Peach Retinol Moisturiser
Peach Retinol Moisturiser
Product Description
A beginner-friendly retinol moisturizer combining Retinol and HPR (Granactive Retinoid) to fight premature aging, smooth uneven skin texture, fade dark spots, and brighten the complexion. Enriched with Niacinamide, Ceramide NP, and Ectoin to soothe and hydrate while delivering anti-aging benefits with minimal irritation.
โจ Texture & Feel
Dual Retinoid Technology
Combines classic Retinol with next-gen HPR (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) for effective anti-aging with reduced irritation potential.
Barrier Support System
Contains Ceramide NP, Cholesterol, and Ectoin to protect and strengthen the skin barrier while using retinoids.
Brightening Complex
Niacinamide works synergistically with retinoids to even skin tone, reduce dark spots, and boost radiance.
Peach Extract Antioxidants
Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract provides antioxidant protection and may help protect against UV-B induced skin damage.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
NOT SAFE. Contains Retinol and Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR). All retinoids should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development.
NOT SAFE. Contains potential triggers including Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Jojoba Esters, Cetyl Alcohol, Cholesterol, and Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Rating 1/5. Lightweight formula with mostly non-pore-clogging ingredients. Silicone base helps product glide without blocking pores.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product. Use only at night for best results.
Contains Methylparaben as a preservative. This is a well-tolerated, effective preservative with decades of safe use in cosmetics.
The combination of classic retinol with gentler HPR makes this suitable for retinol beginners. Start 2-3 times per week and gradually increase.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐ฌ Retinol Gold Standard
The most researched non-prescription anti-aging ingredient. Vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and treats multiple skin concerns from wrinkles to acne.
- Efficacy: 10-20x less potent than tretinoin but with significantly less irritation
- Benefits: Reduces wrinkles, fades dark spots, treats acne, minimizes pores
- Research: Decades of peer-reviewed studies support its anti-aging efficacy
โจ Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) Next-Gen Retinoid
Also known as Granactive Retinoid, HPR is a retinoic acid ester that binds directly to retinoid receptors without needing conversion. Delivers retinoid benefits with significantly less irritation.
- Mechanism: Direct binding to retinoid receptors - no conversion needed unlike traditional retinol
- Stability: 2021 study showed HPR has greatest stability to light and temperature among commercial retinoids
- Irritation: Studies show significantly lower irritation than equivalent retinol concentrations
๐ก Niacinamide ~2-5% Proven
Multitasking form of Vitamin B3 that strengthens the skin barrier, reduces pores and dark spots, regulates oil, and improves signs of aging. Well-tolerated by most skin types.
- Barrier: Increases ceramide and fatty acid synthesis to strengthen skin barrier
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation
- Synergy: Works excellently with retinoids to enhance results while reducing irritation
๐ก๏ธ Ectoin Promising
Natural extremolyte that protects cells from environmental stress. Proven soothing and hydrating ingredient that helps skin tolerate retinol treatments better.
- Research: 23-person study found 1% Ectoin helped tolerate 0.5-1% retinol treatments much better
- Hydration: 5-person study showed hydration levels increased up to 200% compared to placebo
- Anti-pollution: Only anti-pollution active approved for use in medical products
๐ Ceramide NP + Cholesterol Proven
Essential skin-identical lipids that form the mortar between skin cells. Crucial for maintaining a healthy skin barrier, especially important when using retinoids.
- Barrier Repair: Restores lipid matrix depleted by retinoid use
- Moisture Lock: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
- Protection: Shields skin from environmental irritants
๐ฟ Centella Asiatica Extract Proven
K-beauty favorite known for its wound-healing and soothing properties. Contains madecassoside and asiaticoside that calm irritation and support skin repair.
- Anti-inflammatory: Reduces redness and irritation from retinoid use
- Wound Healing: Accelerates skin repair and collagen synthesis
- Antioxidant: Protects skin from oxidative stress
43 ingredients
Aqua, Dimethicone, Hydroxyethyl Urea, Glycerin, Isododecane, Niacinamide, Glycereth-26, Trehalose, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Phenoxyethanol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tromethamine, Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Retinol, Dimethiconol, Methylparaben, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Carbomer, Jojoba Esters, Hexyldecanol, Glyceryl Glucoside, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cetyl Alcohol, Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax, Ceramide NP, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Cholesterol, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Aroma, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Lactic Acid, Centella Asiatica Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Matrine, Ectoin, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Hydroxyethylpiperazine Ethane Sulfonic Acid, Adenosine, CI 19140
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use as your final moisturizing step at night. Do not combine with AHA/BHA/PHA exfoliants on the same night. Always follow with sunscreen in the morning.
๐ How to Use
Start Slowly
Begin by using 2-3 times per week at night. As your skin builds tolerance over 4-6 weeks, gradually increase frequency.
Apply to Clean, Dry Skin
After cleansing and applying toner/serum, wait until skin is completely dry. Take a pea-sized amount and dot across forehead, cheeks, chin, and nose.
Gentle Massage
Gently massage in upward motions until fully absorbed. Extend to neck and dรฉcolletage if desired. Avoid eye area.
Morning After Care
Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen the next morning. Retinoids increase sun sensitivity for up to 3 days after use.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You're a retinol beginner looking for a gentle introduction
- You want to address early signs of aging (fine lines, dullness)
- You have uneven skin texture or enlarged pores
- You're dealing with post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation
- You want an affordable retinol moisturizer under $5
- You have oily or combination skin
- You live in a humid climate (Southeast Asia)
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You have extremely sensitive or reactive skin
- You're already using prescription retinoids (tretinoin)
- You want a fragrance-free formula (contains light peach aroma)
- You need a heavier moisturizer for very dry skin
- You're allergic to any listed ingredients
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Silicone base provides moisture without greasiness. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrating enough for dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone. Fast absorption prevents pilling.
Provides adequate hydration and anti-aging benefits for normal skin. Works as a complete nighttime moisturizer without needing additional products.
May not provide enough moisture for very dry skin. Consider layering a hydrating serum underneath or applying a facial oil on top for added nourishment.
HPR and Ectoin make this gentler than typical retinol products. However, patch test first and introduce slowly. Contains soothing Centella and Allantoin.
Low comedogenic rating and retinol helps normalize keratinization and reduce pore congestion. May cause initial purging. Not suitable for fungal acne.
๐ Results Timeline
Skin Feels Smoother & More Hydrated
Initial hydration boost from glycerin, trehalose, and hydroxyethyl urea. Skin starts feeling softer to the touch. Some may experience mild tingling as skin adjusts to retinol.
70% noticed improvementPotential Purging Period
Retinol accelerates cell turnover, which may bring existing congestion to the surface. Breakouts may temporarily increase before improving. This is normal and should subside.
40% experienced mild purgingVisible Texture Improvement
Noticeable smoothing of skin texture. Pores appear smaller. Skin tone starts to look more even. Post-acne marks begin fading. "Glass skin" glow becomes apparent.
80% saw texture improvementSignificant Anti-Aging Results
Fine lines appear softer. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation visibly faded. Overall skin radiance improved. Skin barrier stronger with ceramide support.
85% reported visible anti-aging benefitsโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Extremely affordable retinol moisturizer (under $5)
- Dual retinoid system (Retinol + HPR) for gentle yet effective results
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture perfect for humid climates
- Contains ceramides and ectoin to support skin barrier during retinoid use
- Pleasant peach scent that fades quickly
- Visible results for texture and brightness within 2-4 weeks
- BPOM certified and widely available in Southeast Asia
- Suitable for retinol beginners
โ Criticized
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe (contains retinoids)
- Not fungal acne safe (contains esters and fatty alcohols)
- Small 30g size may not last long
- Yellow/orange tint can be surprising at first
- May not be moisturizing enough for very dry skin
- Contains parabens (concern for some users)
- May cause initial purging phase
- Retinol concentration not disclosed
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Pure retinol in squalane base. Lower concentration (0.2%) ideal for beginners. Oilier texture. No additional actives like niacinamide or ceramides. More widely available globally.
Contains 1% Retistar Retinol + 0.5% Granactive Retinoid with squalane and peptides. Serum format rather than moisturizer. Slightly higher concentration for experienced users.
Another Indonesian brand with similar price point. Contains 0.2% Retinol + Granactive Retinoid. Serum format with niacinamide and centella. Good local alternative if Glad2Glow unavailable.
Encapsulated retinol with 3 essential ceramides and niacinamide. More expensive but similar barrier-support philosophy. Serum format, not moisturizer. Better for sensitive skin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Glad2Glow Peach Retinol Moisturizer
~$3The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$6.80CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Serum
$18.99La Roche-Posay Retinol B3 Serum
$42.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Mark the opening date on the tube for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Retinol degrades with light and heat exposure. Refrigeration can extend potency.
Opaque squeeze tube with flip-top cap. Yellow/orange tint protects retinol from light degradation. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination.
Yes, 30g tube is under 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in toiletry bags.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No, this product is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains Retinol and Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), both of which are retinoids. All retinoids are advised against during pregnancy due to potential risks to fetal development. Discontinue use at least one month before trying to conceive and avoid throughout pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe skincare alternatives.
No, this product is NOT safe for fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis). It contains several potential triggers including Polyglyceryl-6 Distearate, Jojoba Esters, Cetyl Alcohol, Cholesterol, and Polyglyceryl-3 Beeswax. These esters and fatty alcohols can feed Malassezia yeast and worsen fungal acne. If you have fungal acne, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Retinol in Squalane which has a simpler, fungal-safe formula.
This product already contains retinol and HPR, so avoid layering with additional retinol products to prevent over-exfoliation. Do NOT use with AHA, BHA, or PHA exfoliants on the same night as this can cause excessive irritation and damage the skin barrier. Vitamin C can be used, but apply it in the morning routine and use this retinol moisturizer only at night. If you want to use both actives, alternate nights or use vitamin C in AM and retinol in PM.
This product is best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The lightweight gel-cream texture absorbs quickly without leaving greasiness, making it ideal for humid climates and oily skin. Those with dry skin may need to layer with additional hydrating products or a facial oil. Sensitive skin types should patch test first and start with once-weekly use. It's excellent for those concerned with early signs of aging, uneven texture, enlarged pores, and hyperpigmentation.
Results timeline varies by individual, but generally: Week 1-2 you'll notice improved hydration and smoother feel. Weeks 2-4 may involve a purging phase where skin temporarily breaks out as cell turnover accelerates. By weeks 4-8, you should see visible improvements in skin texture, pore size, and radiance. Full anti-aging benefits including reduced fine lines and faded dark spots typically appear after 8-12 weeks of consistent use. Patience and consistency are key with retinol products.
Use this as your final moisturizing step in your nighttime routine only. The recommended order is: Cleanser โ Toner โ Essence/Serum โ Glad2Glow Peach Retinol Moisturizer. Do not apply additional retinol serums or exfoliating acids after. In the morning, follow with your regular AM routine and ALWAYS apply SPF 30+ sunscreen, as retinoids increase sun sensitivity. Avoid the immediate eye area when applying.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it has minimal pore-clogging potential for most people. The silicone base (dimethicone) creates a breathable barrier without blocking pores. However, individual reactions vary. If you're acne-prone, patch test on a small area first and monitor for breakouts over 1-2 weeks. Note that initial breakouts may be purging (a normal retinol response) rather than comedogenic reactions. Purging typically resolves within 4-6 weeks.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Mark the date you opened it on the tube. For best results and to maintain retinol potency, store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. If the product changes color significantly, develops an off smell, or changes texture, discontinue use. The 30g tube typically lasts 2-3 months with recommended use (2-3 times per week). Consider refrigerating to extend shelf life, especially in warm climates.
Verdict: Glad2Glow Peach Retinol Moisturizer delivers exceptional value as a beginner-friendly retinol introduction at an unbeatable price point. The dual retinoid system (Retinol + HPR) provides effective anti-aging benefits with reduced irritation potential, while supporting ingredients like Ceramide NP, Ectoin, and Niacinamide help maintain skin barrier integrity. Ideal for oily/combination skin types in humid climates seeking to address early aging signs, texture concerns, and hyperpigmentation. However, it's not suitable for those who are pregnant/breastfeeding or have fungal acne. The lightweight formula may also fall short for very dry skin types. Overall, an impressive Indonesian skincare gem that proves effective retinol doesn't have to break the bank.
Product Overview
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.
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
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 ยซpromisesยป 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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Hydroxyethyl Urea
Humectant, Skin Conditioning, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Isododecane
Solvent, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance
|
|

