Seoul Edition Retinol 0.1% Bakuchiol Cica Serum
Seoul Edition Retinol 0.1% Bakuchiol Cica Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A gentle yet clinically effective anti-aging serum that pairs 0.1% pure retinol with 1,000 ppm bakuchiol and Jeju Centella Asiatica (Cica) extract. Nano-emulsion technology delivers actives deep into the skin for visible wrinkle reduction, pore refinement, and improved texture — without the irritation typical of retinol. Enriched with triple peptides, five ceramides, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid for comprehensive skin barrier support.
Retinol + Bakuchiol Synergy
0.1% pure retinol paired with 1,000 ppm bakuchiol for enhanced collagen production with reduced irritation compared to retinol alone.
Texture & feel
SENSORYRetinol + Bakuchiol Synergy
0.1% pure retinol paired with 1,000 ppm bakuchiol for enhanced collagen production with reduced irritation compared to retinol alone.
Cica PDRN + Exosomes
Jeju-sourced Centella Asiatica extract, low-molecular-weight Cica PDRN, and Cica exosomes support skin regeneration and soothe inflammation.
Triple Peptide Complex
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, and Copper Tripeptide-1 work together to firm skin and strengthen the skin barrier.
5 Ceramides + Barrier Care
Ceramide NP, NS, AS, AP, and EOP combined with cholesterol and phytosphingosine to reinforce and restore the skin's moisture barrier.
Nano-Emulsion Technology
Advanced formulation encapsulates retinol for deeper penetration, faster absorption, and improved stability against oxidation.
Clinically Proven Results
Clinical studies show 57.4% fine wrinkle improvement, 42.9% deep wrinkle reduction, 56.5% pore refinement, and 21.1% texture improvement.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains retinol (a vitamin A derivative/retinoid). Retinoids are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Macadamia Seed Oil, Sorbitan Stearate, Oleic Acid, and Shea Butter which may feed Malassezia yeast.
Dermatologically tested and verified for sensitive skin compatibility. The low 0.1% retinol concentration combined with bakuchiol and cica makes it gentler than many retinol serums.
Vegan certified formula with no animal-derived ingredients. No animal testing performed at any stage of production.
Retinol increases photosensitivity. Always apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen in the morning when using this serum. Best used as part of a PM routine.
New retinol users may experience mild dryness or flaking during the first 2–4 weeks. Start with every other night and gradually increase to daily use.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSRetinol 0.1%Proven
Pure retinol (vitamin A) is the gold-standard anti-aging active. It accelerates cell turnover, boosts collagen synthesis, and helps fade hyperpigmentation. The 0.1% concentration is ideal for beginners and sensitive skin types.
- Mechanism: Binds to retinoic acid receptors to regulate gene expression for collagen production and cell renewal
- Clinical data: This formula showed 57.4% fine wrinkle improvement and 42.9% deep wrinkle reduction in clinical testing
- Delivery: Nano-emulsion technology improves penetration and stability, preventing oxidation
Bakuchiol 1,000 ppmProven
A plant-derived retinol alternative from the Psoralea Corylifolia (Babchi) plant. It mimics retinol's gene expression effects on the skin — upregulating collagen I, III, and IV while downregulating collagen-degrading MMP enzymes — without causing the typical retinoid side effects.
- Study: A 2019 double-blind study (British Journal of Dermatology) found 0.5% bakuchiol comparable to 0.5% retinol for photoaging improvement after 12 weeks, with significantly better tolerability
- Anti-acne: 1% bakuchiol reduced acne by 57% after 6 weeks by downregulating 5α-reductase and offering antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Synergy: When combined with retinol, bakuchiol helps stabilize retinol and enhances its effects while buffering irritation
Centella Asiatica (Cica) Complex Jeju Extract + PDRN + ExosomesProven
A triple Centella system using Jeju-sourced extract, low-molecular-weight Cica PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotide), and Cica exosomes. This combination calms irritation, promotes wound healing, and supports skin regeneration at the cellular level.
- Madecassoside: One of cica's key actives, shown to stimulate collagen type I synthesis and promote wound healing
- PDRN: Activates A2A purinergic receptors, stimulating fibroblast growth and tissue repair
- Synergy with retinol: Cica's soothing and regenerative properties counteract potential retinol irritation
Triple Peptide Complex Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Copper Tripeptide-1Proven
Three targeted peptides that work synergistically: Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) relaxes expression lines, Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4) stimulates collagen and elastin, and Copper Tripeptide-1 supports wound healing and skin remodeling.
- Argireline: Shown to reduce wrinkle depth by up to 30% in 30 days by inhibiting neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction
- Matrixyl: Stimulates production of collagen I, III, IV, and fibronectin for improved skin firmness
- GHK-Cu: Copper peptide supports anti-inflammatory response and promotes glycosaminoglycan synthesis
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) Listed mid-formulaProven
A versatile skin-brightening and barrier-strengthening active. Niacinamide helps regulate sebum production, reduce pore appearance, even skin tone, and strengthen the skin's lipid barrier.
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation
- Barrier: Boosts ceramide and fatty acid production in the skin
- Compatibility: Safe to use with retinol and pairs well in the same formulation
Ceramide Complex (5 Types) NP, NS, AS, AP, EOPProven
Five types of ceramides combined with cholesterol and phytosphingosine to mimic the skin's natural lipid barrier composition. This supports moisture retention and protects against environmental damage.
- Barrier repair: Ceramides make up ~50% of the skin's lipid barrier; topical application restores what is depleted by aging and environmental stress
- Hydration: Prevents transepidermal water loss (TEWL) for lasting moisture
- Retinol support: Essential for counteracting potential barrier disruption from retinol use
68 ingredients
Purified Water, Propanediol, Vinyl Dimethicone, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Glycolipids, Hydroxyacetophenone, Alpha-Bisabolol, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Macadamia Seed Oil, Sorbitan Stearate, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Niacinamide, Rapeseed Sterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cholesterol, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Bakuchiol, Shea Butter, Retinol, Tocopherol, Disodium EDTA, Ceramide NP, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Sucrose Cocoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-di-t-butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Damask Rose Flower Water, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Adenosine, Sorbitan Oleate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Vanilla Fruit Extract, Polyglutamic Acid, Tromethamine, Green Tea Leaf Extract, Benzotriazolyl Dodecyl p-Cresol, Glyceryl Stearate, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Oleic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Centella Asiatica Leaf Extract, Ceramide NS, Phytosphingosine, Arginine, Ceramide AS, Ceramide AP, Ceramide EOP, Sodium DNA, Caprylyl Glycol, Centella Asiatica Extract, Madecassoside, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, Copper Tripeptide-1, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Potassium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEBest used in your PM routine. If using in the AM, always follow with SPF 30+. Avoid layering with AHA/BHA exfoliants or high-concentration vitamin C in the same routine step.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with a clean, toned face. Pat skin until slightly damp — this helps the serum absorb better.
Apply the Serum
Dispense an appropriate amount onto your fingertips. Gently spread across the face and neck, working from the center outward.
Pat for Absorption
Lightly pat the serum into the skin with your fingertips for optimal absorption. Wait 1–2 minutes before the next step.
Follow with Moisturizer
Lock in the serum's benefits with a moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
Build Tolerance Gradually
New to retinol? Start every other night for the first 2 weeks, then increase to nightly use as your skin adjusts.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to start retinol but have sensitive skin
- You're concerned about fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
- You want to minimize pore appearance and improve skin texture
- You prefer a gentle, multi-active formula over high-strength single-ingredient products
- You want a fragrance-free, vegan K-beauty serum
- You're looking for a retinol product with built-in soothing ingredients
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains retinol)
- You have fungal acne / Malassezia folliculitis
- You need a high-strength retinol (0.5%+) for advanced anti-aging
- You have a known allergy to any of the 68 ingredients
- You want a completely oil-free formula (contains macadamia oil and shea butter)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight texture absorbs quickly. Contains niacinamide to help regulate sebum. Some emollient ingredients may feel slightly rich for very oily skin.
Ceramides, shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and polyglutamic acid provide excellent hydration. Great retinol option for dry skin that usually can't tolerate it.
Balances well across different face zones. Light enough for oily areas, hydrating enough for dry patches. Ideal match for this skin type.
Dermatologically tested for sensitive skin. Bakuchiol and cica buffer retinol irritation. Start slowly and patch test first for very reactive skin.
Retinol and bakuchiol both have anti-acne benefits, but contains oleic acid, macadamia oil, and shea butter which may be comedogenic for some. Not fungal acne safe.
Results timeline
WEEK 8–12Initial Hydration & Adjustment
Skin feels immediately more hydrated and plumped from hyaluronic acid and ceramides. Some users may notice mild dryness or tightness as skin adjusts to retinol (retinization period).
85% noticed improved hydrationSmoother Texture & Calmer Skin
Skin texture starts to feel smoother. Cica and bakuchiol calm any initial retinol sensitivity. Skin tone begins to look more even. Mild purging may occur in some users.
70% noticed texture improvementVisible Pore & Fine Line Reduction
Pores appear visibly refined and fine lines start to soften. Skin feels firmer and more elastic. The retinol + peptide combination begins showing cumulative anti-aging benefits.
65% noticed pore improvementSignificant Anti-Aging Results
Clinical-level improvements become apparent: up to 57.4% fine wrinkle improvement and 56.5% pore refinement. Skin looks noticeably brighter, firmer, and more youthful overall.
80% noticed wrinkle reductionRatings by platform
290+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Gentle retinol formula that doesn't cause major irritation
- Generous 80ml size offers excellent value for money
- Fragrance-free and vegan — suitable for sensitive skin
- Visible improvement in texture, pores, and fine lines
- Multi-active formula: retinol + bakuchiol + peptides + ceramides in one product
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing, non-sticky finish
- Beautiful Seoul-inspired packaging design
- Clinically tested with published improvement percentages
Criticized
- 0.1% retinol may be too low for experienced retinol users
- Not fungal acne safe due to multiple trigger ingredients
- Not pregnancy/breastfeeding safe (contains retinol)
- 80ml glass bottle is bulky for travel
- Initial retinization period (dryness/tightness) for some users
- Contains macadamia oil and oleic acid — may not suit very acne-prone skin
- Yellow serum color can look surprising (but confirms active retinol)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESAlso 0.1% retinol in a gentle cream format with squalane. Simpler formula without bakuchiol, peptides, or cica. Less comprehensive but more affordable with similar retinol potency.
Higher retinol concentration (0.2%) in a minimal squalane base. No bakuchiol, peptides, ceramides, or cica. Much simpler formula — more potent but potentially more irritating without the buffering actives.
Also combines retinol with cica extract for a gentle anti-aging approach. Similar K-beauty philosophy. Does not include bakuchiol or triple peptides. Slightly lighter texture.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEHerbivore Bakuchiol Retinol Alternative Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store away from heat and direct sunlight to maintain freshness. Keep in a cool, dry place. Retinol is light- and heat-sensitive.
Glass bottle with pump dispenser. Seoul-inspired design. Opaque tinted packaging helps protect retinol from light degradation.
Yes, under 100ml (80ml/2.7 fl oz). TSA-approved for carry-on. Note: glass bottle — pack carefully.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This serum contains retinol (vitamin A), which is a retinoid. Retinoids are generally advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development. While bakuchiol alone is considered pregnancy-safe, the presence of retinol in this formula makes the overall product unsuitable. If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor or consider a bakuchiol-only alternative without retinol.
No. This serum is not fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast, including Cetyl Ethylhexanoate (a fatty acid ester), Macadamia Seed Oil (rich in oleic acid), Sorbitan Stearate, Sorbitan Oleate, Oleic Acid, and Shea Butter. If you have confirmed fungal acne or Malassezia folliculitis, look for a retinol or bakuchiol product with a simpler, FA-safe formula.
This serum already contains retinol, so do not layer additional retinol products on top — doing so may cause irritation and compromise your skin barrier. AHA and BHA exfoliants should not be used in the same routine step; alternate them on different nights. Low-concentration vitamin C (under 10%) is generally fine to use in the morning while using this serum at night. For high-concentration L-ascorbic acid vitamin C serums (15–20%), use them at separate times (vitamin C in AM, retinol in PM) for best results.
This serum is best suited for combination, dry, and normal skin types. It performs excellently on combination skin thanks to its balanced formula. Dry skin benefits from the rich ceramide, shea butter, and hyaluronic acid complex. Sensitive skin can tolerate it well because of the low retinol concentration and soothing cica and bakuchiol. Oily skin types can also use it, though it may feel slightly rich. It is not ideal for fungal acne-prone skin due to specific trigger ingredients.
Hydration improvements are noticeable within the first week. Smoother texture typically appears around weeks 2–4. Visible pore refinement and fine line reduction generally become noticeable between weeks 4–8. For the full clinical-level results (up to 57.4% fine wrinkle improvement), plan for 8–12 weeks of consistent nightly use. Retinol works by gradually increasing cell turnover, so patience and consistency are key.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, before your moisturizer. In a full routine: Cleanser → Toner → This Serum → Moisturizer → Eye Cream → Sunscreen (AM only). It works best as a PM product since retinol increases sun sensitivity. If you use it in the morning, always follow with SPF 30+ sunscreen.
The overall comedogenic rating is 2/5 (low–moderate). While the formula contains some ingredients that can be comedogenic for sensitive individuals (macadamia seed oil rated 2–3, oleic acid rated 2–3, shea butter rated 0–2), they appear in relatively small concentrations. The retinol and bakuchiol actually help improve pore appearance. Most users report no breakouts, but if you are highly acne-prone, patch test first and monitor for 1–2 weeks.
The serum has a 12-month period after opening (PAO). With the generous 80ml size, most users find it lasts 3–4 months with nightly use on face and neck. Store it away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve the retinol's potency. The tinted glass bottle helps protect the formula from light degradation. If the serum changes color significantly or develops an off smell, discontinue use.
Verdict: The Mary&May Seoul Edition Retinol 0.1% Bakuchiol Cica Serum is an outstanding entry-level retinol product that delivers impressively on its promise of gentle yet effective anti-aging care. The combination of 0.1% retinol with bakuchiol, triple peptides, five ceramides, and a comprehensive cica complex makes it one of the most well-rounded retinol serums in its price range. The 80ml size offers exceptional value compared to competitors. It is best suited for retinol beginners, sensitive skin types, and anyone seeking a multi-active K-beauty serum that addresses wrinkles, pores, and texture in one step. The main limitations are its unsuitability for pregnancy/breastfeeding, fungal acne-prone skin, and users who need higher-strength retinol. Overall, a smartly formulated product that punches well above its price point.
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.
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
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
|
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 0 |
Vinyldimethicone
|
|
|
| 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
|
|





