SOME BY MI Retinol Intense Reactivating Serum (30ml)

The formula contains 0.1% retinol.

Both are forms of vitamin A, but they work at different speeds. Retinol needs two conversion steps before your skin can use it. It's the gentler option, better suited to those new to vitamin A, but results take longer. Retinal (retinaldehyde) needs only one conversion step, making it around 11x more potent than retinol. It works faster on fine lines, texture, and firmness. Because retinal is so active, the formula includes soothing ingredients like Truecica and Panthenol to keep irritation in check. Bakuchiol is also added to support collagen, giving you multi-level vitamin A benefits in one serum.

Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient that offers retinol-like results with a gentler touch. In this serum, it works to: Help stimulate collagen production for firmer, bouncier skin Smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles Brighten dullness and improve overall radiance Support skin elasticity with less irritation than traditional retinoids

Centella Asiatica (a calming botanical extract popular in K-beauty) helps your skin handle the potency of the retinoids in this formula. It works by: Hydrating the skin to reduce the drying effect retinol can have Supporting the skin barrier, which actives can put under stress Soothing redness and irritation Providing antioxidant activity to help with sun-related skin damage Essentially, it keeps the formula comfortable to use while the retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol get on with the resurfacing work.

Use it at night only, as retinol increases sun sensitivity. Layer it after your toner or essence and before your eye cream and moisturiser, applying a few drops and patting in gently. Start 2 to 3 nights per week, then build up as your skin adjusts. Avoid using it in the same routine as Vitamin C, AHA, BHA, or PHA to reduce the chance of irritation. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF every morning while you're using this serum.

Retinol + Retinal : boost collagen and elastin, smooth fine lines and rough texture, help unclog pores and speed up cell turnover Bakuchiol : a plant-derived retinol alternative that supports firmness and wrinkle care, while being gentler on skin Truecica™ + Centella Asiatica : soothe redness and irritation, support skin barrier repair Panthenol (Pro-vitamin B5) : hydrates deeply and helps skin retain moisture Niacinamide : brightens uneven tone, helps with pigmentation and pore appearance Ceramides, Collagen + Peptides : reinforce the skin barrier and support plumper, bouncier-looking skin

Yes, it's a good starting point. It's described as gentle and suited to all skin types, and plenty of first-timers in our community have got on well with it. A few things to keep in mind: Use it in the evening only Start 2 to 3 times per week to let your skin adjust Avoid pairing it with vitamin C or strong acids on the same night Wear SPF daily, as retinol increases sun sensitivity

Start with every 2 to 3 nights in the evening only, so your skin can adjust to the retinol. If after 2 to 3 weeks there's no stinging, peeling, or persistent redness, you can gradually increase to every other night, then most nights if your skin stays comfortable. Always follow up with SPF in the morning.