Retinol Serum
Retinol Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A minimalist, beginner-friendly retinol serum with 0.03% pure retinol, beta-glucan, and sodium hyaluronate. This lightweight Korean ampoule-style formula promotes collagen synthesis and skin cell turnover to visibly soften fine lines, refine pores, and even out skin tone over time.
Promotes Cell Turnover
Retinol accelerates skin-surface renewal, helping to bring fresher, smoother skin to the surface over time.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPromotes Cell Turnover
Retinol accelerates skin-surface renewal, helping to bring fresher, smoother skin to the surface over time.
Brightens & Evens Tone
Targets dark spots, discoloration, and uneven pigmentation for a more luminous, youthful-looking complexion.
Boosts Collagen Synthesis
Stimulates collagen production to improve skin elasticity, firmness, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Minimalist Mix-and-Match Formula
Only 10 clean ingredients. Designed to be layered with other The Potions ampoules or mixed into your existing routine as a booster.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinol (vitamin A derivative), which is advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Free from fermented ingredients, polysorbates, and fatty acids/esters known to feed malassezia. Caprylic/capric triglyceride (MCT) is generally considered FA-safe.
No known pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. The formula is lightweight and oil-free, making it suitable for acne-prone skin.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) the morning after using this product. Best used as part of your nighttime routine only.
At 0.03% retinol, this is a gentle entry-level retinoid. Ideal for first-time retinol users or those with sensitive skin looking to build tolerance gradually.
Free from harsh alcohols, common allergens, fragrances, oils, parabens, silicones, and sulfates. Only 10 carefully selected ingredients.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinol 0.03%Proven
A gold-standard form of vitamin A that is two conversion steps away from retinoic acid. Proven to stimulate collagen synthesis, accelerate cell turnover, reduce wrinkles, minimize pores, and even skin tone.
- Mechanism: Converts to retinoic acid in the skin, activating retinoid receptors that regulate gene expression for skin renewal and collagen production.
- Efficacy: Retinol is approximately 10–20x less potent than prescription retinoic acid, making it gentler but requiring consistent long-term use (6–12 weeks minimum).
- Evidence: Backed by over 50 years of clinical studies confirming wrinkle reduction, improved elasticity, and hyperpigmentation fading.
Beta-Glucan Listed 5thProven
A soothing polysaccharide derived from yeast or oats with wound-healing, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties. Acts as a calming buffer to balance the potential irritation from retinol.
- Skin Barrier: Stimulates collagen synthesis in fibroblasts and promotes wound healing, helping to reinforce the skin barrier.
- Soothing: Provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing redness and calming reactive skin.
- Hydration: A large molecule that forms a moisture-locking film on the skin, supporting long-lasting hydration.
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.40%–0.90%Proven
The sodium salt form of hyaluronic acid with a smaller molecular weight, allowing deeper penetration into skin. A powerful humectant that attracts and binds water to keep skin plump and hydrated.
- Hydration: Capable of holding up to 1,000 times its weight in water, drawing moisture from the environment into the upper skin layers.
- Penetration: Smaller than hyaluronic acid, sodium hyaluronate can penetrate deeper into the epidermis for improved hydration delivery.
- Anti-Aging Support: By boosting skin hydration, it plumps the skin and visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines.
Propanediol & Pentylene Glycol Solvents/HumectantsSupportive
Multi-functional ingredients that serve as solvents, humectants, and texture enhancers. Propanediol (corn-derived) and pentylene glycol (plant-derived) also provide mild antimicrobial activity, reducing the need for traditional preservatives.
- Texture: Create a smooth, lightweight product feel that spreads easily and absorbs quickly without greasiness.
- Preservation: Both contribute antimicrobial properties, working synergistically with 1,2-hexanediol to keep the formula stable and safe.
10 ingredients
Purified Water, Propanediol, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Beta-Glucan, Retinol (0.03%), Sodium Hyaluronate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydrogenated Lecithin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse at night only. Apply after toner on clean skin. Follow with moisturizer. Can be mixed with other The Potions ampoules (e.g., Hyaluronic Acid or Peptide). Always use SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Before Use
Gently shake the bottle before each use to combine all layers of ingredients and ensure an even distribution of actives.
Dispense 1–2 Drops
Using the dropper, apply 1–2 drops onto clean, toned skin in the evening. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Gently Pat Into Skin
Lightly pat the serum across your entire face using your fingernails-up. Avoid rubbing to prevent foaming. Allow the product to absorb fully before the next step.
Follow With Moisturizer
Seal in the serum with a hydrating moisturizer. For enhanced results, mix with The Potions Hyaluronic Acid Ampoule or Cica Complex Cream.
Build Tolerance Gradually
Start using 2x per week for the first 2 weeks. Gradually increase to every other night, then nightly as your skin adapts. Always apply SPF 30+ the following morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You are new to retinol and want to start with a gentle, low-concentration formula
- You want to address early signs of aging (fine lines, dullness, uneven tone)
- You prefer minimalist, clean formulas with few ingredients
- You have sensitive skin and need a beginner-friendly retinoid
- You want an affordable K-beauty retinol to add to your existing routine
- You like the mix-and-match concept to customize your skincare
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (retinol is not recommended)
- You are an experienced retinol user and need a higher concentration (0.3%–1%)
- You want a rich, emollient formula that also deeply moisturizes
- You need faster, more dramatic anti-aging results (consider prescription retinoids)
- You want a retinol with added soothing actives like ceramides or niacinamide in-formula
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Retinol also helps regulate sebum production and minimize enlarged pores.
The minimalist formula lacks emollients and ceramides. Dry skin types will need to layer a rich moisturizer on top to prevent retinol-related dryness and flaking.
Balances well across different face zones. Won't overwhelm oily areas, while sodium hyaluronate helps hydrate drier patches.
Low retinol concentration (0.03%) and beta-glucan soothing agent make this gentler than most retinol serums. Patch test recommended; start slowly.
Non-comedogenic, oil-free, and fungal acne safe. Retinol normalizes keratinization and unclogs pores. Initial purging is possible but temporary.
Results timeline
MONTH 3–6Skin Adjustment & Hydration Boost
Skin begins to acclimate to retinol. You may notice slight tingling on first applications. Sodium hyaluronate provides immediate surface hydration and a plumper feel.
70% noticed improved hydrationPossible Purging & Texture Changes
Some users may experience mild purging (small breakouts) as skin cell turnover accelerates. Skin may feel slightly dry or flaky as old cells shed faster. This is normal and temporary.
40% experienced mild purgingVisible Smoothing & Brightening
Fine lines begin to appear softer. Skin texture feels smoother and more refined. Dark spots and post-acne marks start to fade as renewed skin layers emerge.
65% noticed smoother textureFirmer, More Even-Toned Skin
Continued collagen synthesis leads to improved firmness and elasticity. Pores appear visibly minimized. Overall skin tone is more even and radiant with consistent nightly use.
80% saw improved skin toneRatings by platform
30+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Ultra-minimalist formula with only 10 ingredients — great for sensitive or reactive skin
- Low retinol concentration (0.03%) is perfect for beginners or those building tolerance
- Fragrance-free, paraben-free, silicone-free, and cruelty-free
- Beta-glucan helps soothe irritation during retinization
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture that layers well under other products
- Mix-and-match concept allows customization with other The Potions ampoules
- No known comedogenic or fungal-acne-triggering ingredients
Criticized
- Very low retinol concentration — experienced users may find it ineffective
- Small bottle (30ml) for the price; may run out quickly
- Formula can foam if too many drops are applied or rubbed vigorously
- Lacks emollients and ceramides to counteract retinol dryness
- Dropper design is not as protective for retinol stability as airless pump
- Limited availability and reviews compared to mainstream retinol brands
- Does not contain additional synergistic actives like niacinamide or peptides
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher retinol concentration (0.2% vs 0.03%) in a squalane base for added moisture. More widely available, but squalane base may not suit oily or FA-prone skin. A stronger option for those ready to step up from beginner strength.
A cream formula with 0.1% retinol and retinal combination. Richer texture with added moisturizing ingredients. Better for dry skin types but heavier and not as minimal. Not fungal acne safe due to fatty acids in formula.
Contains retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol in an elastic-liposome delivery system. More complex formula with deeper penetration technology. Better for those who want a more advanced K-beauty retinol but with a higher irritation risk.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is optional but can help extend retinol stability. Keep the bottle tightly closed after each use.
Glass dropper bottle. Shake before use to combine layers. The dark glass helps protect retinol from UV degradation.
Yes, under 100ml — TSA and airline carry-on compliant. Glass bottle, so handle with care during travel.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This serum contains retinol (0.03%), a form of vitamin A. All retinoids, including retinol at any concentration, are advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development. If you are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider. Consider bakuchiol-based alternatives as a pregnancy-safe retinol substitute.
Yes, this serum is generally considered fungal acne safe. It does not contain fermented ingredients, polysorbates, fatty acids, or esters commonly known to feed malassezia yeast. The caprylic/capric triglyceride in the formula is a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) that is typically considered FA-safe and may even have antifungal properties. The minimal, clean formula makes it one of the more FA-friendly retinol options available.
It is generally best not to layer retinol with direct acids (AHA/BHA) or vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) in the same routine, as combining them can increase irritation and compromise each active's effectiveness. Instead, use retinol at night and vitamin C in the morning, or alternate AHA/BHA and retinol on different nights. If you have tolerant skin, you can gradually introduce layering, but always listen to your skin and ease off if irritation occurs.
This serum works well for most skin types, but it is especially excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. Sensitive skin types will appreciate the low 0.03% retinol concentration and the soothing beta-glucan. Dry skin types can use it but should pair it with a rich moisturizer, as the minimalist formula does not include heavy emollients or ceramides.
With consistent nightly use, most users notice improved skin texture and hydration within 2–4 weeks. Visible reduction in fine lines and dark spots typically begins around 6–8 weeks. Significant anti-aging results (firmer skin, reduced wrinkles, minimized pores) usually require 3–6 months of continued use. Since this is a low-concentration retinol (0.03%), results may be more gradual but also come with less irritation.
Apply this serum in the evening after cleansing and toning, on bare or slightly damp skin. It goes in the treatment/serum step of your routine (Step 3), before moisturizer. You can also mix 1–2 drops directly into your moisturizer or combine it with other The Potions ampoules. Always follow with sunscreen (SPF 30+) the next morning, as retinol increases sun sensitivity.
No, this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5. It is oil-free, silicone-free, and does not contain any known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, retinol actively helps to unclog pores by normalizing keratinization and reducing excess sebum production. This makes it suitable for acne-prone skin. Independent analysis by SkinSort confirms zero acne-risk or comedogenic-risk ingredients.
The recommended period after opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, retinol is sensitive to light, air, and heat, so proper storage is important. Keep the bottle tightly sealed, store in a cool dark place or refrigerator, and minimize exposure to air when dispensing. If the serum changes color significantly (becomes very yellow or brown) or develops an off smell, it may have degraded and should be replaced.
Verdict: The Potions Retinol Serum is an excellent entry point into the world of retinoids, especially for beginners, sensitive skin types, and those who prefer ultra-minimalist K-beauty formulas. With only 10 clean ingredients and a gentle 0.03% retinol concentration buffered by soothing beta-glucan, it delivers gradual anti-aging benefits without overwhelming the skin. The fungal-acne-safe, non-comedogenic formula makes it a standout for acne-prone users. However, experienced retinol users will likely find the concentration too low for visible results, and the lack of emollients means dry skin types must pair it with a good moisturizer. At $20–$28 for 30ml, it sits in the mid-range — not the cheapest option when alternatives like The Ordinary exist, but the clean formula and mix-and-match concept add real value.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 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 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Beta-Glucan
Skin Conditioning, Bulking Agent
|
Anti-Aging
|