Pure Retinol 1% Retinol Night Concentrate
Pure Retinol 1% Retinol Night Concentrate
Product Description
A high-strength 1% pure retinol night concentrate clinically proven to target 7 key signs of aging. Features Matrixyl 3000 Plus peptide technology, niacinamide, and bisabolol to deliver visible transformation while minimizing irritation. Designed for experienced retinol users seeking professional-grade results.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Maximum Strength Retinol
No7's highest concentration at 1% pure retinol for experienced users seeking visible transformation.
Matrixyl 3000 Plus Technology
Next-generation collagen peptide complex that helps restore youthful appearance to skin.
Retinol Soother Complex
Niacinamide and bisabolol work together to calm and support skin during retinol treatment.
Smart Encapsulation System
Slow-release oil encapsulation technology delivers retinol gradually throughout the night.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains retinol (Vitamin A). Avoid if pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive. Retinoids are contraindicated during pregnancy.
Contains Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and esters that may feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5 for pore-clogging potential. Formula is lightweight and unlikely to cause breakouts in most users.
Retinol increases UV sensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen daily while using this product.
Other retinoids, retinoic acid, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or vitamin C in same routine.
This is No7's strongest retinol. Build tolerance first with 0.3% retinol before progressing to this 1% concentration.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
β‘ Retinol 1% Gold Standard
The most clinically-proven form of over-the-counter vitamin A. Accelerates cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, and uneven texture.
- Mechanism: Converts to retinoic acid in skin, signaling cells to behave younger
- Research: 10-20x less potent than prescription tretinoin but with proven efficacy
- Timeline: Minimum 6-12 weeks for visible anti-aging results
β¨ Niacinamide ~2% Proven
Multi-functional vitamin B3 that supports the skin's moisture barrier, helps reduce irritation from retinol, and provides brightening benefits.
- Barrier Support: Increases ceramide production for stronger skin
- Anti-Inflammation: Helps calm retinol-induced redness
- Brightening: Helps even skin tone and fade hyperpigmentation
𧬠Matrixyl 3000 Plus Peptide Complex Proven
No7's proprietary collagen peptide technology containing Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Signals skin to produce more collagen and repair visible aging signs.
- Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1: Stimulates collagen synthesis and skin matrix repair
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7: Reduces inflammation and supports wound healing
- Synergy: Combined action targets both collagen production and preservation
πΏ Bisabolol Soothing Agent Promising
Natural compound derived from chamomile with anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing properties. Helps calm irritation caused by retinol use.
- Source: Chamomile extract with sweet floral notes
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, skin-calming, and healing support
π± Centella Asiatica Extract Botanical Promising
Also known as "Cica," this healing plant extract offers antioxidant and skin-repairing benefits while helping reduce redness and irritation.
- Antioxidant: Protects against free radical damage
- Barrier Repair: Supports skin barrier function and healing
- Anti-Inflammatory: Helps decrease redness and irritation
29 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Polysorbate 20, Niacinamide, Retinol, Phenoxyethanol, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Panthenol, Xanthan Gum, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dimethiconol, Bisabolol, Caprylyl Glycol, Behentrimonium Chloride, Sucrose Laurate, Sorbitan Laurate, Potassium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Tetrasodium EDTA, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Benzoic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
PM only. Apply after cleansing and toner, before serums and moisturizer. Wait 1-2 minutes for absorption before next step. Always use SPF 30+ the following morning.
π How to Use
Start Slow
Begin with 1-2x per week on non-consecutive nights. Gradually increase to every other night, then nightly as tolerated. Expect 6+ weeks to reach nightly use.
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Wait a few minutes after cleansing to ensure skin is completely dry before applying retinol.
Apply 2 Pumps
Dispense 2 pumps (pea-sized amount) onto fingertips. Apply to face, avoiding the eye area, eyelids, and lips entirely.
Wait & Layer
Allow product to fully absorb (1-2 minutes). Follow with a hydrating serum and rich moisturizer. Consider using No7 Post Retinol Soother for enhanced comfort.
Morning After
Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning. Retinol increases sun sensitivity, so sun protection is essential.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You're an experienced retinol user ready for higher strength
- You want to target fine lines, wrinkles, and deep wrinkles
- You're concerned about uneven skin tone and dark spots
- You want improved skin texture and radiance
- You're willing to commit to consistent use and SPF
- You're looking for a clinically-proven anti-aging treatment
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're new to retinol (start with 0.3% first)
- You're pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive
- You have very sensitive or reactive skin
- You have fungal acne (Malassezia folliculitis)
- You're using prescription retinoids or acne medication
- You're unwilling to wear daily sunscreen
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal candidate. Well-balanced skin tolerates 1% retinol well with proper introduction protocol.
Retinol helps regulate sebum and minimize pores. Lightweight formula won't add shine.
May experience extra dryness initially. Layer with rich moisturizer and consider using every other night.
Balances well across different zones. Helps control oiliness while addressing aging concerns.
High concentration may cause irritation. Start with lower strength (0.3%) first. Patch test essential.
Targets deep wrinkles, age spots, and loss of firmness. Peptide complex supports collagen rebuilding.
π Results Timeline
Adjustment Period
Skin may experience mild tingling, redness, or dryness as it adjusts to retinol. Some peeling is normal. This is the "retinization" process.
Normal for most usersEarly Improvements
Skin begins to look smoother and more radiant. Texture starts to refine. Initial signs of reduced fine lines may appear.
80% noticed renewed skinVisible Transformation
Significant improvements in fine lines, skin tone evenness, and dark spots. Skin looks noticeably younger and more luminous.
83% felt skin looked youngerContinued Progress
Deep wrinkles become less pronounced. Maximum collagen-building benefits emerge. Best results with consistent long-term use.
87% reported smoother skinβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Clinically proven 1% retinol concentration
- Visible results on fine lines and wrinkles
- Contains soothing niacinamide and bisabolol
- Advanced peptide technology (Matrixyl 3000 Plus)
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free formula
- Airless pump preserves potency
- Transforms skin texture and radiance
- Fades dark spots and evens skin tone
β Criticized
- Too strong for retinol beginners
- Initial peeling and dryness common
- Small bottle size (30ml) for the price
- Cannot use with other actives (AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C)
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Requires commitment to daily SPF
- Takes 6+ weeks to see significant results
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 1% retinol concentration in a squalane base. Simpler formula without peptides or niacinamide. More oily texture. Must be refrigerated after opening. Great value for experienced users.
Contains retinol with mineral complex and vitamin C. More hydrating formula. Has added fragrance. Better for beginners as it's gentler. Gradual results over 12 weeks.
Uses Accelerated Retinol SA technology for faster visible results. Contains hyaluronic acid for hydration. Lower retinol concentration but good for beginners transitioning up.
π Comparison with Competitors
No7 Pure Retinol 1% (This Product)
$39.99The Ordinary Retinol 1% in Squalane
$8.00SkinCeuticals Retinol 1.0
$88.00RoC Retinol Correxion Line Smoothing Serum
$24.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Retinol remains stable in airless pump packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Room temperature is fine. No refrigeration required.
Opaque airless pump bottle protects light-sensitive retinol from degradation and prevents contamination.
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA/airport liquid limit. Airless pump design is leak-resistant.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. This product contains retinol (Vitamin A), which is contraindicated during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and while trying to conceive. Retinoids can potentially cause birth defects. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, avoid all retinol/retinoid products and consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe alternatives.
No. This formula contains Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sorbitan Laurate, and Sucrose Laurateβingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you have Malassezia folliculitis, consider fungal acne-safe retinol alternatives or consult a dermatologist.
No. Do not combine this product with other retinoids, retinoic acid, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), BHAs (salicylic acid), or vitamin C in the same routine. These combinations can cause severe irritation, dryness, and compromise your skin barrier. If you want to use these actives, use them on alternate nights or at different times of day.
This product is best suited for normal, oily, combination, and mature skin types who are experienced retinol users. It's excellent for addressing aging concerns like wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven tone. Sensitive skin types should start with lower concentrations (0.3%) first. Dry skin types may need extra moisturization.
Expect initial adjustment (possible peeling, redness) in weeks 1-2. Early improvements in skin smoothness and radiance appear around weeks 4-6. Significant visible results on wrinkles and skin tone typically occur at 8-12 weeks. Maximum benefits emerge with continued use over 3-6 months. Consistency is key.
Use PM only. Apply after cleansing and toner, before serums and moisturizer. The order is: Cleanser β Toner β This Retinol β Serum β Moisturizer. Wait 1-2 minutes for the retinol to absorb before applying next products. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning.
This product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The lightweight formula is unlikely to clog pores for most users. Retinol actually helps unclog pores and regulate oil production over time. However, if you're prone to breakouts, some initial purging is normal as retinol accelerates cell turnover.
The product has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). The airless pump packaging helps maintain retinol stability and prevents contamination. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You'll notice color may change slightly over time, which is normal and doesn't affect efficacy.
Verdict: No7 Pure Retinol 1% Night Concentrate delivers professional-grade retinol results at a mid-range price point. The combination of 1% pure retinol with Matrixyl 3000 Plus peptides and soothing niacinamide sets it apart from basic retinol formulas. Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin tone and texture. Best suited for experienced retinol users ready for maximum strength treatment. The fragrance-free, paraben-free formula and smart encapsulation technology make it a solid choice for anti-aging concerns. However, not suitable for beginners, pregnant individuals, or those with fungal acne. Overall, excellent value compared to premium alternatives like SkinCeuticals at more than double the price.
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 skinβs 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 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.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antimicrobial
|
|
|
| 0 |
Inulin Lauryl Carbamate
|
|