What's In My Jar
Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair Serum
Dermalogica

Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair Serum

Efficacy100/100IrritancyHigh
See all ingredients

Works for

Evens skin tone
Retinol, Dipotassium glycyrrhizate
Works well
What the product description says
“This cream also infuses vitamin C and peptides so you’ve also got a stellar recipe for tackling discolouration and uneven skin tones over time.”
Source: Cultbeauty

This product can help reduce hypepigmentation and even out the skin tone because it contains the following effective ingredients: retinol.

The following ingredient (ingredients) in this product might be helpful, but there is no evidence to confirm that it actually can help even out the skin tone: dipotassium glycyrrhizate.

Keep in mind that you would need to apply any topical skincare targetted at hypigmentation consistently for a couple of months to get a result. No topical skincare product can help get rid of hyperpigmentation (including post-acne marks and age spots) instantly.

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~1.7–2%
Dipotassium glycyrrhizateEffect: LowA salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening~1.5–1.8%
Anti-aging
Retinol, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5 + 3 more
Works well
What the product description says
“This concentrated dose of 0.5% active retinol is a winning ingredient for slowing down the clock on ageing by reducing the appearance of fine lines.”
Source: Cultbeauty

This product can help reduce and prevent fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and firmness because it contains retinol.

These ingredients in the product can also be helpful, even though there is less evidence for their effectiveness: palmitoyl tripeptide-5, tetradecyl aminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric urea trifluoroacetate.

Keep in mind that it typically takes at least 6 weeks to notice any results because the changes that are needed to improve fine lines and elasticity happen in the deeper layers of the skin. No topical anti-aging product can “erase” wrinkles or fully reverse signs of aging.

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~1.7–2%
Palmitoyl tripeptide-5Key activeEffect: MediumA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.6–0.9%
Tetradecyl aminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric urea trifluoroacetateKey activeEffect: MediumA peptide. It helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support skin's barrier function and might have some slight anti-aging effect through stimulating skin's own production of hyaluronic acid~0.45–0.65%
Sodium ascorbyl phosphateEffect: Low, below effective doseA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C~1.2–1.4%
Aloe barbadensis leaf juiceEffect: Low, below effective doseTraditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin~0.3–0.55%
Exfoliation
Retinol
Works well
What the product description says
“Working overnight to promote skin renewal, this serum is potent yet gentle, exfoliating yet hydrating.”
Source: Cultbeauty

This product can help exfoliate the skin. In other words, it helps break down the bonds between dead cells on the surface of the skin and speed up the skin turnover. Skin often appears softer and brighter after exfoliation, but overdoing it can result in disrupted skin barrier. The following ingredient is doing the exfoliating job in this product: retinol.

RetinolKey activeEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~1.7–2%
Moisturizing
Ceramide 3, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5 + 20 more
Works well
What the product description says
“If you, like many, fear the ‘retinol purge’ then worry not because this cream includes a moisturising buffer cream which helps your skin get used to this powerful active.”
Source: Cultbeauty

This product can help improve hydration of the skin with the two types of ingredients.

The first type is called “humectants”:
these ingredients help attract water. When humectants are on the surface of the skin, they “pull in” the moisture from the outside environment, or from within deeper layers of the skin. The following ingredients in this product do the job: anhydroxylitol, dipotassium glycyrrhizate.

This product also contains ingredients called “occlusives”. They help reduce the speed with which our skin loses moisture to the outside environment. These ingredients also help soften the upper layer of the skin, so it feels less tight and nicer to the touch. The following ingredients in this product do the job: caprylic/capric triglyceride, dimethicone.

The following ingredients in this product are especially good for supporting the skin barrier and helping with the hydration level: ceramide 3, palmitoyl tripeptide-5

Ceramide 3Hero· EmollientEffect: HighA type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin~1.1–1.3%
Palmitoyl tripeptide-5HeroEffect: HighA type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles~0.6–0.9%
SqualaneKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighAn oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.~5.4–6.6%
GlycerinKey active· HumectantEffect: HighOne of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant~4.2–5.2%
Caprylic/capric triglycerideKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin~2.5–3%
XylitylglucosideKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function~2–2.4%
Dipotassium glycyrrhizateKey active· HumectantEffect: HighA salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening~1.5–1.8%
Cetyl palmitateKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumAn emollient that helps soften the skin and is used to improve product texture and stability~0.55–0.8%
GlucoseKey active· HumectantEffect: MediumHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function~0.55–0.8%
Tetradecyl aminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric urea trifluoroacetateKey activeEffect: HighA peptide. It helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support skin's barrier function and might have some slight anti-aging effect through stimulating skin's own production of hyaluronic acid~0.45–0.65%
DimethiconeKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighA silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish~0.4–0.6%
AnhydroxylitolKey active· HumectantEffect: HighHelps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrir function~0.35–0.6%
Ethylhexyl hydroxystearateKey active· Emollient, OcclusiveEffect: HighHelps soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss from it~0.35–0.65%
Cetyl dimethiconeKey active· EmollientEffect: HighA type of silicone. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and creates a nice, light product texture~0.3–0.6%
Cetyl alcoholKey active· EmollientEffect: MediumA non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together~0.3–0.55%
Sodium pcaKey active· HumectantEffect: HighNaturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer~0.2–0.4%
Glyceryl stearate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together~0.35–0.6%
Cetearyl ethylhexanoate· EmollientEffect: LowAn emollient that helps soften the skin~0.35–0.65%
Butylene glycol· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin~0.3–0.55%
Peg-8· HumectantEffect: LowUsed to create a nice product consistency~0.3–0.6%
Stearic acidEffect: Low, below effective doseHelps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient~0.45–0.7%
Aloe barbadensis leaf juiceEffect: Low, below effective doseTraditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin~0.3–0.55%
Anti-oxidation
Side benefit · Retinol, Pelargonium graveolens flower oil + 1 more
Works well

This product contains antioxidants (retinol) that can help neutralize free radicals in skin. By doing so, they can lessen the damage the skin gets from the UV light (sun).

RetinolKey activeEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~1.7–2%
Pelargonium graveolens flower oilEffect: LowAn essential oil. Can be irritating. Can become an allergen with oxidation~0.5–0.75%
Sodium ascorbyl phosphateUnder-dosedA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C~1.2–1.4%
Anti-blemish
Side benefit · Retinol, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice + 1 more
Works well

This product can help reduce breakouts and clogged pores because it contains the following ingredient: retinol. This ingredient is used for treating acne and can have a noticeable effect.

RetinolHeroEffect: HighTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating~1.7–2%
Aloe barbadensis leaf juiceEffect: Low, below effective doseTraditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin~0.3–0.55%
Sodium ascorbyl phosphateUnder-dosedA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C~1.2–1.4%

Can it cause trouble?

Irritancy
6 strong irritants: Retinol, Pelargonium graveolens flower oil + 4 more — patch-test recommended
High risk
We flagged 15 ingredients with irritancy potential. Severity depends on your sensitivity threshold; the table lists the worst offenders first.
IngredientFunctionIrritationEst. amount
RetinolTwo steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritatingHigh~1.7–2%est.
Pelargonium graveolens flower oilAn essential oil. Can be irritating. Can become an allergen with oxidationHigh~0.5–0.75%est.
Lavandula hybrida oilPlant extract that can be irritating and is a known allergenHigh~0.4–0.65%est.
LinaloolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.55%est.
CitronellolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.55%est.
GeraniolA fragrance. Can be irritatingHigh~0.3–0.55%est.
Caprylic/capric triglycerideA good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerinMedium~2.5–3%est.
Sodium ascorbyl phosphateA stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin CMedium~1.2–1.4%est.
C12-20 alkyl glucosideHelps water and oil mix togetherMedium~0.3–0.6%est.
Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymerMaintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
EthylhexylglycerinA preservativeMedium~0.3–0.6%est.
Aloe barbadensis leaf juiceTraditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skinMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
Peg-8Used to create a nice product consistencyMedium~0.3–0.6%est.
Potassium cetyl phosphateHelps oil and water mix togetherMedium~0.35–0.6%est.
Disodium edtaStabilizes the product formulationMedium~0.3–0.55%est.
Comedogenic
Clean of flagged comedogenic ingredients
None flagged
Alternatives
Cheaper, or higher on efficacy
Youth Got This Serum
Bliss Youth Got This Serum
Cheaper79% match
$31.74
Smart Night Clinical MD Multi-Dimensional Repair Treatment Retinol
Clinique Smart Night Clinical MD Multi-Dimensional Repair Treatment Retinol
Cheaper74% match
$63.12
View all alternatives

User reviews

Would you recommend?
No community reviews yet.

Be the first — your take helps the next person decide.

Ingredients

Filter by role to see what each ingredient is doing.

Water~45–55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Squalane~5.4–6.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An oil naturally present in skin. Works as an emollient to soften the skin and form a protective layer on its surface without a greasy feeling.

More about Squalane
Glycerin~4.2–5.2%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

One of the best moisturizing ingredients. Naturally present in skin. It attracts water to the upper layer of the skin working as a humectant

More about Glycerin
C14-22 alcohols~3.2–3.9%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A non-drying alcohol that helps stabilize product formulations

More about C14-22 alcohols
Caprylic/capric triglyceride~2.5–3%
Key activeIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

A good mix of fatty acids that forms a protective layer on the skin. Improves the shelf life of products. Derived from coconut and glycerin

More about Caprylic/capric triglyceride
Xylitylglucoside~2–2.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitylglucoside
Retinol~1.7–2%
Hero · Anti-aging, Evens skin tone, Anti-blemishIrritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidationEvens skin toneAnti-blemishMattifyingExfoliationAnti-aging

Two steps removed from the active form of vitamin A - retinoic acid. Once converted to the retinoic acid in the skin, retinol is proven to be effective against all signs of aging. It improves skin cell turnover, helps fight blemishes and clogged pores, can regulate excess oil production and even skin tone. It can, however, be quite irritating

More about Retinol
Dipotassium glycyrrhizate~1.5–1.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-inflammatoryEvens skin tone

A salt derived from licorice. Works as an emollient to soften the upper layer of the skin and can help calm down inflammation. Might be helpful for skin lightening

More about Dipotassium glycyrrhizate
Sodium ascorbyl phosphate~1.2–1.4%
Under-dosedIrritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Anti-blemishAnti-oxidationAnti-aging

A stable derivative of vitamin C. It is oil-soluble which means it is more likely to penetrate the skin compared to the pure form of vitamin C (which is water-soluble), but it is less bio-available and is way less effective in stimulating collagen and reducing wrinkles compared to the pure form of vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and its other derivatives (for example, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate). At the same time, this vitamin C derivative has been shown in studies to be effective in reducing acne, blemishes and clogged pores. It is less irritating then the pure form of vitamin C

More about Sodium ascorbyl phosphate
Ceramide 3~1.1–1.3%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingReduces irritationAnti-inflammatory

A type of lipid similar to ceramides naturally present in skin. Helps to soften the upper layer of the skin and supports the skin barrier function to keep it hydrated. Can help to prevent inflammation in skin

More about Ceramide 3
Xylitol~0.7–1.05%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrier function

More about Xylitol
Palmitoyl tripeptide-5~0.6–0.9%
Hero · Moisturizing
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

A type of peptide. Peptides are excellent moisturizers and might be able support collagen production reducing fine lines and wrinkles

More about Palmitoyl tripeptide-5
Copper lysinate/prolinate~0.55–0.85%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Copper lysinate/prolinate
Glucose~0.55–0.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin. Could be helpful in restoring the skin barrier function

More about Glucose
Cetyl palmitate~0.55–0.8%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin and is used to improve product texture and stability

More about Cetyl palmitate
Pelargonium graveolens flower oil~0.5–0.75%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High
Works for
Anti-oxidation

An essential oil. Can be irritating. Can become an allergen with oxidation

More about Pelargonium graveolens flower oil
Methylglucoside phosphate~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Methylglucoside phosphate
Tetradecyl aminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric urea trifluoroacetate~0.45–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingAnti-aging

A peptide. It helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin, support skin's barrier function and might have some slight anti-aging effect through stimulating skin's own production of hyaluronic acid

More about Tetradecyl aminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric urea trifluoroacetate
Lavandula hybrida oil~0.4–0.65%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

Plant extract that can be irritating and is a known allergen

More about Lavandula hybrida oil
Anhydroxylitol~0.35–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps attract water to the upper layer of the skin and repair the skin barrir function

More about Anhydroxylitol
Magnesium chloride~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Helps thicken the product formulation

More about Magnesium chloride
C12-20 alkyl glucoside~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps water and oil mix together

More about C12-20 alkyl glucoside
Polysorbate 20~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Polysorbate 20
Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Maintains the texture of skincare products. Allows the product to spread evenly. Helps oil and water mix together

More about Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer
Sodium hydroxide~0.3–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the product's pH

More about Sodium hydroxide
Aminomethyl propanol~0.3–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the pH in formulations

More about Aminomethyl propanol
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Linalool~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Linalool
Citronellol~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Citronellol
Geraniol~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · high
Irritation risk
High

A fragrance. Can be irritating

More about Geraniol
Phenoxyethanol~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Water~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingAntibacterialAnti-inflammatoryReduces rednessReduces irritationAnti-blemishAnti-aging

Traditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin

More about Aloe barbadensis leaf juice
Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate~0.35–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss from it

More about Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate
Butylene glycol~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Cetearyl ethylhexanoate~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Cetearyl ethylhexanoate
Cetyl caprylate~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Cetyl caprylate
Peg-8~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Peg-8
Stearic acid~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Dimethicone~0.4–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone
Cetyl dimethicone~0.35–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A type of silicone. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and creates a nice, light product texture

More about Cetyl dimethicone
Glyceryl stearate~0.4–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together

More about Glyceryl stearate
Lactamide mea~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Lactamide mea
Peg-100 stearate~0.45–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix togehter and creates a nice product texture

More about Peg-100 stearate
Cetyl alcohol~0.4–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

More about Cetyl alcohol
Potassium cetyl phosphate~0.35–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Potassium cetyl phosphate
Sodium pca~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Naturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer

More about Sodium pca
Carbomer~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer
Disodium edta~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Aminomethyl propanol~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the pH in formulations

More about Aminomethyl propanol
Ethanolamine~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Ethanolamine
Phenoxyethanol~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Water~0.3–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Plain old water

More about Water
Aloe barbadensis leaf juice~0.3–0.55%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
MoisturizingReduces irritationReduces rednessAntibacterialAnti-inflammatoryAnti-blemishAnti-aging

Traditionally used to treat sunburns, dermatitis and inflammation, but evidence for its effectiveness is lacking. The extract can contain humectants that help attract water into the skin

More about Aloe barbadensis leaf juice
Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate~0.35–0.65%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and reduce water loss from it

More about Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate
Butylene glycol~0.3–0.55%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product texture and help delivery of other ingredients. Might be somewhat helpful in attracting water to the upper layer of the skin

More about Butylene glycol
Cetearyl ethylhexanoate~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

An emollient that helps soften the skin

More about Cetearyl ethylhexanoate
Cetyl caprylate~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Cetyl caprylate
Peg-8~0.3–0.6%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Moisturizing

Used to create a nice product consistency

More about Peg-8
Stearic acid~0.45–0.7%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

Helps oil and water mix together and works as an emollient

More about Stearic acid
Dimethicone~0.4–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
MoisturizingMattifying

A silicone that helps to reduce water loss from the surface of the skin. Can temporarily "fill in" lines and wrinkles, absorb oil, and create a nice product finish

More about Dimethicone
Cetyl dimethicone~0.3–0.6%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

A type of silicone. Helps soften the upper layer of the skin and creates a nice, light product texture

More about Cetyl dimethicone
Glyceryl stearate~0.35–0.6%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

An emollient that softens the skin and forms a protective layer on its surface. Helps water and oil mix together

More about Glyceryl stearate
Lactamide mea~0.25–0.5%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Lactamide mea
Peg-100 stearate~0.35–0.65%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix togehter and creates a nice product texture

More about Peg-100 stearate
Cetyl alcohol~0.3–0.55%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
CleansingMoisturizing

A non-drying alcohol that works to soften the skin and stabilize product formulations helping oil and water mix together

More about Cetyl alcohol
Potassium cetyl phosphate~0.25–0.5%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium
Works for
Cleansing

Helps oil and water mix together

More about Potassium cetyl phosphate
Sodium pca~0.2–0.4%
Key active
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Moisturizing

Naturally present in skin and helps to attract water to its upper layer

More about Sodium pca
Carbomer~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
Works for
Cleansing

Helps create a thicker or gel-like product texture. It is not a surfactant but can be used in gentle cleansing formulations

More about Carbomer
Disodium edta~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

Stabilizes the product formulation

More about Disodium edta
Ethylhexylglycerin~0.15–0.3%
Irritant · medium
Irritation risk
Medium

A preservative

More about Ethylhexylglycerin
Aminomethyl propanol~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

Used to adjust the pH in formulations

More about Aminomethyl propanol
Ethanolamine~0.1–0.2%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low
More about Ethanolamine
Phenoxyethanol~0.15–0.3%
Formula
Irritation risk
Low

A preservative. It helps prevent bacterial growth in cosmetic products

More about Phenoxyethanol
Ingredient list view

Water, Squalane, Glycerin, C14-22 alcohols, Caprylic/capric triglyceride, Xylitylglucoside, Retinol, Dipotassium glycyrrhizate, Sodium ascorbyl phosphate, Ceramide 3, Xylitol, Palmitoyl tripeptide-5, Copper lysinate/prolinate, Glucose, Cetyl palmitate, Pelargonium graveolens flower oil, Methylglucoside phosphate, Tetradecyl aminobutyroylvalylaminobutyric urea trifluoroacetate, Lavandula hybrida oil, Anhydroxylitol, Magnesium chloride, C12-20 alkyl glucoside, Polysorbate 20, Acrylates/c10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, Sodium hydroxide, Aminomethyl propanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol, Phenoxyethanol, Water, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate, Butylene glycol, Cetearyl ethylhexanoate, Cetyl caprylate, Peg-8, Stearic acid, Dimethicone, Cetyl dimethicone, Glyceryl stearate, Lactamide mea, Peg-100 stearate, Cetyl alcohol, Potassium cetyl phosphate, Sodium pca, Carbomer, Disodium edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aminomethyl propanol, Ethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol, Water, Aloe barbadensis leaf juice, Ethylhexyl hydroxystearate, Butylene glycol, Cetearyl ethylhexanoate, Cetyl caprylate, Peg-8, Stearic acid, Dimethicone, Cetyl dimethicone, Glyceryl stearate, Lactamide mea, Peg-100 stearate, Cetyl alcohol, Potassium cetyl phosphate, Sodium pca, Carbomer, Disodium edta, Ethylhexylglycerin, Aminomethyl propanol, Ethanolamine, Phenoxyethanol

Compare prices

Retailers ranked by price — lowest first.

Find on Amazon
Search
🇬🇧 Cultbeauty (UK)30 ml
≈ $99.20 Out of stock
Check

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Worth comparing, line by line.

Match % combines shared ingredients, the first five ingredients, shared actives and hero ingredients, irritancy (lower counts in the alternative's favour), texture and body area. Only products in the same routine step are compared.

Side-by-side comparison of this product against its closest alternatives
DermalogicaOvernight Retinol Repair SerumYOUR PRODUCTBlissYouth Got This SerumSkinMedicaLYTERA 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum and Retinol Complex 1.0CliniqueSmart Night Clinical MD Multi-Dimensional Repair Treatment Retinol
Match—79%74%74%
Price—$31.74—$63.12
Shared key ingredients—8 of 155 of 156 of 15
Key difference—Acetyl Hexapeptide-8NiacinamideNiacinamide
Irritancy High Medium Medium Medium
Drying alcohol————
View product Shop Shop Shop
  • matches yours
  • differs
  • cheaper

More alternatives: Aesthetics Rx A Serum Retinol RestorativeElizabeth Grant Wonder Effect Advanced Retinol Gentle Serum

Cheaper alternatives? See how this stacks up against similar formulas.
We compare ingredient profiles across our catalog — pick the closest match for your budget.
Open dupe finder

Sources cited in this review

Every concentration estimate and effectiveness label is anchored to one of these 22 studies and safety reviews.

  1. 1
    Glycerol and the skin: holistic approach to its origin and functionsncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  2. 2
    Retinoids in the treatment of skin aging: an overview of clinical efficacy and safetyncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  3. 3
    Improvement of naturally aged skin with vitamin A (retinol)ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
  4. 4
    A comparative study of the effects of retinol and retinoic acid on histological, molecular, and clinical properties of human skinonlinelibrary.wiley.com
  5. 5
    Ameliorating effect of dipotassium glycyrrhizinate on an IL-4- and IL-13-induced atopic dermatitis-like skin-equivalent modelresearchgate.net
  6. 6
    Final report on the safety assessment of Glycyrrhetinic Acid, Potassium Glycyrrhetinate, Disodium Succinoyl Glycyrrhetinate, Glyceryl Glycyrrhetinate, Glycyrrhetinyl Stearate, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Glycyrrhizic Acid, Ammonium Glycyrrhizate, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Disodium Glycyrrhizate, Trisodium Glycyrrhizate, Methyl Glycyrrhizate, and Potassium Glycyrrhizinate.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Dermalogica Overnight Retinol Repair Serum
DermalogicaOvernight Retinol Repair Serum
Find on Amazon

Affiliate links · As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.

Find on Amazon

As an Amazon Associate, WIMJ earns from qualifying purchases.