Description
Retinol and Peptide Face Serum: Overnight Refining Treatment with Retinol, Hexapeptide-11 & Bisabolol
Product Overview
Retinol and Peptide Face Serum is a targeted overnight facial treatment combining Retinol (Vitamin A derivative), Hexapeptide-11 (peptide), Phospholipids, and Bisabolol to support the appearance of skin texture, firmness, and overall refinement. This lightweight, fast-absorbing serum is designed for nighttime use to address the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture, and dullness while you sleep.
Formulated for individuals seeking retinol-based skincare to support skin renewal and a more polished, even-looking complexion over time with consistent use.
Ingredients
Key Ingredients:
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Retinol — Vitamin A derivative traditionally used to support skin cell turnover and the appearance of texture and tone
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Hexapeptide-11 — peptide traditionally used in formulations designed to support the appearance of skin firmness
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Phospholipids — lipid compounds that support skin barrier function and hydration
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Bisabolol — soothing botanical compound derived from chamomile, traditionally used to support skin comfort
Full Ingredient List: Aqua (Water), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Phospholipids, Retinol, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Hexapeptide-11, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Carboxyethyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Sodium Polyacrylate, Bisabolol
Product Details
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Manufacturer's Country: USA
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Product Amount: 1 fl oz / 0.07 lbs / 30 mL
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Gross Weight: 2.7 oz / 0.17 lbs / 75 g
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Format: Lightweight serum for nighttime use
Suggested Use
After cleansing, use fingers to apply 3-4 drops of serum to face and neck at night. Follow with moisturizer. Shake well before use.
CRITICAL: USE SUNSCREEN THE MORNING AFTER APPLICATION.
Retinol increases skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory when using retinol products to prevent sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and photoaging.
Important Usage Guidelines:
For First-Time Retinol Users:
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Start slowly — Use 1-2 times per week for the first 2-3 weeks to allow skin to adjust
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Gradually increase frequency — After initial adjustment period, increase to 3-4 times per week, then nightly as tolerated
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Expect an adjustment period — Mild dryness, flaking, redness, or sensitivity is normal during the first 2-4 weeks (called "retinization")
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Do NOT use other active ingredients (AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide) on the same night initially — this increases irritation risk
For Experienced Retinol Users:
- Can use nightly if skin has built tolerance
- Monitor for signs of over-exfoliation (persistent redness, irritation, compromised barrier)
Application Tips:
- Apply to completely dry skin (wait 10-15 minutes after cleansing if needed) — damp skin increases penetration and irritation risk
- Use a pea-sized amount (3-4 drops) for entire face and neck — more is not better
- Avoid eye area, corners of nose, and lips unless product is specifically designed for those areas
- Follow with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer to minimize dryness
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Always use SPF 30+ during the day (non-negotiable)
Important Warnings and Cautions
🚨 CRITICAL SUNSCREEN WARNING:
Retinol increases skin's sensitivity to UV radiation. Using retinol without daily sunscreen can cause:
- Severe sunburn
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Increased hyperpigmentation and dark spots (the opposite of what you're trying to achieve)
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Accelerated photoaging (wrinkles, sagging, sun damage)
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Increased skin cancer risk (with chronic UV exposure on retinol-sensitized skin)
YOU MUST USE BROAD-SPECTRUM SPF 30+ EVERY MORNING when using retinol products, even on cloudy days or when indoors near windows. This is non-negotiable for safe retinol use.
⚠️ FOR EXTERNAL USE ONLY:
- Do not ingest. If accidentally swallowed, contact a poison control center or seek medical attention.
❌ AVOID CONTACT WITH EYES:
- If product enters eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.
- If irritation persists, consult a healthcare professional.
❌ DO NOT USE IF:
- You are pregnant or nursing (consult physician first — retinoids can affect fetal development and may be present in breast milk)
- You are planning to become pregnant (discontinue retinol at least 1-2 months before trying to conceive)
- You have extremely sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea, or active inflammatory skin conditions without dermatologist guidance
- You have sunburned, windburned, or irritated skin (wait until skin has healed completely)
- You are allergic to any ingredient in the formula
- You are undergoing professional skin treatments (chemical peels, laser, microneedling) without dermatologist guidance on timing
🩺 CONSULT A DERMATOLOGIST BEFORE USE IF YOU:
- Have sensitive or reactive skin and are new to retinol
- Have rosacea, eczema, psoriasis, or other chronic skin conditions
- Are taking prescription retinoids (tretinoin, adapalene, tazarotene) or other prescription acne medications
- Are using other active skincare ingredients (AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide) and want guidance on layering or alternating
- Have a history of severe skin reactions to skincare products
- Are scheduled for professional skin treatments (chemical peels, laser, waxing, etc.) and want guidance on when to pause retinol use
⚠️ POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS (ESPECIALLY DURING FIRST 2-4 WEEKS):
Common "Retinization" Side Effects (Normal Adjustment Period):
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Dryness, flaking, peeling (skin shedding as cell turnover increases)
- Mild redness or irritation
- Increased sensitivity
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Temporary increase in breakouts ("purging" — bringing underlying congestion to the surface faster)
These effects typically subside after 2-4 weeks as skin adjusts. If they persist beyond 6-8 weeks or worsen, reduce frequency or discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
Signs of Excessive Irritation (Reduce Frequency or Discontinue):
- Persistent redness, burning, or stinging
- Severe dryness or tightness that doesn't improve with moisturizer
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Compromised skin barrier (raw, inflamed, extremely sensitive skin)
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Severe or painful breakouts (beyond normal purging)
If you experience severe or persistent irritation, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist.
⚠️ SUN SENSITIVITY:
- Retinol makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage
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Avoid prolonged sun exposure while using retinol
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Wear protective clothing and hats when outdoors
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Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when exposed to sun
⚠️ WAXING AND PROFESSIONAL TREATMENTS:
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Do not wax areas where retinol is applied (can cause skin removal and scarring)
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Pause retinol use 3-7 days before and after professional treatments (chemical peels, laser, microneedling, waxing)
- Consult your esthetician or dermatologist for specific timing guidance
⚠️ PATCH TEST RECOMMENDED:
Before first use, especially if you have sensitive skin:
- Apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist or jawline
- Wait 24-48 hours
- If redness, itching, swelling, or irritation occurs, do not use on full face
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Retinol degrades when exposed to light and air — keep bottle tightly sealed when not in use.
Shake well before use to ensure even distribution of active ingredients.
Understanding Retinol in Skincare
What is Retinol?
Retinol is a derivative of Vitamin A and one of the most researched and effective anti-aging skincare ingredients. It belongs to the retinoid family, which includes:
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Over-the-counter (OTC) retinoids: Retinol, retinyl palmitate, retinaldehyde (retinal)
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Prescription retinoids: Tretinoin (Retin-A), adapalene (Differin), tazarotene (Tazorac)
Retinol is less potent than prescription retinoids but still highly effective for addressing visible signs of aging and improving skin texture.
How Does Retinol Work?
Retinol works by:
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Increasing cell turnover — accelerates the shedding of dead skin cells and promotes the generation of new cells
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Supporting collagen production — stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen, which supports skin firmness and elasticity
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Improving texture and tone — refines rough texture, evens discoloration, and smooths fine lines over time
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Unclogging pores — prevents dead skin buildup that leads to blackheads and whiteheads
What Can Retinol Address?
With consistent, long-term use (3-6+ months), retinol can visibly improve:
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Enlarged pore appearance
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Acne and blemishes (by preventing clogged pores)
What Retinol Cannot Do:
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Work overnight — Results take 8-12 weeks minimum, with continued improvement over 6-12+ months
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Erase deep wrinkles or severe photoaging — Retinol improves skin, but cannot reverse decades of damage (prescription retinoids or professional treatments may be needed for severe aging)
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Replace sunscreen — Retinol does not protect against UV damage (and actually increases sun sensitivity)
Important Considerations:
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Consistency is key — Retinol requires regular, long-term use to see results. Sporadic use will not produce meaningful benefits.
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Start low and go slow — Begin with low frequency (1-2x/week) and gradually increase as skin builds tolerance.
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Sunscreen is mandatory — Retinol without daily SPF causes more harm than good.
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Patience is essential — Retinol is not a quick fix. Expect gradual improvement over months, not weeks.
Setting Realistic Expectations
✅ What This Serum IS:
- A nighttime retinol treatment designed to support the appearance of skin texture, firmness, and tone over time with consistent use
- Formulated with retinol, peptides, and soothing ingredients to address visible signs of aging
- A lightweight, fast-absorbing serum suitable for most skin types (when introduced gradually)
- An evidence-based skincare ingredient with decades of research supporting its effectiveness
❌ What This Serum is NOT:
- NOT a quick fix — results require 8-12+ weeks of consistent use
- NOT suitable for pregnant or nursing women (consult physician first)
- NOT appropriate for extremely sensitive skin, active eczema/rosacea, or compromised skin barriers without dermatologist guidance
- NOT a substitute for sunscreen (and requires daily SPF 30+ for safe use)
- NOT guaranteed to work for everyone — individual responses vary based on skin type, condition, and tolerance
Realistic Timeline for Results
Weeks 1-2: Adjustment Period ("Retinization")
- Expect dryness, flaking, mild redness, or sensitivity
- No visible improvements yet — skin is adjusting to increased cell turnover
Weeks 3-4: Tolerance Building
- Initial side effects should begin to subside
- Skin may still feel slightly dry or sensitive
Weeks 6-8: Early Improvements
- Skin texture may feel smoother
- Tone may appear more even
- Pores may look slightly refined
Weeks 12+: Continued Improvement
- Fine lines and wrinkles may appear softened
- Hyperpigmentation may lighten
- Overall skin quality and radiance improve
6-12 Months: Optimal Results
- Continued improvement in texture, tone, firmness, and clarity
- Best results achieved with long-term, consistent use
Important: If you do not see any improvement after 12-16 weeks of consistent use, consult a dermatologist. You may need a higher-strength retinoid or a different treatment approach.
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Use Retinol
✅ Best For:
- Individuals seeking to address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture, or hyperpigmentation
- Those with mature skin showing visible signs of aging
- Individuals with acne-prone skin (retinol helps prevent clogged pores)
- Those committed to daily sunscreen use (non-negotiable)
- Individuals with normal, combination, or oily skin types (generally tolerate retinol well)
❌ NOT Recommended For:
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Pregnant or nursing women (retinoids can affect fetal development)
- Individuals with extremely sensitive skin, eczema, rosacea, or active inflammatory conditions without dermatologist guidance
- Those unwilling to use daily sunscreen (retinol without SPF causes harm)
- Individuals seeking instant results (retinol requires patience and consistency)
- Those with very dry skin who cannot commit to a hydrating, barrier-supportive routine
When to Consult a Dermatologist
Seek professional advice if you:
- Are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant and considering retinol use
- Have sensitive, reactive, or compromised skin and want personalized guidance
- Experience severe or persistent irritation that doesn't improve with reduced frequency
- Want to explore prescription-strength retinoids for more dramatic results
- Have severe acne, deep wrinkles, or significant photoaging requiring professional treatment
- Are unsure about layering retinol with other active ingredients in your routine
Disclaimer
This product is a cosmetic serum for external use only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any skin disease or medical condition. Retinol increases skin's sensitivity to UV radiation — daily broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory when using this product. Individual results vary based on skin type, condition, and usage. Pregnant or nursing women should consult a physician before use. For persistent or severe skin concerns, consult a board-certified dermatologist.
