Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Overnight Cream is a popular anti-aging product that combines retinoids and lactic acid to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and boost hydration.
However, its high price makes many people look for affordable alternatives. Here are ten great dupes that offer similar benefits at a lower cost.
1. Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment
This treatment combines retinol with bakuchiol, a plant-based alternative that reduces irritation while promoting cell turnover.
Key Features:
- 0.3% retinol for anti-aging benefits
- Bakuchiol for gentle skin renewal
- Peptides for firming
Pros:
- Less irritating than traditional retinol
- Lightweight and absorbs well
- Suitable for most skin types
Cons:
- May take time to show visible results
- Can be drying for sensitive skin
2. Drunk Elephant A-Passioni Retinol Cream
A powerful retinol cream with nourishing ingredients like peptides and antioxidants.
Key Features:
- 1% vegan retinol for deep exfoliation
- Vitamin F and peptides for hydration
- Antioxidants to protect against damage
Pros:
- Strong anti-aging benefits
- Packed with skin-soothing ingredients
- No fragrance or essential oils
Cons:
- High retinol concentration may cause peeling
- Pricey compared to other dupes
3. La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
This serum is a gentle option for beginners looking for retinol without extreme dryness.
Key Features:
- Pure retinol for gradual resurfacing
- Vitamin B3 (niacinamide) for calming redness
- Hydrating base for sensitive skin
Pros:
- Non-irritating formula
- Lightweight and absorbs quickly
- Suitable for dry and sensitive skin
Cons:
- Lower retinol concentration than AlphaRet
- May take longer to show results
4. Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer
An affordable night cream with retinol and niacinamide for smoother skin.
Key Features:
- Retinol and vitamin B3 for anti-aging
- Fragrance-free formula
- Hydrating yet lightweight texture
Pros:
- Easily available and budget-friendly
- Gentle enough for daily use
- Improves skin texture over time
Cons:
- May not be strong enough for deep wrinkles
- Can cause minor dryness at first
5. Naturium Retinol Complex Cream
A well-balanced formula with encapsulated retinol for slow-release benefits.
Key Features:
- Encapsulated retinol for controlled absorption
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Non-greasy, lightweight texture
Pros:
- Affordable and effective
- Reduces fine lines without excessive peeling
- Works for all skin types
Cons:
- May cause initial sensitivity
- Takes a few weeks for noticeable effects
6. Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Regenerating Cream
A drugstore favorite with retinol and hydrating ingredients for aging skin.
Key Features:
- Accelerated retinol for faster results
- Hyaluronic acid for hydration
- Creamy texture for deep nourishment
Pros:
- Visible results in a few weeks
- Hydrates while reducing wrinkles
- Easily available and affordable
Cons:
- Can be irritating for sensitive skin
- Strong fragrance
7. Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Night Cream
A dermatologist-recommended formula with fast-acting and time-released retinol.
Key Features:
- Tri-active retinol for multi-layered benefits
- Peptides and niacinamide for extra nourishment
- Deeply hydrating formula
Pros:
- Works on deep wrinkles and fine lines
- Hydrating but non-greasy
- Good for mature skin
Cons:
- Expensive for a dupe
- Can cause purging in sensitive skin
8. RoC Retinol Correxion Deep Wrinkle Night Cream
A proven anti-aging cream with a strong retinol formulation.
Key Features:
- Pure retinol for collagen production
- Mineral complex for hydration
- Lightweight yet moisturizing
Pros:
- Affordable and dermatologist-recommended
- Helps reduce deep wrinkles
- Great for long-term use
Cons:
- May cause peeling in the first few weeks
- Needs sunscreen during the day
9. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
A gentle yet effective option for retinol beginners with added niacinamide.
Key Features:
- Encapsulated retinol for slow absorption
- Ceramides to restore skin barrier
- Niacinamide for calming irritation
Pros:
- Non-irritating and beginner-friendly
- Strengthens skin barrier while treating wrinkles
- Affordable and fragrance-free
Cons:
- Results take time
- Not as strong as AlphaRet
10. The Inkey List Retinol Serum
A budget-friendly serum that delivers solid anti-aging benefits.
Key Features:
- 1% stable retinol for gradual effects
- Squalane for hydration
- Fast-absorbing texture
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Works well for oily and combination skin
- Lightweight and non-greasy
Cons:
- Can cause dryness in the first few weeks
- Not ideal for very sensitive skin
Which Dupe Is the Best?
If you’re looking for a close match to AlphaRet, Paula’s Choice Clinical 0.3% Retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment is the best alternative. It provides retinol benefits with less irritation, making it ideal for all skin types. For a budget option, Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Moisturizer delivers great anti-aging results at an affordable price.
