Peach Retinol Serum
Peach Retinol Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective retinol serum combining 3 types of retinoids at a total 0.5% concentration with soothing Peach Fruit Extract, Madecassoside, and Squalane. Designed for acne-prone and beginner retinol users who want smoother, brighter skin without harsh irritation.
Triple Retinoid Complex (0.5%)
Combines Retinol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), and Retinyl Propionate for effective anti-aging with reduced irritation compared to single-retinoid formulas.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Retinoid Complex (0.5%)
Combines Retinol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), and Retinyl Propionate for effective anti-aging with reduced irritation compared to single-retinoid formulas.
Madecassoside Soothing
A potent active from Centella Asiatica that calms redness and irritation, helping the skin tolerate retinoids more comfortably.
Squalane + Betaine Hydration
Plant-derived Squalane mimics the skin's natural oils while Betaine provides deep humectant hydration to counteract retinol-related dryness.
Beginner-Friendly Formula
Formulated with soothing Allantoin and Peach Extract so even retinol newcomers can start using it from age 17 with minimal risk of irritation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Retinol, HPR, and Retinyl Propionate. All retinoids should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.
Contains Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, and Caprylic/Capric Glycerides Polyglyceryl-10 Esters — fatty acid esters that may feed Malassezia yeast.
No heavy pore-clogging oils. Squalane and Betaine are non-comedogenic. Overall very low risk of clogging pores for most skin types.
No added fragrance, no drying alcohol, no essential oils. Suitable for sensitive and reactive skin types.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the morning after use, even on cloudy days.
Apply a small amount behind your ear or on your inner forearm for 24–48 hours before first full-face use, especially if you have reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinol Part of 0.5% blendProven
The gold-standard anti-aging active backed by decades of research. Retinol promotes cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, reduces wrinkles, fades dark spots, and minimizes pore appearance.
- Mechanism: Converts to retinoic acid in the skin via a two-step enzymatic process
- Efficacy: Clinically shown to reduce wrinkles and improve skin texture in 8–12 weeks of consistent use
- Potency: Approximately 10–20x less potent than prescription tretinoin, making it more tolerable for OTC use
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) Part of 0.5% blendPromising
A next-generation retinoic acid ester that binds directly to retinoid receptors without needing multi-step conversion. Often sold under the trade name Granactive Retinoid.
- Advantage: Bypasses the conversion chain — acts more like tretinoin but with significantly less irritation
- Stability: A 2021 study found HPR has the greatest light and temperature stability among commercial retinoids
- Gene expression: In-vitro studies show greater collagen gene transcription than retinol at the same concentration
Retinyl Propionate Part of 0.5% blendPromising
A retinol ester that has shown promising results in photoaging repair. A 2021 study found it to be comparable in effectiveness to retinol for improving sun-damaged skin.
- Conversion: An ester of retinol and propionic acid — requires enzymatic conversion to become active
- Research: Developed by Dr. Fulton (co-developer of Retin-A); shown to reduce UV damage signs in clinical trials
MadecassosideProven
One of four key active compounds from Centella Asiatica, known for potent anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Helps calm retinol-induced redness and supports skin barrier repair.
- Benefits: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating properties confirmed in multiple studies
- Synergy: A study showed Madecassoside combined with ascorbic acid improved signs of aging and skin hydration
Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit ExtractPromising
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and polyphenols. Emerging research suggests Peach Extract may help protect against UV-B-induced skin damage while providing gentle moisturization.
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes free radicals that cause premature aging
- Hydration: Natural sugars and vitamins help maintain skin moisture levels
SqualaneProven
A lightweight, plant-derived oil that mimics the skin's natural sebum. Non-comedogenic (rating 0) and fungal acne safe. Provides emollient hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy residue.
- Biocompatibility: Identical to the squalene naturally produced by human skin, ensuring excellent tolerance
- Stability: Hydrogenated form is oxidation-resistant, unlike natural squalene
19 ingredients
Aqua, Butylene Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Glycerides Polyglyceryl-10 Esters, Betaine, Prunus Persica (Peach) Fruit Extract, Squalane, Madecassoside, Retinol, Hydroxyacetophenone, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cetearyl Olivate, Pentylene Glycol, Sorbitan Olivate, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Allantoin, o-Cymen-5-ol, Xanthan Gum, Aminomethyl Propanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based toners and before heavier creams. Use 2–3 times per week at night for beginners, gradually building to nightly use. Always follow with SPF in the morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Apply your toner if desired and let it absorb fully.
Apply Serum
Dispense 2–3 drops onto your fingertips. Apply evenly to the entire face, avoiding the eye area and any open wounds or eczema patches.
Moisturize
Follow with your favorite moisturizer to lock in the serum and buffer any potential dryness from retinol.
Protect (Morning After)
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ the next morning. Retinol increases sun sensitivity, so daily sunscreen is essential.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're new to retinol and want a gentle introduction
- You have acne-prone skin and want smoother texture
- You want to fade dark spots and post-acne marks
- You're 17+ and looking for early anti-aging prevention
- You prefer a lightweight, non-greasy serum texture
- You want an affordable retinol option under $10
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (retinoids not safe)
- You have fungal acne (contains fatty acid esters)
- You need a high-strength retinol (0.5%+ pure retinol)
- You want a larger bottle (this is only 17ml)
- You have severely dry skin (may need richer formula)
- You need a retinaldehyde or prescription-level retinoid
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Retinol helps normalize sebum production and minimize pores over time.
Squalane and Betaine provide hydration, but dry skin types will need to layer a rich moisturizer on top to prevent retinol-related flaking.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. The gel formula is light enough for the T-zone while Squalane hydrates drier cheeks.
Fragrance-free with soothing Madecassoside and Allantoin. Start 1–2x per week and patch test first. The 0.5% blend is gentle for most sensitive types.
Retinol normalizes keratinization and reduces sebum. Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and non-greasy formula. Great choice for active breakouts and post-acne texture.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Adjustment Period
Skin begins to acclimate to retinoids. You may notice mild tingling or slight dryness as cell turnover accelerates. Hydration feels improved from Squalane and Betaine.
70% noticed improved hydrationTexture Improvement
Skin starts feeling smoother to the touch. Initial "purging" phase (if any) typically begins and resolves during this period. Pores may appear slightly smaller.
60% reported smoother textureVisible Brightening
Dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation start to visibly fade. Skin tone appears more even and radiant. Acne breakouts typically reduce in frequency.
75% noticed brighter skin toneAnti-Aging Benefits
Fine lines appear softened with consistent use. Skin looks plumper, firmer, and more refined. Full collagen-stimulating benefits of retinol become apparent with continued use.
65% reported reduced fine linesRatings by platform
52K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable — one of the cheapest retinol serums available
- Triple retinoid blend (Retinol + HPR + Retinyl Propionate) for multi-pathway anti-aging
- Gentle enough for beginners and teens (17+)
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free formula
- Soothing ingredients (Madecassoside, Allantoin) reduce irritation risk
- Lightweight texture absorbs fast without greasiness
- BPOM certified (Indonesian FDA-equivalent)
Criticized
- Very small bottle (17ml) — runs out fast with daily use
- Not fungal acne safe (contains fatty acid esters)
- Not pregnancy/breastfeeding safe
- Individual retinoid concentrations not disclosed (only total 0.5%)
- Limited international availability
- Manufactured in China, not locally in Indonesia
- Dropper packaging could expose retinol to air and light
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Pure retinol at 0.5% in a squalane base for gentle delivery. Simpler formula with only 8 ingredients but lacks the soothing botanicals (Madecassoside, Peach Extract) and multi-retinoid approach. More widely available globally.
Contains 1% Retistar (stabilized retinol at 0.05% actual retinol) plus Granactive Retinoid and Squalane. More hydrating texture but lower effective retinol concentration. Better for very sensitive skin beginners.
Korean-made retinol serum with bakuchiol and peptides. Also targets acne and aging but uses a different soothing complex. Larger 30ml bottle with more global availability. No HPR in the formula.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Retinol degrades with UV and heat exposure. Refrigeration is optional but can extend potency.
Glass dropper bottle. Keep the cap tightly sealed after each use to minimize air exposure and preserve retinol stability.
Yes — 17ml is well under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in any travel pouch.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This serum contains three retinoids — Retinol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR), and Retinyl Propionate. All forms of vitamin A derivatives (retinoids) are classified as unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to the risk of birth defects. Discontinue use if you are planning to become pregnant, are currently pregnant, or are nursing. Consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe skincare alternatives.
No. While Squalane and Retinol themselves are fungal acne safe, this formula contains Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate (olive-derived fatty acid esters), and Caprylic/Capric Glycerides Polyglyceryl-10 Esters. These emulsifiers contain fatty acids and esters that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne, consider The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane as a simpler, FA-safe alternative.
With other retinols: No, do not layer multiple retinoid products — this increases irritation risk without proportional benefit. With vitamin C: Use them at different times of day (vitamin C in the AM, retinol in the PM) for best results. They can complement each other but may irritate if applied simultaneously. With AHA/BHA: Alternate nights rather than using together. Combining exfoliating acids with retinol can over-exfoliate and damage your skin barrier. If your skin is well-adjusted, you can gradually try them on the same night with a buffer (moisturizer between layers).
This serum is formulated for all skin types but works especially well for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin. The lightweight gel texture absorbs quickly without greasiness, and the low comedogenic rating (1/5) makes it safe for breakout-prone individuals. Dry skin types can use it too but should follow with a rich moisturizer. Sensitive skin types should start with 1–2 applications per week and gradually increase frequency.
Improved hydration and smoother texture are typically noticed within 2–4 weeks. Visible brightening and dark spot fading generally appear around week 6–8. Anti-aging benefits such as reduced fine lines require at least 12 weeks of consistent use. Some users may experience a brief "purging" phase (1–3 weeks) where breakouts temporarily increase as cell turnover accelerates — this is normal and will resolve.
Apply as Step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toner, before moisturizer and sunscreen. The rule is thinnest-to-thickest consistency. This lightweight serum should go on before heavier creams and oils. For beginners, use it 2–3 times per week at night. Once your skin is adjusted (typically after 4–6 weeks), you can increase to nightly use. Always apply sunscreen SPF 30+ the following morning.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It does not contain heavy oils, coconut derivatives, or known pore-clogging ingredients. Squalane (rating 0) and Betaine are non-comedogenic. The lightweight gel formula is specifically designed for acne-prone skin. While individual reactions can vary, the vast majority of users do not experience clogged pores or new breakouts from this serum (aside from possible initial retinol purging).
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, because retinol degrades with exposure to air, light, and heat, it's best to use this serum within 6 months of opening for maximum potency. Store it in a cool, dark place and always close the dropper cap tightly. If the serum changes color (turns dark yellow or brown) or develops an unusual smell, it has likely oxidized and should be replaced.
Verdict: The Glad2Glow Peach Retinol Serum delivers impressive value for its price point. Its triple retinoid blend (Retinol + HPR + Retinyl Propionate) at a total 0.5% concentration, combined with soothing Madecassoside and hydrating Squalane, makes it an excellent entry-level retinol serum for beginners and teens. The main drawbacks are the small 17ml bottle size, lack of fungal acne safety, and limited global availability. If you can get your hands on it, it punches well above its weight class for the price — but experienced retinol users may find the concentration too mild for advanced anti-aging needs.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Betaine
Skin Conditioning, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Antistatic Agent, Hair Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Irritation
Dark Spots
|
|
| 0 |
Prunus Persica Fruit Extract
Moisturising, Skin Conditioning, Abrasive
|
|