Olay Retinol 24 vs Max (The Definitive Guide)

So, you've decided you want to try one of Olay's cult-favorite, best-selling retinol products, but you can't quite figure out what the differences are? We've all been there, don't worry!

Come with us as we compare the two Retinol24 ranges side-by-side to help you decide which is right for you. Enjoy!

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Olay Retinol 24 vs Olay Retinol 24 MAX

Both the Regenerist Retinol 24 and Retinol 24 MAX ranges include a moisturizer, serum, and eye cream, and both sets of products claim to deliver smooth and glowing skin, bringing improvements to fine lines & wrinkles, smoothness, brightness, firmness, pigmentation, and pores—very enticing!

For the sake of conciseness, we're going to be comparing the Retinol 24 Moisturizer vs Retinol 24 MAX Moisturizer (i.e., the moisturizers) here, just so we don't repeat ourselves thrice for the sake of including the serums and eye creams. We'll touch on those shortly towards the end.

2024 update: It's important to note that the packaging varies heavily from region to region and from retailer to retailer. The differences discussed in this comparison apply across the board, though.

First and foremost, it's worth establishing the fact that the Retinol24 range is intended for those with oilier skin types or first-time retinol users, whereas the Retinol24 MAX range is intended for those with drier skin who require extra hydration or experienced retinol users. This gives us a bit of a clue as to what we can expect when we dive into the specific differences between the formulas themselves.

Speaking of which, if you put their ingredients lists side-by-side, there is quite literally *zero* difference—or at least, there's no difference until you consider concentrations. Although they both boast the same formulation featuring Retinol (resurfaces and rejuvenates), Niacinamide (reduces uneven skin tone), and Glycerin (hydrates and smoothes), the Retinol24 MAX Moisturizer contains 40% more hydrating ingredients and 20% more retinol compared to the Retinol24 Moisturizer.

With both being priced more or less the same per fluid ounce, it's clear to see that you would get more bang for your buck by opting for the Retinol24 MAX Moisturizer (since all other factors are the same). Unfortunately, it's not quite as straightforward as that when it comes to retinol... It's worth seriously having a think about how experienced you are with retinol products before taking the plunge, because trust us when we say that retinol burns are absolutely no fun at all.

If you've never used retinol before, we'd recommend initially opting for the Retinol24 Moisturizer regardless of skin type due to its slightly lower potency. If you've used retinol before and you understand how much your skin can tolerate, though, then the option is open to you: the Retinol24 MAX Moisturizer will better suited to you if you have drier skin (or if you want to maximise results), whereas the Retinol24 Moisturizer is for you if you have an oilier skin type.

To be clear, it's *incredibly* important not to over-use retinol. The best results come from steady, consistent application over a period of months, not sporadic blasts. The reviews for both ranges are overwhelmingly positive, but the most prevalent negative review is related to customers experiencing burns after not properly allowing their skin to get used to the potency. Please, take care.

Regenerist Retinol24 Moisturizer by Olay

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Night cream for visibly smoother and glowing skin.

What makes it special? Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Face Cream combines two ultra-potent ingredients: Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) + Retinoid Complex for 24 hours of hydration, as well as a bounty of benefits. This retinol face cream will bring you visible improvements in fine lines & wrinkles, smoothness, brightness, firming, dark spots, and pores. This night cream with Retinol 24 absorbs quickly and goes deep into your skin’s surface layers so you wake up every morning to younger-looking, glowing skin.

Which skin types? For normal to oily skin.

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Regenerist Retinol24 MAX Moisturizer by Olay

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Our rating: ★★★★★

Price: $$$$

Retinol moisturiser with 40% more hydrating ingredients.

What makes it special? This Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 MAX Night Facial Moisturiser hydrates, smoothes & revives the skin's glow. This fragrance-free cream is packed with Olay’s most potent Retinoid + Vitamin B3 formula and comes with 40% more hydrating ingredients to leave the skin feeling even more hydrated. Apply Retinol cream on the face for visible improvements in fine lines and wrinkles, smoothness, brightness, firming, dark spots, and pores. Olay Regenerist Retinol24 MAX moisturiser is designed without any artificial dyes or perfumes and is suitable for daily use.

Which skin types? For normal to dry skin.

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This article was originally published on July 1st 2022, but it has been reviewed and updated with the latest available information on February 7th 2024 by Sara Mckay, MA.