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Seoul 1988 Serum Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng

Seoul 1988 Serum Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng

Product Description

Product overview

Made in Various INTERNATIONAL

A high-performance anti-aging serum combining 2% retinal liposome (0.02% pure retinal) with 58% black ginseng extract for accelerated wrinkle reduction, brightening, and skin texture refinement. Liposome encapsulation enhances stability and absorption while minimizing irritation.

Dermatologist Tested Fragrance-Free Paraben-Free Sulfate-Free Silicone-Free Hypoallergenic Cruelty-Free Alcohol-Free No Artificial Colors
Pregnancy
No
Fungal Acne
No
Comedogenic
1/5
Size
30ml / 1.01 fl oz
Price
$22.00
Retinal
0.02% (200ppm)
Ginseng
58%
Ingredients
41
Real reviews · YouTube Shorts
Why it's different

Liposome Delivery Technology

Retinal is encapsulated in liposome spheres for enhanced stability, deeper penetration, and gradual release — reducing irritation compared to standard retinal.

01

Texture & feel

SENSORY
Consistency
Lightweight Cream
Scent
Fragrance-Free
Absorption
30-60 seconds
Finish
Natural, Non-Sticky

Liposome Delivery Technology

Retinal is encapsulated in liposome spheres for enhanced stability, deeper penetration, and gradual release — reducing irritation compared to standard retinal.

11x Faster Than Retinol

Retinal (retinaldehyde) is one conversion step from retinoic acid, converting up to 11 times faster than retinol for quicker visible results.

58% Black Ginseng Extract

Panax Ginseng Root Extract at 58% provides powerful antioxidant protection, anti-inflammatory benefits, and supports collagen production for firmer skin.

Multi-Active Support Complex

Bakuchiol, Vitamin C (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), Niacinamide, and 3 peptides synergistically boost collagen, brighten, and reinforce the skin barrier.

02

Safety & compatibility

SAFE
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Not Safe

Contains retinal (retinaldehyde), a vitamin A derivative. All retinoids are advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before use.

Fungal Acne (Malassezia): Not Safe

Contains Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil (oleic acid), Sorbitan Stearate, Sunflower Seed Oil, and esters that may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.

Comedogenic Rating: Low (1/5)

Most ingredients are non-comedogenic. Macadamia oil and sunflower oil are present in small amounts and unlikely to clog pores for most skin types.

Dermatologist Tested

Tested for skin irritation. Hypoallergenic formula free from common allergens, harsh alcohols, parabens, sulfates, silicones, fragrances, and artificial colors.

Sun Sensitivity

Retinal increases photosensitivity. Always apply SPF 30+ the morning after use. Best used as part of your PM routine only.

Retinal Beginners

Build tolerance gradually: use 2x/week for weeks 1-2, every other night weeks 3-4, then nightly from week 5. Consider the "sandwich method" (moisturizer-serum-moisturizer) to reduce irritation.

03

Ingredient breakdown

INGREDIENTS

Retinal (Retinaldehyde) 0.02% (200ppm)Proven

The star active — a potent vitamin A derivative one conversion step from prescription-strength retinoic acid. Encapsulated in liposomes for stability and gradual release, reducing irritation while maintaining efficacy.

  • Potency: Converts to retinoic acid up to 11x faster than retinol
  • Research: Proven effective at 0.05-0.1% concentrations for anti-aging. This formula's 0.02% pure retinal in liposome form enhances bioavailability
  • Benefits: Stimulates collagen, accelerates cell turnover, fades hyperpigmentation, reduces fine lines, and refines pore appearance
Retinal can cause initial dryness, redness, or peeling. Build tolerance slowly. Not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always follow with SPF in the morning.

Panax Ginseng Root Extract (Black Ginseng) 58%Proven

The #1 ingredient by concentration. Black ginseng undergoes a steaming process that amplifies its antioxidant potency compared to regular ginseng. A cornerstone of traditional Korean herbal medicine, now backed by modern research.

  • Antioxidant: Rich in ginsenosides that neutralize free radicals and protect against UV and pollution damage
  • Anti-inflammatory: Soothes irritation and helps calm retinal-induced sensitivity
  • Collagen support: Stimulates collagen production and improves blood circulation to the skin for enhanced radiance
Well-tolerated by most skin types. The high 58% concentration makes this formula uniquely ginseng-rich compared to competitors.

Bakuchiol ~0.1-0.5%Promising

A plant-based retinol alternative from the Babchi plant. Works synergistically with retinal to amplify anti-aging benefits while providing soothing, anti-inflammatory action.

  • Research: Studies show similar wrinkle-reducing effects to retinol with less irritation
  • Synergy: Pairs well with retinoids to enhance anti-aging results and reduce retinoid side effects
  • Benefits: Reduces fine lines, improves skin tone, and fights clogged pores and blemishes

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) LowProven

A stable vitamin C derivative that brightens skin and provides antioxidant protection. More stable than pure L-ascorbic acid, making it ideal for combining with retinal in a single formula.

  • Stability: Resists oxidation better than pure vitamin C, maintaining efficacy longer in the formula
  • Brightening: Inhibits melanin production to fade dark spots and even skin tone

Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1.5-2.3%Proven

A multi-functional active that supports the skin barrier, regulates oil production, reduces pore appearance, and fades hyperpigmentation. Works synergistically with retinal to enhance results and minimize irritation.

  • Barrier support: Boosts ceramide production to strengthen skin's natural defenses
  • Oil control: Regulates sebum production, helping reduce breakouts and shine
  • Brightening: Reduces dark spots and improves overall skin tone at concentrations above 2%

3 Peptides Complex LowPromising

Three growth-factor peptides (SH-Oligopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1) that may support collagen production and skin repair, complementing the retinal and ginseng actives.

  • Collagen: Peptides signal skin to produce more collagen and structural proteins
  • Cell renewal: May help improve cell turnover and reduce inflammation

41 ingredients

Panax Ginseng Root Extract (58%), Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sorbitan Stearate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Betaine, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal (200ppm), Silica, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Bakuchiol, SH-Oligopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1

FREE FROM: Parabens, Sulfates, Silicones, Fragrances, Harsh Alcohols, Artificial Colors, Common Allergens, Phthalates, Mineral Oil, PEGs
04

Where it fits in your routine

ROUTINE
1
Cleanser
2
Toner
3
This Serum
4
Moisturizer
5
Face Oil
6
Sunscreen (AM)

PM routine only. Apply after toner on dry skin. Follow with moisturizer. Always apply SPF 30+ the next morning. Sensitive skin: try the "sandwich method" — moisturizer before and after the serum.

05

How to use

HOW TO USE
1

Cleanse & Tone

Start with a clean, dry face. Apply your toner and let it absorb fully before proceeding.

2

Apply a Pea-Sized Amount

Pump a pea-sized amount onto your fingertips. Dot evenly across your face and neck, avoiding the eye area.

3

Gently Massage

Press and pat the serum gently into the skin until fully absorbed. The lightweight formula absorbs in 30-60 seconds.

4

Follow with Moisturizer

Lock in the actives with your favorite moisturizer. For sensitive skin, apply moisturizer both before and after the serum.

5

Build Tolerance Gradually

Weeks 1-2: use 2x per week. Weeks 3-4: every other night. Week 5+: nightly. Always follow with SPF 30+ the next morning.

06

Who is it for?

WHO

Perfect for you if:

  • You want to target fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
  • You have uneven skin tone, dark spots, or dull complexion
  • You want a retinal serum with gentler liposome delivery
  • You appreciate K-beauty herbal ingredients like black ginseng
  • You have mature skin and want comprehensive anti-aging care
  • You want a multi-active formula (retinal + vitamin C + niacinamide + peptides) in one step

Consider alternatives if:

  • You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinal)
  • You have fungal acne/malassezia folliculitis
  • You are completely new to retinoids and want to start with retinol first
  • You prefer a larger bottle size (this is only 30ml)
  • You have a severe allergy to ginseng or nut-derived oils (contains macadamia oil)
07

Skin type compatibility

SKIN TYPES
Oily Skin
Good

Lightweight, fast-absorbing formula. Retinal helps regulate sebum production. Non-greasy finish, though contains some emollient oils.

Dry Skin
Good

Glycerin and ginseng extract provide good hydration. Pair with a rich moisturizer on top to prevent retinal-induced dryness.

Combination Skin
Excellent

Ideal texture that balances hydration without excess oiliness. Niacinamide helps regulate oil in the T-zone while ginseng nourishes drier areas.

Sensitive Skin
Moderate

Liposome encapsulation reduces irritation potential, but retinal can still cause sensitivity. Use the sandwich method and build tolerance slowly. Patch test first.

Acne-Prone Skin
Good

Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Retinal helps unclog pores and regulate cell turnover. May cause initial purging in the first 2-4 weeks before improving.

Mature Skin
Excellent

This serum was designed specifically for aging and mature skin. The retinal + ginseng + peptide trio delivers comprehensive anti-aging benefits.

08

Results timeline

MONTH 3+
Week 1-2

Improved Hydration & Glow

Skin feels softer and more hydrated from glycerin and ginseng extract. A subtle glow and smoother texture may be noticeable. Some users may experience mild dryness or tingling as skin adjusts to retinal.

70% noticed improved hydration
Week 3-4

Smoother Texture & Refined Pores

Cell turnover accelerates. Skin texture starts to improve as dead skin cells are shed faster. Pores appear smaller and skin feels smoother to the touch. Some users may experience a purging period.

60% noticed smoother texture
Week 6-8

Visible Wrinkle Reduction & Brightening

Fine lines begin to soften noticeably. Dark spots and hyperpigmentation start to fade. Skin tone looks more even and radiant. Collagen production ramps up with consistent use.

75% noticed fine line improvement
Month 3+

Firmer, More Youthful Skin

Full anti-aging benefits become apparent. Skin elasticity improves, deeper wrinkles appear reduced, and overall complexion looks significantly brighter and more youthful. One bottle typically lasts approximately 3 months with regular use.

85% noticed overall improvement
09

Ratings by platform

4K+ REVIEWS
Amazon
4.3
Rating
3,500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Small bottle size (30ml) for the price; some counterfeit concerns from third-party sellers
YesStyle
4.7
Rating
500+
Reviews
Main complaint: Shipping times can be long; some users find it too gentle for experienced retinoid users
iHerb
4.8
Rating
200+
Reviews
Main complaint: Some users expected stronger retinal effects; a few noted initial purging
Olive Young
4.6
Rating
300+
Reviews
Main complaint: Wish it came in a larger size; pump mechanism occasionally dispenses too much
10

Pros & cons

BALANCED

Praised

  • Visible improvement in skin texture and smoothness within weeks
  • Gentle enough for retinoid beginners thanks to liposome delivery
  • Impressive multi-active formula (retinal + ginseng + bakuchiol + vitamin C + peptides)
  • Lightweight, non-sticky texture that absorbs quickly
  • Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic — well-tolerated by most users
  • Affordable price point for a retinal serum with advanced delivery tech
  • Effective at fading dark spots and evening skin tone
  • Retro pump packaging is hygienic and easy to dose

Criticized

  • Small bottle size (30ml) may not last long if used on face and neck
  • 0.02% pure retinal is relatively low for experienced retinoid users
  • Not suitable for pregnancy/breastfeeding or fungal acne
  • Some users report initial purging or mild irritation
  • Counterfeit products reported from unauthorized third-party sellers
  • May require additional moisturizer on top for dry skin types
11

Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)

DUPES
82% Match
A-Game 5 0.05% Retinal Serum
$12.50
Budget Pick

Higher pure retinal concentration (0.05% vs 0.02%) in a lightweight emulsion base. Lacks the ginseng, bakuchiol, and peptides of the K-Secret formula. Simpler ingredient list focused solely on retinal delivery with allantoin and panthenol for soothing.

85% Match
Revive Eye Serum : Ginseng + Retinal
$12.75
Budget Pick

Very similar formula concept (ginseng + retinal liposome) but designed as an eye serum. Contains ceramides and hyaluronic acid instead of bakuchiol and herbal extracts. 10% ginseng vs 58% in K-Secret. Richer, more emollient texture.

68% Match
Retinal 0.2% Emulsion
$11.60
Budget Pick

Much higher retinal concentration (0.2%) without liposome encapsulation, so potentially more irritating. Minimalist formula without ginseng, bakuchiol, or peptides. Better for experienced retinoid users who want pure potency at a low price.

12

Comparison with competitors

SIDE-BY-SIDE
Revive Eye Serum : Ginseng + Retinal
Retinal Type Liposome Encapsulated
Pure Retinal % ~0.02%
Hero Ingredient 10% Ginseng
Supporting Actives Ceramide NP + HA + Peptide
Size 30ml
Price per ml $0.43/ml
Fragrance-Free Yes
A-Game 10 0.1% Retinal Serum
Retinal Type Cyclodextrin Stabilized
Pure Retinal % 0.05%
Hero Ingredient None (retinal-focused)
Supporting Actives Panthenol + Allantoin + Biosaccharide Gum
Size 30ml
Price per ml $0.42/ml
Fragrance-Free Yes
Crystal Retinal
Retinal Type Crystal Encapsulated
Pure Retinal % 0.03%
Hero Ingredient Vitamin E + Hyaluronic Acid
Supporting Actives Glycerin + Squalane
Size 30ml
Price per ml $1.63/ml
Fragrance-Free Yes
13

Storage & shelf life

12 MONTHS
Period After Opening (PAO)

12 months after opening

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration recommended for extended freshness and a cooling application experience.

Packaging

Opaque airless pump bottle — protects retinal from light and air oxidation while allowing precise dosing.

Travel Friendly

Yes — 30ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on limit. Compact pump bottle fits easily in travel bags.

13

Frequently asked questions

FAQ

No. This serum contains retinal (retinaldehyde), which is a form of vitamin A. All retinoids — including retinal, retinol, and tretinoin — are advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, please avoid this product and consult your healthcare provider for safe alternatives. Bakuchiol-only serums may be a better option during this time.

No. This serum contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil (rich in oleic acid, C18), Sorbitan Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, and Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, this product is not recommended. Look for fungal-acne-safe retinal alternatives with minimal oils and esters.

This serum already contains retinal and a stabilized vitamin C derivative (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), so additional retinol or vitamin C is not necessary and could increase irritation. Avoid layering with AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) on the same night, as combining strong exfoliants with retinal can over-strip the skin barrier. Instead, alternate nights: use this serum on some evenings and your AHA/BHA on others.

This serum is designed for all skin types but is especially beneficial for combination, mature, and aging skin. The lightweight texture suits oily and combination skin, while the glycerin and ginseng provide enough hydration for normal to dry types (with a moisturizer on top). Sensitive skin users should approach with caution — start slowly and use the sandwich method. It is particularly effective for those concerned with fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and loss of firmness.

Results vary by individual, but most users report a timeline of: improved hydration and glow within 1-2 weeks, smoother texture and refined pores by weeks 3-4, visible fine line reduction and brightening by weeks 6-8, and significant overall improvement after 3 months of consistent use. Retinal works in the deeper layers of skin, so meaningful structural changes (collagen production, wrinkle reduction) take at least 6 weeks to become visible. Consistency is key — use it regularly as part of your PM routine.

Apply this serum in your PM routine after cleansing and toning, on dry skin. Follow with moisturizer to lock in the actives. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Seoul 1988 Serum → Moisturizer. For sensitive skin, apply a light layer of moisturizer before the serum as well (sandwich method). Always apply SPF 30 or higher the following morning, as retinal increases sun sensitivity. This serum is best used at night since retinal can degrade when exposed to sunlight.

This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula contains Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil, but these are present in small amounts and are low on the comedogenic scale. The primary base (ginseng extract, water, glycerin) is non-comedogenic. Retinal itself actually helps unclog pores by accelerating cell turnover. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, find this serum does not cause breakouts. However, initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts as skin adjusts) is possible during the first 2-4 weeks.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 30ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2-3 months with regular nightly use (a pea-sized amount per application). The opaque, airless pump packaging helps protect the retinal from light and air degradation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can further extend freshness and provides a cooling sensation during application.

— Skincarisma verdict
4.3 / 5 ★★★★☆

Verdict: The K-Secret Seoul 1988 Serum delivers an impressive multi-active retinal formula at an accessible price point. The liposome-encapsulated retinal combined with a whopping 58% black ginseng extract sets it apart from most competitors, offering both cutting-edge delivery technology and traditional Korean herbal benefits. While the pure retinal concentration (0.02%) is on the gentler side — making it excellent for retinoid beginners — experienced users may want something stronger. The supporting cast of bakuchiol, vitamin C, niacinamide, and peptides adds real value to the formula. At $22 for 30ml, it offers strong value compared to premium competitors like Medik8. Not recommended for pregnancy/breastfeeding or fungal acne-prone skin.

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Product Overview

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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.

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Quick Product Notes

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lightbulb 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.

muscle 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

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Notable Effects & Ingredients

anti-aging Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Tocopherol Adenosine Retinal Bakuchiol Sh-Oligopeptide-1
brightening Brightening from 4 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Retinal Bakuchiol
wound Promotes Wound Healing from 6 ingredient(s):
Glycerin Niacinamide Tocopherol Adenosine Retinal Sh-Oligopeptide-1
ache Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
Niacinamide Retinal
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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!

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Ingredients Related to Skin Types

Click on icons for more information
dry-skin Dry Skin
3
oily-skin Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
1
sensitive-skin Sensitive Skin
question
lightbulb 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.

muscle 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.

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Ingredient Safety Breakdown

EWG Health Ratings
Low risk
Medium risk
High risk
Unknown risk
55% 45%

Product ingredient list

Showing first 5 of 40 ingredients
EWG CIR Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions Notes
1 A
Panax Ginseng Root Extract
Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Tonic
1 Unknown
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
2 A
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
brightening Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
1 A
Dipropylene Glycol
Fragrance, Solvent, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Masking, Viscosity Controlling
1 A
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Perfuming, Emollient
VIEW ALL INGREDIENTS