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Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment

Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment

Product Description

A hydrating, irritation-free overnight retinol serum treatment that visibly firms skin, evens tone, and reduces the look of wrinkles while you sleep. Powered by the proprietary Phyto-Retinol Blendβ„’ of retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid for enhanced anti-aging results without redness or peeling.

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Dermatologist-Founded Β· Made in USA
βœ” Vegan βœ” Cruelty-Free βœ” Gluten-Free βœ” Paraben-Free βœ” Sulfate-Free βœ” Phthalate-Free βœ” Recyclable Packaging βœ” Clinically Tested
Pregnancy Safe
No βœ—
Fungal Acne Safe
No βœ—
Comedogenic Rating
2/5
πŸ“
Size
1 oz / 30 mL
🧴
Type
Serum Treatment
πŸŒ™
Use
PM Only
🎯
Targets
Wrinkles, Firmness
πŸ‘©βš•οΈ
Brand
Dr. Dennis Gross

✨ Texture & Feel

πŸ’§
Consistency
Creamy Serum
πŸ‘ƒ
Scent
Light Spa-Like
⏱️
Absorption
30–60 Seconds
🎯
Finish
Dewy, Hydrated
🧬

Phyto-Retinol Blendβ„’

Proprietary blend of retinol + bakuchiol + rambutan + ferulic acid delivers enhanced anti-aging results without the irritation of traditional retinol.

πŸ’§

Barrier-Strengthening Hydration

Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and evening primrose extract strengthen the moisture barrier and boost hydration overnight.

🌿

Multi-Acid Exfoliation

Gentle blend of lactic, glycolic, and mandelic acids promotes cell turnover for smoother, more radiant skin by morning.

πŸ›‘οΈ

Antioxidant Defense

Ferulic acid, tocopherol, green tea extract, and milk thistle protect against environmental damage and stabilize the retinol formula.

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility

β›”
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

NOT safe. Contains retinol (vitamin A derivative), which is contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your dermatologist for bakuchiol-only alternatives.

⚠️
Fungal Acne (Malassezia)

NOT fungal acne safe. Contains caprylic/capric triglyceride, cetyl alcohol, glyceryl stearate SE, and PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil which may feed malassezia yeast.

βœ…
Low Comedogenic Risk

Rated 2/5. Most ingredients are non-comedogenic, though glyceryl stearate SE has a moderate rating. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

⚠️
Sun Sensitivity

Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the morning after using this treatment. Avoid direct sun exposure.

βœ…
Sensitive Skin Friendly

Bakuchiol buffers the retinol to minimize irritation. Clinically tested on Fitzpatrick skin types II–VI with no reported irritation in studies.

⚠️
Contains Botanical Extracts

Includes bergamot, lemon peel, and lavender extracts which may cause sensitivity in those with citrus or fragrance allergies. Patch test recommended.

πŸ”¬ Ingredient Breakdown

🧬 Retinol Proven

The gold-standard vitamin A derivative for anti-aging. Stimulates cell turnover, boosts collagen production, fades dark spots, smooths fine lines, and controls excess sebum. Listed 6th in the INCI, suggesting a meaningful concentration.

  • Clinical Evidence: Hundreds of peer-reviewed studies confirm retinol reduces wrinkle depth by 20–30% over 12 weeks.
  • Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid receptors to accelerate epidermal turnover and stimulate dermal collagen synthesis.
  • Brand Study: 91% of participants saw smoother, more supple skin after just 1 week in a 12-week clinical study.
⚠️
Retinol increases sun sensitivity. Always follow with SPF 30+ in the morning. Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

🌿 Bakuchiol Promising

A plant-derived retinol alternative from the babchi plant that provides similar anti-aging benefits without the irritation. Supports collagen production and strengthens the skin's moisture barrier.

  • Study (2019, British Journal of Dermatology): Bakuchiol showed comparable improvements in wrinkle depth and pigmentation to 0.5% retinol over 12 weeks, with significantly less scaling and stinging.
  • Synergy: When paired with retinol, bakuchiol reinforces the moisture barrier, reducing the dryness and peeling commonly caused by retinol alone.
βœ…
Bakuchiol is considered safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin. It does not increase photosensitivity like retinol.

πŸ›‘οΈ Ferulic Acid Proven

A potent plant-derived antioxidant found in rice bran, wheat, and oats. Stabilizes the retinol formula while providing photoprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits.

  • Study (2005, Journal of Investigative Dermatology): Adding 0.5% ferulic acid to a vitamin C+E solution doubled UV photoprotection.
  • Role in Formula: Counteracts the irritating effects of retinol while protecting against free radical damage from UV and pollution.

✨ Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) High (2nd Ingredient) Proven

A multitasking powerhouse listed as the second ingredient, indicating a high concentration. Strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, controls oil, minimizes pores, and improves uneven skin tone.

  • Evidence: Clinically shown to reduce wrinkles, blotchiness, and hyperpigmentation at concentrations of 2–5%.
  • Barrier Support: Increases ceramide production in the skin, reinforcing the moisture barrier damaged by retinol use.

πŸ’§ Sodium Hyaluronate Proven

The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular size for better penetration. Attracts and holds up to 1,000x its weight in water for deep, lasting hydration.

  • Benefit: Plumps fine lines from within, creating a smoother skin surface and reducing transepidermal water loss.

🍈 Rambutan (Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract) Promising

A tropical antioxidant that protects existing collagen from environmental damage while visibly improving skin elasticity and radiance. Completes the Phyto-Retinol Blendβ„’.

  • Function: Stimulates fibroblasts (collagen-producing cells) in the upper dermis and shields collagen from degradation by free radicals.

42 ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Retinol, Bakuchiol, Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract, Ferulic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Lactic Acid, Linoleic Acid, Linolenic Acid, Silybum Marianum Extract, Saccharide Isomerate, Phospholipids, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Flower Extract, Adenosine, Evodia Rutaecarpa Fruit Extract, Sodium PCA, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Phytic Acid, Tocopherol, Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Maltodextrin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer, Behenyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Arachidyl Glucoside, Arachidyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Oleth-10, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Sodium Ascorbate, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Extract, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate

FREE FROM: Parabens, Phthalates, Sulfates, SLS/SLES, Gluten, Mineral Oil, Silicones, Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone, Oxybenzone, Artificial Dyes

πŸ”„ Where It Fits in Your Routine

1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Peel Pads
4
This Product
5
Eye Cream
6
Moisturizer

PM routine only. For optimal results, apply after Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta peel pads. Follow with eye cream and moisturizer if needed. Always use SPF 30+ the next morning.

πŸ“ How to Use

1

Cleanse & Prep

Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry completely. Ensure skin is clean and free of makeup or sunscreen residue.

2

Dispense 2–3 Pumps

Press the airless pump 2–3 times onto your fingertips. The creamy serum texture spreads easily without dripping.

3

Massage Into Skin

Gently massage the treatment into your face, then extend down to the neck, dΓ©colletΓ©, and shoulders using upward strokes.

4

Follow With Moisturizer

Apply your eye cream and a nourishing moisturizer on top. The lotion-like formula can also double as a lightweight moisturizer on its own for oily skin.

5

Morning SPF

Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher the following morning, as retinol increases sun sensitivity.

πŸ‘€ Who Is It For?

βœ… Perfect for you if:

  • You want to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
  • You have tried retinol before but experienced irritation or peeling
  • You want a multi-active nighttime treatment (retinol + acids + antioxidants)
  • You have oily, normal, or combination skin
  • You want a vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologist-developed formula
  • You want to improve uneven skin tone and texture while you sleep

❌ Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
  • You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
  • You need a fragrance-free product (contains botanical extracts including lavender and citrus)
  • You have very dry skin and need a richer, heavier cream texture
  • You are looking for a high-concentration prescription-strength retinoid
  • You are on a tight budget (premium price point at $69/oz)

🎯 Skin Type Compatibility

Oily Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Lightweight serum absorbs quickly without adding shine. Retinol helps control sebum production and minimize pore appearance.

Normal Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Ideal match. Provides the perfect balance of active treatment and hydration without overloading the skin.

Combination Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… Excellent

Creamy serum formula works well across different face zones β€” hydrates dry areas while controlling oil in the T-zone.

Dry Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Niacinamide and hyaluronic acid provide solid hydration, but very dry skin will benefit from layering a richer moisturizer on top.

Sensitive Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Bakuchiol buffers the retinol to reduce irritation. Clinically tested with no irritation reported, but patch test first if highly reactive.

Acne-Prone Skin β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜† Good

Retinol helps unclog pores and reduce breakouts. Low comedogenic rating (2/5), but not suitable for fungal acne.

πŸ“ˆ Results Timeline

Week 1

Smoother, More Supple Skin

Skin feels softer and more hydrated upon waking. Initial glow and improved texture become visible. Some users may experience mild tingling that subsides after a few nights.

91% noticed improvement
Weeks 2–4

Visible Reduction in Fine Lines

Dry fine lines begin to diminish noticeably. Skin tone appears more even and radiant. Cell turnover acceleration becomes evident with smoother texture.

85% noticed improvement
Weeks 4–8

Firmer, More Lifted Appearance

Deeper wrinkles start to soften as collagen production ramps up. Skin elasticity improves and the complexion looks visibly firmer and more youthful.

80% noticed improvement
Weeks 8–12

Transformed Skin Texture & Tone

Comprehensive anti-aging benefits fully realized. Wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven texture significantly improved. Skin looks visibly younger and healthier.

90%+ noticed improvement

⭐ Ratings by Platform

πŸ’„ Sephora
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.3
Rating
350+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Some users feel the scent is slightly waxy; small size for the price.
πŸ›’ Amazon
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.4
Rating
200+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Expensive for 1 oz; some received product close to expiration date.
🏠 Brand Website
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.6
Rating
150+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Wish it came in a larger size; runs out quickly with nightly use.
πŸ’… Dermstore
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4.5
Rating
80+
Reviews
⚠️ Main complaint: Results take time; not strong enough for deep wrinkles on its own.

βš–οΈ Pros & Cons

βœ… Praised

  • No irritation, peeling, or redness β€” even on sensitive skin
  • Visible results within the first week (smoother, softer skin)
  • Lightweight creamy texture absorbs quickly
  • Multi-active formula (retinol + bakuchiol + acids + antioxidants)
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, and free of parabens/sulfates/phthalates
  • Clinically tested on diverse skin tones (Fitzpatrick II–VI)
  • Can double as a light moisturizer for oily skin types
  • Dermatologist-developed by a board-certified physician

❌ Criticized

  • Premium price ($69 for only 1 oz / 30 mL)
  • Small bottle runs out quickly with nightly use (about 4–5 weeks)
  • Retinol concentration is not disclosed on the label
  • Subtle spa-like scent may not appeal to fragrance-sensitive users
  • Not strong enough for deep, established wrinkles on its own
  • Not suitable for pregnancy, breastfeeding, or fungal acne

πŸ’° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)

65% Match
The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$6.80 Budget Pick

Pure retinol in a simple squalane base. Effective but lacks the bakuchiol buffer, ferulic acid, niacinamide, and multi-acid complex. Higher irritation potential without the soothing botanicals.

75% Match
RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Night Serum
$27.99 Budget Pick

Uses RoC's patented slow-release retinol technology for gentle delivery. Includes mineral and squalane for hydration. Lacks bakuchiol, ferulic acid, and the multi-acid exfoliation complex.

70% Match
Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
$28.99 Budget Pick

Combines niacinamide with a retinoid complex for similar barrier support. Fragrance-free option available. Misses the bakuchiol, ferulic acid, and botanical antioxidant blend.

80% Match
Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
$21.99 Budget Pick

Also combines retinol with bakuchiol for reduced irritation. Includes niacinamide and hyaluronic acid. Lacks the ferulic acid and multi-acid exfoliation complex of the DDG formula.

πŸ”„ Comparison with Competitors

Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum

$92.00
Key Actives Retinol Tri-Active Technology
Size 1 oz / 30 mL
Price per oz $92.00/oz
Retinol % Not Disclosed
Irritation Level Low
Extra Benefits Hyaluronic Acid + Peptides

SkinCeuticals Retinol 0.5

$88.00
Key Actives Pure Retinol 0.5%
Size 1 oz / 30 mL
Price per oz $88.00/oz
Retinol % 0.5% (Disclosed)
Irritation Level Moderate-High
Extra Benefits Bisabolol (Soothing Only)

RoC Retinol Correxion Night Serum

$27.99
Key Actives Slow-Release Retinol
Size 1 oz / 30 mL
Price per oz $27.99/oz
Retinol % Not Disclosed
Irritation Level Low-Moderate
Extra Benefits Hyaluronic Acid Only

πŸ“¦ Storage & Shelf Life

πŸ“…
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

🏠
Storage

Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. Retinol degrades with light and heat exposure β€” keep the cap sealed tightly after each use.

πŸ“¦
Packaging

Opaque airless pump bottle β€” protects the retinol formula from air and light exposure, maintaining potency. Recyclable packaging.

✈️
Travel Friendly

Yes β€” 1 oz / 30 mL is under the 100 mL TSA carry-on limit. Airless pump is leak-resistant.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

No. This product contains retinol, a vitamin A derivative that is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development. Dermatologists universally advise avoiding all retinoid products during this period. If you are pregnant or nursing, look for bakuchiol-only alternatives that provide similar anti-aging benefits without the retinol.

No. The formula contains several ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast, including caprylic/capric triglyceride (fatty acid esters), glyceryl stearate SE, cetyl alcohol, and PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil. If you have fungal acne or malassezia folliculitis, look for a retinol product formulated without these triggers.

This formula already contains mild AHAs (glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acid) and vitamin C (sodium ascorbate), so additional exfoliating acids may cause over-exfoliation and irritation. It is best to use vitamin C serum in the morning and this retinol treatment at night. Avoid layering additional AHAs, BHAs, or strong exfoliants on the same night you use this product.

This product is best suited for oily, normal, and combination skin types. The lightweight creamy serum texture absorbs quickly without heaviness. Dry skin types can still use it but should layer a richer moisturizer on top. Sensitive skin types generally tolerate it well thanks to the bakuchiol buffer, but a patch test is always recommended.

In the brand's 12-week clinical study, 91% of participants saw smoother, more supple skin after just 1 week. Visible improvements in fine lines typically appear within 2–4 weeks. More significant changes in wrinkle depth, firmness, and skin tone develop over 8–12 weeks of consistent nightly use. Maximum results require ongoing use.

Apply this treatment at night after cleansing and toning (and after peel pads if you use them). It goes before your eye cream and moisturizer. The brand recommends using it after Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta peel pads for optimal results. For oily skin, it may be used as a lightweight standalone moisturizer. Always apply SPF the next morning.

This product has a low comedogenic rating of 2 out of 5. Most ingredients are non-comedogenic, and the retinol actually helps unclog pores by accelerating cell turnover. However, glyceryl stearate SE has a moderate comedogenic potential. Most users with acne-prone skin report no breakouts, but those with extremely sensitive or clog-prone skin should patch test first.

The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. However, since the 1 oz bottle typically lasts 4–5 weeks with nightly use (2–3 pumps), you will likely use it well before the expiration period. The airless pump packaging helps protect the retinol from air and light degradation, keeping the formula potent throughout use. Store it in a cool, dark place for best results.

β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜†
4.4 out of 5

Verdict: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Wrinkle Treatment is a well-formulated, multi-active retinol serum that delivers real results with minimal irritation. The proprietary Phyto-Retinol Blendβ„’ of retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid, combined with niacinamide and a gentle multi-acid complex, creates one of the most comprehensive overnight anti-aging treatments available. Backed by clinical studies and positive reviews across multiple platforms, it is especially well-suited for retinol newcomers and those with oily-to-combination skin who want visible wrinkle reduction without the dreaded retinol adjustment period. The only significant drawbacks are the premium price point for a small 1 oz bottle and the undisclosed retinol concentration. If budget is a concern, RoC or Versed offer capable alternatives at a fraction of the cost.

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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 11 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Retinol Bakuchiol Ferulic Acid Lactic Acid Adenosine Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Phytic Acid Tocopherol Glycolic Acid Mandelic Acid
brightening Brightening from 9 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Retinol Bakuchiol Lactic Acid Phytic Acid Glycolic Acid Mandelic Acid Sodium Ascorbate
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 8 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Glycerin Retinol Sodium Hyaluronate Linoleic Acid Adenosine Tocopherol Glycolic Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Retinol Glycolic Acid
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
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 1 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
54% 13% 2% 29%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 44 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
1 A
Niacinamide
Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning, Smoothing
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
Pores
1 Unknown
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
1 A
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS