Naturium Retinol Complex Serum, Encapsulated Retinols & Bakuchiol, Refining & Smoothing Facial Serum, 1 oz

I’ve always wanted to get into retinol, but my skin? She’s dramatic. Most retinols have either dried me out or left me red and flaky. This one, though? Total game changer. It’s super gentle but still effective. I started slow (every 3rd night at first) and had zero irritation, no redness, no peeling, no regret. It’s creamy and hydrating, so it doesn’t feel harsh or medical like some others I’ve tried. My skin’s texture has already started improving, and I’ve noticed fewer breakouts and smoother skin overall. It’s the perfect beginner retinol if your skin tends to be sensitive or reactive. Naturium is seriously earning a permanent spot in my routine. This + their Vitamin C = dream team.

I first became familiar with this brand of serums when I purchased and used the niacinamide serum, and I still love it and use it every morning. However, I have dry skin, and I mean really, really dry, as dry as the Sahara. This wasn't too bad when I was a teen because I never suffered from one acne blemish. Ever. But I'm older now, and dry skin does me no favors. When I noticed a few very fine lines around my chin, I immediately purchased this retinol serum, and I have to say, I love it! So many serums and moisturizers just seem to lay on top of my skin, ignoring the fact that my skin is so dry and thirsty. But this serum is quickly absorbed, and it makes my skin feel as smooth and silky as glass. I actually have a hard time keeping my hands off my face. The retinol (and the niacinamide) contract the pores so it appears as though I have poreless skin, though of course I have as many pores on my face as anyone else. You just can't see them now. And, with my first application, those pesky fine lines around my chin began to disappear. Now, I do have to add, I use a 1.5 mm derma needler once a month and a 0.25 mm needler the other three weeks of the month. I am convinced that the 1.5 mm needler (which you shouldn't use more often than once a month) is promoting collagen production, and I'm equally convinced that this retinol serum is speeding the process of collagen production along. (The 0.25 mm roller won't induce collagen production, but it will help your product absorption.) Together, the serum and the roller are synergistic, and I couldn't be happier about the effects. (If you do suffer from acne scars, retinol should help fade them.) I don't have sensitive skin, so I use this serum every night under my nighttime sleeping mask (wait till the serum is absorbed before applying the mask), but if you do have sensitive skin, you probably should start using it one or two nights each week and work your way up to every night, letting your skin be your guide. You might not want to use it every night if you find it's causing excessive dryness, but I've found any dryness can be counteracted with a good moisturizer and a sleeping mask. In fact, since using this serum, my face has never been more moist and dewy. Although retinol serum can be used during the day, I use my retinol serum at night because retinols can make you more sensitive to sunlight. This sensitivity will linger even after you've washed them off, so be sure to apply a good sunscreen during the day. There are many good sunscreen to be found here on Amazon. This serum also contains hyaluronic acid and vitamin E, which are both very good for the skin, help alleviate dryness, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. It can take about three months to see increased collagen production from both derma rollers and retinol serum. This doesn't mean it will take you three months to see results, only that it can take that long to reach optimal results. I noticed a definite improvement in my skin after only one use. It was really unbelievable! I've tried very, very expensive luxury serums and creams, including one $400 cream, that didn't do what this serum does. I can't recommend this serum highly enough or the whole Naturium line. It's wonderful to finally find a product that delivers on its promises. And, as an added bonus, the ingredients are "clean," having been derived entirely from plants. Very important, especially to me, is the fact that Naturium products are cruelty free and never tested on animals, so we animal lovers can have our cake and eat it, too! If you've been on the fence about this serum or any Naturium product, all I can say is, "Go for it!" I think you'll love them as much as I do.

I have loved this serum and most products from Naturium. I have noticed a difference in my skin when I am using it consistently. I highly recommend keeping this in your "buy again" category!

So far the only retinol I have used that has not irritated me and that is a big plus will update on results after a month of use

Perfect for acne prone skin. Great product to keep acne at bay. Doesn't make ur acne disappear but stops it from getting worse. Works best when paired with a toner (thayers) first and followed by moisturizer.

Being using this for 3 years. Great product

Gave it 3 stars because it didnt work for me but may work for others. It really burned my skin - I have mild rosacea - with my face being red for a day. Normally I like Naturium products but this was a no for me. Perhaps it had too many strong ingredients in it, who knows.

I'm 26, I have very dry, eczema prone skin and get hormonal acne around shark week. My Routine is very simple and very hydrating. The texture is thin, and you only need 1 pump for your whole face. Lasted me 3 months (still going) and bought a back up. I did not have a reaction to this product (usually happens within days of trying products, not purging). I use this 6 nights a week (I use an exfoliator on 1 night) you should try every other night first to see if you have a reaction or not. I have noticed little lines decrease (I'm 26 so I dont really have much of those) and hyperpigmentation from acne significantly fade! I have less breakouts, and my skin is much smoother. I feel more comfortable wearing almost no make (literally just blush. I'm pasty and need some color to not look dead lol) which is my goal. To be almost makeup free. I'd recommend this product to anyone, and it definitely worth a try. I think its great for all skin types! BUT FOR THE LOVE OF ALL THINGS HOLY AND UNHOLY WEAR A SUNSCREEN OF AT LEAST SPF 30 EVERY DAY!!!!!!!!!!!! OTHERWISE DONT BOTHER USING THIS OR ANY RETINOL BECAUSE YOULL JUST MAKE YOUR SKIN WORSE!!!!!