When I heard that Olay was coming out with a line of products containing retinol, I walked, no ran, to my computer to learn more. It didn’t take much convincing: I ordered online and before I knew it, I had in hand Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum, Night Eye Cream, and Night Moisturizer from their new Regenerist Retinol 24 skincare line.
I’ve been using Olay Retinol 24 skincare products for a few months and have some thoughts on the collection. Before diving in, let’s talk about retinol and why it is so important to any anti-aging skincare routine.
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If you want more product details (or are in a hurry):
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 products can be found here
2020 UPDATE: I was so thrilled to see that Olay has introduced new and improved products in their Retinol 24 skincare line. Considering how much I love all of their Retinol 24 products, I couldn’t wait to try their new Retinol 24 Max Night Serum, Night Eye Cream, and Night Moisturizer. Scroll down to the bottom of the post to read about my experience with the new products.
What is Retinol?
Retinoids are derivatives of vitamin A, and derivatives of the vitamin come in different forms, one of which is retinol. While other retinoids such as retinol esters take two steps to be converted into active retinoic acid in the skin, retinol needs only one step to convert to retinoic acid. So while retinol is not the strongest retinoid, it is also not the weakest, making it the perfect over-the-counter retinoid option.
Retinol is a key player in any anti-aging skincare routine. By supporting cellular turnover and stimulating collagen production, retinol can improve skin tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the appearance of hyperpigmentation and firmness. As a result, skin appears clearer, brighter and more youthful. Yes!
As with any retinoid, retinol makes the skin more sensitive to UV rays and sunlight. While we should be wearing sun protection every day anyway, it is super important to wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher while using retinol and up to 7 days after.
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Skincare
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 is a collection of three products that are designed to be used at night. The collection is named Retinol 24 because each product was formulated so that it continues to work on your skin for a full 24 hours, working deep into the skin’s layers. Olay’s formula for the collection is a proprietary blend of Vitamin B3 + Retinol Complex.
Olay combines retinol, which is converted in the skin to retinaldehyde then retinoic acid to reach its active form, with retinyl propionate, a retinol ester that requires three conversions by your skin to be available in its active form. For more details on retinyl propionate, INCI Decoder provides a funny analogy comparing retinoids to the royal family.
Olay’s Retinol 24 products are formulated to treat fine lines & wrinkles while improving smoothness, brightness, firmness, dark spots, and pores. They work to accomplish these anti-aging benefits without the typical irritation that you may experience from retinol. Too good to be true? Let’s look at the other active ingredients found in this skincare line in addition to their proprietary Retinol Complex.
Related Post: A Guide to Drugstore Retinol
The Benefits of Niacinamide
Olay includes Vitamin B3, niacinamide, in these products. Niacinamide is an all-star skin savior in my opinion. It helps support cellular turnover and exfoliation to remove dead skin cells.
Niacinamide also helps the skin retain its moisture barrier to improve hydration. It helps to reduce hyperpigmentation, and can even improve acne and rosacea.
Niacinamide also has anti-inflammatory properties, which is ideal when used with a retinoid, which we all know can be irritating. This study in the New England Journal of Medicine determined that niacinamide can even protect skin against the damage caused by UV radiation.
Related Post: The Benefits of Adding Niacinamide to Your Skincare Routine
Amino Peptides
If that weren’t enough, the Regenerist Retinol 24 collection also contains amino peptides. These peptides are the “building blocks” of skin cells. These molecules support the production of collagen for firmer more youthful-looking skin. All three products contain pentapeptide-4, the 5 amino acid chain sequence that can help improve skin texture as well as the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Related Post: How to Build A Skincare Routine with The Ordinary Products
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum is a super-light formula containing Olay’s proprietary blend of Vitamin B3 + Retinol Complex that hydrates and works for 24 hours. Plus it contains amino peptides for the improvement of skin’s texture and glycerin for added moisture and hydration.
This fragrance-free serum absorbs quickly into your skin and leaves your skin feeling incredibly silky without any stickiness.
Olay Eyes Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream
Olay Eyes Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream is formulated with Olay’s proprietary blend of Vitamin B3 + Retinol Complex. It also contains antioxidant vitamin E and moisturizing glycerin.
The eye cream addresses many of the concerns for the skin around the eyes and works to firm, brighten and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and dark circles.
This eye cream is creamy and light. I made the mistake of applying it on the sensitive skin too close to my eyes and found it slightly irritating. So I made sure to use it a bit lower under my eye during the next application and did not experience any further irritation.
Related Post: Olay Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Skincare Review
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer also contains Olay’s proprietary blend of Retinol Complex + Vitamin B3. This fragrance-free moisturizer absorbs deeply into the surface layers of skin and goes to work for a full 24 hours.
The moisturizer helps to improve dark spots, brightness, smoothness, and firmness of the skin with no or very little irritation. Similar to the eye cream and serum, this moisturizer is light and creamy.
Sensitive Skin
Those with sensitive skin should be careful since even though the retinol in this formula is gentle, it can be irritating. When I experienced dryness from the Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer, I added a light layer of an additional moisturizer on top of the night moisturizer. I alternate between this rich cream from Beauty Pie and Olay Regenerist Whip which really seals everything in.
My Experience With Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum, Eye Cream and Moisturizer
So far, I love the collection and the one thing that stands out to me is the texture of my skin. I believe this must be due to not only the retinol but also the niacinamide and the amino peptides in the formulas. My skin’s texture is actually changing. My pores appear smaller, especially around my nose, and my skin seems so much smoother. All three products felt so light on my face. The moisturizer takes it to another level and left my skin feeling like silk.
The Power of Retinol
You tend to see visible results quicker with retinol than most other anti-aging ingredients. The trick is finding a product or collection of products that work well with your skin. This collection from Olay is really working for my skin. I’m not surprised since I get great results from other Olay products.
One other thing I love about this line is that since Olay does not recommend using the night serum and the night moisturizer at the same time, you need to use only one to get the benefits of retinol. Try using the Retinol 24 serum with a hydrating moisturizer, or use the Retinol 24 moisturizer with another treatment product. You can still get the benefits of retinol with just one of these products including improved skin texture and a reduction in the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
2020 UPDATE: Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Skincare Collection
Olay’s new Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Serum, MAX Night Eye Cream, and MAX Night Moisturizer are reformulated to include 20% more Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex compared to the original Retinol 24 products.
I reached out to Olay, and they told me that the new MAX products contain 20% more retinol plus Tropaeolum Majus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract. This plant extract is considered skin conditioning and is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Like the original Retinol 24 products, the MAX products contain retinol and retinyl propionate (retinol and propionic acid attached together) to address wrinkles, fine lines, skin texture, and support the formation of collagen. All products in this collection are formulated without fragrance, phthalates, mineral oil, or synthetic dyes.
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Serum
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Serum is formulated with Olay’s proprietary retinoid formula that works on your skin overnight. You wake to brighter, smoother skin with more clarity. It contains 20% more Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex versus the base Retinol 24 Night Serum. It targets wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots and improves skin texture.
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Serum is very similar to the original Retinol 24 Serum. I tested the two side by side and the MAX feels very similar and a little more potent. Since my skin is somewhat sensitive, on nights that I use this serum, I follow it with a rich moisturizer to combat any possible dryness and irritation that may be caused by the potent retinol in the formula.
I apply this serum at night and see smoother more radiant skin in the morning. I will use this serum on the same night I use the Retinol 24 MAX eye cream but save the Retinol 24 MAX moisturizer for another night. This is one of my favorite drugstore retinoids. The results speak for themselves: brighter, smoother skin, improved skin texture, and a reduction in the appearance of pores.
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Eye Cream
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Eye Cream is a fragrance-free eye cream that provides a glow helping you to look well-slept even if you aren’t. Like the other two products in the MAX line, this eye cream contains 20% more Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex versus the base Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream.
I absolutely love the original Retinol 24 eye cream, so I couldn’t wait to see how this new MAX eye cream performed. The original is pretty rich and creamy, and the MAX is just as smooth and creamy. But rich should not be equated with heavy. The new MAX eye cream feels light going on and leaves the eye area soft and smooth.
Applying a retinoid product around your eyes can be tricky because the last thing you need is to irritate the sensitive skin around your eyes. This formula makes sure that your eyes are hydrated along with smoothed and brightened. Love it!
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Moisturizer
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Moisturizer is a fragrance-free moisturizer that hydrates and replenishes skin while reducing the appearance of the signs of aging. Like the other products in the MAX collections, this moisturizer contains 20% more Retinol 24 Hydrating Complex compared to the original Retinol 24 moisturizer.
NOTE: Since Olay does not recommend using all three products together, they suggested starting with the Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Moisturizer and Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Eye Cream. You can always incorporate Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Max Night Serum into your skincare routine on another night.
I really notice that my pores are smaller and the texture of my skin is smoother after using this moisturizer. It feels a little bit stronger than the original Retinol 24 moisturizer. This moisturizer is the real deal. You get hydration and anti-aging all in one.
Related Post: The 10 Best Skincare Products of 2020
Final Thoughts on Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Retinol Products
These new MAX products feel slightly more potent than the originals but just as effective. You can’t go wrong with any of the Retinol 24 skincare products, but if you want to choose just one product to moisturize and treat your skin with retinol, consider starting with Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Moisturizer.
Have you tried Olay Retinol 24 or Retinol 24 MAX skincare products? I’d love to hear your results!
Thanks for reading, and until next time…
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Irene Irvine says
I completely agree. I love these products and in all my 78 years I have slapped pretty much everything on my face but this is absolutley the only product which has made a visible difference. As you have said,—my skin is clearer, pores look smaller and skin looks brighter. Cant say I look like a 20 year old, or a Hollywood filmstar, BUT—-I look better
And thats as good as it gets!!!!
Sarah says
Oh, I love your comment! These products are not completely changing our looks, but they are simply helping us look better. I’m so glad they’re working for you!
Jen says
Can you provide exactly how much retinol are in either of these “24” products? Cant seem to find it anywhere.
Thanks
Sarah says
I was unable to find the exact amounts either. I reached out to Olay and they said that since their product formulations are proprietary, they don’t disclose that information. The retinoids in the Retinol 24 line are a proprietary blend of retinol and retinyl propionate. While I don’t know the exact amount of retinoids in the formulations, for my sensitive skin, both the Retinol 24 serum and cream are a little strong for daily use. Keep in mind your skin may react differently depending on your skin type. Thanks for your question!
Julie Sancesario says
In which order should I apply these products and if I apply all 3, is it a good idea to also add the olay whip? I’m 47 today and starting to look every last day of the 47yrs so want the best advice to stay looking as young as I can!
Many thanks x
Sarah says
I apply a serum, then eye cream and then a moisturizer. I apply the Retinol 24 eye cream and Retinol 24 serum on the same night, but I save the Retinol 24 moisturizer for a different night since using the Retinol 24 serum and Retinol 24 moisturizer together make my skin a bit irritated, dry and flaky. I do recommend following the Retinol 24 serum with a moisturizer though. I usually use it with Olay Whip. On nights that I use the Retinol 24 moisturizer, I don’t usually add Olay Whip. Thanks for your question!
Elizabeth says
Thank you for answering this question. I’ve just spent an hour googling it and could not find out how to use them. I bought these as a pack of three on offer from my local drugstore, but nothing was on the boxes to say how to use them together.
Sarah says
You are very welcome! I hope you see some good results with the products!
Alli says
If I can only buy one to start, should I start with the serum or the moisturizer?
Sarah says
While you can’t go wrong with either, if I had to choose one, I’d choose the serum. Serums are typically formulated to deliver actives (like retinoids) and tend to penetrate the skin better since they are applied prior to moisturizers, which seal everything in. Thanks!!
Marlene Curran says
What is the order I need to use this new products.can use 3 together every night??
Sarah says
I usually apply serums first, followed by eye cream and then moisturizer. I tried all three products together and after a few nightly applications, my skin got a little dry and irritated, so while I use the eye cream every night I don’t use the serum and moisturizer together on the same night. Thanks!
MJ says
Hi can I use this olay retinol serum and moisturizer at night and use AHA (wishthrend Mandelic Acid) in the morning as my exfoliating toner?
Sarah says
Hello! In regard to using an acid in the morning and a retinoid at night, it really depends on your skin type. If your skin is not too sensitive, you should be able to use By Wishtrend Mandelic Acid 5% Skin Prep Water in the morning and a retinoid at night such as Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum or Night Cream. All three are effective products. Mandelic acid tends to be a gentler acid than others such as glycolic or lactic acid. I usually recommend applying Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum and the Night Cream on alternate nights, but again, it depends on how sensitive your skin is. I tried using the serum and night cream together and it created flaking and irritation, so I switched to using them on alternate nights and the irritation went away. Thanks for your question!
Jersey Thomson says
Good day. I really love your reviews about Olay Retinol 24 products. I am a regular user of this brand. I have oily skin. And I just bought OLAY RETINOL 24 MOISTURIZER. I am planning to use another brand of serum before putting Olay Retinol 24 moisturizer on my face at night.
I’m just a bit afraid to use another brand of serum instead of using OLAY RETINOL 24 NIGHT SERUM.
Good thing I was able to check your reviews that these OLAY products can be used with another brand. I just now have peace mind. Thanks.
Sarah says
Hello! You can definitely use a different serum brand under the moisturizer. Depending on your skin type, I would be careful about applying another retinoid, acid or sensitizing active under the moisturizer, since the moisturizer already has retinol in it. Thanks!
Mercy Ising says
Should I use something during the day?
Sarah says
Yes, I would recommend applying skincare products during the day, but use retinoids like these Retinol 24 products only at night. If you want a simple skincare routine for the day, apply a moisturizer and sunscreen (after cleansing). If you want a more in-depth skincare routine for the day, you can apply one or more serums/treatments and/or an eye cream prior to a moisturizer and sunscreen.
Debbie says
I just purchased all three Retinol Regenerist 24 max- the night serum, the eye cream and the night moisturizer. I understand I need to use these at night but I was wondering if it’s okay to use the Reginerist Ultra Moisturizer during the day?
Sarah says
I think it’s a great idea to use Regenerist Ultra Rich Moisturizer during the day. It contains niacinamide, peptides, and shea butter, which will not only treat the signs of aging but will also hydrate your skin which is extra important when using retinol products like these in the Retinol24 line. I would suggest following the Ultra Rich Moisturizer with sunscreen since using these retinol products will make your skin sensitive to light.
Michelle L says
Thank you for this information. I’ve searched for over an hour and wasn’t finding information. I appreciate it!
Sarah says
Of course! I hope it’s helpful!! Thanks for reaching out!
Linda Ackerman says
Just want to know if there is more retinol in the new max formula?..thx
Sarah says
I reached out to Olay and their response was that the new MAX Retinol 24 products have a little more retinol plus they’ve added Tropaeolum Majus Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract to the products. This is a plant extract that offers calming and anti-inflammatory benefits.
sonali says
can i use olay retinol serum after Estee lauder night repair serum… i was searching a lot.. thank fully got you vlog.. thank you in advance.
Sarah says
Some of the notable ingredients in Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex include probiotics, hyaluronic acid, squalane, caffeine, and other antioxidants, so nothing stands out in the formula that would contradict Olay Retinol 24 Night Serum, but since I am not sure of your skin type, I would suggest that you do a patch test prior to using them at the same time. Thanks!
Marv says
I’m dark-skinned from an island but doing the research, my colleague recommended the olay regenerist microsculpting cream after seeking her advice based on the ingredients, then viola I came across your blog.
Is it OK if I use olay regenerist micro sculpting cream during the day. I’m searching for products for my eyes and moisturizing but my skin is sensitive, ezcema, I have some hyperpigmentation. I want to get my skin bright again without the itching and spots and spending exorbitant fees at the specialist and not seeing required changes.
Sarah says
Although Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream does not contain retinol like the products in this post, it contains niacinamide, amino peptides and hyaluronic acid, which will plump your skin and soften fine lines and wrinkles. I think it’s a great choice for during the day if you are in need of hydration and firming. Please note that since you have sensitive skin, I would do a patch test prior to using to make sure you don’t have any reactions. Thanks for your comment and wishing you great skin health!
Dorothy moton says
I just bough retinol 24 max and Olay daily renewal cream. I also have Olay regenerist luminous facial oil. Can I use one in day one at night oil around my eyes?
Sarah says
Since Olay Daily Renewal Cream contains salicylic acid, which may be irritating when combined with a retinol product, you may want to apply the Renewal Cream in the morning and the Retinol 24 Max product at night. Olay Regenerist Luminous Facial Oil is formulated for the face, so you are better off using an eye cream around your eyes. Thanks!
Joanne says
Can i use olay microsculpting cream and olay retinol 24 max at the same time?
Can you recommend a toner from olay? ThanKs
Sarah says
Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream contains niacinamide, amino peptides and hyaluronic acid. It doesn’t contain retinol, so it should be a nice complement to the Retinol 24 MAX products. Olay Cleanse Toner is formulated with witch hazel to remove excess oil and would be a good choice if you have oily or combination skin.
Anna says
Hi. I already bought these 3 items of retinol. I use them together. Serum, moisturizer & eye cream. Today already 2 weeks. I never got any irritation @ dry skin. Should i continue use them together since read many review not suggest use them together
Sarah says
I reached out to Olay and they do not recommend using all three together. I recommend you speak to Olay to determine your best course of action. They have a convenient Chat feature where you can contact a representative and ask questions. Thanks for reaching out!
Helen says
I love the product. I am using retinol24 serium.olay.
I think I need to add a moisture my skin feels burned especially my neck . And itchy mostly my neck . Any suggestions . Been using for about a month . Been coating my face with Vaseline
Sarah says
I would suggest that you chat with a Customer Service Representative from Olay here. I’m sure they can help you with any questions or concerns that you may have. Thanks!