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  4. 10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist
  • 10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 1
  • 10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 2
  • 10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 3
  • 10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist 4
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10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Dermatologist

Retinol comes in many forms, but retinol creams for acne are one of the most popular. It’s well-known in the beauty industry for clearing up your face, reducing pimple scars, and providing anti-aging benefits. Retinol works on the surface and middle layers of your skin to unclog pores and smoothen its texture, making it a must-have for those with acne-prone skin.


We’ve listed the top ten best products that you can order online. We’ve also prepared a buying guide, with insights and tips from board-certified dermatologist Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz, that will teach you all that you need to know when browsing for a retinol cream, which is very useful, especially for those who are new to using retinol.

Last updated 07/14/2023
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Expert
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz is the face behind Ask Your Derma. She is a board-certified dermatologist in Metro Manila. She is also an educator and digital creator on all things skin, hair, and nails. She is a Diplomate of the Philippine Dermatological Society and offers online video consultations. You can also catch her on her Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube channel.

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Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.

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The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.

Table of Contents

How to Choose a Retinol Cream for Acne - Buying Guide

Here are some key points to consider:


  1. Consider the retinol’s concentration.
  2. Check for additional skin-loving ingredients.
  3. Opt for oil-free and fragrance-free retinol creams.

For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.

1

Consider the Retinol’s Concentration

Retinol creams usually have a concentration between 0.25% to 2%. That being said, it’s best to start with a lower concentration then work your way up, especially if you’re new to using retinol. 

0.25% to 0.5% Is Ideal for Beginners and Those With Dry or Sensitive Skin

0.25% to 0.5% Is Ideal for Beginners and Those With Dry or Sensitive Skin

Retinol stimulates cell turnover, so it’s a strong product. If you use too much of it, you may experience some irritation and redness, which will cause more harm than good, especially if you’re trying to combat acne.


So, for the first few weeks, you can start using a product with 0.25% to 0.5% concentration for about once or twice a week. If you don’t experience any side effects, you can move up to a higher retinol percentage or increase your usage. But, if you have dry or sensitive skin, consider sticking to a retinol cream with a lower concentration. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

#AskYourDerma Tips

  • Start low and slow - two to three times a week and slowly work your way up!
  • Use the "sandwich technique": moisturizer - retinol - moisturizer.

1% to 2% Is Suitable for Those Who Have Experience Using Retinol

1% to 2% Is Suitable for Those Who Have Experience Using Retinol

Retinol creams with 1-2% concentrations yield visible results more quickly. This is ideal if you have mature skin or have prior experience using retinol products, as you’re less likely to experience irritation or redness. Moreover, those with oily skin may also be able to tolerate retinol in higher doses. That said, be mindful of limiting your usage to 2-3 times a week. Don’t overuse it in the hopes of seeing quicker results. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Remember, higher is not always better. If a higher concentration means you develop side effects like retinoid dermatitis (e.g., redness, dryness/flakiness, itching, burning/stinging), then don't push it. When in doubt, #AskYourDerma!

2

Check for Additional Skin-Loving Ingredients

Some retinol creams are formulated with additional ingredients that offer various benefits. Aside from helping you fight acne, these ingredients can also calm your skin to prevent irritation. Let’s take a look at some of them below.

Look for Moisturizing Ingredients to Combat Dryness

Look for Moisturizing Ingredients to Combat Dryness

Retinol is best paired with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), seeing as retinol tends to dry out your skin. Common examples are peach extract, aloe, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides, collagen, peptides, as well as vitamins B5, and E. This is very useful, especially for those with acne-prone skin, since their lipid barrier isn’t very strong. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Moisturizer is a must regardless of skin type. If you have retinol in your skincare routine, a moisturizer not only helps prevent excessive dryness but also helps your skin tolerate the retinol more. You can also choose retinol products formulated with moisturizing or barrier-strengthening ingredients.

Ingredients Like Green Tea and Centella Asiatica Help Calm Down Acne

Ingredients Like Green Tea and Centella Asiatica Help Calm Down Acne

If you’re dealing with acne, you want to look for ingredients with anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties. Examples of these are allantoin, acmella oleracea extract, bakuchiol, centella asiatica, and green tea. They can help manage acne and speed up your skin’s natural healing process. Plus, some of these ingredients are also useful for healing acne scars to help you achieve a clear and even skin tone in no time. 

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Ingredients that soothe as well as regulate inflammation are good add-ons when using retinol. Centella Asiatica or 'cica' acts as an antioxidant, helps calm inflammation, and hydrates the skin. Other ingredients to look out for also include green tea, panthenol, licorice root, and aloe vera, among others.

3

Opt for Oil-Free and Fragrance-Free Retinol Creams

Opt for Oil-Free and Fragrance-Free Retinol Creams

To avoid aggravating acne-prone skin, it would be best to go for oil-free and fragrance-free retinol creams. However, not all types of oil are bad for you, as some products may have nourishing oils like grapeseed and jojoba oil as well as fats like shea butter. These ingredients are beneficial, particularly for those with dry skin.


But generally, oils may clog your pores, leading to more breakouts. It may also leave behind a greasy feeling, which may be uncomfortable, especially during the day, given the hot and humid Philippine weather. Additionally, fragrances may cause irritation, which can cause redness and more flare-ups. This can delay visible results and aggravate sensitive skin.

Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz
Dermatologist, Educator, and Digital Creator
Dr. Katrina Habaluyas Luz

Choosing the right retinol for you can be a little overwhelming, given the many different available formulations. Other considerations include its overall formulation, consistency, and even concentration. When in doubt, don't hesitate to #AskYourDerma

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10 Best Retinol Creams for Acne to Buy Online

The products we introduce below were carefully curated by the mybest team, from the best-sellers of E-commerce sites like Lazada, and using the points mentioned in our detailed and thoroughly researched buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

DMD Skin Sciences

Mission: Skin Retinol 1% Defender Cream

DMD Skin Sciences Mission: Skin Retinol 1% Defender Cream 1

₱1,341

High Mid

A Well-Loved Product to Prevent Future Breakouts

2

Revitaglow

Clinical Repair Cream Retinol

Revitaglow Clinical Repair Cream Retinol 1

₱450

Low Mid

Rejuvenates Your Skin With Additional Nourishing Ingredients

3

RRAW Skin Care

1% Retinol Cream

RRAW Skin Care 1% Retinol Cream 1

₱249

Low

Organic, Locally-Sourced Retinol for All Your Skin Needs

4

Capri

Pure Olive Oil

Capri Pure Olive Oil 1

₱405

Low Mid

An Affordable Olive Oil With a Robust Flavor

5

Good Molecules

Gentle Retinol Cream

Good Molecules Gentle Retinol Cream 1

₱500

Low Mid

Has a 0.1% Retinol Concentration That Is Best for Those With Sensitive Skin

6

CeraVe

Skin Renewing Retinol Day Face Cream

CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Day Face Cream 1

₱1,075

Mid

Contains SPF 30 to Protect Your Skin From the Harmful Rays of the Sun

7

IT Cosmetics

Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream

IT Cosmetics Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream 1

₱3,642

High

Addresses Discoloration From Previous Breakouts

8

LilyAna Naturals

Retinol Cream

LilyAna Naturals Retinol Cream 1

₱1,225

High Mid

Powerful Formula That Minimizes Redness from Breakouts and Acne Scars

9

L'Oreal Paris

Revitalift Night Cream

L'Oreal Paris Revitalift Night Cream 1

₱999

Mid

Formulated With Centella Asiatica to Reduce the Formation of Acne

10

Neutrogena

Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream 1

₱790

Mid

Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic to Avoid Aggravating Your Acne

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

DMD Skin SciencesMission: Skin Retinol 1% Defender Cream

Mission: Skin Retinol 1% Defender Cream 1
Source:shopee.ph
Mission: Skin Retinol 1% Defender Cream 2
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱1,341
High Mid
Reference price
₱1,341
High Mid

A Well-Loved Product to Prevent Future Breakouts

Retinol has a lot of skin benefits, including treating acne and preventing future breakouts, especially in higher concentrations. This retinol cream has a 1% dosage, allowing it to work deep in your skin to improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation brought by acne scars. It will also protect your skin by preventing new pimples from forming.


If you're looking for a pure retinol product that you can easily incorporate into your skincare, this is the one for you. It's well-loved by customers, and it has garnered hundreds of good reviews! Users say that it's soft and smooth to apply, and that a little goes a long way. They love it and said that they'll repurchase it!

Was this Ranking helpful?
No.2

RevitaglowClinical Repair Cream Retinol

Clinical Repair Cream Retinol 1
Source:shopee.ph
Clinical Repair Cream Retinol 2
Source:shopee.ph
Clinical Repair Cream Retinol 3
Source:shopee.ph
Clinical Repair Cream Retinol 4
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱450
Low Mid

Rejuvenates Your Skin With Additional Nourishing Ingredients

Retinol has a lot of benefits for treating acne, but Revitaglow’s cream is also formulated with other ingredients that will help you get soft and clear skin. Together with 1% retinol, it uses vitamin C, peach fruit extract, and peptides to enhance collagen production, speeding up your skin’s healing process.


It can also reduce the appearance of pores, which will help prevent acne since enlarged pores can get easily clogged with oil, dirt, and other bacteria that may cause pimples. With these features, this cream will help you get an even skin tone and improved skin texture. Customers love it, saying that they can vouch for how effective this cream is.

No.3

RRAW Skin Care1% Retinol Cream

1% Retinol Cream 1
Source:shopee.ph
1% Retinol Cream 2
Source:shopee.ph
1% Retinol Cream 3
Source:shopee.ph
1% Retinol Cream 4
Source:shopee.ph
1% Retinol Cream 5
Source:shopee.ph
1% Retinol Cream 6
Source:shopee.ph
1% Retinol Cream 7
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱249
Low

Organic, Locally-Sourced Retinol for All Your Skin Needs

RRAW Skin Care products are organic, locally sourced, cruelty-free, and ethically made, including this 1% Retinol Cream. It also doesn't contain any fragrances and pigments, so it's suitable for many skin types. For those who are acne-prone, you can expect normalized cell turnover and balanced pigment production.


This means you will get clear and radiant skin in no time! For those who are new to using retinol, you can dilute this cream with your favorite moisturizer to get your face accustomed to this product. One customer said that their acne flattened after using it, so you will surely see visible results quickly.

No.4

CapriPure Olive Oil

Reference price
₱405
Low Mid

An Affordable Olive Oil With a Robust Flavor

Whether you're trying out olive oil for the first time or want to transition to a healthier cooking oil, this is a good starting point! Aside from its budget-friendly price, it also has a variety of uses. It's good for sautéing and frying as well as for making sauces and marinades. You can even drizzle it on top of your salads for that extra flavor boost!

Its strong, Mediterranean flavor will certainly upgrade your meals from bland to delectable! Even better, this pure olive oil is full of natural vitamins and antioxidants that support immune function and reduce the risk of heart disease. When choosing an affordable yet healthy olive oil, you can never go wrong with this Italian brand!

No.5

Good MoleculesGentle Retinol Cream

Gentle Retinol Cream 1
Source:shopee.ph
Gentle Retinol Cream 2
Source:shopee.ph
Gentle Retinol Cream 3
Source:shopee.ph
Gentle Retinol Cream 4
Source:shopee.ph
Gentle Retinol Cream 5
Source:shopee.ph
Gentle Retinol Cream 6
Source:shopee.ph
Gentle Retinol Cream 7
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱500
Low Mid

Has a 0.1% Retinol Concentration That Is Best for Those With Sensitive Skin

Retinol can be intimidating for those with sensitive skin because it's quite a strong product. However, this gentle retinol cream will give you a chance to enjoy its benefits, as it only has a 0.1% concentration of retinol, which is guaranteed to be gentle on your skin. It's fragrance-free as well, ensuring you won't experience any irritation.


Even though it uses a lower retinol concentration, users reported that it helped heal some of their pimples and that it made their skin smoother after continued use. They also said that they didn't experience any redness or stinging from it, which they loved. If you're just starting out with using retinol, definitely check this one out!

No.6

CeraVeSkin Renewing Retinol Day Face Cream

Skin Renewing Retinol Day Face Cream 1
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱1,075
Mid
Reference price
₱1,075
Mid

Contains SPF 30 to Protect Your Skin From the Harmful Rays of the Sun

To ensure that you won't experience any irritation or negative side effects, CeraVe uses encapsulated retinol, which allows it to penetrate deeper into the skin before becoming activated, thereby lessening the chances of irritation. Using this formula will improve your skin's texture, giving you radiant, smooth, and flawless-looking skin.


What's great about this retinol cream is that it also contains Broad Spectrum SPF 30, which will protect you from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. When you're treating acne, it's important to shield your face from the sun's rays, which is why SPF is important to have in your various skincare products.

No.7

IT CosmeticsHello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream

Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream 1
Source:sephora.ph
Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream 2
Source:sephora.ph
Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream 3
Source:sephora.ph
Hello Results Wrinkle-Reducing Daily Retinol Serum-In-Cream 4
Source:sephora.ph
Reference price
₱3,642
High
Reference price
₱3,642
High

Addresses Discoloration From Previous Breakouts

IT Cosmetics uses free and encapsulated retinol in this cream, which allows it to reach at least 15 layers of your skin. Along with niacinamide, this retinol cream lightens discoloration and dark spots, including those from previous breakouts. If you're trying to get a more even skin tone after healing your acne, this is for you.


Aside from these active ingredients, this product also contains vitamin B5 and vitamin E to soothe and moisturize your skin. This will help you avoid some side effects of using retinol, such as redness and skin dryness. Meaning, those with more sensitive skin can use this since they won't likely experience adverse reactions.

No.8

LilyAna NaturalsRetinol Cream

Retinol Cream 1
Source:shopee.ph
Retinol Cream 2
Source:shopee.ph
Retinol Cream 3
Source:shopee.ph
Retinol Cream 4
Source:shopee.ph
Retinol Cream 5
Source:shopee.ph
Reference price
₱1,225
High Mid
Reference price
₱1,225
High Mid

Powerful Formula That Minimizes Redness from Breakouts and Acne Scars

If you've been using retinol in your skincare routine for a while now and want to consider getting a stronger retinol product to see more visible results, then this retinol cream has got you covered. For one thing, it is formulated with a powerful 2.5% retinol concentration


However, to balance out that strong retinol dosage, it is also infused with a variety of nourishing and soothing ingredients, including aloe, hyaluronic acid, vitamin E, green tea, shea butter, and jojoba oil. With this combination, this retinol cream will minimize breakouts and acne scars, calm redness and inflammation, plus soften your skin's texture.

No.9

L'Oreal ParisRevitalift Night Cream

Reference price
₱999
Mid

Formulated With Centella Asiatica to Reduce the Formation of Acne

L’Oreal’s retinol cream was made to be used at night to nourish and repair your skin while you sleep. Its combination of retinol and centella asiatica stimulates cell renewal and improves skin texture. Centella asiatica also reduces inflammation and oil production, strengthens your skin, and prevents UV damage, making it an excellent pair for retinol.


Aside from its anti-acne ingredients, this retinol cream uses dermalift technology, which tightens your skin, giving you a firmer and more youthful look. Because of the wonderful effects that it has on the skin, many customers choose to buy it, with some even saying it is part of their nightly skincare regimen.

No.10

NeutrogenaHealthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream

Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream 1
Source:lazada.com.ph
Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream 2
Source:lazada.com.ph
Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream 3
Source:lazada.com.ph
Healthy Skin Anti-Wrinkle Retinol Night Cream 4
Source:lazada.com.ph
Reference price
₱790
Mid
Reference price
₱790
Mid

Oil-Free and Non-Comedogenic to Avoid Aggravating Your Acne

When dealing with acne-prone skin, it's always best to go for products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic to ensure that whatever product you're using isn't clogging your pores. This retinol night cream by Neutrogena ticks those boxes, as it is hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and free of drying alcohol, too.


As a result, it will give you healthier and younger-looking skin as it works deep in your skin to address different issues like acne and premature signs of aging. It's also formulated with vitamin B5 and vitamin E for extra nourishment. If you're looking for a moisturizing retinol cream, this is the one for you.

Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Dr. Katrina Luz

Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Dr. Katrina.

How Often to Use Retinol Cream for Acne?

This depends. Typically, retinol is best started low and slow (two to three times a week), especially if you are a retinol newbie. It's always best to seek guidance from a board-certified dermatologist as to what retinol to use and how best to reap its benefits minus the side effects.

What Products Can’t Be Used or Mixed With Retinol?

Retinol is great, but it also can be irritating. Not to mention it can potentially interact with other skincare ingredients and cause more problems. It is best to avoid retinol with vitamin C, AHAs, and BHAs.

How Many Percent of Retinol Should I Use?

This depends on your skin type (sensitive vs. resilient), your skin concern (acne vs. anti-aging), your skin tolerance, and your sensitivities.

Build a Solid Anti-Acne Skincare Routine

Aside from retinol creams, there are a bunch of other great ingredients and products that can help you fight acne. To get clearer skin faster, you should build a skincare routine that will help dry out your pimples, lighten acne marks, and prevent future breakouts. Check out our other articles below for the best products that will help you.

Author: Bianca Angela Dela Cruz

Editor: J. Cuizon

How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations

Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.

Top 5 Retinol Creams for Acne

No. 1: DMD Skin SciencesMission: Skin Retinol 1% Defender Cream

No. 2: RevitaglowClinical Repair Cream Retinol

No. 3: RRAW Skin Care1% Retinol Cream

No. 4: CapriPure Olive Oil

No. 5: Good MoleculesGentle Retinol Cream

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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