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Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum

Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum is a fast-absorbing, dermatologist-developed eye treatment that targets the three telltale signs of aging eyes — fine lines, loss of firmness, and crepiness. Built around the brand's proprietary Phyto-Retinol Blend™ (two forms of retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid), this lightweight gel hydrates, lifts, and smooths the entire eye area — including delicate eyelids, crow's feet, and "eleven" lines — without the irritation typically associated with retinol.

Dermatologist-Developed Vegan Cruelty-Free Gluten-Free Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Phthalate-Free Clinically Tested Recyclable Packaging
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Type
Eye Serum
Size
15 ml / 0.5 oz
Retail Price
$74 USD
Use Time
AM & PM
Concern
Anti-Aging
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Phyto-Retinol Blend™

Proprietary blend of 2 forms of retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid for results without irritation.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Gel
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
Fast (under 30s)
Finish
Smooth & Primer-Like

Phyto-Retinol Blend™

Proprietary blend of 2 forms of retinol, bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid for results without irritation.

Visibly Firms & Lifts

Clinically proven to visibly firm the eye area in 2 weeks by supporting natural collagen production.

Smooths Fine Lines

Clinically proven to significantly improve the look of fine lines and wrinkles in just 1 week of use.

Hydrating & Replenishing

Bakuchiol replenishes the moisture barrier; sodium hyaluronate plumps and locks in hydration.

360° Application

Gentle enough for the entire eye area — including lids, undereyes, crow's feet, and eleven lines.

Doubles as Eye Primer

Lightweight, fast-absorbing finish creates a smooth canvas for concealer and eye makeup.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid

Contains retinol (vitamin A) and salicylic acid — both flagged for avoidance during pregnancy and breastfeeding by dermatologists.

Fungal Acne: Not Safe

Contains phospholipids, caprylic/capric triglyceride, and Camellia sinensis (green tea) extract — known malassezia triggers.

Sun Sensitivity

Retinol and AHAs (glycolic, mandelic) increase photosensitivity. Daily SPF 30+ is essential, especially around the eyes.

Don't Layer with Strong Actives

Avoid stacking with prescription tretinoin, benzoyl peroxide, or high-percentage AHA peels in the same eye-area routine.

Vegan & Cruelty-Free

Confirmed vegan, gluten-free, and never tested on animals. Recyclable packaging.

Sensitive-Skin Friendly

Bakuchiol, ferulic acid, centella asiatica, and licorice root buffer retinol's irritation potential.

Eyelid & Mobile Lid Safe

Specifically formulated for 360° application, including the upper lid and brow bone.

Patch Test Recommended

For very reactive skin, test on inner forearm for 48 hours before applying around the eyes.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Retinol (2 Forms) ~0.1–0.3%Proven

The gold-standard vitamin A derivative for anti-aging. This formula uses two forms — encapsulated and free — for sustained release and reduced irritation. Stimulates collagen synthesis, accelerates cell turnover, and softens the appearance of fine lines and crow's feet.

  • Source: Decades of dermatological research support retinol as the most clinically validated topical anti-aging active.
  • Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid receptors, increasing collagen I production and reducing matrix metalloproteinase activity.
Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always pair with SPF 30+ in the morning.

Bakuchiol ~0.5–1%Proven

A plant-derived active from the babchi seed that delivers retinol-like benefits without the redness, peeling, or photosensitivity. It works synergistically with retinol to amplify collagen support while soothing the skin.

  • Source: A 2019 British Journal of Dermatology study found 0.5% bakuchiol comparable to 0.5% retinol for wrinkle reduction with significantly less irritation.
  • Bonus: Considered safer than retinol for sensitive eye skin.

Ferulic Acid ~0.5%Proven

A potent plant-derived antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution while stabilizing the entire formula. Crucially, it counteracts retinol-induced irritation and boosts the photoprotective effect of the actives.

  • Source: A landmark 2005 Duke University study demonstrated ferulic acid doubles the photoprotection of vitamin C + E formulations.
  • Synergy: Stabilizes retinol and reinforces antioxidant defense around the delicate eye area.

Rambutan (Nephelium Lappaceum) Active LevelPromising

Extract from the rambutan leaf — a Southeast Asian botanical that targets fine lines and visibly improves elasticity. Acts as a gentle, plant-based collagen-supporting active.

  • Source: Suppliers report rambutan extract supports collagen and elastin protection in vitro.
  • Why eyes: Especially valuable for the thinner skin around the eye area where elasticity loss shows first.

Sodium Hyaluronate ~0.5–1%Proven

The salt form of hyaluronic acid — smaller molecular size means deeper penetration. Holds up to 1,000× its weight in water, instantly plumping fine lines and reducing crepiness.

  • Source: Multiple peer-reviewed studies confirm topical HA improves skin hydration and reduces wrinkle depth.

Caffeine ~0.5–2%Proven

Constricts blood vessels around the eye to reduce the look of puffiness and dark circles caused by poor microcirculation. Also acts as an antioxidant.

  • Source: Reviewed in Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, caffeine is one of the few topical actives clinically shown to reduce undereye puffiness.

Tetrapeptide-21 Active LevelPromising

A signal peptide that communicates with skin cells to upregulate collagen and elastin synthesis. Targets the loss of firmness that causes hooded lids and crepey skin.

  • Source: In vitro studies show tetrapeptide-21 increases type I collagen, fibronectin, and hyaluronic acid production.

Ubiquinone (CoQ10) + Quercetin + Green Tea Antioxidant BlendProven

A triple antioxidant defense network. CoQ10 supports cellular energy and mitochondrial function in aging skin; quercetin and green tea polyphenols neutralize oxidative stress.

  • Source: CoQ10 is well-documented to decline with age; topical replenishment supports skin energy metabolism.
  • Synergy: Layered antioxidants outperform single-antioxidant formulas in reducing UV-induced free radicals.

Centella Asiatica + Licorice Root + Willow Bark Soothing ComplexProven

A botanical "buffer system" that calms inflammation and tones down retinol's irritation potential. Licorice root and uva-ursi also brighten dark undereye pigmentation.

  • Source: Centella's madecassoside is published as a wound-healing and anti-inflammatory active.
  • Brightening: Licorice and uva-ursi inhibit tyrosinase, the enzyme behind hyperpigmentation.
This soothing complex is a key reason the formula is well-tolerated even by sensitive skin.

38 ingredients

Water, Propylene Glycol, Ethoxydiglycol, Bakuchiol, Retinol, Nephelium Lappaceum Leaf Extract, Ferulic Acid, Ubiquinone, Quercetin, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Saccharide Isomerate, Phospholipids, Centella Asiatica Extract, Caffeine, Salix Alba Bark Extract, Salicylic Acid, Arctostaphylos Uva-Ursi Leaf Extract, Morus Alba Bark Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract, Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate, Glycolic Acid, Panthenol, Butylene Glycol, Tetrapeptide-21, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Mandelic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Maltodextrin, PVM/MA Decadiene Crosspolymer, Polysorbate 20, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Iron Oxides.

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, Synthetic Fragrance, Gluten, Animal-Derived Ingredients, Formaldehyde, Hydroquinone.
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
Treatment Serum
4
This Eye Serum
5
Moisturizer
6
SPF (AM)

Apply after lightweight serums butbefore moisturizer and SPF. Always finish your morning routine with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Tone

Start with clean, dry skin. Pat — don't rub — the eye area dry.

2

Dispense ½ Pump

Press the airless pump halfway to release a half pump — that's the correct dose for both eyes.

3

Tap, Don't Rub

Using your ring finger, gently tap the serum around the entire eye area: lids, undereyes, crow's feet, and "eleven" lines between brows.

4

Let It Absorb

Wait 30–60 seconds for full absorption before layering moisturizer or makeup.

5

Use AM & PM

Designed for twice-daily use. In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+.

6

Pro Tip: Use as Eye Primer

The lightweight, fast-absorbing finish creates a smooth canvas for concealer and eyeshadow.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You're noticing fine lines, crow's feet, or crepiness around the eyes
  • You want retinol benefits but have sensitive skin or eyes
  • You're 30+ and starting a preventative anti-aging routine
  • You want a product safe for the upper lid and brow area
  • You wear eye makeup and need a smooth primer-like base
  • You've tried prescription retinoids and found them too harsh for your eye area

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinol & salicylic acid)
  • You have malassezia / fungal acne in the eye area
  • You're looking primarily for dark circle correction (this is more wrinkle-focused)
  • You're already using prescription tretinoin near the eyes
  • You prefer rich, occlusive eye creams for very dry skin
  • You're under 25 with no aging concerns yet
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Excellent

Lightweight gel absorbs fast without adding shine. Ideal for oily eyelids prone to creasing makeup.

Dry Skin
Good

Hydrating but lightweight — very dry under-eyes may need a richer eye cream layered on top.

Combination
Excellent

Balances perfectly — hydrates dry undereyes without overwhelming oilier lid skin.

Sensitive
Good

Bakuchiol & ferulic acid soften retinol's irritation potential. Patch test first if very reactive.

Mature
Excellent

The Phyto-Retinol Blend™ + peptides target firmness loss, crepiness, and deep crow's feet.

Acne-Prone
Good

Low comedogenic rating; salicylic acid keeps pores clear. Not fungal-acne safe, however.

08

Results timeline

MONTHS 2–3
After 1st Use

Immediate Hydration & Radiance

The lightweight gel quickly hydrates and visibly smooths the eye area. Brand clinical and consumer perception data reports softer, more supple eyes from the very first application.

91% saw immediately softer eyes
Week 1

Smoother Fine Lines

Brand 2-week clinical study reports significant improvement in the appearance of fine lines after 1 week of consistent twice-daily use.

87% saw immediate hydration
Weeks 2–4

Visible Firming

The Phyto-Retinol Blend™ supports collagen turnover. Eye area appears visibly firmer, with reduced crepiness on lids and crow's feet.

Clinically firmer in 2 weeks
Months 2–3

Long-Term Anti-Aging Results

Cumulative collagen support reveals smoother, brighter, more lifted-looking eyes. Hooded lids appear more open, dark circles fade gradually thanks to caffeine, licorice, and uva-ursi.

Most users see peak results
09

Ratings by platform

4K+ REVIEWS
Sephora
4.3
Rating
2,000+
Reviews
Main complaint: Pricey for 15 ml; some find it doesn't dramatically improve dark circles.
Amazon
4.4
Rating
1,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Premium price point; pump can dispense too much if pressed fully.
Ulta
4.4
Rating
800+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users with very dry eyes wish it were a richer cream texture.
Brand Website
4.6
Rating
600+
Reviews
Main complaint: Subtle results — may not satisfy users expecting prescription-strength change.
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Gentle enough for the upper lid and around the eyes — rare for retinol
  • No irritation, redness, or peeling reported by most users
  • Lightweight, fast-absorbing — works as a makeup primer
  • Phyto-Retinol Blend™ pairs retinol with bakuchiol & ferulic acid for stability
  • Airless pump packaging protects retinol's potency
  • Clinically tested with documented firming & smoothing results
  • Vegan, cruelty-free, fragrance-free

Criticized

  • Premium price point — $74 USD for 15 ml
  • Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
  • Limited improvement in dark circles for some users
  • Subtle, gradual results — not a dramatic overnight fix
  • Not fungal-acne safe
  • Pump can dispense too much if pressed all the way down
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
Bakuchiol Moisturizer
$14.99
Budget Pick

Bakuchiol-only formula (no retinol) at a fraction of the price. Lacks the dual-retinol punch and peptides, but excellent for sensitive skin or pregnancy-friendly anti-aging.

85% Match
Retinol Correxion Eye Cream
$24.99
Budget Pick

Decades-old drugstore retinol eye cream with strong wrinkle-reduction data. Less elegant texture and no bakuchiol or ferulic acid buffering, so more irritation potential.

72% Match
Granactive Retinoid 2% Emulsion
$13.40
Budget Pick

A face serum that can be used cautiously on the orbital bone. Contains a stable next-gen retinoid but lacks ferulic acid, peptides, and the eye-specific testing.

75% Match
Retinol 24 Night Eye Cream
$28.99
Similar Vibe

Combines retinol + niacinamide for 24-hour hydration. More moisturizing texture but lacks ferulic acid and bakuchiol buffering of the Dr. Dennis Gross formula.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Advanced Eye Cream
Key Actives Proxylane + Blueberry + Phyto-Peptide
Size 15 ml
Texture Rich cream
Lid-Safe Undereye only
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Best For Crepiness, dark circles, sagging
C-Tango Multivitamin Eye Cream
Key Actives 8 Peptides + Vitamin C + Cucumber
Size 15 ml
Texture Cream
Lid-Safe Yes
Fragrance Essential-oil free
Best For Brightening, antioxidant defense

Paula's Choice Clinical Ceramide-Enriched Firming Eye Cream

Key Actives Retinol + Peptides + Ceramides
Size 15 ml
Texture Cream
Lid-Safe Yes
Fragrance Fragrance-free
Best For Affordable retinol + barrier repair
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening — typical for retinol formulas in airless packaging.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Retinol degrades when exposed to UV and heat.

Packaging

Airless pump — protects retinol potency by limiting air and light exposure with every use.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 15 ml is well under the 100 ml carry-on limit. Airless pump is leak-resistant.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No. This eye serum contains bothretinol (a vitamin A derivative) andsalicylic acid — two ingredients dermatologists routinely advise pregnant and breastfeeding individuals to avoid. While topical absorption is minimal, the consensus is to err on the side of caution. If you're expecting, consider a bakuchiol-only or peptide-based eye treatment until after weaning.

No. The formula contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, includingphospholipids, caprylic/capric triglyceride, and Camellia sinensis (green tea) extract. If you struggle with malassezia folliculitis or seborrheic dermatitis around the eyes, look for a fungal-acne-safe alternative with no fatty acids, esters, or oils above C13.

Vitamin C: Yes — apply vitamin C in the AM and let it absorb before this serum, or use them on alternate days.Other retinols: Don't double up around the eyes — the formula already contains two forms of retinol.AHA/BHA: Already inside this product (glycolic, salicylic, mandelic) at low levels — avoid layering additional acid serums in the eye area to prevent irritation.Peptides & HA: Pair beautifully.

It performs best oncombination, oily, and mature skin, where its lightweight gel texture is ideal and the Phyto-Retinol Blend™ targets fine lines, firmness loss, and crepiness. Sensitive skin tolerates it well thanks to bakuchiol, ferulic acid, and centella asiatica buffering. Very dry skin may want to layer a richer eye cream on top.

According to the brand's clinical and consumer perception studies: hydration and softness are immediate (91% saw softer eyes after one use), fine line improvement begins around1 week, and visible firming kicks in by2 weeks. Full anti-aging benefits — improved elasticity, fewer crow's feet, brighter undereyes — typically build over8–12 weeks of consistent twice-daily use.

Applyafter cleansing, toning, and any treatment serums, butbefore moisturizer and sunscreen. Half a pump is the correct dose for both eyes — tap gently with your ring finger around the entire eye area (lids, undereyes, crow's feet, and brow area). In the morning, always finish with broad-spectrum SPF 30+ since retinol increases photosensitivity.

Comedogenic rating:1 out of 5 (low). The lightweight gel texture is non-comedogenic for most users, and the included salicylic acid actively keeps follicles clear. However, the formula does contain phospholipids and caprylic/capric triglyceride, so if you're extremely acne-prone in the temple or upper-cheek area, monitor closely during the first few weeks.

Period After Opening (PAO) is12 months. The airless pump packaging protects retinol from light and air degradation, so potency is preserved better than in a traditional jar or dropper. With twice-daily use of half a pump, the 15 ml bottle typically lasts3–4 months. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.4 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Triple Correction Eye Serum is one of the most thoughtfully formulated retinol eye treatments on the market. ThePhyto-Retinol Blend™ — pairing two forms of retinol with bakuchiol, rambutan, and ferulic acid — delivers measurable anti-aging results without the redness or peeling that scares most people away from eye-area retinol. The clinical data is strong, the airless pump preserves potency, and the lightweight gel doubles as a makeup primer. The premium price and limited dark-circle correction are real considerations, but for fine lines, crepiness, and loss of firmness around the eyes, this is a dermatologist-grade formula worth the investment.Best for: anti-aging, sensitive eyes, makeup wearers, and anyone who's struggled with retinol irritation.

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 10 ingredient(s):
Bakuchiol Retinol Ferulic Acid Ubiquinone Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract Centella Asiatica Extract Caffeine Glycolic Acid Mandelic Acid Citric Acid
brightening Brightening from 8 ingredient(s):
Bakuchiol Retinol Salicylic Acid Morus Alba Bark Extract Glycolic Acid Glycerin Mandelic Acid Citric Acid
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 8 ingredient(s):
Retinol Quercetin Sodium Hyaluronate Centella Asiatica Extract Glycolic Acid Panthenol Glycerin Citric Acid
ache Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
Retinol Salicylic Acid 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
5 1
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
2 2 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
53% 17% 2% 25%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 39 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
3 B
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
Hydrating
1 A
Ethoxydiglycol
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
1 Unknown
Bakuchiol
Antimicrobial, Cosmetic Biocide, Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
brightening Brightening
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Redness
Irritation
Dark Spots
9 A
Retinol
Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
ache Ache-fighting
anti-aging Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS