If you have sensitive skin, you might think that anti-aging face products are a no-go for you. A lot of anti-aging skincare contains ingredients like retinol that can be drying and irritating, but Cetaphil has a possible solution. The brand’s Healthy Renew Face Serum is formulated to be a gentler retinol-alternative, and it works so well that one reviewer said, “It has literally turned back time on my face.” Try it out for yourself for $21 at Amazon.

Cetaphil’s face serum uses purified peptides to improve your skin’s elasticity and reduce the appearance of lines. Unlike with retinol, your skin doesn’t have to slowly build up a tolerance to the serum. And good news for people who like to spend time outside: It doesn’t make your face more susceptible to sunburns like retinol does, either. With botanical extracts, the serum helps even skin tone, too.

　　 Cetaphil Healthy Renew Anti-Aging Face Serum

$23 $21 at Amazon Not only are the peptides in the formula gentler than retinol, but the serum is also made with vitamins B3 and B5 to hydrate your skin, so you don’t have to deal with pesky dry patches (which is especially helpful during the dry winter months). The hypoallergenic face serum is free from potentially irritating ingredients, such as parabens and synthetic fragrances, too. It’s not just suitable for sensitive skin; it’s great for people with acne, as well, since the non-comedogenic formula won’t clog pores. 

If you’re unsure about how effective purified peptides are when compared to retinol, just take a look at the customer reviews. “[This is] the only facecare product that improves my 61-year-old skin,” one shopper raved. They went on to say that their fine lines are less noticeable, and their skin looks more balanced and bright.

6 Grandma-Approved Beauty Products Everyone Will Be Using In 2025 “I have tried prescription and nonprescription retinol, but I have not found a formulation that does not irritate my sensitive skin,” said another reviewer. “This product provides an alternative that is mild but effective. The appearance of my skin showed almost immediate improvement with no irritation.”

Snag the Cetaphil Healthy Renew Anti-Aging Face Serum to get the benefits of retinol without the dryness and irritation. And check out more Cetaphil anti-aging skincare products below.

　　 Cetaphil Healthy Renew Night Cream

$23 $18 at Amazon

　　 Cetaphil Healthy Renew Eye Gel Serum

$23 $18 at Amazon

　　 Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Renewing Cream

$20 $16 at Amazon

　　 Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Gentle Exfoliating Cleanser

$12 $10 at Amazon

　　 Cetaphil Restoring Body Lotion With Antioxidants

$23 $20 at Amazon

　　 Cetaphil Daily Facial Moisturizer SPF 15

$30 $28 at Amazon Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit