Seoul 1988 Eye Cream : Retinal Liposome 4% + Fermented Bean
Seoul 1988 Eye Cream : Retinal Liposome 4% + Fermented Bean
Product Description
Product overview
By K-Secret — An advanced anti-aging eye cream powered by 4% encapsulated Retinal Liposome and five fermented botanical extracts including soybean ferment. Targets fine lines, wrinkles, dark circles, and loss of firmness around the delicate eye area with a silky, fast-absorbing texture. Boosted by Bakuchiol, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Niacinamide, and 3 Peptides for comprehensive collagen support.
4% Retinal Liposome Technology
Encapsulated retinal (retinaldehyde) delivers gradual, deep-layer release for powerful anti-aging with reduced irritation compared to traditional retinol.
Texture & feel
SENSORY4% Retinal Liposome Technology
Encapsulated retinal (retinaldehyde) delivers gradual, deep-layer release for powerful anti-aging with reduced irritation compared to traditional retinol.
5 Fermented Botanical Extracts
Soybean, ginseng root, rice, Job's tears, and potato ferment filtrates provide brightening, antioxidant, and barrier-strengthening benefits.
Retinal Boosting Complex
Bakuchiol, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and 3 Peptides work synergistically with retinal to support collagen production and skin elasticity.
5 Herbal Root Extracts
Burdock root, Cnidium, wild yam, peony, and Pueraria root provide antioxidant care and defend against environmental stressors.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot safe. Contains Retinal (retinaldehyde), a form of Vitamin A / retinoid. All retinoids should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains multiple ferment filtrates (Lactobacillus/Soybean, Saccharomyces ferments), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Macadamia Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, and Cetearyl Alcohol which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Rated 1/5. The formula is lightweight and non-greasy. Macadamia oil has a low comedogenic rating (2) and is present in small amounts. Generally suitable for acne-prone skin.
Free from fragrances, parabens, silicones, sulfates, harsh alcohols, artificial colors, and common allergens. Dermatologist tested and skin irritation tested.
Retinal increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ the morning after use. Nighttime application is strongly recommended.
Start with twice per week for the first 1–2 weeks and gradually increase frequency as your skin adjusts to build tolerance.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinal (Retinaldehyde) 4% LiposomeProven
A potent form of Vitamin A that is only one conversion step away from retinoic acid, making it significantly more effective than retinol. Encapsulated in liposomes for gradual release and enhanced penetration with reduced irritation.
- Potency: Retinal works up to 11x faster than retinol according to published dermatological research.
- Mechanism: Promotes cell turnover, stimulates collagen synthesis, reduces fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation.
- Delivery: Liposome encapsulation protects the retinal from oxidation and enables deeper skin penetration with a controlled release profile.
Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract Key %Proven
Fermented soybean extract rich in isoflavones, amino acids, and peptides. The fermentation process breaks down molecules for enhanced bioavailability, delivering brightening, firming, and antioxidant benefits to the skin.
- Brightening: Isoflavones in soybean help inhibit melanin transfer, reducing dark circles and uneven tone.
- Barrier support: Fermented extracts strengthen the skin barrier and improve moisture retention.
- Synergy: Works alongside retinal to enhance anti-aging effects while soothing potential irritation.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Top 7Proven
A multitasking active placed high in the ingredient list. Improves skin texture, minimizes pores, strengthens the skin barrier, and helps even out skin tone around the eye area.
- Barrier repair: Boosts ceramide production to reinforce the skin's natural moisture barrier.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanin transfer to reduce dark spots and dark circles.
- Texture: Refines pores and smooths rough texture with consistent use.
Bakuchiol SupportingPromising
A plant-based retinol alternative derived from the babchi plant. Complements retinal by providing additional collagen-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties without added irritation.
- Collagen boost: Clinical studies show bakuchiol stimulates collagen production similarly to retinol.
- Anti-inflammatory: Helps calm and soothe the skin, counteracting potential retinal irritation.
Sodium Hyaluronate SupportingProven
A low-molecular-weight form of hyaluronic acid that penetrates deeper into the skin. Provides intense hydration to plump fine lines and maintain moisture around the delicate eye area.
- Hydration: Holds up to 1,000x its weight in water, drawing moisture into the skin.
- Plumping: Fills in fine lines and creates a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Adenosine SupportingProven
A KFDA-approved anti-wrinkle ingredient widely used in Korean skincare. Promotes collagen and elastin synthesis while soothing and calming the skin.
- Anti-wrinkle: Clinically proven to reduce fine lines and improve skin elasticity when used consistently.
- Soothing: Helps calm irritation from active ingredients like retinal.
47 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Niacinamide, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal, Silica, Disodium EDTA, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Saccharomyces/Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces/Potato Extract Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Pueraria Thunbergiana Root Extract, Bakuchiol, Ascorbic Acid, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after moisturizer on the eye area at night. Follow with SPF 30+ the next morning. Can also be used on forehead lines, smile lines, and the "elevens" between brows as a targeted treatment.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Prep
Start with a clean, dry face. Complete your toner and serum steps first, then apply your moisturizer.
Dispense a Pea-Sized Amount
Using your ring finger, take a small amount of the eye cream. A little goes a long way — a pea-sized amount is enough for both eyes.
Gently Pat Around Eyes
Dot the cream around the orbital bone area. Gently pat (don't rub) until fully absorbed. Avoid applying too close to the lash line.
Build Tolerance Gradually
Weeks 1–2: Use twice a week. Weeks 3–4: Every other night. Week 5+: Nightly if tolerated. Try the "Retinal Sandwich" method (moisturizer → eye cream → moisturizer) if sensitivity occurs.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have fine lines, crow's feet, or wrinkles around the eye area
- You want to brighten dark circles and reduce puffiness
- You're looking for a potent retinal product at an affordable price
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean K-beauty formulas
- You have aging or mature skin needing collagen support
- You want a multi-active formula (retinal + ferments + peptides + vitamins)
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding (contains retinal)
- You have fungal acne / malassezia (contains ferments and fatty acids)
- You are completely new to retinoids and want to start milder
- You need a full-face retinal product (this is targeted for the eye area — consider the Seoul 1988 Serum instead)
- You have extremely reactive or eczema-prone skin around the eyes
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly. Retinal also helps reduce oil production and prevent clogged pores.
Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and macadamia oil provide hydration. May need a richer moisturizer layered underneath during colder months.
Balances well across oily and dry zones. The cream texture is rich enough to hydrate without feeling heavy on oilier areas.
Fragrance-free and irritation tested, but 4% retinal is potent. Patch test first and use the ramp-up method. Bakuchiol helps soothe.
Ideal match. High-potency retinal combined with peptides, ferments, and vitamins targets the core concerns of aging skin around the eyes.
Results timeline
MONTH 3+Immediate Hydration & Smoothness
Skin around the eyes feels more moisturized and looks smoother upon waking. Texture becomes silkier as the cream nourishes the under-eye area. Some users may experience mild tingling as skin adjusts to retinal.
80% noticed improved hydrationVisible Softening of Fine Lines
Fine lines around the eyes begin to appear less prominent. Dark circles start to look lighter as niacinamide and fermented soybean work on brightening. Skin tone around eyes appears more even.
65% noticed reduced fine linesFirmer, Brighter Eye Area
Collagen-boosting effects of retinal, peptides, and bakuchiol become more visible. Under-eye area looks firmer, more lifted, and noticeably brighter. Wrinkles and crow's feet appear reduced.
70% noticed firmer under-eyesCumulative Anti-Aging Transformation
Deep wrinkles continue to soften. Overall eye area looks more youthful, well-rested, and resilient. Skin texture is refined, and dark circles are significantly reduced with consistent nightly use.
75% noticed significant improvementRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Potent 4% retinal liposome at an affordable $22 price point
- Silky, lightweight texture that absorbs quickly without greasiness
- Fragrance-free, clean formula with no parabens or silicones
- Multi-active approach: retinal + ferments + peptides + vitamins
- Visible improvement in fine lines and dark circles within weeks
- Liposome encapsulation reduces irritation compared to raw retinal
- Versatile — can also be used on forehead lines and smile lines
- Dermatologist tested and skin irritation tested
Criticized
- 30ml tube is small; heavy users go through it quickly
- Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding (retinal)
- Not fungal acne safe due to ferment ingredients
- Requires a ramp-up period; can cause initial irritation
- Must be used at night only (retinal degrades in sunlight)
- Results take 4–8 weeks of consistent use to become visible
- Not widely available in physical retail stores outside Korea
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESUses retinol SA (not retinal) with hyaluronic acid. More widely available at drugstores. Lacks the fermented botanical complex and peptide blend, but effective for fine lines at a lower price point.
Contains pure retinol (not retinal) with a mineral complex. Clinically proven for wrinkle reduction over 12 weeks. Less innovative formula without ferments or bakuchiol, but a trusted drugstore classic.
Same brand with a lower 1% retinal concentration and fermented rice instead of fermented bean. A full-face cream (50ml) at the same price. Better for retinal beginners or those wanting whole-face coverage.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is optional but can enhance the de-puffing effect. Keep the cap tightly closed after each use to prevent oxidation of retinal.
Opaque squeeze tube with a screw cap. Protects retinal from light and air degradation. Hygienic dispensing without direct contact with the product.
Yes, 30ml is well under the 100ml carry-on limit. Compact tube fits easily in travel pouches.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This eye cream contains Retinal (retinaldehyde), which is a form of Vitamin A / retinoid. All retinoids — including retinol, retinal, and tretinoin — are advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development. Please consult your healthcare provider before using any retinoid product. If you need an eye cream during pregnancy, look for retinoid-free alternatives with peptides or vitamin C instead.
No. This product contains several ingredients that can potentially feed Malassezia yeast, including Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Cetearyl Alcohol, and multiple ferment filtrates (Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Saccharomyces ferments). If you are prone to fungal acne, consider a retinal product with a simpler, ferment-free formula.
Use caution when combining this eye cream with other strong actives. Since it already contains 4% retinal (a potent retinoid), do not layer additional retinol or retinoid products on the same area to avoid over-exfoliation and irritation. Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) can be used in the morning while this eye cream is used at night. Avoid using AHAs or BHAs directly around the eye area on the same nights you use this product. Always allow the skin to adjust to retinal before introducing additional actives.
This eye cream is suitable for all skin types but is particularly excellent for combination, oily, and mature skin. The lightweight, non-greasy texture works well for oily skin, while the glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and macadamia oil provide enough hydration for normal-to-dry skin. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first and use the ramp-up method, as 4% retinal is a potent concentration. It is especially designed for aging and mature skin showing fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles.
Most users notice improved hydration and smoother texture within the first 1–2 weeks. Fine lines begin to soften around weeks 3–4, and more significant improvements in firmness, wrinkle depth, and dark circles typically become visible at 6–8 weeks of consistent use. For cumulative anti-aging benefits, continue using for 3+ months. Remember that retinal requires a ramp-up period, so results may be gradual as your skin adjusts.
Apply this eye cream as the last step before sunscreen in your PM routine. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Serum → Moisturizer → This Eye Cream. Apply after your moisturizer to the eye area only, gently patting until absorbed. Use at night since retinal is light-sensitive. Follow with SPF 30+ the next morning. You can also use the "retinal sandwich" method by applying a light moisturizer, then the eye cream, then a richer cream on top.
This eye cream has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, designed to absorb quickly without leaving residue. Macadamia oil (comedogenic rating 2) is present but in a small concentration. Retinal itself actually helps reduce oil production and prevent clogged pores. The product is generally safe for acne-prone skin, though individuals with extreme sensitivity to oils should patch test first.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Store the product away from direct sunlight in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly sealed after each use. The opaque tube packaging helps protect the retinal from light degradation. Since you only need a pea-sized amount per application, the 30ml tube typically lasts 2–3 months with nightly use on both eyes.
Verdict: The K-Secret Seoul 1988 Eye Cream delivers exceptional value as a retinal-based anti-aging eye treatment. At $22 for 30ml, it offers a more potent retinoid (retinal vs. retinol) at a fraction of the cost of premium competitors like La Roche-Posay ($48 for 15ml). The innovative liposome delivery system, combined with five fermented botanicals, three peptides, bakuchiol, and vitamins C and E, creates a comprehensive formula that goes far beyond basic retinol eye creams. The fragrance-free, clean formulation is a standout in the K-beauty space. The main caveats are that it is not safe for pregnancy/breastfeeding or fungal acne, and it requires a gradual ramp-up period. For anyone seeking visible anti-aging results around the eye area without a luxury price tag, this is one of the best retinal eye creams available.
Product Overview
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.
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Quick Product Notes
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
|
|
|
| 1 |
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
|
|
|
| 1 |
1,2-Hexanediol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|






