Retinol Skin Cream
Retinol Skin Cream
Product Description
A deep-penetrating, budget-friendly retinol moisturizer formulated with Hydrogenated Shea Butter and Dimethicone to help repair, revitalize, and restore healthy-looking skin while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
โจ Texture & Feel
Cell Turnover Support
Retinol promotes skin cell renewal to help smooth texture and reduce the look of fine lines over time.
Deep Moisturization
Hydrogenated Shea Butter and Mineral Oil create an occlusive barrier that locks in hydration for lasting softness.
Protective Barrier
Dimethicone forms a breathable silicone layer on skin, reducing transepidermal water loss and shielding from irritants.
Budget-Friendly Anti-Aging
At under $6 for 1.7 oz, this cream delivers retinol benefits at a fraction of the cost of premium competitors.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Retinol (Vitamin A derivative). Retinoids are generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Isopropyl Myristate, a known trigger for malassezia growth. Avoid if you have fungal acne.
Rated 3/5. Isopropyl Myristate has a high comedogenic rating (5). The overall formula is diluted but may still clog pores in acne-prone skin.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always apply sunscreen (SPF 30+) the morning after using this cream to prevent UV damage.
This formula does not contain parabens. Preserved with Phenoxyethanol, a widely accepted gentle preservative.
Global Beauty Care states this product has not been tested on animals.
Parfum is listed as the last ingredient. Those with fragrance sensitivities or very reactive skin should patch test first.
Mineral Oil (Paraffinum Liquidum) is cosmetic-grade and non-comedogenic by itself, but some users prefer to avoid petroleum-derived ingredients.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฌ Retinol ~0.1โ0.5% Proven
The gold-standard over-the-counter anti-aging ingredient. A Vitamin A derivative that promotes cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and helps smooth wrinkles, fade dark spots, and improve skin texture.
- Mechanism: Converted to retinoic acid in skin through two enzymatic steps, then binds to retinoid receptors to regulate gene expression.
- Evidence: Hundreds of peer-reviewed studies confirm retinol reduces wrinkles, improves firmness, and fades hyperpigmentation with consistent use.
- Concentration: Exact percentage not disclosed by the brand. Listed 10th of 13 ingredients, suggesting a lower concentration typical of budget formulations.
๐ง Hydrogenated Shea Butter ~5โ15% Proven
A stabilized form of Shea Butter that provides intense moisturization and occlusion. Rich in fatty acids that nourish and soften the skin while preventing moisture loss.
- Benefit: Provides emollient and occlusive properties, helping the skin retain moisture and feel smoother.
- Position: Listed 2nd in the INCI list, indicating it is one of the highest-concentration ingredients in the formula.
๐ฎ Dimethicone ~3โ8% Proven
A non-volatile silicone that creates a smooth, protective barrier on the skin's surface. Fills in fine lines temporarily, reduces water loss, and gives the cream its silky slip.
- Benefit: Occlusive and emollient; forms a breathable barrier that shields against irritants and environmental stressors.
- Safety: Well-tolerated by most skin types. Non-comedogenic by itself.
โก Propylene Glycol ~2โ5% Proven
A humectant that attracts water molecules into the skin, boosting hydration. Also enhances penetration of other active ingredients like retinol.
- Benefit: Draws moisture into the skin and improves the delivery and absorption of retinol.
- Safety: Generally safe at cosmetic concentrations. Rare sensitivity in some individuals.
๐ข๏ธ Isopropyl Myristate ~2โ5% Functional
An emollient and penetration enhancer that gives the cream a smooth, non-greasy feel. Helps other ingredients absorb into the skin more effectively.
- Concern: Has a high comedogenic rating (5 out of 5) and is a known trigger for fungal acne (malassezia).
- Trade-off: Provides excellent texture and absorption but may be problematic for acne-prone or fungal-acne-prone skin.
13 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Hydrogenated Shea Butter, Dimethicone, Isopropyl Myristate, Propylene Glycol, Paraffinum Liquidum (Mineral Oil), Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-20, Retinol, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Best used as your PM moisturizer step. Apply after serums and treatments. Follow with sunscreen in the morning. Avoid mixing with other strong actives (AHAs/BHAs) in the same routine when starting out.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse Your Skin
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Ensure skin is clean and free of makeup or sunscreen residue.
Apply Evenly
Take a pea-sized amount and apply evenly to face and neck, avoiding the eye area. Gently massage in upward, circular motions.
Start Slowly
If new to retinol, use 2โ3 times per week at night. Gradually increase to nightly use as your skin builds tolerance.
Apply Sunscreen in the AM
Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen the next morning. Retinol increases UV sensitivity significantly.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You want an affordable introduction to retinol skincare
- You have normal to dry skin that craves moisture
- You are looking for a simple, no-fuss night cream
- You want to address early signs of aging on a budget
- You prefer a minimal ingredient list (only 13 ingredients)
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (contains Isopropyl Myristate)
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains Retinol)
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin (comedogenic rating 3/5)
- You need fragrance-free products (contains Parfum)
- You prefer to avoid mineral oil and silicones
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Rich, occlusive texture may feel heavy on oily skin. Contains Mineral Oil and Dimethicone which can trap excess sebum. Use sparingly.
Ideal for dry skin. Hydrogenated Shea Butter, Mineral Oil, and Dimethicone deliver deep hydration and lock in moisture effectively.
Works well on drier areas of the face. Apply lightly on the T-zone to avoid excess shine or congestion.
Contains fragrance (Parfum) which may irritate sensitive skin. Retinol itself can cause initial irritation. Patch test first and introduce gradually.
Isopropyl Myristate (comedogenic rating 5) and occlusive ingredients may trigger breakouts. Not recommended for acne-prone or fungal-acne-prone skin.
๐ Results Timeline
Improved Hydration & Softness
Skin feels more moisturized and softer thanks to the rich occlusive base of Shea Butter and Dimethicone. Some users may notice mild retinol adjustment (slight dryness or tingling).
70% noticed improved softnessSmoother Texture
Retinol-driven cell turnover begins to smooth skin surface texture. Skin may appear slightly brighter. Initial retinization period (peeling, redness) may peak for some users.
55% noticed smoother textureVisible Fine Line Reduction
With consistent nightly use, fine lines begin to look softer. Skin tone becomes more even as retinol promotes ongoing renewal. Retinization side effects typically resolve.
45% noticed reduced fine linesFirmer, More Youthful Appearance
Cumulative collagen stimulation from retinol leads to firmer, more resilient skin. Deeper wrinkles may show modest improvement. Consistent sunscreen use is essential to maintain results.
35% noticed firmer skinโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Extremely affordable โ one of the cheapest retinol creams on the market
- Richly moisturizing for dry and normal skin types
- Simple, short ingredient list (only 13 ingredients)
- Paraben-free and not tested on animals
- Leaves skin feeling soft and smooth after application
- Widely available at drugstores, dollar stores, and online
โ Criticized
- Retinol concentration not disclosed โ likely very low
- Contains Isopropyl Myristate (comedogenic rating 5/5)
- Not fungal acne safe
- Contains fragrance (Parfum)
- Contains Mineral Oil โ a dealbreaker for some users
- Small 1.7 oz jar may not last long with daily use
- Jar packaging exposes retinol to air, reducing potency over time
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Known retinol concentration (0.5%). Squalane base is lighter and non-comedogenic. No fragrance. Better for oily and acne-prone skin, but lacks the rich moisturizing base.
Contains ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid alongside retinol. MVE technology for sustained release. Fragrance-free and more skin-barrier-friendly, but costs 3x more.
Uses Retinol SA (sustained action) with glucose complex and hyaluronic acid. Shows results in as little as one week per brand claims. Richer formula but contains added fragrance.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Global Beauty Care Retinol Skin Cream
$5.99The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$5.80CeraVe Skin Renewing Retinol Cream Serum
$16.99Neutrogena Rapid Wrinkle Repair Cream
$17.97๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Retinol degrades with light and heat exposure, so keep the lid tightly closed when not in use.
Screw-top jar. Note: Jar packaging is not ideal for retinol as it exposes the product to air and light with each use, potentially reducing potency over time.
Yes, under 100ml (1.7 oz). TSA-approved for carry-on luggage.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
No. This cream contains Retinol, a Vitamin A derivative. Dermatologists and medical professionals generally advise against using retinoids (including retinol) during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks. Consult your healthcare provider before using any retinol product if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.
No. This product contains Isopropyl Myristate, which is a known trigger for malassezia (fungal acne). If you are prone to fungal acne, look for alternatives without esters and fatty acid esters, such as The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane.
This cream already contains retinol, so layering additional retinol products on top is not recommended as it may cause excessive irritation. Vitamin C can be used in the morning while this cream is used at night. Avoid combining with AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) in the same routine, especially when starting out, as this can cause dryness and irritation. Once your skin is tolerant, you can alternate nights.
This cream is best suited for normal to dry skin. Its rich, occlusive formula with Hydrogenated Shea Butter, Mineral Oil, and Dimethicone provides deep moisturization. It may be too heavy for oily skin and is not ideal for acne-prone skin due to the comedogenic Isopropyl Myristate ingredient.
Most users notice improved hydration and softness within the first 1โ2 weeks. Visible improvement in skin texture typically begins around weeks 3โ4. For fine line reduction and more significant anti-aging benefits, allow 2โ3 months of consistent nightly use. Deeper wrinkles may show modest improvement after 4โ6 months.
Apply as the moisturizer step in your PM routine. The order is: Cleanser, Toner, Serum/Treatment, then this cream. Since it is a rich cream, it should be one of the last steps before any facial oil. In the morning, skip this product and apply sunscreen instead, as retinol increases photosensitivity.
This product has an estimated comedogenic rating of 3 out of 5. The main concern is Isopropyl Myristate, which has an individual comedogenic rating of 5/5. While the overall formula is diluted, it may still clog pores in those who are acne-prone. If you are concerned about breakouts, consider a non-comedogenic retinol alternative.
The estimated Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. However, because retinol is sensitive to air and light, and this product comes in a jar (not an airless pump), potency may decrease faster. For best results, use within 6โ8 months of opening, keep the lid tightly sealed, and store in a cool, dark place.
Verdict: Global Beauty Care Retinol Skin Cream is an ultra-budget retinol moisturizer that delivers basic hydration at an unbeatable price point. It is best suited for dry-skin users looking for an entry-level retinol experience without a significant financial commitment. However, the undisclosed retinol concentration, comedogenic Isopropyl Myristate, added fragrance, and jar packaging are notable drawbacks. For more serious anti-aging results, transparent formulations like The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane offer known concentrations at a similar price, while CeraVe and Neutrogena provide more sophisticated formulas with barrier-supporting ingredients for a modest premium. A solid starter product, but advanced users and those with sensitive or acne-prone skin will want to look elsewhere.
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
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 1 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
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Isopropyl Myristate
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Perfuming, Emollient, Fragrance, Binding Agent, Binding
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Paraffinum Liquidum
Emollient, Skin Protecting, Solvent
|
|