1% Retinol Serum
1% Retinol Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A high-potency 1% retinol serum developed with dermatologists, formulated with 5% apricot kernel oil and 2% squalane to visibly resurface skin, minimize the appearance of dark marks, scars, and wrinkles while protecting against dryness and irritation.
Dermatologist-Developed
Created in partnership with dermatologists for effective yet gentle resurfacing action with minimized irritation.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDermatologist-Developed
Created in partnership with dermatologists for effective yet gentle resurfacing action with minimized irritation.
Barrier Protection
Contains 5% apricot kernel oil and 2% squalane to protect skin barrier and prevent moisture loss during retinol treatment.
Multi-Action Formula
Targets scars, dark marks, discoloration, fine lines, and wrinkles for comprehensive skin resurfacing.
Yellow Color = Pure Retinol
The natural yellow tint indicates the presence of pure retinol in the formula - completely normal and effective.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot recommended. Retinol is a vitamin A derivative that should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks.
Contains polysorbate 60, sorbitan isostearate, and soybean oil which may feed malassezia yeast. Not recommended for fungal acne.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ the morning after application and limit sun exposure.
Skin purging is normal with 1% retinol and can last up to 3 months. Stick with it for best results.
Contains some oils but generally well-tolerated. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Avoid using with AHAs, BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, or vitamin C in the same routine. Use on alternate nights.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinol 1%Proven
The gold-standard vitamin A derivative for skin renewal. At 1% concentration, this is a high-potency formula designed for experienced retinol users targeting stubborn marks and wrinkles.
- Function: Accelerates cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and normalizes skin cell behavior
- Evidence: Thousands of peer-reviewed studies confirm retinol's efficacy for anti-aging and skin resurfacing
- Best For: Scars, dark marks, fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture
Apricot Kernel Oil 5%Proven
A lightweight, nourishing oil rich in oleic and linoleic fatty acids that helps protect the skin barrier during retinol treatment.
- Function: Emollient that prevents moisture loss and soothes irritation
- Benefit: Counteracts the drying effects of retinol
- Texture: Absorbs quickly without leaving greasy residue
Squalane 2%Proven
A skin-identical hydrocarbon that mimics your natural sebum. Excellent for hydration and barrier repair.
- Function: Emollient that locks in moisture and strengthens skin barrier
- Evidence: Non-irritating even at 100% concentration in clinical studies
- Compatibility: Suitable for all skin types including sensitive and acne-prone
Avocado Oil N/ASupporting
Rich in vitamins A, D, and E, plus fatty acids that nourish and soften skin while supporting the retinol formula.
- Function: Deeply moisturizing emollient with skin-softening properties
- Benefit: Helps minimize irritation from active ingredients
Tocopherol (Vitamin E) N/ASupporting
A powerful antioxidant that protects the retinol from oxidation and provides additional skin benefits.
- Function: Antioxidant and skin conditioning agent
- Benefit: Helps stabilize the formula and protects skin from free radicals
24 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Prunus Armeniaca (Apricot) Kernel Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Squalane, Retinol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Benzyl Alcohol, Phospholipids, Tocopherol, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glycolipids, Dehydroacetic Acid, Polysorbate 60, Sorbitan Isostearate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Sterols, T-Butyl Alcohol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in PM routine only. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning. Can be applied before or after moisturizer based on tolerance.
How to use
HOW TO USEStart Slow
Begin using every 5-7 days. Gradually increase frequency to 2-3 times per week as your skin builds tolerance.
Cleanse & Prep
Apply to cleansed, dry skin in the evening. Wait a few minutes after cleansing to ensure skin is completely dry.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount and gently massage into face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always apply moisturizer after to help soothe and protect your skin barrier during retinol treatment.
SPF is Essential
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning. Retinol increases sun sensitivity significantly.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have experience with retinol and want to level up
- You're targeting post-acne scars and dark marks
- You want to address deep wrinkles and fine lines
- You have oily or combination skin
- You're looking for an affordable high-potency retinol
- You want a dermatologist-developed formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You're new to retinol (try their beginner Retinol Serum first)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- Your skin is very sensitive or reactive
- You use multiple exfoliating acids daily
- You can't commit to daily SPF use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Retinol helps regulate sebum production over time.
Contains nourishing oils but may need extra moisturizer. Start with lower frequency to minimize dryness.
Balances well across different face zones. The squalane and oils prevent over-drying while retinol treats congestion.
1% is a high concentration. Sensitive skin should start with the beginner Retinol Serum instead.
Retinol helps with post-acne marks and texture. Low comedogenic rating (2/5). Expect initial purging.
Ideal for targeting established wrinkles and loss of firmness. Clinical results show visible wrinkle reduction in 4 weeks.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSAdjustment Period
Skin may feel slightly dry or tight. Some users experience mild redness or peeling as skin adjusts to retinol. This is normal.
Start every 5-7 daysPurging Phase
Some users may experience purging (temporary breakouts) as cell turnover accelerates. Skin texture begins to feel smoother.
92% agree skin is smootherVisible Improvements
Dark marks and discoloration start to fade. Fine lines appear less noticeable. Skin tone becomes more even.
86% see improved textureSignificant Results
Deep wrinkles appear smoother. Post-acne scars are visibly reduced. Overall skin radiance and clarity improved.
95% agree wrinkles appear smootherOptimal Results
Full benefits of consistent retinol use visible. Collagen production stimulated. Maintenance can reduce frequency if desired.
Continued improvement with useRatings by platform
883+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for 1% retinol concentration
- Visible results within 4-6 weeks
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Contains protective squalane and oils
- Dermatologist-developed formula
- Cruelty-free and vegan
- Clean at Sephora certified
- Effective for scars and wrinkles
Criticized
- Not suitable for retinol beginners
- Tube packaging hard to dispense
- Initial purging period
- Not fungal acne safe
- Not pregnancy/breastfeeding safe
- Requires consistent SPF use
- Can cause dryness initially
- Yellow color may transfer to fabrics
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Same 1% retinol concentration in a squalane base. Simpler formula without the additional oils. May be slightly more drying but excellent value.
Lower retinol concentration with added ceramides and niacinamide. Better for sensitive skin but less potent for stubborn marks.
0.3% pure retinol with niacinamide. Gentler formula in pharmaceutical-grade packaging. Better for sensitive skin, lower concentration.
Combines retinol with bakuchiol for gentler action. Good middle-ground option with additional botanical benefits.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in cool, dry place (15-25°C). Keep away from direct sunlight to maintain retinol potency.
Opaque squeeze tube that protects retinol from light degradation. 100% recyclable.
Yes, 30ml is under TSA liquid limit (100ml/3.4oz)
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This product contains retinol, a vitamin A derivative that should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Retinoids can potentially cause harm to fetal development. Consult your healthcare provider for safe skincare alternatives during this time.
No. This formula contains polysorbate 60, sorbitan isostearate, and soybean oil, which can feed malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, look for fungal-safe retinol alternatives.
Not in the same routine. Using retinol with AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or vitamin C can cause over-exfoliation and irritation. Use these ingredients on alternate nights, or apply vitamin C in the morning and retinol at night.
This high-potency retinol is best for oily, combination, and mature skin types that have previous retinol experience. It's particularly effective for those targeting post-acne scars, dark marks, and established wrinkles. Beginners and sensitive skin types should start with The INKEY List's regular Retinol Serum instead.
Most users notice smoother skin texture within 4 weeks. Visible improvement in dark marks and scars typically takes 6-8 weeks. For significant wrinkle reduction and optimal results, consistent use for 3+ months is recommended. Initial purging may last 4-6 weeks.
Apply in your PM routine only, after cleansing and any water-based serums (like hyaluronic acid), but before moisturizer and oils. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning. Start by using every 5-7 days and gradually increase frequency.
This product has a comedogenic rating of 2/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. However, it does contain avocado oil and soybean oil which may be problematic for very acne-prone skin. Patch test first if concerned.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain retinol potency. The yellow color is natural from the retinol; darkening or unusual smell may indicate degradation.
Purging is normal with 1% retinol and can last up to 3 months. Retinol accelerates cell turnover, bringing existing congestion to the surface faster. This is different from a reaction (which would appear as new breakouts in areas you don't normally break out). Stick with it—purging is temporary.
This product is not recommended for retinol beginners due to its 1% concentration. Start with The INKEY List Retinol Serum (which contains a slow-release, less irritating form of retinol) to build tolerance first, then graduate to this stronger formula.
Verdict: The INKEY List SuperSolutions 1% Retinol Serum delivers impressive results at an accessible price point. With its dermatologist-developed formula combining high-potency retinol with protective squalane and apricot kernel oil, it effectively targets scars, dark marks, and wrinkles while minimizing irritation. Clinical studies showing 92% of users with smoother skin in just 4 weeks back up its claims. However, this is not for retinol beginners—the 1% concentration requires experienced users who have built tolerance. The tube packaging could be improved, and it's not suitable for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or dealing with fungal acne. For experienced retinol users seeking an affordable, effective solution for skin resurfacing, this is an excellent choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.