Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum

The retinoid work comes from a blend of 0.1% retinol, retinal (a stronger form that converts to skin-active retinoic acid in fewer steps), and bakuchiol, a plant-derived ingredient that behaves similarly to retinol with less sting, alongside niacinamide for tone. To keep it tolerable, the base leans on centella asiatica, panthenol, beta-glucan, licorice root, and glycerin to calm and hydrate. The texture is a lightweight, silicone-smoothed serum that absorbs quickly and layers under moisturizer. Use it at night only, starting two or three evenings a week and building up as your skin adjusts; apply after cleansing and any watery steps, then seal with a moisturizer. Retinoids can cause dryness, flaking, or tingling early on and make skin more sun-sensitive, so daily sunscreen is essential — and retinol is generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so check with your doctor.