Strivectin vs RoC (The Definitive Guide)

We're positive you've seen Strivectin and RoC on the shelves at your local drugstore before. But which one should you choose?

We’ve picked a few of the most popular best-sellers from each brand that have similar claims, and we’ll be comparing them in detail to help you decide which is best for you and your skin.

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Strivectin vs RoC Retinol

Whether you consider yourself heavily invested in anti-aging (literally or figuratively) or you slap on some SPF and call it a day—you’ve still likely heard of retinol.

Within the last decade, it’s blown up as an A-list ingredient in the beauty world. Retinol, which is a form of Vitamin A, is an over-the-counter formulation that reduces the signs of aging and the effects of acne.

Though retinol has become ubiquitous in the realm of skincare, its effectiveness will vary based on the concentration of it in any given formula, as well as the quality of its containing solution.

So, let’s take a look at two brands with collections centered around retinol: StriVectin Advanced Retinol vs RoC Retinol Correxion Wrinkle Correct.

We’ll first compare the effectiveness of each brand’s retinol serum. StriVectin’s retinol serum is an ultra-concentrated, potent night serum that aims to achieve healthier, more youthful-looking skin. Their formula is enhanced by the addition of polyglutamic acid, which is a moisture-binding agent that counteracts the dryness that is typically caused by retinol use. With 57 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, it’s no wonder 100% of those questioned about the product claimed to have seen visible improvement in fine lines after just four weeks.

Now, onto the RoC retinol serum. With a large emphasis on smoothing out deep wrinkles, they credit their “pure” retinol and exclusive mineral complex for doing just that. And based on their 4.5-star rating with 447 reviews, it appears that this serum does exactly what it aims to. What’s more is that within 8 weeks of use, 97% of those surveyed reported an overall improvement in photodamage while 100% had visibly radiant, younger-looking skin.

Next, StriVectin’s daily moisturizer is intended to deeply moisturize, reverse the signs of aging (i.e., texture, wrinkles, age spots), and its broad-spectrum SPF 30 protects against harmful UVA/UVB rays. Of course, the moisturizer is also formulated with retinol—as well as antioxidants—to visibly reverse aging. Another 4.4-star rating and 47 reviews back this product, so it appears you can count on this one to do its job.

As for the RoC daily moisturizer, it’s also made with retinol and broad-spectrum SPF 30 to provide intense hydration and defense against environmental factors—with a 4.6-star rating and 78 reviews to boot!

Aaand now, the final product in both trios: the nightly moisturizer. Created with retinal (which is one of the most potent forms of retinol), retinol, and beta glucan (for nourishment), this dream cream by Strivectin packs a serious punch. It works to reach the same results as its predecessors, but unlike the serum and daily moisturizer, it has significantly more reviews—778 to be exact—and boasts a 4.4-star rating.

“Pure” RoC retinol and their exclusive mineral complex also does the heavy lifting for its night cream, which claims to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by 50%. 343 reviews and 4.1 stars later, it doesn’t seem to be as effective as the serum or daily moisturizer, but we’d reckon it’s still worth trying.

Lastly, let’s touch on pricing. StriVectin’s retinol is $99 for 1oz, the daily moisturizer is also $99 for 1.7oz, and the nightly moisturizer is $79 for 1oz.

RoC’s retinol is much cheaper—only $29 for 1oz, while the daily moisturizer is $30 for 1oz, and the nightly moisturizer is also $30 for 1oz.

At this point, we’re all in favor of RoC’s triad. Stellar ratings and it’s way more affordable? Yes, please! But, not so fast—we want to know more about each company before we click the checkout button.

As of 2022, it is confirmed that StriVectin is cruelty-free! However, not all of their products are vegan—some contain honey or lanolin (which is a nourishing wax that’s derived from sheep’s wool). Their journey to sustainability currently includes a recycling partnership with TerraCycle, which allows you to send your empty containers to them, where they might then be turned into a playground or park bench. Moreover, StriVectin’s shipping materials are recyclable; their cartons are Forest Stewardship Council certified; and they’ve reduced their use of resin, board stock, and CO2.

RoC, on the other hand, is not cruelty-free and they’re not 100% vegan. When we searched for sustainability information on their site, there was nothing to be found. However, they do have something called the #LookForwardProject, which is a partnership with scientific experts and actress Sarah Jessica Parker, offering education and resources on the power of optimism and how it positively affects your overall well being.

So, it appears that StriVectin has better business ethics, while RoC is more cost friendly. Thus, the decision simply lies in what matters more to you: saving some coins or supporting a company that’s adopted more eco-friendly manufacturing methods. Either way, we think you’ll be happy with your results.