Retinol & Rainbow Algae Repair Serum
Retinol & Rainbow Algae Repair Serum
Product Description
A gentle, beginner-friendly retinol serum combining 0.2% encapsulated retinol with rainbow algae and tranexamic acid to target post-acne marks, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone while hydrating squalane keeps skin soft and moisturized overnight.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Encapsulated Delivery System
Retinol is encapsulated in phospholipids for slow release, penetrating multiple skin layers with reduced irritation compared to free retinol.
Sustainably Sourced Rainbow Algae
Hand-harvested in France with roots left intact to regrow. This iridescent algae helps reduce hyperpigmentation and even skin tone.
Triple Brightening Complex
Retinol, tranexamic acid, and rainbow algae work synergistically to fade dark spots and post-acne marks for a brighter complexion.
Eco-Conscious Packaging
100% recyclable tubes made from sugarcane bioplastic, cartons from 90% recycled materials. Each purchase protects rainforests via Rainforest Trust.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Contains retinol (vitamin A derivative). Experts recommend avoiding all retinoids during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenic effects.
Contains triolein and glyceryl oleate citrate which are potential Malassezia triggers. Not recommended for those with fungal acne/pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rating 1/5. Squalane (sugarcane-derived) and glycerin are non-comedogenic. Unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day. Use only in PM routine.
Low 0.2% retinol concentration with encapsulated delivery minimizes irritation. Formulated specifically for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, or other exfoliating products in the same routine. Alternate nights to prevent over-exfoliation.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
𧬠Encapsulated Retinol 0.2% Gold Standard
Vitamin A derivative encapsulated in phospholipids for slow-release delivery. Clinically proven to increase cell turnover, reduce fine lines, even skin tone, and help fade post-acne marks with less irritation than free retinol.
- Mechanism: Phospholipid capsules penetrate multiple epidermal layers before releasing retinol, making delivery more effective and gentler
- Evidence: Retinol is backed by decades of clinical research for anti-aging, acne, and hyperpigmentation
- Concentration: 0.2% is ideal for beginners - effective yet gentle enough for sensitive skin
β¨ Tranexamic Acid 2% Proven
Synthetic amino acid derivative clinically proven to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots. Works additively with retinol to enhance brightening effects and prevent new discoloration from forming.
- Mechanism: Inhibits melanin production by blocking the interaction between keratinocytes and melanocytes
- Evidence: Clinical studies show significant improvement in melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
- Benefits: Helps reduce inflammation from UV exposure and strengthens skin barrier
π Rainbow Algae (Cystoseira Tamariscifolia) 0.15% Promising
Marine algae sourced from France known for its iridescent color-changing properties. In vivo studies show it helps even skin tone and provides a brighter complexion for blemish-scarred skin.
- Source: Hand-harvested in France with roots left intact to regrow - sustainably sourced
- Evidence: Brand in vivo studies demonstrate 1.5% complex evens skin tone and brightens blemish-scarred skin
- Properties: Rich in antioxidants and minerals from marine environment
π§ Squalane 4% Proven
Plant-derived lipid (from sugarcane) that mimics skin's natural sebum. Provides instant and long-term moisturization while maintaining healthy skin barrier function.
- Source: Sustainably sourced from sugarcane - vegan and eco-friendly
- Benefits: Non-comedogenic, helps skin retain moisture, supports barrier function
- Texture: Lightweight, non-greasy feel that layers well under other products
𫧠Glycerin 3.75% Proven
Classic humectant that draws moisture into skin. Studies show glycerin can be more effective than hyaluronic acid at hydrating skin, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL).
- Evidence: 2016 study found glycerin more effective as humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid
- Benefits: Naturally found in skin, improves skin barrier, has antimicrobial properties
19 ingredients
Aqua (Water/Eau), Squalane, Triolein, Glycerin, Glyceryl Oleate Citrate, Tranexamic Acid, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, Phenoxyethanol, Xanthan Gum, Benzyl Alcohol, Phospholipids, Retinol, Sodium Gluconate, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Cystoseira Tamariscifolia Extract, Tocopherol
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Use in PM routine only. Do not use with other exfoliating products (AHAs, BHAs) in the same routine. Alternate nights with chemical exfoliants.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Use your regular cleanser and pat dry. If using toner, apply and let absorb before this serum.
Apply 4-5 Drops
Squeeze 4-5 drops (about a dime-sized amount) onto fingertips. Gently tap and spread across face and neck, avoiding eye area.
Wait 5-10 Minutes
Allow serum to fully absorb before applying moisturizer. This helps maximize the effectiveness of the retinol.
Start Slow (Beginners)
If new to retinol, start with 2-3 times per week. Gradually increase to every night as your skin builds tolerance.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You're new to retinol and want a gentle introduction
- You have post-acne marks or hyperpigmentation to fade
- You want to address uneven skin tone and texture
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to stronger retinoids
- You prefer clean, sustainable beauty products
- You want a hydrating retinol that won't dry out skin
- You're looking for preventative anti-aging in your 20s-30s
β Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinol)
- You have fungal acne/Malassezia folliculitis
- You're an experienced retinol user wanting higher strength
- You need aggressive anti-aging treatment for deep wrinkles
- You're looking for maximum potency at lowest price
- You need prescription-strength results
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Retinol helps regulate sebum production over time.
Squalane and glycerin provide hydration, but you may need a richer moisturizer on top. Some users report slight dryness with daily use.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrating without being heavy on oily T-zone areas.
Specifically formulated for sensitive skin. Encapsulated retinol and fragrance-free formula minimize irritation. Start slowly.
Low comedogenic rating. Retinol helps unclog pores and regulate cell turnover. Not suitable for fungal acne.
π Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin acclimates to retinol. May experience mild dryness or flaking as cell turnover increases. Skin feels softer from squalane hydration.
85% noticed softer skinTexture Improvement
Noticeable improvement in skin texture and smoothness. Sebum production may begin to regulate. Post-acne marks start to fade gradually.
70% noticed smoother textureVisible Brightening
Dark spots and hyperpigmentation visibly reduced. More even skin tone emerges. Continued improvement in overall skin clarity and brightness.
65% noticed brighter skinCumulative Results
Maximum benefits from consistent use. Fine lines appear softer. Skin maintains balanced oil production. Best results with continued daily use.
60% noticed fine line reductionβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Extremely gentle - great for retinol beginners and sensitive skin
- Hydrating formula doesn't dry out or irritate skin
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture and smoothness
- Helps regulate sebum production for oily skin
- Fragrance-free and clean ingredient list
- Eco-conscious sustainable packaging
- Supports environmental causes (Rainforest Trust)
- Layers well under moisturizer without pilling
β Criticized
- Dispenser/packaging issues - hard to get product out
- Too gentle for experienced retinol users
- Small bottle size for the price ($24-30/30ml)
- Minimal visible results for anti-aging/fine lines
- Hyperpigmentation fading takes longer than expected
- Not suitable for fungal acne
- Higher price than comparable The Ordinary products
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Same 0.2% retinol concentration in squalane base. Simpler formula without tranexamic acid or rainbow algae. May feel greasier but delivers comparable retinol benefits at 1/4 the price.
Higher retinol concentration (0.05% pure + 0.5% granactive retinoid). Cream-gel texture similar to Selfless. More potent but may cause more irritation. Good step-up option.
Contains encapsulated retinol plus ceramides and niacinamide for barrier support. Widely available at drugstores. More focus on acne marks than brightening. Larger 30ml bottle.
π Comparison with Competitors
Selfless by Hyram Retinol Serum (Featured)
$24.00The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$6.80Paula's Choice 1% Retinol Treatment
$58.00Versed Press Restart Gentle Retinol Serum
$21.99π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
6 months after opening. Retinol degrades with exposure to air and light - use consistently for best results.
Store in cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration optional but may extend stability. Keep tightly closed.
Squeeze tube with narrow applicator tip. 100% recyclable bioplastic from sugarcane. Opaque packaging protects retinol from light.
Yes, TSA-compliant at 30ml. Squeeze tube is spill-proof for carry-on bags.
β Frequently Asked Questions
No. This serum contains retinol (0.2%), a vitamin A derivative. Medical experts recommend avoiding all retinoids during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential teratogenic effects on fetal development. While topical retinol has lower absorption than oral forms, the risk/benefit ratio makes it inadvisable during these periods. Consider pregnancy-safe alternatives like azelaic acid, vitamin C, or niacinamide.
No. This serum contains triolein and glyceryl oleate citrate, which are potential triggers for Malassezia yeast overgrowth. If you have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), this product may worsen your condition. Look for fungal acne-safe alternatives that avoid fatty acids and esters with carbon chains C11-C24.
This serum already contains retinol, so do not layer additional retinol products. For vitamin C: Use in AM routine, this serum in PM. For AHAs/BHAs: Alternate nights - do not use in the same routine as this product. Combining exfoliating acids with retinol in one routine can cause over-exfoliation, irritation, and compromised skin barrier.
This serum is excellent for oily, combination, and sensitive skin types. The lightweight formula absorbs quickly without added greasiness, while the low 0.2% retinol concentration minimizes irritation for sensitive skin. It's specifically formulated for acne-prone skin. Those with dry skin may need additional moisturizer, and it's not recommended for those with fungal acne.
Initial skin softening: 1-2 weeks. Texture improvement: 4-6 weeks. Visible brightening and fading of dark spots: 8-12 weeks. Maximum anti-aging benefits: 3-6 months of consistent use. Results depend on skin concern, consistency, and individual skin response. Retinol results are cumulative - continued use provides best outcomes.
Use in your PM routine only: 1) Cleanse, 2) Toner (optional), 3) This serum, 4) Wait 5-10 minutes, 5) Moisturizer, 6) Face oil (optional). Do not use with other active serums in the same routine. In your AM routine, use sunscreen SPF 30+ as retinol increases sun sensitivity.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The main ingredients - squalane (from sugarcane) and glycerin - are non-comedogenic. Retinol actually helps unclog pores by increasing cell turnover. Most users report no pore-clogging issues. However, if you have fungal acne, avoid this product due to triolein content.
PAO (Period After Opening) is 6 months. Retinol is an unstable ingredient that degrades with exposure to air and light. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the formula. For best results, use consistently rather than sporadically. If the product changes color or smell significantly, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Selfless by Hyram Retinol & Rainbow Algae Repair Serum is an excellent entry-level retinol for beginners and those with sensitive skin. The encapsulated 0.2% retinol provides effective results with minimal irritation, while tranexamic acid and rainbow algae add meaningful brightening benefits. The hydrating squalane base keeps skin comfortable rather than dried out. While more experienced retinol users may find it too gentle, and the price point is higher than competitors like The Ordinary, the sustainable packaging and charity partnerships add value for conscious consumers. Best suited for those new to retinol, dealing with post-acne marks, or wanting a gentle nighttime treatment that won't compromise their skin barrier.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Triolein
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Tranexamic Acid
Astringent, Skin Conditioning
|
Irritation
Dark Spots
|