blend, enriched with niacinamide (Vitamin B3), ginger extract, and pea peptide, offers a powerful yet non-irritating solution. Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin, this vegan serum is the full package for active skincare, delivering results without irritation or harm. The serum’s multi-active ingredients contribute to improved skin texture, reduced breakouts, and a youthful appearance.
Specifications:
- Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Isononyl Isononanoate, Sodium Stearoyl Lactylate, Niacinamide, Glyceryl Caprylate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Cetearyl Olivate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Sorbitan Olivate, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Peptide, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Bisabolol, Sodium Citrate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyisobutene, Magnesium Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Epilobium Angustifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Citric Acid, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside.
- Country Of Origin: Australia
- Size Available: 30ml
Pros:
✅ Reduce fine lines
✅ Dermatologically tested
✅ Vegan-friendly
Price: RM125.00
*Prices may vary at the time of purchase
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy.
