CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum vs La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
Both serums contain Retinol and Niacinamide, but each adds something the other doesn't. Here's where they overlap and where they split.
Encapsulated retinol with niacinamide, ceramides and licorice root extract for post-acne marks. Low-irritation formulation — a sensible step up from a niacinamide-only routine, or a maintenance retinol for acne-prone skin that's finished with benzoyl peroxide.
A pure retinol plus retinyl-derivative serum buffered with niacinamide and glycerin for wrinkles and texture. A well-tolerated mid-strength retinol from a clinical brand; ramp up slowly and always follow with SPF.
Which should you choose?
Both contain Retinol and Niacinamide. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum adds Licorice Root Extract. Pick the one whose extra matches what you're treating. CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum is the better fit for dark spots and signs of aging; La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum for fine lines and preventing sun damage. On price, CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum is the less expensive option (Mid-range versus Premium).
What they share
These hero actives appear in both formulas:
Ingredient stacks, side by side
CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum — top of the list
- Water~50–80%
- Caprylic/Capri…~3–10%
- Sodium Hydroxy…~1.5–4%
- Cetyl Alcohol~1–2%
- Pentylene Glycol~1–2%
- Ceramide NP~1–2%
- Licorice Root …~1–2%
La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum — top of the list
- Aqua~50–80%
- Dimethicone~3–10%
● marks ingredients that appear near the top of both lists. Percentages are positional estimates from INCI order, not disclosed doses.
The specs
| CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum | La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Serum | Serum |
| Price tier | Mid-range | Premium |
| Best for | Rough Texture, Dark Spots, Aging | Fine Lines, Rough Texture, Photoaging Prevention |
| Usage notes | Evening only | Evening only |
| Shared hero actives | Retinol and Niacinamide | |
Common questions
Is the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum or the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum better?
What's the difference between the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and the La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum?
Are the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum dupes for each other?
Can I use the CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum and La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum together?
Related comparisons
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