Of all of the over-the-counter retinoids I’ve tried, Peach & Lily’s Retinal for All is my absolute favorite for how gentle it is. But why do you even need a retinoid anyway? “Retinoids are the single most effective component of a skincare regimen for preventing signs of aging that is also backed by science and research,” says dermatologist Corey L. Hartman, MD. Essentially, “retinoids regulate cell turnover, which encourages your skin to shed faster to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, potentially prevent acne, and even fade discoloration,” he says.

The downside? Retinoids—especially retinaldehyde, the strongest over-the-counter retinoid that’s found in this Peach & Lily serum—is quite sensitizing, leading to dryness and irritation. But this formula is legit cool, because it uses a compound called ectoin to essentially “pause” the receptors in your skin that trigger inflammation, allowing your face to handle retinaldehyde with virtually none of the usual burning, itching, or flaking. Seriously—the Cosmo beauty team is obsessed with this stuff.