Retinol Toner
Retinol Toner
Product Description
A gentle, rejuvenating toner formulated with Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A) to promote skin renewal, boost collagen production, and reduce visible signs of aging. This lightweight formula helps remove impurities and oil buildup while leaving skin refreshed, toned, and ready for the rest of your skincare routine.
โจ Texture & Feel
Promotes Cell Renewal
Retinyl Palmitate encourages skin cell turnover, helping to reveal fresher, younger-looking skin over time.
Collagen Boosting
Supports collagen production to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin firmness.
Removes Impurities
Helps sweep away dirt, oil buildup, and residue, leaving skin feeling clean and toned.
Hydrating Complex
Contains Hyaluronic Acid, Glycerin, and Panthenol for moisture retention and skin barrier support.
๐ก๏ธ Safety & Compatibility
Contains Retinyl Palmitate (a retinoid). While topical absorption is minimal, most dermatologists recommend avoiding retinoids during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. Consult your healthcare provider.
NOT fungal acne safe. Contains Polysorbate 20, which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne/pityrosporum folliculitis.
Rated 1/5 on the comedogenic scale. Lightweight formula is unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product.
Individual intolerance is possible. Perform a sensitivity test on a small area before first use, especially if you have reactive skin.
Avoid using with AHA, BHA, or Vitamin C in the same routine to prevent irritation. Alternate use on different days if needed.
๐ฌ Ingredient Breakdown
๐งฌ Retinyl Palmitate (Vitamin A) Key Active
A gentler, more stable form of Vitamin A that converts to retinoic acid in the skin. While less potent than pure retinol, it offers anti-aging benefits with reduced irritation potential.
- Function: Promotes cell turnover and collagen production
- Benefit: Helps reduce fine lines, improves skin texture and tone
- Form: Retinol ester - requires conversion to active form (retinoic acid)
๐ง Sodium Hyaluronate Hydration
The salt form of Hyaluronic Acid with a smaller molecular size, allowing for better skin penetration and deeper hydration.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains moisture
- Benefit: Plumps skin, reduces appearance of fine lines caused by dehydration
- Capacity: Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water
๐ธ Jasmine Flower Extract Botanical
A soothing botanical extract known for its antioxidant properties and pleasant, relaxing scent.
- Function: Antioxidant protection and skin conditioning
- Benefit: Helps protect against environmental stressors, provides aromatherapy benefits
๐งด Panthenol (Provitamin B5) Soothing
A skin-identical ingredient that converts to Vitamin B5, known for its healing and moisturizing properties.
- Function: Humectant, emollient, and skin protectant
- Benefit: Soothes irritation, strengthens skin barrier, improves hydration
- Source: Studies show it helps reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL)
๐ฟ Rosemary Leaf Oil Antioxidant
A natural essential oil with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that also contributes to the product's herbal scent.
- Function: Antioxidant, natural preservative, skin conditioning
- Benefit: Helps protect skin from oxidative stress
16 ingredients
Water / Aqua, Propylene Glycol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Polysorbate 20, Jasmine Flower Extract / Jasminum Officinale Flower Extract, Glycerin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Provitamin B5 / Panthenol, PPG-1-PEG-9 Lauryl Glycol Ether, Phenoxyethanol, Vitamin A Palmitate / Retinyl Palmitate, Disodium EDTA, Rosemary Oil / Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate.
๐ Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing on completely dry skin. Can be used AM and/or PM. Always follow with sunscreen in daytime.
๐ How to Use
Cleanse Thoroughly
Start with clean, completely dry skin. Wait 1-2 minutes after cleansing to ensure skin is fully dry.
Apply with Cotton Pad
Saturate a cotton pad with the toner and gently sweep across face and neck, avoiding the eye area.
No Rinsing Required
Allow the toner to absorb completely before applying your next skincare step. Do not rinse off.
Follow with Moisturizer
Apply your serum and moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
๐ค Who Is It For?
โ Perfect for you if:
- You're new to retinoids and want a gentle introduction
- You want to address early signs of aging (fine lines, uneven texture)
- You prefer a multi-benefit toner with hydrating ingredients
- You have normal, oily, or combination skin
- You're looking for an affordable anti-aging toner
- You want to boost collagen production gradually
โ Consider alternatives if:
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinoid)
- You have fungal acne/malassezia folliculitis
- You have very sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You want stronger, more immediate retinoid results
- You're sensitive to fragrance or essential oils
- You need to use direct acids (AHA/BHA) in the same routine
๐ฏ Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, watery formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Helps control oil buildup while delivering anti-aging benefits.
Contains hydrating ingredients (HA, Panthenol, Glycerin), but may need a richer moisturizer on top for optimal hydration.
Ideal for combination skin - balances well across different face zones without being too heavy or too drying.
Contains essential oils (rosemary) which may irritate sensitive skin. Patch test recommended. Brand advises avoiding for sensitive types.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5) and retinoid benefits for cell turnover. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20.
๐ Results Timeline
Initial Adjustment
Skin feels cleaner and more refreshed after each use. You may notice slightly improved hydration from the HA and Panthenol content.
75% noticed cleaner skinEarly Improvements
Skin texture begins to feel smoother. Some users report more even-toned, brighter-looking complexion as cell turnover increases.
60% noticed brighter skinVisible Changes
More noticeable improvements in skin texture and tone. Fine lines may appear softened. Skin looks healthier and more refreshed overall.
55% noticed texture improvementLong-Term Benefits
Continued collagen support leads to firmer-feeling skin. Consistent use helps maintain results and prevent new signs of aging.
50% noticed firmer skinโญ Ratings by Platform
โ๏ธ Pros & Cons
โ Praised
- Very affordable for a retinoid product
- Large 250ml bottle - excellent value
- Gentle introduction to retinoids for beginners
- Contains hydrating ingredients (HA, Panthenol)
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula
- Minimal ingredient list (16 ingredients)
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Pleasant, subtle jasmine scent
- Skin feels cleaner and more refreshed
โ Criticized
- Retinyl Palmitate is a weaker retinoid form
- Results take longer to appear vs stronger retinoids
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Contains fragrance (essential oils)
- Not recommended for sensitive skin
- Limited availability in some countries
- No specific concentration of retinoid disclosed
- Must avoid mixing with acids
๐ฐ Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Very similar concept - drugstore retinol toner with hydrating ingredients. Limited availability (Aldi exclusive). Similar gentle retinoid approach.
Different format (serum vs toner) but similar beginner-friendly retinol strength. Contains pure retinol which is more potent than retinyl palmitate. Oil-based formula better for dry skin.
K-beauty retinol option with soothing Cica. More targeted serum format vs toner. Contains encapsulated retinol for better stability and gentler delivery.
Serum format with encapsulated retinol plus ceramides and niacinamide. More comprehensive formula for barrier support. Fragrance-free option for sensitive skin.
๐ Comparison with Competitors
Revox B77 Retinol Toner
~$12-15The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane
$6.80Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment
$62.00CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum
$18.00๐ฆ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Check packaging for specific PAO symbol.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep bottle tightly closed when not in use to protect the retinoid from oxidation.
Plastic bottle with flip-top or screw cap. Consider transferring to a dark container if storing long-term to protect retinoid stability.
No - 250ml exceeds the 100ml/3.4oz TSA liquid limit for carry-on. Decant into a smaller travel container if needed.
โ Frequently Asked Questions
Caution advised. This toner contains Retinyl Palmitate, a form of Vitamin A (retinoid). While topical retinoids have limited systemic absorption, most dermatologists and healthcare providers recommend avoiding all retinoid products during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution. High doses of Vitamin A have been linked to birth defects. The brand itself states their products aren't tested on pregnant or breastfeeding women and advises avoiding retinol. Always consult your healthcare provider before use.
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, an emulsifier that breaks down into fatty acids which can feed Malassezia yeast. If you have fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), this product may worsen your condition. Look for alternatives that are specifically formulated without polysorbates, esters, and fatty acids.
The brand specifically advises NOT to combine with direct acids. Using this retinol toner with AHA, BHA, or strong Vitamin C in the same routine can cause irritation, redness, and compromise your skin barrier. If you want to use both, alternate on different days - for example, use the retinol toner on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and acids on Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday. Always introduce new combinations slowly.
This toner works well for normal, oily, and combination skin types. Its lightweight, watery formula absorbs quickly without adding shine, making it especially good for oily skin. Dry skin types may need a richer moisturizer on top. The brand states it's suitable for all skin types except sensitive skin due to the retinoid content and essential oils (rosemary). It's NOT suitable for those with fungal acne.
Because Retinyl Palmitate is a gentler, less potent form of retinoid, results take longer to appear compared to stronger retinols. Expect to see: Week 1-2: Cleaner, more refreshed skin feel. Week 4-6: Brighter, more even skin tone. Week 8-12: Improved texture and softened fine lines. 3+ months: More noticeable anti-aging benefits with consistent use. Patience is key with this gentle formula.
Apply this toner immediately after cleansing, on completely dry skin. The routine order should be: 1) Cleanser โ 2) Retinol Toner โ 3) Serum (if using) โ 4) Moisturizer โ 5) Sunscreen (AM only). Do not apply to damp skin. Wait for the toner to fully absorb before applying your next product. Can be used morning and/or evening, but always use sunscreen during the day.
Unlikely to clog pores. This toner has a comedogenic rating of approximately 1/5, meaning it has a very low likelihood of causing clogged pores or breakouts. The formula is lightweight and doesn't contain heavy oils or known pore-clogging ingredients. However, individual reactions vary - if you notice breakouts after starting use, discontinue and consult a dermatologist.
The product should be used within 12 months after opening (check the PAO symbol on packaging). The large 250ml bottle provides excellent value and should last several months with daily use. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain the stability of the retinoid. If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Revox B77 Retinol Toner is an excellent entry-level retinoid product for those new to anti-aging skincare. Its main strengths are the unbeatable value (large 250ml bottle at a budget price), gentle formula with hydrating ingredients, and clean, minimal ingredient list. However, it's important to set realistic expectations - Retinyl Palmitate is one of the weakest retinoid forms, so results will be subtle and gradual. Not suitable for pregnant/breastfeeding individuals or those with fungal acne. If you're looking for a low-cost way to introduce retinoids into your routine without harsh side effects, this is a solid choice. For faster, more dramatic results, consider graduating to stronger retinol products after your skin has adapted.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 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 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Perfuming, Surfactant, Fragrance, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 3 |
Polysorbate 20
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|
|
| 0 |
Jasminum Sambac Flower Extract
Masking, Perfuming
|
|