Which retinol serums are fragrance free?

Which serum should you choose?

Choose the regular Olay serum if you want an explicit fragrance free label at the lower listed Olay price. MAX costs more, so the larger name also brings a larger bill. Olay describes MAX as having 20% more Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex, not 20% retinol. Choose The Ordinary if a disclosed starting strength and an oil containing formula matter more, and you have checked the ingredients against any known allergies.123

Does fragrance free mean irritation free?

No. Retinol itself can irritate, and other ingredients, including preservatives, can cause allergic reactions. If fragrance causes your reactions, look for "fragrance free" rather than "unscented"; the latter leaves the label doing some creative accounting. Unscented products and products with botanical ingredients can still contain fragrance related ingredients. Check the box before buying The Ordinary because its ingredient list can change with the purchase region and date.34

How do you start using a retinol serum?

1. 1Test a small area before applying the serum across your face. The Ordinary directs you to test clean upper forearm skin, keep it dry and rinse after 24 hours. Do not use the product if redness, burning, itching, blistering or irritation appears.
2. 2Cleanse in the evening. For Olay MAX, massage the desired amount into skin until absorbed, then follow with moisturizer. The Ordinary directs you to apply a few drops and use only on unbroken skin.
3. 3Start every other night and build up slowly as tolerated. This is general retinoid guidance for beginners; Olay MAX's directions call for nightly use.
4. 4Use sunscreen during the day, alongside shade and protective clothing. Retinoids can increase sun sensitivity.

The Ordinary says not to combine this serum with other retinoids, including prescription retinoic acid, direct acids, direct vitamin C or copper peptides. Refrigerate it after opening and use it within three months, so this bottle has a second address in the fridge.3

What results should you expect?

Retinol is a vitamin A based retinoid used to improve uneven tone, pigmentation and texture. Olay MAX targets visible wrinkles and uneven tone; The Ordinary targets fine lines, texture and tone rather than treating acne. There is no clear time to visible improvement given for either serum here.235

For marks left after acne, CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum targets the appearance of those marks, pores and uneven texture. Check its current fragrance label before adding it to a fragrance free shortlist.6

Who should be careful, and when should you stop?

Avoid retinoids during pregnancy; The Ordinary also advises avoiding them while breastfeeding. Existing dryness, skin allergies or substantial redness warrant a dermatologist's advice before starting. Retinoids can worsen eczema, and irritation can trigger dark marks in darker skin. Keep application away from the eyes and lips.357

If you develop a reaction, gently wash the serum off and stop using it. A cool compress or petroleum jelly can help relieve the skin. See a dermatologist if the reaction is severe or those measures do not relieve it; repeated unexplained reactions can need medical patch testing.4