36 Halloween Nail Art Ideas That Are Equal Parts Eerie and Cute
Source Images: Courtesy of @thuybnguyen, @nailartbyjen, and @nailslpc.xo
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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Halloween costumes come with various levels of commitment: We've got the planners who know a whole 11 months before the day what their theme is, the creative crafters who get to work two months ahead of time, and the 10-minutes-before-leaving-the-house crew. Did you know there's yet another group that's filled with Halloween spirit? They are your nail-obsessed friends. You might think a costume takes more planning than Halloween nails, but once you see this collection of intricate and beautiful designs, you'll realize they are total works of art in their own right.
Countless nail artists are just as enthusiastic as you are about the eerie magic of October 31, with some already serving spiderweb French tips, sleek orange-and-black designs, and candy corn stripes on their grids. These fun manicure ideas can stand on their own if you're not dressing up or serve as an awesome enhancement to a festive Halloween costume and/or makeup look. Here are the coolest ways to wear your excitement for Halloween 2025 on your fingertips.
Cute chrome mummies
Courtesy of @nailartbyjen
This adorable manicure by California-based nail art content creator Jeanette Flores is simultaneously subtle and fully committed to the bit. From a distance it might seem like a regular white-chrome manicure with a little texture, but up close, you can tell there's a mummy peeking at you from every nail. We love how Flores used Daily Charme Chrome Effect Gel to create the look of three-dimensional bandages.
Negative-space spookiness
Courtesy of @witchofbunnywoods
Take the edgy simplicity of a black French manicure and turn up the Halloween spirit with this negative-space concept by UK nail art creator Alana Lawson. The black tips fully border the almond shape, leaving an open area for little illustrations, like a Jack-o'-lantern, bats, and spiderwebs, also painted in black for a sleek presentation.
We all scream for ice cream
Courtesy of @jbepolished
Can’t let go of summer? Try this “summerween” manicure. You can feel the SoCal vibes in California nail artist Jazmine's spine-tingling yet mouth-watering manicure, which features Halloween-inspired ice cream treats in vibrant colors atop a multicolor chrome base. The idea requires a pretty ample canvas, so it's no surprise she opted for Apres Nails Gel-X Long Stiletto tips.
Iridescent ghosts
Courtesy of @nailnymphs
Who knew ghosts could be so adorable? Bust out a chrome powder (like Daily Charme’s Magic White Chrome Powder, which has a true silvery shift) and pink gel polish (like CND’s long-lasting Shellac Strawberry Smoothie) to re-create this set by Gabi De la Cruz. The creepy-but-cute ghosts wearing witch hats might take some artistry, but they’re totally drawable using a fine-tip nail art brush.
Spooky soulmates
Courtesy of @caval.studio
For lovers of both Halloween and Valentine’s Day, we have this hauntingly romantic manicure by Charlotte Bradwell of Caval Studio in Sheffield, UK. Bradwell swept on a sheer pink base (Essie Nail Lacquer in Vanity Fairest is perfect for this) before meticulously painting tiny, lovestruck creatures above it.
Cosmic creamsicle
Courtesy of @nail.brat
Sure, this manicure uses cream-colored polish, but it doesn’t make the look any less eerie. Its snakes, evil eyes, and crescent moons make for a sinister set that skips the dark hues. For a similar cream-and-orange combo, try OPI Nail Lacquer in My Vampire Is Buff and China Glaze Nail Lacquer in Orange Knockout.
Muted mischief
Courtesy of @baileebailsnails
When Halloween and minimalism intersect, the result is this look by Bailee Tabag. Its matte topcoat and autumnal colors give the Jack-o’-lanterns, spiderwebs, and ghosts style and finesse. For a spooky mani with a similar finish, reach for Nailtopia Go Matte Top Coat.
Velvet slime
Courtesy of @mabelandrowe
If hand-painted icons or nail decals aren’t your thing but you still want a special set for the holiday, this velvet green look is for you. Ask your nail artist for a cat-eye manicure, which involves moving the iron particles in a special nail polish with a magnet to create the illusion of texture.
Eerie oozing
Courtesy of @amyle.nails
The first step to creating this mesmerizing gel mani by Los Angeles-based manicurist Amy Le is carefully forming the drip effect using black nail polish, a dotting tool, and a nail art brush. Next, smear chrome powder over the top of each nail to create this oil-slick effect. Finally, add some small, cute spiders to give it a Halloween-esque finish and seal the look with a high-shine topcoat.
A little bit bloody
Courtsy of @lolo.nailedit
California-based content creator Lauren proved that blood drips can make a heck of a stylish manicure. She combined a milky base (like Sally Hansen Miracle Gel in Sheer Happiness) with an accent nail featuring delicately placed blood drips (we love a deep, dark red like Zoya Professional Lacquer in Courtney for this step). It’s a Halloween-themed manicure without going over the top, if that isn’t your vibe.
Tiny skeleton bones
Courtesy of @kuypernailart
You don’t need to dress as a skeleton to get into the Halloween spirit. Designs that look as good as this one by content creator Kristin Kuyper allow you to wear the theme on your nails instead.
This look requires some patience and a steady hand. To re-create it, start with a jet-black all-over nail color. Then, carefully paint the bones in a white polish. (For a stark contrast, KBShimmer Nail Polish in White Here White Now over Jinsoon Nail Lacquer in Absolute Black.) If you aren’t a keen nail artist, take this inspiration to the salon with you.
Not-so-frightening French tips
Courtesy of @overglowedit
We honestly didn’t know a themed Halloween manicure could get as chic as this one created by content creator Melanie. This is a look to try at home with nail stickers. For this design, Melanie used Deco Beauty nail art stickers and carefully placed them over the top of her black-and-white French tips.
Slime and stripes
Courtesy of @nails_by_syd
If you want to partake in the spooky season festivities without it being completely obvious, take this design as inspiration. The matte black hues, monochrome stripes, and lime green slime scream Halloween (but only to those who are looking close enough). For a green that looks as chic as it does slimy, reach for Habit Nail Polish in Let’s Call It a Chartreuse.
Witchy negative-space tips
Courtesy of @thuybnguyen
These negative-space tips with a starry night pattern—created by LA-based manicurist Thuy Nguyen—are the witch glam we didn’t know we needed. For this look, head to the salon and ask for a reverse French manicure with clear, free-edge tips, a true black base, and some delicate black stars to embellish the set.
Pumpkin French tips
Courtsy of @chicaartistanails
Bet you never thought you could love pumpkins on a set of nails so much. To try this design at home, start with a neutral-toned base and then choose five other autumnal hues that will form your pumpkin, like the gorgeous shades in Olive & June’s Fall Set.
Begin creating a rounded tip (where your classic French tip would go) with those shades, making sure to create a small indent to form that pumpkin shape. Then, using a detailing brush, go in with a black polish and outline those pumpkins, adding personality with stalks.
Matte black bats
Courtesy of @nails_by_syd
Playing around with matte and shiny topcoats on a black nail polish shade is a supercool way to spook-ify a traditional Halloween symbol. Take this set by Minnesota-based nail artist Sydney, who painted high-shine spooky bat designs atop a matte black base.
Ghosts in the dark
Courtesy of @nailslpc.xo
Possibly the cutest ghosts we’ve ever seen belong to this set of nails. Playing with contrasting shades and finishes gives even the simplest designs an extra-special something.
Jelly spiderweb
Courtesy of @pinkaliennailz
Jazz up a spiderweb design by painting on a purple jelly nail base, like nail artist Gabbi did for this set. If you’ve got a steady hand and a jelly nail polish (like the Cirque Colors Ube Jelly), this is one look you might want to try re-creating at home.
Itsy-bitsy spiders
Courtesy of @nailslpc.xo
Have you ever seen a French manicure made of cobwebs? Neither have we. But you can ask your nail tech to swap out the regular French tip for a spiderweb design before adding teeny spiders, then finish the look with a matte topcoat.
Chrome green wet look
Courtesy of @califreenails
This chrome green set created by LA-based Michelle Won is both simple and bold, and proves that not all epic Halloween manicures need to be intricate to be incredible. Sometimes you just need a long canvas to work on, an epic chrome power, and some super-realistic water droplets.
Shimmery Halloween scene
Courtesy of @heygreatnails
Level up any Halloween manicure with a shimmering cat-eye base like the one in this design by content creator Aistė Plechaviciute. We cannot get enough of this velvet look with orange accents to create a night-sky scene with tiny bats and stars for a magical Halloween look.
Spotty sorcery
Courtesy of @spellboundxnails
Orange-and-black manicures are quintessential for Halloween, but you can add so much more personality to the colors with graphics like those in this look by UK-based nail artist Aimee White. The flawless orange ombré is topped with witchy illustrations in matte black and white, including a snake, a moon, and potions. Little dots and stars keep it looking more cute than creepy.
Petrified pastels
Courtesy of @ceirrasnails
From a distance, this pastel masterpiece by Orlando-area nail artist Ceirra Carlini-Smith looks like a sweet, springtime, tie-dye-inspired manicure. Look a little closer, however, and you realize the graphics are straight out of the movie Scream—but with a bit of a flower-child twist. We love this as a a super cute way to wear your enthusiasm for Halloween without in-your-face obviousness.
Black-and-white bats
Courtesy of @nailss.by.gracie
At first glance, this manicure by Welsh nail artist Grace Andrew looks like bubbly, abstract shapes on a sheer pink base. Upon closer inspection, though, you'll find that it features a spooky scene: a bat flying against the clouds on a starry night.
Neon necromancy
Courtesy of @clutchcityclaws
The use of a metallic purple to black ombré on this super long, pointy manicure evokes the gothic mood of Halloween, but Houston nail artist Christie Schobel takes the look to another level with neon green graphics. Fluorescent moons, spiderwebs, snakes, smile drips, and more pop out with incredible contrast against the moody base color.
Bony beauties
Courtesy of @ghost.nails
Anatomically speaking, these nails by Minnesota nail artist Zoe are…not correct. Nonetheless, they are creepy and perfect for Halloween. Zoe painted opaque, white bone over sheer, jelly-like, blood red nails, the length of which is not for the timid.
Ghoulish galaxy
Courtesy of @sassynailsss
This mystical manicure by California nail artist Sabrina Fagundes is a whimsically witchy way to celebrate Halloween. And it proves that any color you're in the mood for—like this dusty periwinkle—can work for a spooky manicure when you enhance it with details like eyes, snakes, and a starry sky.
Cherry skulls
Courtesy of @thecosmostudio
Chances are you've seen plenty of iterations of this French-tipped manicure featuring tiny cherry details. An artist at Cosmo Studio in Los Angeles brings an original Halloween twist to this deep French look by replacing the cherries with itty-bitty black skulls.
Glow-in-the-dark ghost nails
Courtesy of @rawrrgina
This glow-in-the-dark ghost look is cuter than it is scary. You can use Mooncat's Green Eyed Monster to get this look—or find some fun, glowing ghost stickers for a similar feel. Simply place the stickers on top of whatever black polish you have in your collection, and you'll be good to go.
Haunted hands
Courtesy of @nailsandstuff_here
There are few moments in horror movies more chilling than when the hands of the undead start emerging from the ground. Nail artist Amy captured the spooky scene in nail art using a stamping plate, multiple green nail polish shades (we like Lights Lacquer Swamp Girl and Tranquila y Tropical for a fun clash), and one black polish.
Blood drips
Courtesy of @asideofnails
Dripping nail art is always a cool look, but it takes a creepier, Halloween-ready tone when that look is emerging from your cuticles. (Eek!) This take by nail artist Brittany Nefcy captures the holiday’s scary spirit with bloody accents on a white base.
Glam glitter and ghosts
Courtesy of @nailbruja
Miami-based nail technician Laysa found another genius way to incorporate the ghost motif into a manicure. These nails were made with hand-sculpted acrylic, which she infused with a chunky orange glitter base. If you look closely, you'll see a few teeny ghost- and bat-shaped glitter pieces in there too.
Shimmery spiderweb
Courtesy of Instagram/@nailsbyyeya
Combine the classic cuteness of a French manicure with a Halloween motif like spiderwebs for something that's equally eerie and elegant. California-based nail artist Mireya amps up the creep factor with color-shifting purple and gunmetal gray base shades.
Orange-and-black spiders
Courtesy of Madeline Poole
This Halloween-themed creation by Madeline Poole couldn't be easier to do. Poole used a gorgeous bright orange polish for the base. (We love Londontown Lakur Enhanced Colour in Camden Chic for this.) She then used a dotting tool to create the spiders. "Paint a random assortment of dots with a smaller dot and a slightly larger dot connected, which will be the body of your spider," Poole says. See? It couldn't be simpler.
Itty-bitty eyeballs
Courtesy of Betina Goldstein
Eyes as part of someone's face? Pretty. Eyeballs anywhere else? Pretty creepy. Betina Goldstein used Essie nail polishes to paint bloodshot blue eyes at the base of nearly nude nails: Blushing Bride for the base, Blanc for the eyeballs, Strut Your Stuff for the irises, Licorice for the pupils, and Geranium for the veins.
Orange-and-black marble
Courtesy of @chocolatewitch_
A marble effect isn't limited to shades of white and gray. Use a black and orange pair of polishes like Finnish nail artist Ira P. did to create a sophisticated yet spirited manicure featuring traditional Halloween colors.
11 Best Retinol Body Lotions for Firmer Skin from Neck to Knees
Collage: Gabrielle Langdon; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
While you're probably familiar with the benefits of retinol in your face products, investing in one of the best retinol body lotions is key in addressing uneven tone, sagging skin, and breakouts below the neck. "Retinol works exactly the same on all skin, whether it's on the face or body," says Geeta Yadav, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Toronto, Canada. However, you'll typically find lower concentrations of retinol in body-care products compared to their facial counterparts.
Those with sensitive skin may be hesitant to try any retinol at all, but we've got options for everyone. Plus, Jenny Liu, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor in the Twin Cities, Minnesota, offers this sound advice: “When choosing a retinol body lotion, look for formulations with moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides to counteract the dryness and irritation that retinol can sometimes cause.”
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum, $30
- Best Prescription-Strength: Musely The Body Cream, $97
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion, $94
- Best Scent: Chantecaille Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol, $155
- Best Fast-Acting: Murad Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment, $79
- Best for Mature Skin: Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate, $75
- Best for Dry Skin: Versed Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter, $10
- Best Lightweight: Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment, $32
- Best Splurge: U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound, $128
- Best for Body Acne: Soft Services Software Update Performance Retinol Serum, $44
- Best for Dark Spots: Nécessaire The Body Retinol, $58
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.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
Best Overall: Topicals Slather Exfoliating Body Serum
Topicals
Slather Exfoliating Body Serum
Amazon
Sephora
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."
Tester feedback from former associate manager of special projects Talia Gutierrez
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"The texture is more like a lightweight body lotion that dispenses white, but after slathering a generous dollop onto my palm and rubbing it along my arms and chest, the product fully absorbs into my brown skin," she explains. "And since this body serum's formulated with exfoliating ingredients like lactic and glycolic acid, along with retinol, I have no hesitancy applying it twice a day—both morning and night—for smoother, bump-free arms." —Talia Gutierrez, former associate manager of special projects
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid
- Who it’s for: people with body breakouts, strawberry skin, or keratosis pilaris
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Best Prescription-Strength: Musely The Body Cream
Musely
The Body Cream
Musely
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.
Editor’s tip
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If the mention of hydroquinone (which isn't in every formula, by the way) freaks you out, it’s one of the most effective ingredients when it comes to curbing melanin production. If you have dry and sensitive skin or a deeper skin tone, you might want to stay away—but as always, consult with a board-certified dermatologist. Another tip? Don't use it for more than six months, or stop sooner once your hyperpigmentation fades.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid
- Who it’s for: people targeting signs of aging below the neck
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.01% to 0.015% tretinoin, depending on the specific formula provided
Best for Sensitive Skin: Replenix Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion
Replenix
Retinol Smooth + Tighten Body Lotion
Amazon
Dermstore
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.
Editor’s tip
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Got sensitive skin that’s also Sahara-level dry? This formula has you covered. “It also contains hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate, plus ceramides to support skin elasticity and lock in moisture,” says Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: Pwr3+ Antioxidant Complex, hyaluronic acid, biomimetic ceramide complex, edelweiss flower extract
- Who it’s for: people with crepey skin or uneven texture
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Best Scent: Chantecaille Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol
Chantecaille
Rose de Mai Body Cream with Retinol
Dermstore
Bluemercury
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.
Editor’s tip
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Since retinol appears lower on the ingredient list, don’t expect overnight magic—though with that divine scent, the wait is hardly a chore.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: rose flower water, shea butter, marine extract, avocado extract
- Who it’s for: people with dry skin or uneven texture
- Fragrance-free: yes (natural rosewater scent)
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Best Fast-Acting: Murad Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment
Murad
Resurgence Retinal ReSculpt Body Treatment
Amazon
Dermstore
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.
Editor’s tip
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Retinal is more potent than standard retinol, so start slow—think a few times a week—before working up to nightly use.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: shea butter, squalane, urea, avocado fruit extract
- Who it’s for: people with stretch marks, crepey skin, or cellulite
- Fragrance-free: no
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Best for Mature Skin: Beauty Pie Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate
Beauty Pie
Youthbomb Body 360° Repair Concentrate
Beauty Pie
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.
Editor’s tip
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Anytime you’re using retinoids, you should follow up with sunscreen the next morning—but it’s essential here since this formula also contains AHAs, which make your skin even more sensitive to UV.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: niacinamide, glycolic acid
- Who it’s for: people with mature skin, dark stubborn spots, or discoloration
- Fragrance-free: no
- Retinol concentration: 2% granactive retinoid
Best for Dry Skin: Versed Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter
Versed
Press Restart Advanced Retinol Body Butter
Amazon
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.
Editor’s tip
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If you're new to retinol, you can opt for the Gentle Retinol Body Lotion, which Dr. Liu approves of. "It includes encapsulated retinol for a slower release, making it gentler, plus cocoa butter and squalane for deep hydration," she explains. Compared to the body butter, it has 30% less retinol, clocking in at 0.1%.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: tripeptide, tucuma and cocoa butters, squalane, niacinamide
- Who it’s for: people with dry skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.13% encapsulated retinol
Best Lightweight: Paula's Choice Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Paula's Choice
Retinol Skin-Smoothing Body Treatment
Amazon
Dermstore
Paula's Choice
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.
Editor’s tip
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Though it doesn't technically contain fragrance, reviewers note a light scent that seems off-putting to some.
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: shea butter, grapeseed oil
- Who it’s for: people who want fast-absorbing moisture
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.1% retinol
Best Splurge: U Beauty Resurfacing Body Compound
U Beauty
Resurfacing Body Compound
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
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.
Tester feedback from senior news editor Nicola Dall’Asen
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"I put this on my crusty, dusty feet with some Vaseline, and it works. I like the serum-y texture; it sinks into the skin nicely, and it doesn't leave a residue." —Nicola Dall’Asen, senior news editor
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: lactic acid, glycolic acid, mandelic acid, phytic acid, salicylic acid, biomimetic peptides, papain, bioferments
- Who it’s for: people with mature, rough, or dull skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: not disclosed
Best for Body Acne: Soft Services Software Update Performance Retinol Serum
Soft Services
Software Update Performance Retinol Serum
Sephora
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.
Tester feedback from former commerce writer Jennifer Hussein
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"I slather this serum all over my body nightly, and it's seriously transformed my skin. After nearly two decades of battling body acne and painful ingrown hairs, I finally have clear shoulders that aren’t spotted with post-acne hyperpigmentation." —Jennifer Hussein, former commerce writer
More to know
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- Other key ingredients: 5% niacinamide, 3% glycerin
- Who it’s for: those seeking a lightweight, layering-friendly treatment
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Retinol concentration: 0.25%
Best for Dark Spots: Nécessaire The Body Retinol
Nécessaire
The Body Retinol
Amazon
Nordstrom
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.
Editor’s tip
LargeChevron
The scent can be polarizing due to its high concentrations of actives, but note that it wears off within a minute or so.
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, vitamin C
- Who it’s for: people targeting scars, dark spots, and other concerns below the neck
- Fragrance-free: no (rosewater-based fragrance)
- Retinol concentration: 0.1%
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:
Eau Thermale Avène
RetrinaL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Dermstore
SkinCeuticals
Retinol 0.3
SkinCeuticals
Bluemercury
Dermstore
Dr. Dennis Gross
Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Dr. Few
Clean Retinol
Neiman Marcus
Goop
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.
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For our list of the best retinol body lotions, 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 board-certified 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.