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“Retinol Reek” Is Totally a Thing—Derms Explain What to Do

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Allison Ho taking an elevator selfie with glowing skin

Quick question: Does your retinol serum, um, smell? It’s not necessarily a bad scent, per se, but it’s definitely noticeable—a funk that leans slightly floral, a tad sour, sometimes with a hint of garlic or vinegar. I never thought too much about it (after all, a funky odor is a small price to pay for the ingredient’s skin-smoothing benefits), but then I tested a new serum that actively aims to enhance the retinol scent experience, and I realized my prior formulas had a very specific stench—one I’m officially calling the “retinol reek.”

Efficacy is top priority when it comes to skincare products, but still, a top-notch sensorial experience is important. After all, retinol works best when you actually use it, so if the scent (or texture, for that matter) keeps you from applying, that’s an important factor to address. So, with the help of some trusted derms, I got to the bottom of retinol reek once and for all. Here’s how to keep it from derailing your skincare routine.

Why Does Retinol Smell?