After more than 13 years as a beauty and wellness editor, I’ve tried just about everything. I stay on top of the latest science, trends and ingredients, and regularly consult the experts (who know far more than I ever will).

When it comes to body care, though, I’m notoriously lazy. If something doesn’t work, I won’t stick with it. With that in mind, I put the retinol body lotions you see here to the test.

They all feel brilliant on the skin and have noticeably improved the look of my body, leaving it healthier, more even-toned and glowier.

I tested every formula for at least a week on different areas to properly compare results, and all performed impressively. However, it’s worth noting that retinol’s full benefits typically show after around 12 weeks — which means this is likely just the beginning, with even better results still to come.

The best retinol body lotions

Best retinol serum: Nécessaire The Body Retinol

Nécessaire The Body Retinol

Why we love it: Think of this formula as a retinol serum for your body – it’s lightweight and hydrating but supercharged with a decent percentage of pure retinol to address dull and lacklustre skin, crepiness and uneven tone. I also quickly noticed a reduction in uneven texture, plus the packaging is great.

• Key ingredients: 0.1% pure retinol, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, vitamin C, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, peptides.
• Size: 150ml.
• Fragranced: No.

Save when you shop for the best retinol body lotions with these Sephora discount codes at checkout.

Best intensive retinol treatment: Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment

Alpha-H Retinol Reboot Exfoliating Body Treatment

Why we love it: Want results and want them fast? Look no further than this Alpha-H formula, which offers targeted treatment, thanks to a concoction of actives. Alongside encapsulated retinol, you’ll find glycolic and lactic acid to slough away dead skin cells and renew texture – helping to address crepiness, dullness, uneven texture and more. I’m a big fan of this one.

• Key ingredients: 1% encapsulated retinol, 8% glycolic acid, 2% lactic acid, coenzyme Q10 and antioxidants.
• Size: 120ml.
• Fragranced: Yes.

Save when you shop for the best retinol body lotions with these LookFantastic discount codes at checkout.

Best retinol body treatment for luminosity: Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Treatment

Paula’s Choice Retinol Body Treatment

Why we love it: You really can’t go wrong with Paula’s Choice products – and this one is no exception. It’s lightweight yet deeply hydrating, and it noticeably smooths the skin in a short amount of time. Plus, it’s packed with antioxidants to help strengthen the skin and protect it from environmental stressors like pollution.

• Key ingredients: 0.1% retinol, shea butter, glycerin, grape seed oil, vitamins C&E.
• Size: 118ml.
• Fragranced: No.

Save when you shop for the best retinol body lotions with these Cult Beauty discount codes at checkout.

Best light retinol body cream: Naturium Retinol Body Lotion

Naturium Retinol Body Lotion

Why we love it: Harnessing encapsulated retinol, Naturium’s lotion ensures the active gets to where it needs to be in the skin – without the associated irritation. A perfectly cocooning cream, it’s a great price for the luxurious feel, plus I noted an improvement in skin tone in a couple of weeks.

• Key ingredients: Encapsulated retinol complex, allantoin, shea butter and safflower seed oil, glycerin.
• Size: 234ml.
• Fragranced: No.