Pure Retinol Eye Cream
Pure Retinol Eye Cream
Product Description
A clinically-proven retinol eye cream formulated with 0.5% pure retinol, Matrixyl 3000+ peptide technology, and soothing shea butter to target fine lines, wrinkles, crow's feet, dark circles, and puffiness around the delicate eye area.
โจ Texture & Feel
Pure Retinol Technology
Features 0.5% pure retinol with a slow-release encapsulation system that enhances delivery while minimizing irritation to the delicate eye area.
Matrixyl 3000+ Peptides
Contains No7's next-generation collagen peptide technology (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) to support skin firmness and elasticity.
Retinol Soother Complex
Bisabolol and shea butter work together to calm and hydrate skin, buffering the drying effects of retinol for comfortable daily use.
Ceramide Barrier Support
Triple ceramide complex (NP, AP, EOP) plus phytosphingosine help strengthen the delicate skin barrier around the eyes.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains retinol, a vitamin A derivative that should be avoided during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use if pregnant or planning to conceive.
Retinol products are generally not recommended during breastfeeding. While topical absorption is minimal, it's best to err on the side of caution.
Contains Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, and fatty acids (Stearic, Palmitic) that may feed malassezia yeast. Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin.
Most ingredients are non-comedogenic. Unlikely to clog pores when used as directed around the eye area.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ during the day when using this product, even if only applied at night.
Start with every other night to build tolerance. Some users may experience mild tingling, redness, or dryness initially. This typically subsides within 2-4 weeks.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งช Retinol 0.5% Gold Standard
The gold standard in anti-aging skincare. Pure retinol accelerates surface skin cell renewal, stimulates collagen production, and helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone.
- Clinical Evidence: Proven to improve fine lines and wrinkles with continued use over 6-12 weeks
- Delivery System: Encapsulated in a slow-release optimizer for enhanced penetration and reduced irritation
๐งฌ Matrixyl 3000+ (Peptide Complex) Proven
No7's signature peptide technology combining Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Works synergistically to stimulate collagen synthesis and improve skin firmness and elasticity.
- Source: Featured in No7's award-winning Protect & Perfect range since the 2007 BBC Horizon documentary
- Function: Signals skin to produce more collagen and reduce inflammation
๐ง Shea Butter (Butyrospermum Parkii) Soothing
Rich emollient that deeply moisturizes and conditions the skin. Acts as a "retinol soother" to buffer potential drying effects and keep the delicate eye area hydrated.
- Benefits: Contains vitamins A, E, and F for nourishment and skin barrier protection
- Texture: Contributes to the cream's smooth, non-greasy finish
๐ง Ceramide Complex (NP, AP, EOP) Barrier Support
Triple ceramide blend identical to those naturally found in skin. Helps repair and strengthen the skin barrier, preventing moisture loss and improving overall skin health.
- Science: Ceramides make up over 50% of the skin's lipid barrier
- Added Benefit: Phytosphingosine works alongside ceramides for enhanced barrier function
๐ฟ Bisabolol Calming
Derived from chamomile, this anti-inflammatory ingredient soothes and calms sensitive skin. Part of the "retinol soother" complex that makes this formula gentle enough for the eye area.
- Function: Reduces redness and irritation that can occur with retinol use
- Research: Studies show anti-inflammatory and skin-healing properties
44 ingredients
Aqua (Water/Eau), Glycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Dimethicone, Cetearyl Alcohol, Alcohol Denat., Butylene Glycol, Polyacrylamide, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearic Acid, Palmitic Acid, PEG-100 Stearate, Phenoxyethanol, Boron Nitride, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Panthenol, Methylparaben, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Laureth-7, Ethylparaben, Bisabolol, Polysorbate 20, Retinol, Tetrasodium EDTA, Sorbitan Laurate, Inulin Lauryl Carbamate, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate, Carbomer, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sucrose Laurate, Behentrimonium Chloride, Acetyl Dipeptide-1 Cetyl Ester, Ceramide NP, Phytosphingosine, Ceramide AP, Cholesterol, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Benzoic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Ceramide EOP.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply at night only. Use a separate hydrating eye cream in the morning. Always follow with SPF 30+ during the day.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse and Prep
Start with clean, dry skin in the evening. Complete your regular cleansing and toning routine before applying eye cream.
Dispense a Small Amount
Use approximately a rice grain-sized amount for both eyes. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Dot Around Eye Contours
Place small dots around the orbital bone, including under the eye and at the outer corners where crow's feet appear.
Gently Pat and Blend
Using your ring finger (which applies the least pressure), gently pat and blend the cream until fully absorbed. Avoid pulling or tugging the delicate skin.
Build Tolerance Gradually
New users: Start with every other night for 2 weeks. If well-tolerated, increase to nightly use. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You want to target fine lines and wrinkles around the eyes
- You're experiencing early signs of aging (crow's feet, loss of firmness)
- You prefer fragrance-free, dermatologist-approved products
- You're ready to commit to consistent nighttime use
- You want peptides AND retinol in one formula
- You appreciate British pharmacy brands with clinical backing
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne or malassezia concerns
- You have very sensitive skin that reacts to retinol
- You want dramatic results for deep-set dark circles (genetic)
- You prefer 100% natural or clean beauty products
- You want a daytime eye treatment with SPF
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Ideal for normal skin types. The balanced formula hydrates without being too rich or too light.
Shea butter and ceramides provide good moisture. Very dry skin may benefit from layering with a heavier moisturizer.
Lightweight formula absorbs well without adding greasiness. Retinol may also help with excess sebum production.
Well-suited for combination skin. Provides hydration to dry areas without overwhelming oilier zones.
Contains soothing bisabolol, but retinol can cause irritation. Start slowly (1-2x weekly) and monitor for reactions.
Excellent choice for aging concerns. Retinol + peptides work together to address multiple signs of aging.
๐ Results Timeline
Adjustment Period
Skin acclimates to retinol. You may notice mild dryness, tingling, or slight flaking as cell turnover increases. This is normal.
Most users notice improved hydrationEarly Improvements
Wrinkles appear smoother, fine lines and crow's feet look reduced. Puffiness begins to diminish. Skin texture feels softer.
84% saw reduced puffiness (consumer study)Visible Results
More noticeable reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. Skin around eyes looks firmer and more lifted. Dark circles may appear lighter.
90% saw dark circles visibly reducedOptimal Results
Deep wrinkles look visibly reduced. Skin appears significantly younger, smoother, and more radiant. Best results with consistent use.
93% saw better results with full No7 routineโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Effective retinol formula that actually works on fine lines
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture absorbs quickly
- Fragrance-free and dermatologist approved
- Contains peptides AND retinol for comprehensive anti-aging
- Gentler than many retinol products thanks to bisabolol
- Affordable compared to prestige retinol eye creams
- British heritage brand with over 85 years of expertise
- Visible results within 2-4 weeks for most users
โ Criticized
- Small tube size (15ml) doesn't last long
- Initial adjustment period may cause dryness or irritation
- Dark circles may not improve for everyone (genetics)
- Not safe for pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Contains parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben)
- Not suitable for fungal acne-prone skin
- Requires consistent long-term use for best results
- Some users find it too rich for very oily skin
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Similar retinol concentration with mineral complex instead of peptides. Higher retinol strength but may be more irritating. Allure Best of Beauty winner with 19,000+ Amazon reviews.
Uses accelerated Retinol SA formula for faster results. Contains hyaluronic acid but lacks peptides and ceramides. May cause more irritation than No7.
No retinol but contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid. Better for sensitive skin. Great for hydration but less effective for wrinkles and fine lines.
Not specifically formulated for eye area but can be used carefully. Higher concentration retinol. No peptides or specialized eye care ingredients. Best for experienced retinol users.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
No7 Pure Retinol Eye Cream (Featured)
$27.99RoC Retinol Correxion Eye Cream
$17.99Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Eye
$16.99Olay Regenerist Eye Cream
$28.99๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed. Avoid extreme temperatures.
Opaque tube packaging protects retinol from light degradation. Squeeze tube dispenser for hygienic application.
Yes, under 100ml/3.4oz limit. TSA-compliant for carry-on luggage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No, this product is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains retinol, a vitamin A derivative that should be avoided during these periods due to potential risks to fetal development. Consult your healthcare provider for pregnancy-safe alternatives like peptide-only eye creams.
No, this product is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including Polysorbate 20, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride (esters), and fatty acids like Stearic Acid and Palmitic Acid. If you're prone to fungal acne around the eye area, consider looking for a fungal acne-safe alternative.
It's best to use retinol and strong actives like vitamin C, AHA, or BHA at different times. Use this eye cream at night and apply vitamin C or exfoliating acids in the morning to minimize irritation. If you want to use multiple actives at night, wait 15-30 minutes between applications and introduce slowly.
This eye cream works well for normal, combination, and mature skin types. It's also suitable for dry and oily skin with some considerations. Dry skin may need additional hydration, while sensitive skin types should start slowly due to the retinol content. It's not ideal for extremely sensitive or reactive skin.
Most users see initial improvements within 2-4 weeks, including smoother texture and reduced puffiness. Fine lines and wrinkles typically show visible reduction within 4-8 weeks. For optimal results, especially for deeper wrinkles and crow's feet, allow 8-12 weeks of consistent nightly use.
Apply this eye cream in the evening only, after cleansing and toning, before your face moisturizer. The routine order is: Cleanser โ Toner โ Serum โ Eye Cream โ Moisturizer. In the morning, use a hydrating eye cream and always apply SPF 30+ since retinol increases sun sensitivity.
This eye cream has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5 and is unlikely to clog pores when used as directed around the eye area. Most of the ingredients are non-comedogenic, and retinol itself can help with pore clarity. However, if you're very acne-prone, patch test first and monitor for any breakouts.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 15ml tube typically lasts 2-3 months with nightly use on both eyes. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the retinol's potency. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the formula from light degradation.
Verdict: No7 Pure Retinol Eye Cream is an excellent mid-range retinol eye treatment that delivers visible results for fine lines, wrinkles, and crow's feet. The combination of 0.5% pure retinol with Matrixyl 3000+ peptides and triple ceramides provides comprehensive anti-aging benefits rarely found at this price point. While not suitable for pregnancy, breastfeeding, or fungal acne-prone skin, it's a solid choice for anyone looking to incorporate proven retinol technology into their eye care routine. The formula is gentler than many competitors thanks to the bisabolol and shea butter complex, making it accessible for retinol beginners who follow the gradual introduction protocol. For best value, purchase during frequent No7 sales at Ulta, Target, or Walgreens.
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 skinโs 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 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.
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
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.