Super A Serum
Super A Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A potent multi-retinoid serum combining three bioactive forms of Vitamin A (HPR, Retinol, Retinyl Linoleate) with plant-based Bakuchiol. This clean beauty powerhouse targets wrinkles, discoloration, and rough texture while hyaluronic acid and polyglutamic acid keep skin hydrated and plump.
Triple Retinoid Complex
Combines HPR, Retinol, and Retinyl Linoleate for comprehensive anti-aging action at multiple skin layers.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Retinoid Complex
Combines HPR, Retinol, and Retinyl Linoleate for comprehensive anti-aging action at multiple skin layers.
Bakuchiol Boost
Plant-based retinol alternative amplifies results while reducing irritation potential for sensitive skin.
Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, and tremella mushroom extract deliver multi-level moisture.
Barrier Support
Phytoceramides and squalane strengthen the skin barrier while actives work their magic.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot recommended. Contains multiple forms of Vitamin A (retinoids) which should be avoided during pregnancy and nursing. Consider Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum as a safe alternative.
Not fungal acne safe. Contains retinyl linoleate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cetearyl alcohol, and other ingredients that may feed malassezia yeast.
Retinoids increase photosensitivity. Always use SPF 30+ sunscreen during the day when using this product.
Free from parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, petrochemicals, SLS, PEGs, and silicones.
100% vegan formula. PETA certified and Leaping Bunny approved. No animal testing at any stage.
Initial breakouts (purging) are normal for 2-6 weeks as retinoids accelerate cell turnover. This is a sign the product is working.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSHydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) 0.05-0.1%Promising
A next-generation retinoid that binds directly to retinoid receptors without requiring conversion. This means faster results with less irritation compared to traditional retinol.
- Bioavailability: 2x more bioavailable than retinol - no metabolic conversion needed
- Gentleness: Studies show significantly less irritation than equivalent retinol concentrations
- Stability: More stable in formulations than pure retinol
Retinol 0.45-0.7%Proven
The gold standard anti-aging ingredient with decades of clinical research. Boosts collagen production, speeds cell turnover, and reduces fine lines and hyperpigmentation.
- Efficacy: Clinically proven to reduce wrinkles by up to 44% in 12 weeks
- Cell Turnover: Accelerates skin renewal from 28 days to 14-21 days
- Collagen: Stimulates collagen I and III production in dermis
Bakuchiol 1.4-1.7%Proven
A plant-derived compound from the Babchi plant used in Ayurvedic medicine. Works synergistically with retinoids to enhance results while reducing irritation.
- Clinical Study: 12-week study showed comparable results to 0.5% retinol for wrinkles and pigmentation
- Synergy: Enhances retinoid efficacy when combined, allowing for lower concentrations
- Pregnancy Note: While gentler than retinol, still not recommended during pregnancy
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.15-0.3%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular weight for better skin penetration. Holds up to 1000x its weight in water for intense hydration.
- Penetration: Better skin penetrating capabilities than standard hyaluronic acid
- Hydration: Plumps fine lines and improves skin elasticity
- Balance: Counteracts potential dryness from retinoid use
Polyglutamic Acid 0.9-1.15%Promising
A fermented amino acid chain that holds 4-5x more moisture than hyaluronic acid. Creates a moisture-locking film on skin surface.
- Hydration: Superior water-binding capacity compared to hyaluronic acid
- Film-forming: Creates protective barrier to prevent moisture loss
- Source: Derived from natto (fermented soybeans)
27 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Propanediol, Glycerin, Squalane, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Retinyl Linoleate, Bakuchiol, Tremella Fuciformis Sporocarp Extract, Polyglutamic Acid, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Phenethyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Oat Beta-Glucan, Ethylhexylglycerin, Stearyl Phosphate, Stearyl Alcohol, Coffea Arabica (Coffee) Fruit Extract, Acetyl Glucosamine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Xanthan Gum, Steam-Distilled Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Tocopherol
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEPM routine only. Always follow with moisturizer. Use sunscreen SPF 30+ the next morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Face
Start with clean, dry skin. Remove all makeup and impurities with a gentle cleanser.
Apply 2-4 Drops
Dispense a small amount onto fingertips. A little goes a long way with this potent formula.
Massage Gently
Press and pat serum into skin, avoiding the eye area. Allow 1-2 minutes to absorb.
Follow with Moisturizer
Always seal with a night cream or facial oil to prevent dryness and boost efficacy.
Start Slowly
Begin every OTHER night for 2-4 weeks. Gradually increase to nightly use as skin adjusts.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to address fine lines and wrinkles
- You have sun damage, age spots, or hyperpigmentation
- Your skin texture is rough or uneven
- You prefer clean, vegan skincare
- You want a gentler alternative to prescription retinoids
- You have acne scars that need fading
- You're looking for an affordable multi-retinoid serum
Consider alternatives if:
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- Your skin is extremely sensitive or reactive
- You're already using prescription tretinoin
- You cannot commit to daily sunscreen use
- You need a fragrance-free formula (contains natural citrus oil)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal canvas for this serum. Balanced hydration with retinoid benefits deliver optimal anti-aging results.
Lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine. Retinoids help regulate oil and minimize pores.
Built-in hydrators help, but always follow with a rich moisturizer. May experience initial dryness.
Balances well across different zones. Hydrating actives prevent over-drying while retinoids target concerns.
Bakuchiol and HPR are gentler than pure retinol. Start very slowly (1-2x/week) and always patch test first.
Retinoids help with acne and scarring. Expect initial purging for 2-6 weeks. Not fungal acne safe.
Results timeline
WEEK 8-12Adjustment Period
Skin may feel slightly dry or tight as it adjusts. Some users experience mild peeling or purging. This is normal with retinoid products.
70% notice initial changesImproved Radiance
Skin begins to look brighter and more radiant. Texture starts to smooth out. Purging typically subsides by end of week 4.
80% see radiance improvementVisible Texture Improvement
Fine lines appear softer, pores look smaller, and overall skin texture is noticeably smoother. Dark spots begin to fade.
85% report smoother textureSignificant Anti-Aging Results
Wrinkle depth visibly reduced, hyperpigmentation faded, and skin firmness improved. Full benefits of consistent retinoid use achieved.
90% see significant resultsRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effective multi-retinoid formula at an accessible price
- Gentler than pure retinol thanks to HPR and bakuchiol
- Noticeable improvement in texture and radiance within weeks
- Clean, vegan formula without harsh chemicals
- Built-in hydrating ingredients prevent excessive dryness
- Works well for both anti-aging and acne concerns
- Pleasant natural citrus scent
- Lightweight, non-greasy formula absorbs quickly
Criticized
- Initial purging period can last 2-6 weeks
- Not pregnancy or breastfeeding safe
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Contains natural citrus oil (potential sensitizer for some)
- Dropper can dispense too much product
- May be too strong for extremely sensitive skin
- Requires consistent sunscreen use
- Some find the price high for 1oz bottle
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains HPR (same next-gen retinoid) in squalane base. Simpler formula without bakuchiol or hydrating peptides. More oily texture.
Pure retinol only - no HPR or bakuchiol. More potent but potentially more irritating. Best for retinol-experienced users.
Contains bakuchiol and retinol blend with vitamin C. Comparable clean formula philosophy at similar price point.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep away from heat sources. Refrigeration not required but can extend potency.
Glass dropper bottle with UV-protective amber glass. BPA-free packaging. Recyclable through TerraCycle.
Yes - 1.02 fl oz / 30ml is under TSA 3.4oz limit for carry-on liquids.
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo, this serum is NOT safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It contains multiple forms of Vitamin A (retinoids) including HPR, retinol, and retinyl linoleate, which are advised against during pregnancy and nursing. Mad Hippie recommends their Vitamin C Serum or Corrective Peptide Serum as pregnancy-safe alternatives for addressing aging and sun damage.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast, including retinyl linoleate, caprylic/capric triglyceride, cetearyl alcohol, and stearyl phosphate. If you struggle with fungal acne, consider a minimal formula retinoid in squalane base instead.
This serum already contains retinoids, so do not layer additional retinol on top. For vitamin C, use it in your AM routine and save Super A for PM to avoid potential irritation. For AHAs/BHAs, alternate nights rather than using together - for example, Super A on Monday/Wednesday/Friday and exfoliating acids on Tuesday/Thursday. Always introduce new combinations slowly.
This serum works well for normal, oily, combination, and dry skin types. The built-in hydrating ingredients (hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid, squalane) help balance the potentially drying effects of retinoids. Sensitive skin types should proceed with caution - start very slowly (1-2x per week) and always patch test first. The bakuchiol and HPR make this gentler than pure retinol formulas.
Results timeline varies: Week 1-2 is an adjustment period (possible purging/dryness). By weeks 3-4, you should notice improved radiance and purging subsiding. Weeks 5-8 bring visible texture improvement and fading dark spots. Full anti-aging results typically appear around weeks 8-12 with consistent use. Patience is key with retinoids!
Use at night only, after cleansing and toning, before heavier products. The order is: Cleanser → Toner → Super A Serum → Eye Cream → Moisturizer → Face Oil (optional). Always follow with a moisturizer to seal in the serum and prevent dryness. In the morning, use sunscreen SPF 30+ as retinoids increase sun sensitivity.
The comedogenic rating is approximately 2/5 (low-moderate). While it contains some potentially comedogenic ingredients like coconut-derived triglycerides and fatty alcohols, the concentrations in this serum formula are generally well-tolerated. Retinoids actually help with pore-clogging by increasing cell turnover. However, if you are extremely acne-prone, patch test first and monitor for any increased breakouts beyond normal purging.
The serum has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). However, since retinoids can degrade when exposed to light and air, try to use within 6-9 months for optimal potency. Store in a cool, dark place. If the color significantly darkens or the smell changes, the product may have oxidized and should be replaced.
Verdict: Mad Hippie Super A Serum delivers impressive value as a multi-retinoid serum that combines three forms of Vitamin A with plant-based bakuchiol. The clean, vegan formula addresses wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and texture concerns while built-in hydrators prevent the excessive dryness common with retinoids. At around $27 for a well-formulated multi-active serum, it offers excellent bang for your buck compared to luxury alternatives. The main limitations are pregnancy/fungal acne safety and the initial purging period. Best for anyone wanting effective anti-aging in a clean beauty package.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 6 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 7 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 3 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
|
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Squalane
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Hair Conditioning, Refatting
|
Hydrating
|