Retinol Smooth Glowing Serum
Retinol Smooth Glowing Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet effective encapsulated retinol serum with slow-release technology, formulated with 1% Retinol, Ceramide III, Resveratrol, and Hyaluronic Acid to smooth fine lines, brighten dark spots, minimize pores, and improve overall skin texture with minimal irritation.
Slow-Release Technology
Encapsulated retinol delivers active ingredients gradually, minimizing irritation while maximizing effectiveness.
Texture & feel
SENSORYSlow-Release Technology
Encapsulated retinol delivers active ingredients gradually, minimizing irritation while maximizing effectiveness.
Barrier Support
Ceramide III and Hyaluronic Acid work together to strengthen skin barrier and maintain optimal hydration.
Antioxidant Power
Swiss grape-derived Resveratrol provides powerful antioxidant protection and helps brighten skin tone.
Soothing Botanicals
Portulaca Oleracea and Cucumber extracts calm and soothe skin, reducing potential retinol-related sensitivity.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot recommended. Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative that should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates that can trigger or worsen fungal acne.
Oil-free formula with very low comedogenic rating (0-1/5). Unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen the morning after application.
Avoid layering with AHA, BHA, PHA, Vitamin C, or other retinoids. Use these products on alternating nights or morning/evening split.
Encapsulated formula is gentle enough for retinol beginners. Start 1-2x per week and gradually increase frequency.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEncapsulated Retinol 1%Proven
Gold-standard anti-aging ingredient that stimulates collagen production, accelerates cell turnover, and helps reduce fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. The encapsulated delivery system releases retinol gradually for reduced irritation.
- Function: Promotes cell renewal, boosts collagen synthesis, reduces wrinkles
- Clinical Evidence: Extensively studied; shown to improve skin texture, tone, and firmness
- Technology: Time-release encapsulation for deeper penetration with less irritation
Ceramide III (Ceramide NP)Proven
Naturally occurring lipid that makes up about 50% of the skin barrier. Helps lock in moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and protect against environmental stressors.
- Function: Restores skin barrier, improves hydration, reduces moisture loss
- Clinical Evidence: Well-documented for barrier repair and anti-inflammatory benefits
- Synergy: Complements retinol by protecting against potential dryness and irritation
ResveratrolPromising
Powerful antioxidant derived from Swiss grapes, known for anti-aging and skin-brightening properties. Helps neutralize free radicals and protect against environmental damage.
- Function: Antioxidant protection, brightening, anti-inflammatory
- Source: Derived from grape skin and seeds
- Benefits: Helps prevent UV-induced damage and supports overall skin health
Sodium Hyaluronate (Hyaluronic Acid)Proven
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides multi-level hydration and helps plump the skin.
- Function: Deep hydration, plumping, improves skin elasticity
- Molecular Weight: Smaller molecules penetrate deeper for lasting hydration
- Clinical Evidence: Extensively proven to improve skin hydration and reduce fine lines
Portulaca Oleracea Extract NaturalPromising
Also known as Purslane, this botanical extract has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Helps soothe skin and reduce irritation.
- Function: Soothing, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
- Clinical Evidence: Studies show effectiveness in calming irritated skin
Cucumber Fruit Extract NaturalSupporting
Cooling and soothing botanical that helps calm skin and provide gentle hydration. Known for its emollient properties.
- Function: Soothing, cooling, mild hydration
- Benefits: Helps reduce potential irritation from active ingredients
13 ingredients
Aqua, Allantoin, Glycerin, Propanediol, Chlorphenesin, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Retinol, Ceramide 3, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Resveratrol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse only at night. Apply to clean, dry skin after toner. Follow with moisturizer. Always use sunscreen the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Start with a clean face. Ensure skin is completely dry before application to prevent irritation.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using toner, apply and let it absorb fully. Skip if using actives like AHA/BHA in your toner.
Apply Retinol Serum
Dispense 2-3 drops using the pipette. Gently pat and spread across face, avoiding eye area and lips.
Wait & Moisturize
Allow 1-2 minutes for absorption. Follow with a hydrating moisturizer or night cream to seal in benefits.
Morning After
Apply SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning. Retinol increases sun sensitivity.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're a retinol beginner looking for a gentle introduction
- You want to address early signs of aging (fine lines, uneven texture)
- You have dark spots or hyperpigmentation concerns
- You want to minimize enlarged pores
- You prefer fragrance-free, minimal ingredient formulas
- You have fungal acne and need a safe retinol option
- You're looking for an affordable anti-aging serum
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have extremely sensitive or rosacea-prone skin
- You're already using prescription retinoids (tretinoin)
- You want a higher concentration retinol (experienced users)
- You need immediate/dramatic results (retinol works gradually)
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, watery texture absorbs quickly without adding shine. Oil-free formula won't clog pores.
Ceramide and HA provide hydration, but layer with a rich moisturizer for best results.
Balances well across different face zones. Lightweight yet hydrating formula suits mixed skin needs.
Encapsulated retinol is gentler than traditional forms. Start slowly and patch test first.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula. Retinol helps regulate sebum and unclog pores.
Results timeline
WEEK 12+Adjustment Period
Skin adapts to retinol. You may experience mild dryness, flaking, or slight purging as cell turnover accelerates. This is normal.
60% noticed initial changesSmoother Texture
Skin starts feeling smoother and more refined. Rough patches diminish. Early signs of improved radiance appear.
75% noticed smoother skinVisible Improvement
Noticeable reduction in fine lines and dark spots. Pores appear smaller. Overall complexion looks brighter and more even.
85% noticed visible improvementOptimal Results
Full benefits realized with continued use. Significant improvement in skin texture, tone, and firmness. Maintain with consistent use.
90% achieved desired resultsRatings by platform
10K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable for a retinol serum
- Gentle encapsulated formula suits beginners
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic
- Fragrance-free and minimal ingredients
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Contains barrier-supporting ceramides
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture
- Good for brightening and dark spots
Criticized
- Small 20ml size runs out quickly
- Pipette applicator can be messy
- Some users experience initial purging
- Results require patience (4-12 weeks)
- Not suitable for pregnancy/breastfeeding
- May be too gentle for experienced retinol users
- Limited international availability
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Lower concentration (0.2%) in moisturizing squalane base. Great for beginners. Larger 30ml size but lacks ceramides. May be oilier texture.
Same 1% concentration but in squalane base (oilier). Larger 30ml size. No encapsulation so may be more irritating. Lacks ceramides and botanical extracts.
Contains 3 ceramides, niacinamide, and encapsulated retinol. Larger 30ml size. More complex formula with additional actives. Higher price point.
Accelerated retinol SA formula with hyaluronic acid. Contains fragrance. Silicone-based texture. More established brand but higher price.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Check the PAO symbol on packaging.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can extend potency but is not required.
Dark glass bottle with pipette dropper. Protects light-sensitive retinol from degradation.
Yes, 20ml is under 100ml TSA limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully in checked luggage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, this product is NOT recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It contains retinol, a Vitamin A derivative that should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation due to potential risks to the baby. The brand explicitly states this warning on their packaging. If you're pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider and consider retinol-free alternatives like bakuchiol or niacinamide serums.
Yes, this serum is fungal acne safe. The formula is free from common fungal acne triggers including fermented ingredients, fatty acids (except those with carbon chains under C11 or over C24), esters, and polysorbates. The clean, minimal ingredient list makes it suitable for those with malassezia folliculitis. However, always patch test first if you have a history of fungal acne.
Do NOT layer this retinol serum directly with other retinoids, Vitamin C, AHA, BHA, or PHA products. Combining these actives can cause severe irritation, dryness, and damage to your skin barrier. Instead, use them on alternating nights or separate morning/evening routines (e.g., Vitamin C in AM, Retinol in PM). Wait at least 2-4 weeks before introducing another active into your routine.
This serum works well for most skin types. It's excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free formula. It's also suitable for normal and dry skin when followed with a good moisturizer. The encapsulated retinol makes it gentler for sensitive skin beginners, but those with very reactive or rosacea-prone skin should proceed with extra caution and start slowly.
Expect an adjustment period of 1-2 weeks where you may experience mild dryness or purging. Visible improvements in skin texture typically appear around weeks 3-4. Significant results for fine lines, dark spots, and pore size usually become noticeable after 6-8 weeks of consistent use. Optimal results are achieved with continued use over 12+ weeks. Retinol works gradually - patience and consistency are key.
Use this serum at night only, after cleansing and toning. Apply to clean, dry skin before heavier treatments like moisturizers or night creams. The order should be: Cleanser → Toner (optional) → Retinol Serum → Moisturizer → Night Cream (optional). Do not use in the morning. Always apply SPF 30+ sunscreen the next day as retinol increases sun sensitivity.
No, this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 0-1 out of 5. The formula is oil-free and contains no known pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, retinol can help unclog pores by increasing cell turnover and regulating sebum production. It's suitable for acne-prone skin and those concerned about blackheads or congestion.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. However, for optimal potency, try to use it within 6-9 months of opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The dark glass bottle helps protect the retinol from light degradation. If the product changes color significantly, develops an off smell, or separates, discontinue use.
Verdict: Azarine Retinol Smooth Glowing Serum is an exceptional value for retinol beginners and budget-conscious skincare enthusiasts. The encapsulated 1% retinol formula with ceramide support delivers real anti-aging benefits with minimal irritation. While the 20ml size is small and results require patience, the unbeatable price point, fungal acne-safe formula, and clean ingredient list make this an outstanding entry into the world of retinol. Perfect for those aged 20+ looking to address early signs of aging, uneven texture, dark spots, and enlarged pores without breaking the bank.
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 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 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 |
Allantoin
Skin Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Soothing
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Chlorphenesin
Antimicrobial, Preservative
|
|