IOPE Retinol Expert

IOPE

Retinol Expert

face eyes lips neck serum

Added Last edited

concentration

0,3% 0.1%

Fit by skin type

General, ingredient-based — not your personalized match.

Dry
68%
Combination (dry)
68%
Balanced
98%
Combination (oily)
72%
Oily
72%

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51
Ingredients
7
Benefits
4
Actives
Find Dupes

IOPE's award-winning serum is now available with a higher concentration of retinol! This potent anti-aging serum is formulated with pure retinol 0.3%, to improve the appearance of fine lines, and boost skin elasticity, in addition to hyaluronic acid to keep skin deeply moisturized. Developed for optimum skin health and backed by clinical trials this formula visibly smooths wrinkles and tightens pores in just 2 weeks.

Key Insights

Benefits

7
Anti-Acne
Anti-Aging
Dark Spot Fading
Evens Skin Tone
Hydration
Pore Minimizer
Soothing

Active Ingredients

4
Hyaluronic acid Retinoids Vitamin B5 (panthenol) Vitamin C

Risks

3
Pregnancy Unsafe
Silicone
Synthetic polymer

Full Ingredients

51 total
WATER CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE PROPANEDIOL GLYCERIN GLYCINE SOJA OIL TOCOPHEROL TOCOPHERYL ACETATE CETEARYL ALCOHOL TREHALOSE PANTHENOL Vitamin B5 (panthenol) BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER DIMETHICONE GLYCERYL POLYMETHACRYLATE POLYGLYCERYL-10 STEARATE HYDROGENATED LECITHIN HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER CARBOMER RETINOL Retinoids OSMANTHUS FRAGRANS LEAF EXTRACT TROMETHAMINE GLYCERYL STEARATE POLYSILICONE-11 SODIUM SULFITE DAUCUS CAROTA SATIVA ROOT EXTRACT ALLANTOIN GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE ORYZA SATIVA BRAN WAX MANNITOL STEARIC ACID POLYGLYCERYL-3 METHYLGLUCOSE DISTEARATE PALMITIC ACID ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN DISODIUM EDTA SODIUM HYALURONATE Hyaluronic acid BHT SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE 1,2-HEXANEDIOL HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID Hyaluronic acid BETA-CAROTENE SODIUM HYALURONATE CROSSPOLYMER Hyaluronic acid MYRISTIC ACID HYALURONIC ACID Hyaluronic acid LAURIC ACID ACETYL TETRAPEPTIDE-11 SODIUM ACETYLATED HYALURONATE Hyaluronic acid ASCORBIC ACID Vitamin C LIMNANTHES ALBA SEED OIL 3-O-ETHYL ASCORBIC ACID Vitamin C GLUTATHIONE

About Retinol Expert 0.3%

Overview

Retinol Expert 0.3% is a cushioning serum from IOPE, a brand based in Korea. The formula is built mainly around hydration. The ingredient list runs to 51 ingredients, each broken down in full below.

Texture and finish

By its ingredient list the formula reads as moderately cushioned — emollient enough to feel like a cream, without the heaviest occlusives near the top. It contains both silicones and oils, a combination that usually finishes smooth and slightly satin and sits well under makeup. Hydration is handled by Propanediol, Glycerin and Trehalose, humectants that pull water into the upper layers of skin rather than sealing it there.

What the formula does

Hydration: Very high. Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin, and here that comes from Propanediol, Glycerin, Trehalose and Panthenol.

Soothing: Moderate. Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity, and here that comes from Panthenol, Allantoin, Tocopherol and Tocopheryl Acetate.

Antioxidant support: Moderate. Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution, and here that comes from Tocopherol, Ascorbic Acid, 3-o-ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Glutathione.

Brightening: Moderate. Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks, and here that comes from Ascorbic Acid, 3-o-ethyl Ascorbic Acid and Tocopherol.

Who it suits

On richness alone it suits Balanced skin best, and is the least natural fit for Dry, Combination (dry), Combination (oily) and Oily skin. Nothing in the list is flagged as a common irritant, which is a reasonable starting point for reactive skin — though a patch test is still the only way to know.

What it does not target

The formula contributes little or nothing on oil control, cell renewal and firmness signalling. That is not a fault — most products are not meant to do everything — but if one of those is your priority, this is not the product that will address it.

What is not in it

Reading the full list, the formula is fragrance-free, essential-oil-free, no drying alcohol, paraben-free, microplastic-free and sulfate-free. Those claims come from the ingredient list itself, not from the packaging.

Where it fits in a routine

It can be used morning and evening. In a routine it goes before moisturiser. Tap along the orbital bone with your ring finger; product migrates upward on its own.

This summary is generated from the product's ingredient list. It is not a review, it is not the brand's own marketing claims, and it does not replace advice from a dermatologist.

Pros and cons

Drawn purely from the ingredient list

Pros

  • No fragrance or declared allergens
  • No essential oils
  • No drying alcohol
  • No microplastics
  • Strong humectant content for hydration
  • No common irritants flagged in the list

Things to know

  • 8 ingredients could feed malassezia (fungal acne)
  • Contains ingredients usually flagged for review during pregnancy

Which skin types it suits

Scored on how rich or light the formula reads from its INCI order.

Suitable for

  • Balanced skin

Less suitable for

  • Dry skin
  • Combination (dry) skin
  • Combination (oily) skin
  • Oily skin

Sensitive skin

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Skin concerns

Based on the curated benefits documented for this product's ingredients.

Helps with

  • Hydration 27 ingredients

    Attracts and locks in moisture to keep skin plump and dewy

  • Anti-Aging 17 ingredients

    Boosts collagen and cell turnover to reduce fine lines and wrinkles

  • Soothing 8 ingredients

    Calms redness, irritation, and inflammation for sensitive skin

  • Evens Skin Tone 3 ingredients

    Brightens and balances complexion for a more uniform appearance

  • Dark Spot Fading 2 ingredients

    Fades hyperpigmentation and evens out dark spots over time

  • Anti-Acne 1 ingredient

    Targets breakouts by reducing bacteria and unclogging pores

  • Pore Minimizer 1 ingredient

    Tightens and refines the look of enlarged pores

Does not target

Blackhead Reducing Oil Control Smooths Bumpy Skin

None of the ingredients in this formula are associated with these benefits. This is not unusual, as most products are designed to target a limited number of concerns.

Key ingredients

The actives, UV filters and benefit-carrying ingredients in this formula, in the order they are listed.

Water

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration
Caprylic/capric Triglyceride

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Decanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol octanoate; Glycerides, mixed decanoyl and octanoyl

Hydration
Propanediol

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
Glycerin

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycerine ;Glycerol (INN); Glycerol (RIFM); Glycerolum (EP); Glycyl Alcohol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane

Hydration Anti-Aging
Glycine Soja Oil

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycine Soja Oil is the oil obtained from the soybean, Glycine soja, Leguminosae, by extraction or expression. It consists esentially of triglycerides of oleic, linoleic and saturated acids

Anti-Aging Hydration
Tocopherol

6th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol; .alpha.-tocopherol; Vitamin E

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
Tocopheryl Acetate

7th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-yl acetate

Anti-Aging Soothing
Cetearyl Alcohol

8th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Alcohols, C16-18

Hydration
Trehalose

9th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

alpha-D-Glucopyranoside, alpha-D-glucopyranosyl

Hydration
Panthenol Vitamin B5 (panthenol)

10th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butanamide, 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethyl-, (2R)-; dl-Panthenol

Hydration Soothing
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter

11th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butyrospermum Parkii Butter is the fat obtained from the fruit of the Shea Tree, Butyrospernum parkii, Sapotaceae

Anti-Aging Hydration Soothing
Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp Copolymer

12th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a copolymer of ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate and vinylpyrrolidone monomers

Hydration

Formula analysis

Each axis is scored from the ingredients present and how high up the list they sit.

Hydration Very high

Ingredients that pull and hold water in the upper layers of skin

Barrier support Low

Lipids and repair signals that support skin barrier integrity

Antioxidant support Moderate

Ingredients that mop up free radicals from UV and pollution

Oil control None

Ingredients that moderate sebum or absorb shine

Brightening Moderate

Ingredients that act on uneven tone and post-inflammatory marks

Soothing Moderate

Ingredients aimed at visible redness and reactivity

Cell renewal None

Retinoids, acids and enzymes that speed surface turnover

Firmness signalling None

Peptides and growth factors that signal for collagen support

Active and supporting ingredients

"Active" here means an ingredient carrying a recorded active type or a recognised UV filter.

Supporting ingredients (42)

Solvents, emollients, texture agents and preservatives — the formula that carries the actives.

Water Caprylic/capric Triglyceride Propanediol Glycerin Glycine Soja Oil Tocopherol Tocopheryl Acetate Cetearyl Alcohol Trehalose Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp Copolymer Dimethicone Glyceryl Polymethacrylate Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate Hydrogenated Lecithin Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer Carbomer Osmanthus Fragrans Leaf Extract Tromethamine Glyceryl Stearate Polysilicone-11 Sodium Sulfite Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Allantoin Glyceryl Caprylate Oryza Sativa Bran Wax Mannitol Stearic Acid Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate Palmitic Acid Ethylhexylglycerin Disodium Edta BHT Sorbitan Isostearate 1,2-hexanediol Beta-carotene Myristic Acid Lauric Acid Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11 Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil Glutathione

What is and is not in it

Read from the full ingredient list. A brand's own claim may differ.

Free from

  • Fragrance-free
  • Essential-oil-free
  • No drying alcohol
  • Paraben-free
  • Microplastic-free
  • Sulfate-free
  • Dye-free
  • No animal-derived ingredients

Contains

  • Silicones

    Dimethicone, Polysilicone-11

  • Facial oils

    Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil

What to layer it with

Judged by the same curated rules our routine checker uses. It reads the ingredients, not the label.

Compatible with

  • Copper peptides
  • Bakuchiol
  • Niacinamide
  • Hyaluronic acid
  • Ceramides
  • Signal peptides
  • Panthenol
  • Sunscreen

Use with caution

  • AHAs (glycolic, lactic)

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • BHA (salicylic acid)

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • PHAs (gluconolactone)

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • Benzoyl peroxide

    Best kept to separate routines — one in the morning, one at night, or on alternate days.

  • Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • Retinoids (retinol, retinal)

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

  • Azelaic acid

    Can be layered, but the combination raises the irritation risk. Go slowly.

Where it fits in a routine

Morning Evening
  1. Cleanse
  2. Toning
  3. Eye
  4. Moisturise
  5. Protect

This product is the "Eye" step.

  • Tap along the orbital bone with your ring finger; product migrates upward on its own.

Safety and suitability

Flags to check, not verdicts. None of this is medical advice — if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or treating a skin condition, ask a doctor.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Contains Retinol, usually reviewed with a doctor during pregnancy.
Fungal acne (malassezia)
8 ingredients could feed malassezia: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil. That is about the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that you will break out.
Sensitive and reactive skin
No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.
Recorded ingredient risks
Pregnancy Unsafe, Silicone, Synthetic polymer

Ingredients by function

Most ingredients do more than one job, so these counts add up to more than the 51 ingredients on the label.

11
Texture agent

Sets the thickness, spread and stability of the formula

10
Surfactant

Lifts oil and dirt, or holds oil and water together

9
Active

Changes how skin behaves rather than how it feels

9
Humectant

Draws water into the upper layers of skin

8
Emollient

Softens and smooths by filling gaps between skin cells

5
Antioxidant

Neutralises free radicals from UV and pollution

4
Occlusive

Forms a film that slows water loss

4
Solvent

Dissolves and carries everything else

2
pH adjuster

Sets the acidity the formula needs to work

2
Plant extract

Botanical material, usually for antioxidants or scent

1
Soothing

Calms visible redness and irritation

1
Chelator

Binds trace metals that would otherwise spoil the formula

1
Peptide

Amino-acid chains that signal for repair or firmness

1
Preservative

Keeps the product free of microbial growth

Ingredient breakdown

Every ingredient on the label, in order, with what it does and roughly how much of it is likely to be there.

1 Water Solvent
Estimated level
30–80%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

1st on the list, which puts it at an estimated 30–80% of the formula.

Aqua (EU),Deionized Water,Distilled Water,Micromatrix Fractile AN,Onsen-Sui (JPN),Purified Water

Hydration
3 scientific references
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2015, pages 131-136
  • Skin Pharmacology and Applied Skin Physiology, November-December 1999, pages 344-351
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, September-October 1993, pages 249-262
2 Caprylic/capric Triglyceride
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line

2nd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

Decanoic acid, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol octanoate; Glycerides, mixed decanoyl and octanoyl

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 34-35
  • Periodica Polytechnica Chemical Engineering, 2014, pages 43-48
  • International Journal of Toxicology, January 2003, pages 4-5
  • Food and Chemical Toxicology, January 2000, pages 79-98
  • Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists, August 1985, pages 303-311
3 Propanediol Texture agent
Estimated level
5–20%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Solvent

3rd on the list, which puts it at an estimated 5–20% of the formula.

1,3-dihydroxypropane

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • PubChem Compound Summary, April 2021, ePublication
  • SpecialChem, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, June 2018, pages 1-73
  • Cosmetics & Toiletries, May 2013, pages 81-86
4 Glycerin Humectant
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Occlusive, Texture agent, Solvent

4th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycerine ;Glycerol (INN); Glycerol (RIFM); Glycerolum (EP); Glycyl Alcohol; 1,2,3-Propanetriol; 1,2,3-Trihydroxypropane

Hydration Anti-Aging
6 scientific references
  • Journal of Pharmaceutical Investigation, March 2021, pages 223-231
  • International Journal of Toxicology, November/December 2019, Volume 38, Supplement 3, pages 6S-22S
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2016, ePublication
  • British Journal of Dermatology, July 2008, pages 23-34
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2007, pages 75-82
  • Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, June 2003, pages 7, 360-7, 365
5 Glycine Soja Oil Emollient
Estimated level
2–10%
Confidence
Moderate — INCI order above the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

5th on the list, which puts it at an estimated 2–10% of the formula.

Glycine Soja Oil is the oil obtained from the soybean, Glycine soja, Leguminosae, by extraction or expression. It consists esentially of triglycerides of oleic, linoleic and saturated acids

Anti-Aging Hydration
8 scientific references
  • Phytotherapy Research, March 2020, pages 435-437
  • AAPS PharmSciTech, October 2018, pages 3, 029-3, 039
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, February 2018, pages 28-37
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, December 2017, ePublication
  • Molecules, Volume 22, September 2017, ePublication
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, September 2013, pages s123-s127
  • Journal of Medicinal Food, January 2012, pages 89-95
  • International Journal of Dermatology, April 2011, pages 470-477
6 Tocopherol Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

6th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-ol; .alpha.-tocopherol; Vitamin E

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Soothing
4 scientific references
  • Journal or Agricultural and Food Chemistry, June 2010, pages 7013-7020
  • Journal of Investigative Dermatology, November 2001, pages 1212-1217
  • Canadian Family Physician, July 2006, pages 855-856
  • Dermatologic Surgery, April 1999, pages 311-315
7 Tocopheryl Acetate Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

7th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3,4-Dihydro-2,5,7,8-tetramethyl-2-(4,8,12-trimethyltridecyl)-2H-benzopyran-6-yl acetate

Anti-Aging Soothing
8 scientific references
  • 5 Super Anti-Aging Antioxidants Your Skin Needs
  • How to Keep Your Neck & Chest Looking Young
  • Acne & Aging Skin
  • How to Diminish Uneven Skin Tone and Get Your Glow Back
  • What Are Peptides and What Do They Do for Skin?
  • The Truth About Firming Creams
  • Top 5 Reasons to Add Antioxidants to Your Skin Care Routine
  • Anti-Aging Superstars
8 Cetearyl Alcohol Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant, Texture agent

8th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Alcohols, C16-18

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • CosmeticsInfoorg, Accessed March 2021, ePublication
  • FDA Cosmetic Labeling Claims, August 2020, ePublication
  • Journal of the Society of Cosmetic Scientists of Korea, June 2009, pages 103-110
  • Journal of the American College of Toxicology, 1988, pages 359-413
9 Trehalose Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant

9th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

alpha-D-Glucopyranoside, alpha-D-glucopyranosyl

Hydration
7 scientific references
  • Cosmetics, October 2019, pages 1-10
  • Cell Death & Disease, July 2019, pages 1-16
  • International Journal of Toxicology, 2019, pages 5S-38S
  • Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, February 2018, pages 2, 965-2, 976
  • Journal of Applied Polymer Science, May 2017, pages 1-6
  • Biomedical Reports, September 2014, pages 755-759
  • Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, June 2011, pages 2, 020-2, 053
10 Panthenol Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active

10th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butanamide, 2,4-dihydroxy-N-(3-hydroxypropyl)-3,3-dimethyl-, (2R)-; dl-Panthenol

Hydration Soothing
7 scientific references
  • The Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Accessed April 2021, ePublication
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2019, pages 534-547
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, January 2019, pages 346-354
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, March 2018, pages 1-51
  • The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, August 2017, pages 173-180
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2011, pages 361-370
  • American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, Volume 3, 2002, pages 427-433
11 Butyrospermum Parkii Butter Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

11th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Butyrospermum Parkii Butter is the fat obtained from the fruit of the Shea Tree, Butyrospernum parkii, Sapotaceae

Anti-Aging Hydration Soothing
3 scientific references
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, June 2011, pages 45-55
  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, October 2003, pages 6, 268-6, 273
  • Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, February 2009, page S41
12 Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/vp Copolymer Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

12th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer is a copolymer of ammonium acryloyldimethyltaurate and vinylpyrrolidone monomers

Hydration
13 Dimethicone Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Occlusive

13th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Dimethicone

Hydration Silicone
7 scientific references
  • FDA Code of Federal Regulations, April 2020, ePublication
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2014, pages 65S-115S
  • The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, May 2014, pages 36-44
  • Dermatologic Therapy, May 2012, pages 229-233
  • Clinics in Dermatology, May-June 2012, pages 345-348
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, January 2008, pages 19-33
  • Skin Research and Technology, May 2000, pages 77-80
14 Glyceryl Polymethacrylate Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

14th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Propenoic acid, 2-methyl-, homopolymer, ester with 1,2,3-propanetriol

Synthetic polymer
15 Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

15th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,2,3-Propanetriol, homopolymer, octadecanoates (1:1) (10 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

Hydration
16 Hydrogenated Lecithin Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

16th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Lecithins, hydrogenated

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2020, pages 5S-25S
  • Nanocosmetics, June 2019, pages 95–140
  • Current Drug Delivery, 2016, pages 111–120
  • Pharmaceutical Research, February 2013, pages 538–55
17 Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient

17th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil is the oil expressed from the seeds of the Sunflower, Helianthus annuus L., Compositae

Anti-Aging Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Pediatric Dermatology, August 2018, ePublication; and January-February 2013, pages 42-50
  • Chemicke Zvesti, May 2018, pages 2, 607-2, 615
  • International Journal of Molecular Sciences, December 2017, ePublication
  • Dermatology, October 2014, pages 230-239
18 Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

18th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer is a copolymer of sodium hydroxyethyl acrylate and acryloyldimethyl taurate monomers

Synthetic polymer
19 Carbomer Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent

19th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2-Propenoic acid, polymer with 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol 2-propenyl ether

Synthetic polymer
20 Retinol Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active

20th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Retinol; vitamin A

Anti-Aging Anti-Acne Pore Minimizer Pregnancy Unsafe
10 scientific references
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, September 2019, pages 918-923; and March 2015, pages 271-280
  • Experimental Dermatology, August 2019, pages 906-913
  • Archives of Dermatological Research, May 2017, pages 275-283
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, February 2017, pages 56-65
  • Dermatology, May 2014, pages 314-325
  • Dermatoendocrinology, July 2012, issue 3, pages 308-319
  • Toxicological Research, March 2010, pages 61-66
  • Archives of Dermatology, May 2007, pages 606-612
  • The Journal of Pathology, January 2007, issue 2, pages 241-251
  • Clinical Interventions in Aging, December 2006, pages 327-348
21 Osmanthus Fragrans Leaf Extract Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Plant extract

21st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Osmanthus Fragrans Leaf Extract is the extract of the leaves of Osmanthus fragrans, Oleaceae.

22 Tromethamine pH adjuster
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
pH adjuster

22nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,3-Propanediol, 2-amino-2-(hydroxymethyl)-

23 Glyceryl Stearate Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant

23rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Stearic acid, monoester with glycerol

Hydration
3 scientific references
  • Cosmeticsinfoorg, Accessed November 2021, ePublication
  • Drugs in Context, April 2018, pages 1-14
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2007, pages 1–30
24 Polysilicone-11 Occlusive
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive

24th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Cyclosiloxanes, dimethyl, polymers with dimethyl, methyl hydrogen siloxanes and vinyl-group terminated dimethylsiloxanes

25 Sodium Sulfite Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant, Preservative

25th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium sulphite

26 Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract Plant extract
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Plant extract

26th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Daucus Carota Sativa Root Extract is an extract of the roots of the Carrot, Daucus carota L. var. sativa, Umbelliferae

27 Allantoin Occlusive
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Occlusive, Soothing

27th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Urea, (2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl)-

Soothing
8 scientific references
  • Chemistry Series, March 2020, pages 7-21
  • Molecules, June 2019, pages 1-33
  • European Journal of Pharmacology, February 2018, pages 68-78
  • Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, June 2017, Volume 76, Issue 2, Supplement 1
  • Pharmacognosy Review, Volume 5, July-December 2011
  • International Journal of Toxicology, May 2010, Supplement, pages 84S-97S
  • Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, October 2008, ePublication
  • https://wwwaccessdatafdagov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearchcfm?CFRPart=347&showFR=1
28 Glyceryl Caprylate Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant

28th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Octanoic acid, monoester with glycerol

Hydration
29 Oryza Sativa Bran Wax
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

29th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

AEC Rice Wax,Oryza Sative Bran Wax,Rice Bran Wax,Rice Wax

30 Mannitol Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Texture agent

30th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

D-Mannitol

Hydration
31 Stearic Acid Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant, Texture agent

31st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Stearic acid

Hydration
4 scientific references
  • Cosmetic Ingredient Review, May 2019, pages 1-61
  • International Journal of Cosmetic Science, August 2008, page 310
  • Therapeutics for the Clinician, May 2005, pages 317-324
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, December 2003, pages 559-568
32 Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

32nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Methyl-D-glucopyranoside, ethers with 1,2,3-propanetriol homopolymer, octadecanoates (1:1:2) (3 mol glycerol average molar ratio)

33 Palmitic Acid Emollient
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Emollient, Surfactant

33rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hexadecanoic acid

34 Ethylhexylglycerin
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

34th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

1,2-Propanediol, 3-(2-ethylhexyloxy)

Hydration
5 scientific references
  • PLoS One, October 2016, ePublication
  • Contact Dermatitis, May 2016, pages 281-288
  • International Journal of Toxicology, September 2013, pages 5S-21S
  • Personal Care, 2008, pages 1-4
  • Cosmetic Science Technology, 2006, pages 1-11
35 Disodium Edta Texture agent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Texture agent, Chelator

35th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Disodium dihydrogen ethylenediaminetetraacetate

36 Sodium Hyaluronate Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

36th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hyaluronic acid, sodium, salt

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing
5 scientific references
  • Der Hautarzt; Zeitschrift fur Dermatologie, Venerologie, und Verwandte Gebiete, December 2017, pages 987-993
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, July 2014, pages 277-287
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, October 2012, pages 20-23
  • DermatoEndocrinology, July-December 2012, pages 253-258
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, September 2011, pages 990-1000
37 BHT Antioxidant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Antioxidant

37th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

2,6-Di-tert-butyl-p-cresol

38 Sorbitan Isostearate Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

38th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sorbitan, isooctadecanoate

39 1,2-hexanediol Solvent
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Solvent

39th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

40 Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

40th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid is the hydrolysate of Hyaluronic Acid derived by acid, enzyme or other method of hydrolysis

Hydration
41 Beta-carotene
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

41st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

.beta.,.beta.-carotene

Anti-Aging
42 Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

42nd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hyaluronic acid, sodium salt, polymer with 1,1'-sulfonylbis[ethene]

Hydration Anti-Aging Soothing
43 Myristic Acid Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

43rd on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Tetradecanoic acid

44 Hyaluronic Acid Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

44th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Hyaluronic acid

Anti-Aging Hydration
5 scientific references
  • Journal of Evidence-Based, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, October 2017, pages 816-823
  • Journal of Medicinal Food, October 2016, pages 1, 172-1, 179
  • Nutrition Journal, July 2013, ePublication
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011, issue 9, pages 990-1000
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, March 2009, pages 38-43
45 Lauric Acid Surfactant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Surfactant

45th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Dodecanoic acid

Hydration Soothing
5 scientific references
  • Dermatologic Therapy, July 2020, pages 1-4
  • IOP Conference Series: Earth and Environmental Science, June 2020, pages 1-6
  • Biomaterials, October 2009, pages 6, 035-6, 040
  • Journal of the American college of Toxicology, 1987, pages 1-81
  • Tenside Surfactants Detergents, December 1976, pages 313-316
46 Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11 Peptide
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Peptide

46th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11 is the reaction product of Acetic Acid and Tetrapeptide-11

Anti-Aging Hydration
47 Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate Humectant
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Humectant, Active

47th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Sodium Acetylhyaluronate

Hydration Anti-Aging
48 Ascorbic Acid Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active, Antioxidant, pH adjuster

48th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Ascorbic acid

Anti-Aging Dark Spot Fading Evens Skin Tone
12 scientific references
  • Drug Delivery, February 2021, pages 445-453
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, December 2020, pages 3, 262-3, 269
  • Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, May-August 2020, pages 374-382
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, March 2020, pages 671-676
  • Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, July 2017 pages 14-17
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2016, pages 863-867
  • Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology, September 2015, pages 463-470
  • Indian Dermatology Online Journal, April-June 2013, pages 143-146
  • AAPS PharmSciTech, July 2011, pages 917-923
  • Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, July 2008, Supplement, pages s2-s6
  • International Journal of Toxicology, Supplement 2, March 2005, pages 51-111
  • Skin Pharmacology and Physiology, July-August 2004, pages 200-206
49 Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

49th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil is the oil extracted from the seeds of the meadowfoam plant, Limnanthes alba, Limnanthaceae.

Hydration Anti-Aging
50 3-o-ethyl Ascorbic Acid Active
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line
Roles
Active

50th on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid is the organic compound.

Anti-Aging Evens Skin Tone Dark Spot Fading
5 scientific references
  • Free Radical Biology and Medicine, September 2021, pages 151–169
  • Life, May 2021, pages 1–13
  • International Journal of Pharmaceutics, December 2019, pages 1–9
  • Journal of Cosmetic Science, July-August 2018, pages 233–243
  • AAPS PharmSciTech, June 2016, pages 767–777
51 Glutathione
Estimated level
under 1%
Confidence
Moderate — listed below the 1% line

51st on the list, below the 1% line — present at under 1%, which for most ingredients is the level they work at.

Glycine, N-(N-L-.gamma.-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl)-

Anti-Aging
8 scientific references
  • Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, June 2019, pages 728–737
  • Clinical Cosmetic and Investigative Dermatology, April 2017, pages 147-153 and October 2014, pages 267-274
  • Nutrients, August 2017, pages 1-27
  • DermatoEndocrinology, July 2012, pages 308-319
  • Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 2011, pages 3, 940-3, 949
  • The Dermatologist, October 2011, volume 19, issue 10
  • Journal of Dermatologic Science, May 2010, pages 85-90
  • Free Radical Biology and Medicine, October 1994, pages 333-349

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Frequently asked questions

What ingredients are in Retinol Expert 0.3%?

WATER, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, PROPANEDIOL, GLYCERIN, GLYCINE SOJA OIL, TOCOPHEROL, TOCOPHERYL ACETATE, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, TREHALOSE, PANTHENOL, BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER, AMMONIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYLTAURATE/VP COPOLYMER, DIMETHICONE, GLYCERYL POLYMETHACRYLATE, POLYGLYCERYL-10 STEARATE, HYDROGENATED LECITHIN, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL, HYDROXYETHYL ACRYLATE/SODIUM ACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE COPOLYMER, CARBOMER, RETINOL, OSMANTHUS FRAGRANS LEAF EXTRACT, TROMETHAMINE, GLYCERYL STEARATE, POLYSILICONE-11, SODIUM SULFITE, DAUCUS CAROTA SATIVA ROOT EXTRACT, ALLANTOIN, GLYCERYL CAPRYLATE, ORYZA SATIVA BRAN WAX, MANNITOL, STEARIC ACID, POLYGLYCERYL-3 METHYLGLUCOSE DISTEARATE, PALMITIC ACID, ETHYLHEXYLGLYCERIN, DISODIUM EDTA, SODIUM HYALURONATE, BHT, SORBITAN ISOSTEARATE, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID, BETA-CAROTENE, SODIUM HYALURONATE CROSSPOLYMER, MYRISTIC ACID, HYALURONIC ACID, LAURIC ACID, ACETYL TETRAPEPTIDE-11, SODIUM ACETYLATED HYALURONATE, ASCORBIC ACID, LIMNANTHES ALBA SEED OIL, 3-O-ETHYL ASCORBIC ACID, GLUTATHIONE.

What are the active ingredients in Retinol Expert 0.3%?

PANTHENOL, RETINOL, SODIUM HYALURONATE, HYDROLYZED HYALURONIC ACID, SODIUM HYALURONATE CROSSPOLYMER, HYALURONIC ACID, SODIUM ACETYLATED HYALURONATE, ASCORBIC ACID, 3-O-ETHYL ASCORBIC ACID.

How do I use Retinol Expert 0.3%?

After using essence/serum, take a grain of rice-sized amount on areas with wrinkle concerns, such as eye area, lips, middle of the forehead, and neck and spread until absorption. If you are sensitive to retinol, use after moisturizer or cream instead.

What skin types is Retinol Expert 0.3% good for?

Judged on how rich the formula reads from its ingredient list, it suits Balanced skin best. It is the least natural fit for Dry, Combination (dry), Combination (oily), Oily skin.

Is Retinol Expert 0.3% good for sensitive skin?

No ingredient in this formula carries a common-irritant flag, making it a reasonable option for reactive skin. A patch test is still recommended, as individual skin reactivity varies.

Is Retinol Expert 0.3% fungal acne safe?

8 ingredients could feed malassezia: Butyrospermum Parkii Butter, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Glyceryl Stearate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Sorbitan Isostearate, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil. That describes the yeast's food supply, not a prediction that they will cause a breakout.

Can I use Retinol Expert 0.3% while pregnant?

It contains Retinol, which are usually reviewed with a doctor during pregnancy. Ask your doctor or midwife before using it.

Is Retinol Expert 0.3% fragrance free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is fragrance-free.

Does Retinol Expert 0.3% contain alcohol?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is no drying alcohol.

Is Retinol Expert 0.3% silicone free?

No — it contains Dimethicone, Polysilicone-11.

Does Retinol Expert 0.3% contain essential oils?

No. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is essential-oil-free.

Is Retinol Expert 0.3% paraben free?

Yes. Reading the full ingredient list, this formula is paraben-free.

What can I layer with Retinol Expert 0.3%?

It layers well with Copper peptides, Bakuchiol, Niacinamide, Hyaluronic acid, Ceramides, Signal peptides. Take more care combining it with AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHA (salicylic acid), PHAs (gluconolactone), Benzoyl peroxide, Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid), Retinoids (retinol, retinal), Azelaic acid — use them in separate routines or on alternate days.

When should I apply Retinol Expert 0.3%?

Use it morning and evening, before moisturiser.

How many ingredients does Retinol Expert 0.3% have?

It lists 51 ingredients, of which 9 are recorded as actives.

Who makes Retinol Expert 0.3%?

IOPE, a brand based in Korea.

Brand
IOPE
Country
Korea
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