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Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream

Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A rich, buttery retinol moisturizer powered by the proprietary Phyto-Retinol Blend™ — combining two forms of retinol with bakuchiol, ferulic acid, and rambutan — to visibly smooth wrinkles, firm skin, and deeply hydrate without irritation. Clinically proven to reduce fine lines in just 2 weeks.

Dermatologist-Founded Vegan Cruelty-Free (PETA) Gluten-Free Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Phthalate-Free Recyclable Packaging AM/PM Use
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
2/5
Size
2 oz / 60 ml
Price
$82.00
Cost/oz
$41.00
Type
Cream
Target
Wrinkles & Firmness
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Phyto-Retinol Blend™

Proprietary blend of trans-retinol + encapsulated retinol paired with bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid for enhanced anti-aging without irritation.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Rich, buttery cream
Scent
Subtle citrus
Absorption
30–60 seconds
Finish
Silky matte

Phyto-Retinol Blend™

Proprietary blend of trans-retinol + encapsulated retinol paired with bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid for enhanced anti-aging without irritation.

24-Hour Hydration

Rich base of hyaluronic acid (3 molecular weights), ceramide NG, squalane, and shea butter delivers clinically proven all-day moisture.

Barrier Repair

Ceramides, squalane, and evening primrose oil strengthen the moisture barrier while retinol works underneath to stimulate collagen.

Antioxidant Shield

Ferulic acid, centella asiatica, arnica, and milk thistle protect against free radical damage and soothe retinol-treated skin.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Not Pregnancy Safe

Contains retinol (Vitamin A derivative). Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.

Not Fungal Acne Safe

Contains fatty acid esters (caprylyl caprylate/caprate), shea butter, sweet almond oil, soybean oil, and other oils that may feed malassezia yeast.

Sun Sensitivity

Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ during the day when using this product, even on cloudy days.

Sensitive Skin Friendly

Clinically tested on Fitzpatrick Skin Types II-VI. Bakuchiol buffers retinol irritation. 100% of clinical study participants reported no irritation.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free

Certified cruelty-free by PETA. No animal-derived ingredients. Recyclable packaging.

Clean Formulation

Free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances, and drying alcohols.

Comedogenic Rating: 2/5

Contains shea butter and sweet almond oil which are mildly comedogenic. Low risk for most skin types but patch test if very acne-prone.

Retinol Beginners

Start by using every other night for the first 2 weeks, then gradually increase to nightly use as tolerated.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Trans-Retinol + Encapsulated RetinolProven

Two forms of Vitamin A work synergistically — trans-retinol provides immediate activity while encapsulated retinol delivers a sustained, slow release for reduced irritation and prolonged efficacy. Stimulates collagen production, accelerates cell turnover, and fades dark spots.

  • Mechanism: Converts to retinoic acid in skin, binding to RAR/RXR receptors to upregulate collagen genes and downregulate MMPs (enzymes that break down collagen).
  • Evidence: Thousands of peer-reviewed studies confirm retinol reduces wrinkle depth, improves skin elasticity, and evens pigmentation over 8-12 weeks of consistent use.
  • Dual delivery: Trans-retinol acts fast; encapsulated retinol minimizes peak irritation by releasing gradually over hours.
Retinol increases sun sensitivity — always pair with SPF 30+ during the day. Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

BakuchiolProven

A plant-derived retinol alternative from the babchi plant that delivers retinol-like anti-aging benefits while reinforcing the moisture barrier. Works synergistically with retinol to boost efficacy and reduce irritation potential.

  • Evidence: A 2019 study in the British Journal of Dermatology found bakuchiol and retinol produced comparable improvements in wrinkles and pigmentation over 12 weeks.
  • Barrier support: Increases hydration levels and supports moisture barrier function, counteracting the drying effects of retinol.
  • Tolerability: Does not cause the photosensitivity, peeling, or scaling commonly associated with retinoids.
Bakuchiol is pregnancy-safe on its own, but this product also contains retinol, making it unsuitable during pregnancy.

Ferulic AcidProven

A potent plant-derived antioxidant found in rice bran and oats that stabilizes and enhances the performance of other actives while providing its own photoprotective and anti-aging benefits.

  • Synergy: A landmark 2005 study showed ferulic acid doubles the photoprotection of Vitamin C + E formulations, and similarly stabilizes retinol against degradation.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Counteracts the irritating effects of retinol and helps reduce UV-induced free radical damage.
  • Penetration: Demonstrated ability to effectively penetrate the stratum corneum for delivery to deeper skin layers.

Rambutan (Nephelium Lappaceum) Leaf ExtractPromising

A tropical fruit extract rich in antioxidants that protects existing collagen from environmental degradation and supports skin elasticity and radiance.

  • Collagen protection: Helps shield skin's natural collagen from breakdown caused by UV exposure and pollution.
  • Elasticity: In brand studies, rambutan visibly improved skin elasticity and overall radiance.

Hyaluronic Acid Complex (3 Types)Proven

Three molecular weights of hyaluronic acid — sodium hyaluronate, hydrolyzed sodium hyaluronate, and sodium hyaluronate crosspolymer — provide multi-depth hydration from surface to deeper layers.

  • Capacity: HA can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, creating a moisture reservoir in the skin.
  • Multi-weight delivery: Large molecules hydrate the surface, medium molecules plump mid-layers, and small molecules penetrate deepest for long-lasting hydration.
  • Crosspolymer: Creates a breathable moisture film for sustained hydration over 24 hours.

Ceramide NG + SqualaneProven

Skin-identical lipids that mirror the natural composition of the skin barrier. Ceramide NG fills gaps between skin cells while squalane provides emollient moisture — together they repair and reinforce a compromised barrier.

  • Barrier repair: Ceramides make up ~50% of the skin barrier's lipid matrix. Topical application directly fills structural gaps.
  • Squalane: A stable form of squalene (naturally found in human sebum) that penetrates quickly without clogging pores.
  • Retinol support: Essential for preventing the moisture loss and barrier disruption that retinol can cause.

47 ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Glycerin, Diisostearyl Malate, Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Alcohol, Bakuchiol, Retinol, Ferulic Acid, Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Ceramide NG, Emblica Officinalis Fruit Extract, Silybum Marianum Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Jojoba Esters, Soy Isoflavones, Phospholipids, Saccharide Isomerate, Hippophae Rhamnoides Fruit Oil, Centella Asiatica Extract, Ursolic Acid, Adenosine, Camellia Japonica Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Arnica Montana Flower Extract, Salix Alba (Willow) Bark Extract, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tocopherol, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Hydroxyacetophenone, Caprylyl Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Ethylhexylglycerin, BHT

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Artificial Fragrances, Drying Alcohols, Mineral Oil, Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone, Triclosan, Coal Tar
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Serum
4
This Cream
5
Eye Cream
6
Sunscreen (AM)

Use as your moisturizer step AM & PM. For best results, apply after your Dr. Dennis Gross peel pad and serum. Always follow with SPF in the morning.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Prep

Start with a clean, dry face. If using a toner or peel pad, apply those first and let them absorb fully.

2

Apply Serum (Optional)

Layer your treatment serum underneath if you use one. Wait 30–60 seconds for absorption before the next step.

3

Apply Wrinkle Cream

Take a pea-sized amount and massage into face and neck using upward, circular motions. Extend to décolleté area. A little goes a long way.

4

Sunscreen (AM Only)

In the morning, always follow with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher. Retinol increases sun sensitivity significantly.

5

Start Slow

If new to retinol, begin every other night for the first 2 weeks, then gradually increase to nightly use as your skin builds tolerance.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want to address fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
  • You have dry or dehydrated skin and need retinol that also moisturizes
  • You want a retinol product gentle enough for sensitive skin
  • You prefer a single product that combines anti-aging and hydration
  • You appreciate clinically tested, dermatologist-formulated products
  • You want to improve uneven texture and dull skin tone

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinol)
  • You have fungal acne/malassezia — formula contains triggering oils and esters
  • You prefer a lightweight gel texture — this is a rich, buttery cream
  • You are on a tight budget — at $82 for 2 oz, this is a premium product
  • You need a high-concentration retinol (this uses a gentler, undisclosed %)
  • You have very oily skin and prefer oil-free formulas
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Dry Skin
Excellent

Specifically designed for dry skin. Rich, buttery texture with ceramides, squalane, and shea butter delivers 24-hour hydration without flaking.

Normal Skin
Excellent

Ideal for normal skin seeking anti-aging benefits. Balanced hydration without heaviness; absorbs to a silky matte finish.

Combination Skin
Good

Works well overall. May feel slightly rich on the T-zone during summer — use a thinner layer on oily areas if needed.

Oily Skin
Moderate

Rich buttery texture may feel heavy for very oily skin. Consider the lighter Overnight Wrinkle Treatment serum from the same line instead.

Sensitive Skin
Good

Clinically tested with zero irritation reported. Bakuchiol buffers retinol effects. Still recommended to start slowly and patch test first.

Acne-Prone Skin
Moderate

Retinol helps normalize keratinization and reduce sebum, but the rich formula with oils and shea butter may not suit breakout-prone skin. Not fungal acne safe.

08

Results timeline

WEEK 8–12
Immediately

Instant Hydration & Smoothness

Skin feels softer, smoother, and intensely moisturized. Dry fine lines appear visibly reduced due to the plumping effect of hyaluronic acid and ceramides.

94% saw smoother skin immediately
Week 1–2

Visible Fine Line Reduction

Clinically significant reduction in dry fine lines. Skin texture begins to refine and overall complexion appears brighter and more even.

94% showed reduction in dry fine lines
Week 2–4

Improved Tone & Radiance

Retinol-driven cell turnover reveals fresher skin underneath. Uneven skin tone begins to even out and overall appearance improves notably.

97% saw improvement in overall appearance
Week 4–8

Firming & Elasticity

Collagen stimulation becomes visible with firmer, more resilient skin. Elasticity improves and deeper wrinkles begin to soften.

85% saw firmer skin and improved elasticity
Week 8–12

Comprehensive Anti-Aging

Full results achieved — pronounced wrinkle reduction, visibly firmer and lifted skin, restored moisture barrier, and dramatically smoother texture.

100% saw smoother, less oily skin with no irritation
09

Ratings by platform

1K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
650+
Reviews
Main complaint: Expensive for the size; some feel results are slow to appear
Sephora
4.2
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Thick texture may feel heavy for oily skin; jar packaging not ideal for retinol
Brand Website
4.7
Rating
100+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some wish for a pump or airless packaging to better preserve the retinol
LovelySkin / Dermstore
4.4
Rating
80+
Reviews
Main complaint: A few reported initial irritation/rash; previous formula was preferred by some long-time users
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Clinically proven results — 94% saw fine line reduction immediately
  • Dual retinol delivery system minimizes irritation
  • Rich, luxurious texture that leaves skin soft and hydrated
  • Bakuchiol boosts efficacy while buffering potential sensitivity
  • Multi-ingredient formula with ceramides, squalane, and 3 types of HA
  • Suitable for AM and PM use — doubles as moisturizer
  • Dermatologist-formulated by board-certified Dr. Dennis Gross
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens/sulfates

Criticized

  • Premium price at $82 for 2 oz ($41/oz)
  • Jar packaging exposes retinol to air and light, reducing potency over time
  • Rich, buttery texture too heavy for oily skin types
  • Retinol concentration not disclosed on label
  • Not safe for pregnancy, breastfeeding, or fungal acne
  • Some users reported initial irritation or rash (patch test recommended)
  • Results can take several weeks to become noticeable for deeper wrinkles
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Skin Renewing Eye Cream
$21.99
Budget Pick

Contains encapsulated retinol with ceramides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide in a similar barrier-repair approach. Lighter texture, fragrance-free, but lacks bakuchiol and ferulic acid. Great entry-level option.

72% Match
Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$8.40
Budget Pick

Pure retinol in a squalane base at a known concentration (0.5%). Much simpler formula — no bakuchiol, ferulic acid, ceramides, or HA. Oily texture, no cream base. Effective but more likely to cause irritation.

85% Match
Rapid Wrinkle Retinol Regenerating Cream
$28.99
Budget Pick

Features accelerated retinol SA with hyaluronic acid and glucose complex in a rich cream base. Very similar anti-wrinkle approach at a fraction of the price. No bakuchiol or ferulic acid; contains fragrance.

75% Match
Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
$21.99
Budget Pick

Combines bakuchiol with encapsulated retinol — similar dual approach. Lighter serum texture, not a cream. Clean beauty formulation. Lacks the ceramides, HA complex, and ferulic acid of the DDG cream.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
0.1% Retinol Night Cream
Key ActivesPure Retinol 0.5% + Bisabolol
Size1 oz / 30 ml
Retinol TypePure Retinol 0.5% (disclosed)
Hydration SystemBisabolol + basic moisturizers
TextureLightweight cream
PackagingTube (better retinol stability)
Price per oz$92.00/oz
Retinol 24 Night Face Cream
Key ActivesRetinol + Niacinamide + Vitamin B3
Size1.7 oz / 50 ml
Retinol TypeRetinol (concentration undisclosed)
Hydration SystemNiacinamide + Glycerin
TextureMedium cream
PackagingJar
Price per oz$27.64/oz

RoC Retinol Correxion Max Wrinkle Resurfacing

Key ActivesPure RoC Retinol + Hyaluronic Acid
Size1 oz / 30 ml
Retinol TypeProprietary RoC Retinol
Hydration SystemHyaluronic Acid + Glycerin
TextureLightweight serum-cream
PackagingTube
Price per oz$29.97/oz
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep jar tightly sealed to protect retinol from air exposure and oxidation.

Packaging

Glass jar with screw-top lid. Recyclable packaging. Consider using a spatula to avoid introducing bacteria from fingers.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 2 oz is under the 3.4 oz TSA liquid limit for carry-on luggage. Ensure lid is tightened securely.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No. This product contains retinol (Vitamin A derivative), which is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks of birth defects. While bakuchiol alone is considered safe during pregnancy, this formula includes retinol and should be avoided. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for pregnancy-safe alternatives.

No. This formula contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including caprylyl caprylate/caprate, shea butter, sweet almond oil, evening primrose oil, sea buckthorn oil, soybean oil, camellia seed oil, and sunflower seed oil. If you have fungal acne, look for an oil-free retinol treatment instead.

This cream already contains retinol, so avoid layering additional retinol products on top to prevent over-exfoliation. Vitamin C can be used in your AM routine while using this cream at night, but avoid applying them simultaneously if you experience sensitivity. AHAs and BHAs (like glycolic acid or salicylic acid) can be alternated on different nights. Dr. Dennis Gross recommends using their Alpha Beta peel pads before this cream for enhanced results — start slowly to assess tolerance.

This cream is best suited for dry, normal, and combination skin types. The rich, buttery texture with shea butter, ceramides, and squalane makes it ideal for those who need both anti-aging treatment and intense hydration. If you have oily skin, consider the lighter Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment serum from the same line. It was clinically tested on Fitzpatrick Skin Types II-VI and is marked safe for sensitive skin.

In clinical studies, 94% of participants saw smoother skin and a reduction in dry fine lines immediately upon application due to the hydrating ingredients. Visible texture and tone improvements typically appear within 2 weeks of daily use. For deeper wrinkle reduction and firming benefits, expect 4–12 weeks of consistent use as retinol stimulates collagen production over time.

Apply as your moisturizer step — after cleansing, toning, and serums, but before sunscreen (AM) or as your final step (PM). For optimal results, the brand recommends applying after their Alpha Beta Daily Peel and a serum. It is designed for both morning and evening use.

We rate this a 2 out of 5 on the comedogenic scale. It contains shea butter (comedogenic rating 0–2), sweet almond oil (rating 2), and several other oils. While these are generally considered low risk, individuals who are very acne-prone should patch test first. The retinol component actually helps normalize skin cell turnover and reduce sebum production, which can be beneficial for pores.

The recommended Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, since retinol degrades when exposed to air and light, and this product comes in a jar (not an airless pump), we recommend using it within 6–8 months for optimal potency. Always reseal the jar tightly after each use, use a clean spatula, and store away from direct sunlight.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Intense Wrinkle Cream is a premium, clinically-backed anti-aging moisturizer that excels at delivering retinol results without the typical irritation. The Phyto-Retinol Blend™ of dual retinol + bakuchiol is thoughtfully formulated, and the supporting cast of ferulic acid, triple hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and squalane makes this a powerhouse for dry and aging skin. The main drawbacks are the premium price point ($82 for 2 oz), jar packaging that isn't ideal for retinol stability, and a rich texture that may be too heavy for oily skin. If you want a retinol moisturizer that won't compromise on hydration and you're willing to invest, this is an excellent choice — especially for those with dry or normal skin concerned about wrinkles, firmness, and dull texture.

Product Overview

question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Quick Product Notes

Click on icons for more information
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 8 ingredient(s):
Bakuchiol Retinol Ferulic Acid Ceramide Ng Centella Asiatica Extract Adenosine Tocopherol Lactic Acid
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Bakuchiol Retinol Lactic Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Retinol Sodium Hyaluronate Centella Asiatica Extract Adenosine Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Tocopherol
ache Ache-fighting from 1 ingredient(s):
Retinol
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
4 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
39% 3% 1% 55%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 63 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Emulsifying
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Diisostearyl Malate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Surfactant
0 Unknown
Caprylyl Caprylate/Caprate
Emollient, Skin Conditioning
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS