Once upon a time, bar soap was considered more practical than pampering (think waxy hotel minis or squeaky-clean blocks that you dreaded using as a kid). But the best exfoliating bar soaps are rewriting the story in our skin-care routines. Today’s versions don’t just cleanse; they polish dullness and refine texture, leaving skin soft, smooth, and refreshed, and can even address issues like keratosis pilaris and ingrown hairs. Better yet, their solid, plastic-free format makes them a sustainable, travel-friendly upgrade from bulky body washes. And when it comes to formulas, forget the harsh, scratchy scrubs of the past—these bars are powered by strategic ingredients like salicylic acid or finely milled natural particles that gently buff away dead cells without leaving skin tight or raw.

Our Top Exfoliating Bar Soaps

The key is in how you use them. “Exfoliating bar soap is used the same way you would a regular bar soap, but don’t be too aggressive in scrubbing since the bar soap is doing most of the heavy lifting,” says Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami. In short, getting smooth, polished skin doesn’t have to feel like an arm workout as these bars do the work for you. Ahead, the best derm-approved options that buff, brighten, and make your skin feel like silk.

Best Overall: Soft Services Green Banana Buffing Bar

Why it’s worth it: This isn’t your everyday cleansing bar—and it’s not trying to be. The Soft Services Buffing Bar is made for stubborn skin issues that your regular body wash may not address, including rough patches, bumps, keratosis pilaris, and even ingrown hairs. With superfine sanding crystals blended into a moisturizing base, it physically buffs away uneven texture, leaving the skin feeling silky-smooth. “This bar is for the person who wants to have a deep, strong, and intense exfoliating experience,” says Maya Thosani, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Scottsdale, Arizona. It’s not the best pick for sensitive skin, but if you can handle it, expect seriously polished results.

P.S. The Buffing Bar is also available in Affogato L’Orange and the original blue, if you want a more subtle scent.

Best for Keratosis Pilaris: Glossier Body Hero Exfoliating Bar

Why it’s worth it: We could spot Glossier’s signature millennial pink from a mile away—and their Body Hero Exfoliating Bar is just as fun to use as it is to look at. Instead of overly scratchy scrubs, it’s packed with finely milled bamboo powder and sunflower seed oil beads that slough away dead skin without irritation. The creamy lather is boosted with “aloe and sunflower oil to help lock in moisture and keep your skin barrier happy,” says Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami. And while it leaves skin soft and glowing straight out of the shower, the real treat is the lingering scent, with fresh, sparkling hints of pear, mandarin, and cypress.

Best for Dry Skin: Flamingo Estate Exfoliating Peppermint Soap Brick

Why it’s worth it: Unlike many gritty scrubs, Flamingo Estate’s Exfoliating Peppermint Soap Brick relies on natural exfoliants, like round poppy seeds, instead of jagged particles, so it buffs away dead skin without causing microtears. “Peppermint’s cool, tingly scent perks you right up, French blue clay draws out impurities, and Big Sur sea salt helps the poppy seeds with exfoliation,” says Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Thousand Oaks, California. Thanks to its oversized shape, this soap brick is easy to grip and impressively long-lasting compared to the average bar.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Topicals Slather Exfoliating & Smoothing Bar

Why it’s worth it: If you were obsessed with the 2024 Best of Beauty Award–winning Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, you’re going to love its shower-ready twin. The Slather Exfoliating & Smoothing Bar pairs biodegradable exfoliating particles with retinol and lactic acid to smooth rough patches, fade bumps, and help prevent future breakouts. Just like in a serum, the retinol in this bar speeds up cell turnover to reveal brighter, clearer skin, and helps even out tone and texture with consistent use. And because exfoliation can sometimes be harsh on sensitive skin, lavandin oil and squalane step in to calm and hydrate. Your skin gets that fresh, deep clean right out of the shower—and with every use, the glow only builds.

Best Drugstore: CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin

Why it’s worth it: Dermatologists often point to the CeraVe SA Cleanser Bar for Rough & Bumpy Skin as a reliable choice for tackling texture issues. “This exfoliating body soap has some of the best support behind it as it is dermatologist-formulated, which helps ensure there is a unique blend that both supports the skin barrier and effectively exfoliates,” says Maryam Safaee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. It combines salicylic acid to slough off rough skin and reduce keratin buildup with jojoba beads for gentle physical exfoliation, making it especially helpful for conditions such as keratosis pilaris or acne. Bottom line: If you want smoother skin without the irritation, this bar’s got you.

Best for Brightening: Nécessaire The Body Exfoliant Bar

Why it’s worth it: Formulated with 2% upcycled wood pulp, the Nécessaire Body Exfoliant Bar gently buffs away dead skin cells with eco-friendly, finely milled plant fibers that polish without the scratchiness of harsher scrubs. “This exfoliating bar is perfect for those looking to address any skin texture issues,” says Dr. Chacon. Beyond exfoliation, it’s powered by niacinamide to help brighten and even skin tone, as well as ceramides and glycerin to strengthen the skin barrier and draw in hydration. Nourishing oils like cacay and meadowfoam keep skin soft and supple. “I love that this product is fragrance-free and sulfate-free, so it’s suitable for sensitive skin,” she adds. No wonder this bestseller picked up a 2023 Best of Beauty Award for its skin-smoothing results.

Best for Acne: Carbon Theory Salicylic Acid & Shea Butter Exfoliating Cleansing Bar

Why it’s worth it: Who knew a humble bar of soap could earn such a loyal fan base? Carbon Theory’s Salicylic Acid & Shea Butter Exfoliating Cleansing Bar goes beyond basic cleansing, doubling as an active treatment that helps keep skin clearer, smoother, and more balanced. “This is a great bar that has 1.8% salicylic acid, which exfoliates while unclogging pores that lead to breakouts,” says Dr. Bittar. If gritty scrubs typically leave your skin irritated, this chemical exfoliating bar takes a gentler approach by pairing chemical exfoliants with nourishing moisturizers, such as shea butter, to keep your skin soft, soothed, and balanced.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you use an exfoliating bar soap differently from regular bar soaps?

You’ll still lather an exfoliating body bar in your hands or on a washcloth like a regular soap, but it pays to use a gentler touch. Since these bars contain actives like salicylic acid—or even physical exfoliators—you don’t need to lather aggressively. “As these soaps have exfoliating agents, excess scrubbing can really irritate the skin,” says Dr. Safaee. Instead, massage the lather lightly onto damp skin, let it sit for a minute for the ingredients to sink in, then rinse. Most dermatologists recommend incorporating it into your body-care routine a couple of times a week, adjusting as your skin tolerates it. “If you overuse it, it can break down the skin barrier and exacerbate dryness and redness,” Dr. Safaee adds. And remember—not every bar is a cleanser, too; some, like the Soft Services Buffing Bar, are designed strictly for exfoliation.

How are exfoliating bar soaps better than exfoliating body washes?

Exfoliating soap bars and body washes can both smooth skin, but they work a little differently. “One major difference is that the body wash is usually formulated with other moisturizing agents and emollients and uses only chemical exfoliators like AHAs rather than particles found in soap. This allows a more suitable option for those with sensitive skin types,” says Dr. Safaee. By contrast, the bar soap often includes gritty particles, which are used as physical exfoliators, and so “these are best suited for thicker skin areas such as the elbows and heels and for the upper arms when treating keratosis pilaris,” she adds. Bar soaps are generally travel-friendly and longer-lasting, but can be slightly harsher on the skin depending on the formula, according to our derms. To keep irritation at bay, follow up with a soothing body lotion to support your skin barrier.

Meet the experts

• Peter Bittar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology & Laser Institute, based in Miami
• Anna Chacon, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami
• Peterson Pierre, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Golden State Dermatology, based in Thousand Oaks, California
• Maryam Safaee, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Los Angeles
• Maya Thosani, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Modern Dermatology, based in Scottsdale, Arizona

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

While fragrance might make your products (and your face!) smell fancy, swapping in the best fragrance-free moisturizers is crucial if scented lotions make your reactive, sensitive skin flare up. Plus, plenty of skin types—beyond simply sensitive—can find fragrances (synthetic or not) irritating, according to Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Canton, Michigan. “Even if something is labeled as ‘natural,’ that doesn’t mean your body won’t react to it.” In fact, Dr. Fahs points out that more than 80 essential oils have been linked to contact dermatitis (yikes!), which happens when your skin interacts with an irritant or allergen. Basically, if you notice redness, stinging, flaking, or itching after using fragranced products, Dr. Fahs recommends refreshing your skin-care cabinet.

Our Top Fragrance-Free Moisturizers

Now, it’s time to put that advice to work. Ahead, we rounded up the best fragrance-free hydrators, a.k.a gentle, soothing formulas that deliver serious moisture without any of the drama.

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer

Why it’s worth it: For less than $25, La Roche-Posay’s Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer deserves a front-and-center spot in your medicine cabinet. The fragrance-free cream offers a big hit of hydration thanks to ceramides, niacinamide, glycerin, and the brand’s signature thermal spring water, which soothes the skin. Seattle-based dermatologist Sarah Sung, MD, previously told Allure that this cream is one of her go-to picks for pairing with tretinoin. “The lightweight texture absorbs quickly but provides lasting moisture, so it works well for both morning and night,” she says.

Best for Oily Skin: Clinique Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator

Why it’s worth it: Tons of factors lead to dehydrated skin—lack of sleep, travel, sweat, you name it. Packed with brightening vitamin C, moisturizing vitamin E, and hyaluronic acid, Clinique’s Moisture Surge 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator delivers deep hydration while still feeling super lightweight and refreshing. Translation: Oily and combination skin will drink this stuff up. The gel-like cream sinks in immediately, leaving behind a glass-like finish that is just tacky enough to grip onto makeup. Use it at night for a moisture boost while you sleep, or during the day for skin that’s bouncy, plump, and effortlessly hydrated.

Best for Dry Skin: SkinCeuticals Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2

Why it’s worth it: SkinCeuticals’ Triple Lipid Restore 2:4:2 takes its name straight from its formula: 2% pure ceramides (types 1 and 3), 4% cholesterol, and 2% fatty acids. Why is this ratio so important? “It infuses skin-identical fatty acids into the barrier in the exact proportion that naturally exists in our barrier,” Mona Gohara, MD, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine, previously told Allure. Together, these ingredients help lock in moisture and reinforce the skin barrier. “It coddles my skin, comforting the extra-dry patches and leaving my complexion bouncy and bright,” Allure senior beauty editor Jesa Marie Calaor affirms.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Illiyoon Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream

Why it’s worth it: Illiyoon’s Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream has a loyal following because it’s a savior for sensitive skin. The fragrance-free formula packs barrier-strengthening ceramides and moisture-locking glycerin, and it’s gentle enough for adults and kids (yup, the whole fam can use it!). “This product has saved my skin,” Charlotte Cho, founder of Soko Glam, previously told Allure. “It’s one of the most soothing body products I’ve used, and it’s rich enough to keep my skin from flaking,” she says.

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Skinfix Barrier+ Skin Barrier Restoring Gel Cream

Why it’s worth it: If your barrier is crying out for help (hi, blemishes and redness) but you’re too oily and acne-prone for heavy creams, Skinfix’s Best of Beauty-winning Barrier+ Skin Barrier Restoring Gel Cream is a lifesaver. Powered by a mix of moisture-binding saccharide isomerate, oil-absorbing niacinamide, and a peptide blend that supports the skin barrier’s moisturizing abilities, it delivers serious moisture to help your barrier bounce back, all without that dreaded thick film. New York City-based dermatologist David Kim, MD, is a big fan, too, touting its lightweight formula for its ability to sit pretty on oily skin. “One to two pumps is all you need, and it gets absorbed instantly,” he previously told Allure. Bonus points for the push-top packaging, which keeps things bacteria- and mess-free (no finger-dipping required).

Best Lightweight: Tatcha Dewy Milk Moisturizer

Why it’s worth it: Plenty of “lightweight” creams claim to feel airy, but this one actually delivers. With its milky, serum-like texture, it sinks right in, erases that tight, dry feeling on contact, and leaves skin dewy without a hint of greasiness. The formula also brings some not-so-typical ingredients to the table: zinc hyaluronate for hydration that won’t feel heavy on oily skin, prebiotic green tea to balance skin’s pH and provide anti-aging benefits, and Japanese purple rice to fend off free radical damage, which results in fine lines and wrinkles (and who wants that?).

Best With SPF: Supergoop Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer SPF 40

Why it’s worth it: If you’re hunting for a fragrance-free moisturizer that doubles as SPF, Supergoop’s Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer SPF 40 checks every box. The silky chemical formula glides on, sinks in fast, and leaves zero white cast, which is crucial for deeper skin tones. On top of sun protection, it’s loaded with skin-plumping MVPs like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, niacinamide, and ectoin to keep pores happy and hydration levels up. True to Supergoop fashion, it layers beautifully under makeup and provides a smooth base. (You can also apply it under a tinted SPF for extra protection.)

Best for Redness: Peach Slices Redness Relief Calming Cream

Why it’s worth it: If your skin turns fire hydrant-red during a flare-up, tone it down with the cooling and anti-inflammatory powers of Peach Slices’ Redness Relief Calming Cream. It’s supercharged with turmeric root to minimize discoloration and irritation, as well as rhodomyrtus extract to fight active blemishes, green algae to combat redness, and panthenol to deeply hydrate. It’s basically a breath of fresh air for panicking skin.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are fragrance-free moisturizers better than scented ones?

If your skin leans sensitive, acne-prone, or just plain reactive, then yes—fragrance-free is the way to go since it lowers your chances of irritation and flare-ups. If you’re one of the lucky ones whose skin does tolerate fragrance well, then sit back, relax, and enjoy the sensory experience. Bottom line: It’s less about one being better than the other and more about finding what your skin prefers.

Before slathering a new moisturizer all over your face, do a quick patch test on your neck or the back of your hand. If you notice redness, stinging, or irritation popping up, that’s your skin’s way of saying “no thanks,“ and it’s probably not the formula for you.

Meet the experts

• Fatima Fahs, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Canton, Michigan

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best fragrance-free moisturizers, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.

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Ahead, we listed every retinol body lotion, cream, and serum that board-certified dermatologists (and our editors) swear by for skin that needs blemish-, dullness-, and crepe-reducing care.

Best Overall: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum

Why it’s worth it: If your skin can handle it, Dr. Yadav recommends an exfoliating body lotion like the Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum. It contains a Best of Beauty-winning combination of retinol and glycolic and lactic acids, which are alpha hydroxy acids that help “reduce fine lines and discoloration, as well as remove dead skin cells on the surface,” says Dr. Yadav. This allows the retinol to better penetrate the skin, which is especially helpful if you’re trying to combat rough texture or a skin condition like keratosis pilaris.

Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana, also gives this value-friendly formula her stamp of approval. “I appreciate the combo of actives—retinol, lactic acid, and urea to gently exfoliate—for just $30,” she says. “I also love how moisturizing it is, with goodies like glycerin, squalane, green tea leaf extract, and vitamin E.”

Best Prescription-Strength: Musely The Body Cream

Why it’s worth it: While it’s always best to see a dermatologist when you can, Musely makes prescription-strength care far more accessible by connecting you with a licensed provider who tailors the brand’s Body Cream to your specific needs. At the core of the formula is tretinoin, also known as retinoic acid—the fastest-acting form of vitamin A. “Tretinoin is the gold standard for improving skin texture and fine lines,” San Diego-based board-certified dermatologist Azadeh Shirazi, MD, previously told Allure. This potent ingredient accelerates cell turnover to smooth wrinkles, clear breakouts, and refine tone. Supporting players include vitamin C to brighten sun spots and hyaluronic acid to lock in lasting head-to-toe hydration.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion

Why it’s worth it: You won’t find the exact retinol percentage on the label, but Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion does pack all-trans-retinol—a well-studied form of vitamin A that your skin converts into retinoic acid to boost collagen production and cell turnover. The brand calls its retinol “medical-grade,” which (FYI) is often industry shorthand for levels you won’t typically see in standard drugstore products, although there’s no regulation around the term. And while it’s potent, sensitive-skin types don’t need to worry: “The formula’s all-trans-retinol is encapsulated for gradual release, to minimize irritation while it brightens and firms crepey skin. Plus, it’s paired with calming edelweiss flower extract and antioxidant-rich green tea,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.

Best Scent: Chantecaille Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol

Why it’s worth it: When we think of French-girl glow, we think of Chantecaille—the brand, which began as a French fragrance house, has always made everyday routines feel elegant and indulgent. The Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol features a velvety, fast-absorbing formula that melts into skin with a delicate, natural rose fragrance. And while the scent is dreamy, the formula works hard to smooth out dry, rough texture. “This lotion uses encapsulated retinol in botanical microspheres for controlled release, reducing irritation, and includes glycerin, shea butter, and jojoba to hydrate and soften uneven skin,” says Dr. Goldenberg. But it tackles more than dryness: “Retinol also helps clear body breakouts and fade stubborn dark spots, while the antioxidants from rose water and avocado extracts protect against new damage,” he says.

Best Fast-Acting: Murad Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: Nope, it’s not a typo—Murad’s Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment really does use retinal (also called retinaldehyde), the more potent cousin of retinol that works faster to deliver noticeable results. Perfect for those tricky spots prone to sagging (think arms, knees, and décolletage), it blends powerful actives with rich, skin-loving moisturizers. “The encapsulated retinal delivers more efficacy with less irritation to help lift, firm, and tighten skin, while shea butter, squalane, and avocado extract keep it deeply moisturized,” says Dr. Spearman. The lush yet quick-absorbing formula leaves skin soft and smooth over time, minus any greasy finish.

Best for Mature Skin: Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate

Why it’s worth it: Dr. Turegano revealed Beauty Pie’s Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate is her favorite body retinol, so that’s high praise. “It has a powerhouse combo of ingredients, including 2% granactive retinol, 5% niacinamide, and 6.7% glycolic acid, that is very moisturizing and fast-absorbing,” she notes. If you didn’t know, granactive retinoid is a synthetic retinoic acid that’s less irritating and more stable (less likely to break down when exposed to light or air) than traditional retinol. However, like retinol, it stimulates collagen production and curbs the formation of wrinkles.

Best for Dry Skin: Versed Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter

Why it’s worth it: Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut, recommends Versed Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter, which she uses in her nighttime routine. For a cool $20, you get “a cosmetically elegant whipped cream that has collagen-building properties,” says Dr. Gohara. “I put it on all over, but particularly on my arms and thighs.” It’s rich yet fast-absorbing and really ups the skin-conditioning effects, thanks to ample butters, an amino-acid-rich tripeptide, and squalane. As the “Advanced” in the product name suggests, it’s the brand’s stronger retinol offering (see more below), so take heed. P.S. There are no added fragrances, but tucuma and cocoa butters give off a natural, nutty scent.

Best Lightweight: Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment

Why it’s worth it: If you’re looking for a dose of lightweight moisture, Paula’s Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment won’t disappoint. Dr. Liu is a fan of this silky formula because “it combines retinol with antioxidants and emollients to target both texture and hydration.” Moisturizers like shea butter and grapeseed oil can feel heavy, but Paula’s Choice manages to make this treatment feel virtually weightless. A sticky, greasy finish? Not a chance.

Best Splurge: U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound

Why it’s worth it: U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound won a 2024 Best of Beauty Award in the Splurges category for many reasons. For one, and most importantly, it pairs retinol with all of the acids your skin needs to amp up cell turnover: lactic, salicylic, mandelic, phytic, and glycolic, plus papain enzymes (extract from papaya fruit). Though it shouldn’t sting or cause irritation upon application, as with all retinol products, start easy and build up usage. Plus, a boatload of conditioning ingredients, including glycerin, peptides, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E will surely soothe and soften your skin.

Best for Body Acne: Soft Services Software Update Performance Retinol Serum

Why it’s worth it: If you want a retinol treatment that’s light enough to layer under your favorite hydrating body lotion, you’ll love the Soft Services Software Update Performance Retinol Serum just as much as we do. This weightless, fast-absorbing formula treats your skin with a max-strength combination of 0.25% pure retinol, 5% niacinamide, and 3% glycerin to help clear clogged pores, smooth bumpy texture, and lighten post-acne marks while also firming and refining skin over time. The retinol boosts cell turnover, helping dead skin cells shed more efficiently so they don’t build up and block pores, while niacinamide calms inflammation and regulates oil to keep future breakouts at bay.

Best for Dark Spots: Nécessaire The Body Retinol

Why it’s worth it: Not only is Nécessaire aesthetically pleasing—its chic, minimalist packaging will upgrade any bathroom situation—but the editor-approved The Body Retinol has the chops to earn a permanent, rightful place in your skin-care routine. The formula has one main mission: to reduce signs of aging on the body, including the appearance of fine lines, crepiness, uneven texture, and hyperpigmentation. Pure encapsulated retinol (0.1%) works alongside other heavy hitters like mandelic and glycolic acid (gentle chemical exfoliators) and vitamin C (a skin-brightening antioxidant) to leave behind undeniably smoother skin.

“Vitamin C not only supports collagen synthesis, but also offers antioxidant protection against environmental damage that speeds up aging,” Mona Foad, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, Ohio, explained in our roundup of the best body-tightening creams. This lotion also features peptides, “which strengthen the skin’s structure by aiding in collagen repair,” she added.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of retinol body lotions?

“Retinol body lotions are gaining popularity for their ability to address skin concerns beyond the face, offering anti-aging, exfoliating, and smoothing benefits,” says Dr. Liu. Quick reminder on retinol: It’s a derivative of vitamin A that most notably accelerates cell turnover, boosts collagen production, and improves texture. “As we age, our collagen production naturally deteriorates, which leads to skin laxity, fine lines, and wrinkles,” says Dr. Yadav. “Retinol stimulates skin’s fibroblasts, the cells that create collagen, to help create firmer skin.” This can aid in tackling neck and chest creases, which Dr. Yadav says can be notoriously challenging to treat, as well as sagging, crepey skin on areas like the thighs and arms.

Retinol can also help prevent body acne and breakouts by balancing sebum production and promoting faster cell turnover, which keeps pores from clogging, explains Dr. Yadav.

Finally, if you’re dealing with discoloration or dark spots, you guessed it—retinol can help. “Retinol is what’s known as a tyrosinase inhibitor, tyrosinase being the enzyme in the body that triggers the production of melanin, the pigment that gives our skin color,” says Dr. Yadav. “Sun exposure, age, and skin injury (such as a blemish or scar) can cause hyperpigmentation.” Retinol can help combat this process by helping to fade existing discoloration, whether it’s sun spots on the shoulders or darker patches of skin on areas like the armpits or elbows.

How and when should I use retinol body lotion?

While most retinol body lotions tend to be milder than face treatments (with lower concentrations of retinol), Dr. Yadav still recommends starting slowly, especially if you have sensitive skin. “Retinol can be a little irritating, so I’d suggest applying once a week for a few weeks to start,” she says. “Then, once you’ve confirmed your skin can tolerate it, increase your application cadence, following the same method until you’ve worked your way up to daily application.”

Like the retinol you use on your face, retinol in a body lotion can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s best to use it at night. (It’s pretty much a given at this point, but it bears repeating that you should also be applying sunscreen on your body during the day to protect your skin against damage—after all, sun damage is what many of us are trying to correct with retinol, says Dr. Yadav.)

Using your retinol-infused facial moisturizer on your body may have crossed your mind—and while we appreciate the desire to be efficient, this may not be the best idea. For one, the product you use on your face is likely more potent than a retinol lotion formulated for your body, so the facial cream is likely more irritating. Also, facial moisturizers are housed in smaller packaging, which means you’d go through them too quickly if you were to use them for your entire body. Finally, retinol body lotions are often formulated alongside other hydrating ingredients, so you’ll still enjoy the smooth, moisturizing benefits of a traditional body lotion (unlike a facial cream, which may not provide enough hydration for the body).

That being said, if you’re looking for retinol creams for the face, we recommend the following:

What other ingredients should I look for in a retinol body lotion?

As much as we sing retinol’s praises, the ingredient doesn’t come without its fair share of side effects, such as disrupting the skin barrier and stripping it of natural lipids like ceramides. “Ceramides act like the ‘grout’ between your skin cells’ ‘bricks’ and help prevent moisture from escaping,” explains Dr. Yadav. “Using a body lotion with ceramides can inhibit transepidermal moisture loss and keep skin comfortable and balanced.” Aside from ceramides, seek out moisturizing plant butters like shea and cocoa, which can help “counteract the dehydrating effects of retinol, helping skin look moisturized, soft, and conditioned,” she says.

Meet the experts

• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology, based in New York City
• Jenny Liu, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor in the Twin Cities
• Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada
• Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Radiant Dermatology Associates, based in Fort Wayne, Indiana
• Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans, Louisiana
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut, and associate clinical professor at Yale University
• Azadeh Shirazi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of La Jolla Dermatology & Laser Surgery Center, based in San Diego, CA

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

If you’re chasing that youthful glow but cringe at the thought of needles or lasers, your answer might be as easy as adding one of the best growth-factor serums to your routine. But for the uninitiated, what are growth factors? “Growth factors are proteins that play an important role in stimulating cell growth, regeneration, and healing,” says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles, CA. “In skin care, they’re typically used to encourage cell turnover and collagen production, and may help reduce fine lines and wrinkles.”

Growth factor serums are also a well-researched and highly effective addition to modern skin care, according to Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York, NY, and Newport Beach, CA. “Clinical trials have demonstrated their ability to improve skin firmness, hydration, and elasticity,” she says. However, as with all serums, not all growth-factor serums are created equal. “Some might have low concentrations of active ingredients or poorly formulated bases that interfere with effective absorption,” says Dr. Amin. And since most growth factor serums don’t come cheap, wasting money on an underperforming product is far from ideal. So, let’s cut to the chase.

Our Top Growth Factor Serums

Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum

Why we love it: A routine Best of Beauty award winner, SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is a growth-factor OG that set the standard long before it became a buzzword. If you’re wondering, TNS stands for tissue nutrient solution, a nod to its star ingredient: human fibroblast conditioned media. This serum supplies the skin with growth factors to improve the appearance of fine lines, coarse wrinkles, skin tone, and texture. “SkinMedica received the patent in 2000 for the first cosmetic product with growth factors. Numerous clinical studies have since backed TNS growth factors,” explains Dr. Amin. “It’s one of the most clinically supported growth-factor serums on the market, offering firmer-looking skin in as little as two weeks,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose.

Best for Mature Skin: PCA Skin Pro-Max Age Renewal

Why we love it: Some days call for a multistep routine in the name of self-care. Other days, you just want results—fast. PCA SKIN Pro-Max Age Renewal is your shortcut to firmer, bouncier skin powered by growth factor-mimicking peptides. Unlike traditional growth factors, which can be unstable and struggle to penetrate the skin, these peptides are smaller, more stable, and shown to stimulate collagen and elastin. “This serum is formulated to penetrate more deeply to trigger collagen production, while micro-algae deliver instant firming and kangaroo paw flower smooths texture,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York. In other words, it supports the very cells responsible for firmness and elasticity, so skin looks tighter, plumper, and smoother over time.

Best for Dry Skin: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum

Why we love it: If firmer, smoother skin is on your vision board, Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum turns goals into results. Infused with a growth factor complex, peptides, and moisturizing lipids, “this non-comedogenic anti-aging serum is designed for those who want to target wrinkles and a loss of skin volume and firmness,” says Dr. Camp. Plus, that means that beyond lifting and firming, it helps improve elasticity, restores hydration, and strengthens the skin barrier, leaving your complexion looking more resilient and refreshed.

Best Splurge: Angela Caglia Cell Forté Serum

Why we love it: You could juggle four different serums, or you could use one that works as hard as vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and peptides combined. Angela Caglia’s Cell Forté Serum uses the brand’s proprietary BIOMSC technology to pack serious multitasking power into a single bottle. This serum is made with human conditioned media from mesenchymal stem cells, so it’s packed with growth factors to boost collagen and cell turnover, exosomes to help skin cells ‘communicate’ with each other, and cytokines to calm inflammation and support repair, according to Dr. Camp. In layman’s terms, it smooths fine lines, brightens tone, and boosts elasticity. Plus, it deeply hydrates thanks also to tremella mushroom, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and Bacillus ferment that also helps support a healthy skin barrier. In short, it’s a serum that really does the most.

Best Budget: The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum

Why we love it: If you’re looking for the latest clean technology, The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum bottled it up. “In addition to plant-derived peptide EGF to target hyperpigmentation, this serum also brightens the skin with 15% vitamin C,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. Designed for use in the morning, the salve has a lightweight feel and sinks quickly into the skin—be sure to layer SPF on top. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can boost the efficacy of your everyday sunscreen, though it can’t stand in for sunscreen on its own. The best part is that “while most epidermal growth factor (EGF) serums are over $100, this one is less than $20,” he says.

Best Sensitive Skin: Replenix Growth Factor Restorative Serum

Why we love it: While some serums just moisturize, Replenix Growth Factor Restorative Serum actually changes the way your skin looks and feels. “This product focuses on plumping the skin and producing a youthful appearance,” says Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, who notes that it works for all skin types, including sensitive skin. With plant- and enzyme-derived growth factors, collagen-boosting peptides, and hyaluronic acid, it helps smooth fine lines and improve elasticity. “The product also helps uneven tone,” Dr. Goldenberg adds. When it comes to targeting aging prevention, it’s an overachiever in every sense.

Best for Uneven Texture: Neocutis Bio Serum Firm

Why we love it: Growth factors work like keys, unlocking receptors on skin cells to activate processes like collagen and elastin production, cell growth, and improved blood flow. “When the key clicks into the lock, it activates the cell to do things, like grow and divide, make more collagen and elastin, or increase blood flow,” Gail Naughton, a regenerative medicine researcher and growth-factor formulator, previously told Allure. That’s exactly what makes the Neocutis Bio Serum Firm so effective. With a formulation that combines human growth factors, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, it targets fine lines, wrinkles, texture, brightness, firmness, and elasticity. “These key ingredients reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, refine texture, brighten skin, and improve firmness and elasticity,” says Dr. Camp.

Best Brightening: Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma Bioactive Growth Factor Serum

Why we love it: Dr. Jason B. Diamond, a Beverly Hills facial plastic surgeon, created the Metacine collection as a take-home version of his famous Diamond InstaFacial—a treatment beloved by the Kardashian sisters and Alex Cooper of Call Her Daddy. While the in-office facial uses lasers, microneedling, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to tighten skin, the Metacine system delivers similar effects with two products: plasma and emulsion. Plasma features bioidentical human growth factors to boost skin regeneration, while Emulsion, with retinoids, accelerates cell renewal. Designed over five years with rigorous testing, the celebrity-approved formula has even earned Kate Hudson’s stamp of approval as “dreamy and creamy.”

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do growth-factor serums really work?

“Data suggest that well-formulated, high-quality growth factor serums can deliver measurable benefits,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “With consistent use, these serums can lead to noticeable improvements in overall skin quality, making them a valuable tool in skin care.” Alas, they don’t work overnight. “Like any skin-care product, growth-factor serums should be used for at least two to three months before you can accurately decide if they are effective—or not—for your specific skin concern,” says Dr. Camp. “Consistency is key in treating the skin with a new active ingredient, such as a growth factor.”

According to Dr. Amin, “It is also important to note that not everyone will respond the same way to these serums, and factors like genetics, lifestyle, and diet can influence the outcome.”

Is growth factor better than retinol?

“Growth-factor serums stimulate the skin’s natural cellular repair processes, promoting rejuvenation with minimal irritation, making them a great option for sensitive or reactive skin types,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “However, they tend to be quite expensive. Retinol, derived from vitamin A, accelerates cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Unlike growth factors, retinol often causes skin irritation and requires a gradual introduction into your routine. Both can support skin hydration and are powerful tools for addressing signs of aging, but their best use depends on your skin’s needs and tolerance.”

According to Dr. Amin, the decision to use retinol or growth factor depends on what you’re looking for in a skin-care routine. “For improving skin texture, retinol may be more effective in the long term due to its ability to promote cell turnover and collagen production,” she says. “Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of retinol and retinoids in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. For very sensitive skin that cannot tolerate retinol, growth factors may be more suitable, especially if you’re looking for something less likely to cause irritation.”

Meet the experts

• Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
• Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in the tri-state area
• Gary Goldenberg, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and co-founder of Goldenberg Dermatology, based in New York City
• Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago
• Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and Newport Beach, California

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best growth factor skin-care products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

Our staff and testers

A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.

Dark underarms are extremely common, but if they’re keeping you from going sleeveless, the best armpit brightening creams can help. Discoloration often stems from friction, shaving, ingrown hairs, or product buildup, which can lead to irritation and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The trick is to use strategic, dermatologist-approved ingredients to fade discoloration, soothe irritation, and smooth bumpy texture, all while being gentle enough for the delicate underarm area.

Our Top Armpit Brightening Creams

“When recommending brightening skin-care products for the underarms, I prioritize formulas that balance efficacy with gentleness,” says Sarah Sung, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of The Perq, based in Seattle. “Since this area is prone to friction and irritation, using well-tolerated ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and kojic acid is key to avoid further post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.” She emphasizes that consistency is crucial, especially when treating discoloration from shaving or ingrown hairs, and that the best results come from products that are easy to use daily and feel good on the skin.

Luckily, several over-the-counter options fit the bill: Lightweight, hydrating formulas that won’t sting or pill under deodorant and are suitable for all skin types. Below, you’ll find expert- and editor-approved favorites that deliver brightening results.

Best Overall: La Roche-Posay Mela B3 Dark Spot Corrector Serum

Why it’s worth it: Though it’s technically a face serum, Brendan Camp, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist, shouts out La Roche-Posay’s Mela B3 Dark Spot Corrector Serum for its skin-brightening formulation that can be used on your underarm area. “This niacinamide-containing serum can be applied to underarms to treat discoloration, though it would be wise to do a test spot first before applying it more liberally,” he advises.

Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in New York City, also gives the Mela B3 serum kudos for its “multi-angled approach” to creating an even skin tone, thanks to La Roche-Posay’s proprietary Melasyl complex, which is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and retinol. It’s also enriched with moisture-replenishing thermal spring water to minimize skin irritation.

Best for Deeper Skin Tones: Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum

Why it’s worth it: Topicals Faded Brightening & Clearing Serum is a gentle, yet highly effective treatment for fading stubborn underarm discoloration, whether from acne, ingrown hairs, or hyperpigmentation. “This creamy, gel-serum contains a combination of tranexamic acid, niacinamide, kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and azelaic acid, which in tandem visibly fade excess pigmentation while also calming inflammation in the area,” says Dr. Sung. Together, these ingredients help interrupt melanin production and reduce pigment transfer in the skin to even out tone—even for those with deeper skin tones—without irritating sensitive areas. “Many of my patients appreciate that they can apply it at night or in the morning without any stickiness,” she says. “Over time, they notice not only brighter underarms but also fewer ingrown-related bumps from waxing or shaving thanks to the serum’s anti-inflammatory benefits.”

Best for Sensitive Skin: Paula’s Choice 5% Niacinamide Body Serum

Why it’s worth it: If you’ve been searching for a low-effort, high-reward way to fade underarm discoloration, try Paula’s Choice 5% Niacinamide Body Serum. “The 5% niacinamide concentration in this serum is ideal for daily use: It’s powerful enough to effectively even out skin tone and fade discoloration, yet gentle enough for all skin tones,” says Dr. Sung. Because niacinamide is both a pigment inhibitor and an anti-inflammatory, it not only helps reduce hyperpigmentation but also soothes redness or irritation from shaving. Dr. Sung also points to the addition of panthenol and prickly pear extract, which help boost hydration and reinforce the skin barrier, crucial for minimizing friction-related irritation and preventing further darkening.

Best Lightweight: Peter Thomas Roth Potent-C Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment

Why it’s worth it: We love a good play on words, and Potent-C lives up to the name. Peter Thomas Roth’s Niacinamide Discoloration Treatment is a powerful treatment to help fade stubborn underarm hyperpigmentation. “It has niacinamide, kojic acid, and tranexamic acid to help lighten discolorations,” says Purvisha Patel, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Memphis, Tennessee. The formula also includes a super-stable form of vitamin C (THD ascorbate) to give skin an extra brightening boost. Even though the ingredient list packs a punch, it’s gentle enough for sensitive areas, with a lightweight, fragrance-free gel-cream texture that layers easily under deodorant.

Best Antiperspirant: Vanicream Anti-Perspirant Deodorant

Why it’s worth it: If you prefer the sweat-minimizing abilities of an antiperspirant alongside your armpit brightening cream, Dr. Camp suggests swiping on Vanicream’s Anti-Perspirant Deodorant. “Consider using a gentle roll-on deodorant or antiperspirant like Vanicream’s to avoid underarm irritation,” he says. Dr. Camp also notes that this antiperspirant is designed for those with sensitive skin and is free of dyes, fragrances, and parabens, but keep in mind that it still contains aluminum, which can irritate skin.

Best With Lactic Acid: AmLactin Daily Nourish Body Lotion with 12% Lactic Acid

Why it’s worth it: AmLactin’s Daily Nourish Body Lotion is a 2024 Allure Best of Beauty Award winner—as well as a dermatologist’s favorite for treating everything from bumpy arms to dark underarms. “This is my go-to recommendation to help lessen the appearance of underarm hyperpigmentation,” says Nazanin Saedi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Plymouth Meeting Dermatology, based in East Norriton, PA. “It’s formulated with lactic acid, both a hydrator and a gentle exfoliant that works well to remove dead, darker skin cells and fade hyperpigmentation on sensitive underarm skin.” The 12% lactic acid concentration is potent, but the addition of glycerin helps offset irritation by keeping skin moisturized. Dr. Saedi recommends applying it nightly to damp skin right after showering and before deodorant. “Patience and consistency are important. It typically takes a couple of months to see results,” she adds.

Best With Vitamin C: Estée Lauder Perfectionist Pro Rapid Brightening Treatment

Why it’s worth it: The main ingredient in Estée Lauder’s Perfectionist Pro Rapid Brightening Treatment is vitamin C, specifically ascorbyl glucoside, a stabilized derivative of the brightening antioxidant. It’s also paired with a slew of skin-nourishing favorites, including hydrating hyaluronic acid and three forms of tone-evening ferments, to treat your pits to the works. “This serum uses vitamin C and fruit extracts to lighten, but also gently exfoliates with urea and salicylic acid,” says Dr. Nazarian.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What causes underarm discoloration?

There are a multitude of factors that lead to underarm discoloration, but the most common cause is skin friction, according to the board-certified dermatologists we talked to. “Constant friction between the skin or with tight clothing can cause hyperpigmentation due to the irritation it causes,” says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles. “This condition, called post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), is a result of an increase in melanin production as the skin responds to inflammation.”

The best eye-tightening creams have become viral sensations, racking up millions of views (and buys) due to their visibly firming results. Undereyes seemingly go from puffy to smooth in the blink of an eye—albeit temporarily. Although they may seem gimmicky, many eye-tightening creams come highly recommended by board-certified dermatologists. Sure, their effects are short-lived, but they work. They even benefit the delicate, ultra-thin skin around your eyes over time with the help of collagen-boosting ingredients, like peptides, says Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Ocean Springs, Mississippi.

Our Top Eye-Tightening Creams

Of course, these eye-tightening creams are not bottled-up versions of IPL treatments or a blepharoplasty (eye lift), but they truly do the trick to help tighten, plump, and firm the skin around your eyes in a pain-free pinch. If one of your skin-care goals is to minimize the appearance of dark circles, offset sagging, smooth eye wrinkles, or all of the above, an eye cream—especially one with firming benefits—should be the first thing you add for undereyes that look more awake, and an overall more energized complexion.

Best Overall: SkinCeuticals A.G.E Advanced Eye

Why it’s worth it: Allure’s best eye cream lists consistently include the SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Advanced Eye because it’s a past Best of Beauty winner, and many dermatologists swear by it. According to Kunal Malik, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, this eye treatment combines immediate visible improvements with long-term benefits by addressing the advanced glycation end-products (a.k.a. A.G.E.), which naturally develop and build up in our bodies as we age and cause our skin to sag. A.G.E. Advanced Eye’s potent blend of peptides, in particular, helps reverse them by improving firmness, tightness, and elasticity.

This undereye-tightening cream is also spiked with proxylane, blueberry extract, and flavonoids to help decrease the appearance of crow’s feet, as Lauren Penzi, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, has told Allure. “With regular use, patients have definitely noticed a decrease in the appearance of fine lines around the eyes,” she added.

Best Firming: Dr. Loretta Tightening Eye Gel

Why it’s worth it: Dr. Loretta’s Tightening Eye Gel earned its Best of Beauty seal in 2019 for its highly effective, ultra-versatile formula that takes a literal 360 approach to rejuvenating the eye area. Tap it around the circumference of each eye, including your upper eyelid, to harness the benefits of tetrapeptide-5 and antioxidant-rich nannochloropsis oculata extract (a form of microalgae). Both help deflate puffiness, restore tautness, and kick-start collagen production for a smoother, more resilient eye area.

Best Overnight: Laneige Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask

Why it’s worth it: Soothe puffy undereyes and fine lines while you snooze with the Laneige Bouncy & Firm Eye Sleeping Mask. This overnight mask enhances your beauty sleep with a max-strength combination of caffeine and niacinamide to brighten tone and soothe undereye puffiness, while antioxidant-rich peony extract and peptides create a firmer, plumper feel. Since it’s free of harsh active ingredients and fragrances, its formula is suitable for those with sensitive skin as well.

Best Budget: RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream

Why it’s worth it: RoC’s Retinol Correxion Eye Cream targets lines, dark circles, and puffiness without making a huge dent in your bank account. “I love this one as it provides so many benefits of pricier products at a fraction of the cost,” Dr. Malik says. He points to its inclusion of gentle retinol, which helps promote collagen production, boost firmness, and reduce the appearance of crow’s feet. (Just be sure to wear sunscreen to avoid irritation, as retinoids can increase sun sensitivity.) It also allows this incredibly lightweight formula to help diminish discoloration over time, adds David Li, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston.

More eye-tightening creams we love:

Best Fast-Acting: Peter Thomas Roth Instant Firmx Eye

Why it’s worth it: The Peter Thomas Roth Instant Firmx Eye deserves all the TikTok hype, according to Dr. Zubritsky and board-certified dermatologist Mona Mislankar, MD. It functions like a transparent clay mask, thanks to silicates extracted from natural clays. As it dries down, the gel formula absorbs moisture and gently pulls the delicate skin in the undereye area, making it feel tight—just like your favorite rinse-off mask—and instantly appear firmer, as cosmetic chemist Javon Ford previously shared with Allure. Dr. Zubritsky loves that Peter Thomas Roth’s Instant Firmx Eye is also formulated with peptides to help depuff undereye bags and smooth wrinkles with long-term use.

Best Tinted: Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35

Why it’s worth it: The Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 covers all of our bases for daytime skin care, which is why Donna Hart, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin, Texas, swears by it. “It really checks multiple boxes: SPF coverage, concealing properties, fluid reduction, and fine line-reducing ingredients all in one,” she says. As it guards skin against UV rays with mineral-based sun blockers and provides creaseless complexion coverage, this hydrating mix of glycerin and panthenol also smooths sagging skin and boosts brightness for a more awake look, even when you’ve skimped on sleep.

Best for Hooded Eyes: Revision Skincare DEJ Eye Cream

Why it’s worth it: If you have hooded eyes (i.e., your lids slightly droop over your eyes), consider this eye-tightening cream recommendation from Dr. Malik. Specifically formulated for your eye shape, the Revision Skincare DEJ Eye Cream delivers a nourishing formula through a pump or a flat metal applicator. (The choice is up to you at checkout.) “It contains antioxidants, peptides, and other actives that address the multiple signs of aging around the delicate under-eye area,” Dr. Malik says. You can also count on them to help lift the drooping skin around your eyes and improve its firmness and elasticity.

Best for Sensitive Skin: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL Eyes

Why it’s worth it: Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut, approves of Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL Eyes for sensitive, reactive skin. “This formula uses retinaldehyde (a gentle vitamin A derivative) to smooth fine lines while soothing with thermal spring water,” she says, referring to it as “a silk robe for your undereyes.” If you’re not yet clued into retinaldehyde (or retinal for short), allow Noah Levit, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut, to explain further. “Retinal and retinol are both vitamin A derivatives, but retinal is one step closer to retinoic acid—the active form your skin uses. That means it works faster and is typically more potent than retinol,” Dr. Levit previously told us. TL;DR If you’re looking for a fast-acting eye cream that address fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness with minimal side effects, this drugstore find should be on your radar—and hopefully in your cart.

Best for Dry Skin: Caudalie Resveratrol-Lift Firming Eye Gel Cream

Why it’s worth it: This dreamy gel-cream puts resveratrol, an antioxidant, center stage to fight the loss of elasticity and fine lines along your under-eye area. Extracted from grapevine shoots, antioxidant-rich resveratrol helps visibly firm and reduce the appearance of wrinkles by promoting collagen production, says Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey. Studies have also found that it helps accelerate wound healing and skin regeneration. Caudalie’s Resveratrol-Lift Firming Eye Gel Cream also contains intensely hydrating ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, quinoa extract, and sunflower seed oil, to help plump the fragile skin under your eyes, she adds.

Best for Dark Circles: Isdin K-Ox Eyes

Why it’s worth it: Vitamin C may be popular, but Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Houston, Texas, says the Isdin K-Ox Eyes treatment includes a heavily underutilized antioxidant, vitamin K. The ingredient increases circulation while hyaluronic acid, the other primary ingredient in Isdin’s treatment, hydrates skin, creating a plumper, more supple appearance while diminishing dark circles and inflammation at the same time. “This is an excellent eye cream to reduce puffiness, and safe to use on eyelids as well,” she says.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does eye-tightening cream work?

Surprisingly, yes, but some have temporary skin-smoothing effects while others minimize the look of fine lines, sagging, and wrinkles over time with consistent use. Certain skin-care ingredients, like silicates, can have an instantly tightening effect on the under-eye area, as Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Ocean Springs, Mississippi, mentions to Allure. Another way they work their magic is by adding hydration to the eye area. “When the skin is more visibly hydrated, it looks tighter,” Dr. Lolis explains.

Collagen-stimulating ingredients, such as peptides, retinol, and vitamin C, help firm and tighten the delicate skin around your eyes, too, with consistent use. Keep in mind that eye-tightening creams won’t give you the same undereyes you had the day you were born, though. They can, however, effectively help diminish the appearance of fine lines, dark circles, and puffiness under your eyes.

How to apply eye cream

Dermatologists typically recommend gently tapping eye cream onto your eye area with your ring finger. It places the least amount of pressure on the delicate skin and is less likely to tug at it. Dr. Gohara says to “Apply along the orbital bone, not too close to the lash line.” You can also “use a chilled roller or gua sha [with your eye cream] for a spa-like boost,” she suggests as an optional upgrade.

Do you use eye cream or serum first?

Serum should be applied before eye cream. A general guideline experts suggest: Layer your skin-care products from thinnest to thickest consistency.

When to apply eye cream

Firming eye cream can be a part of your morning and nighttime skin-care routines. The only caveat: Eye creams formulated with retinol should only be used at night. (In the morning, you can reach for an eye cream with SPF.)

What in-office treatments are available for more intensive eye tightening?

We’ll let the pros take it from here: Dr. Gohara recommends radiofrequency microneedling (like Morpheus8), which is her “go-to for boosting collagen and elastin deep in the dermis.” If you’re looking for a non-invasive treatment (microneedling is considered minimally invasive, by the way), “Ultrasound-based devices like Ultherapy precisely target deeper layers to contour and tighten for a more lifted look,” Dr. Gohara adds. But, even with professional treatments, you shouldn’t negate your topicals. The strongest, most results-driven combination is always in-office treatments coupled with consistent at-home care.

Meet the experts

• Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Ocean Springs, Mississippi
• Mona Mislankar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Cincinnati, Ohio
• Javon Ford, a cosmetic chemist in Los Angeles
• Kunal Malik, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Spring Street Dermatology in NYC
• Donna Hart, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology in Austin
• Quynh-Giao Sartor, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Houston
• David Li, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston
• Margarita Lolis, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Hackensack, New Jersey
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Connecticut
• Noah Levit, MD, PhD, a board-certified dermatologist of Dermatology Physicians of Connecticut based in Fairfield, Hamden, and Norwalk, Connecticut

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

We often focus on sensitive skin care for the face, but your underarms deserve just as much attention. Shaving, tight clothing, and harsh deodorants can easily lead to irritation, redness, and discomfort. That’s why choosing a gentle, effective formula (and natural deodorants) is key, especially since common ingredients like fragrance, aluminum, and baking soda can trigger reactions.

To help you narrow down the ones that work, we extensively researched top contenders, considering their ingredients, formulas, application, and effectiveness. We then consulted two board-certified dermatologists—Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D., and Dr. Amreen Sitabkhan, M.D.,—to get to the heart (er, pit) of the matter on all things deodorant and sensitive skin.