innisfree Retinol Cica Serum with Salicylic Acid — Jeju Centella, Hyaluronic Hydration for Acne-Prone Skin

innisfree Retinol Cica Serum is a lightweight, beginner-friendly retinol treatment that gently exfoliates, soothes redness, and boosts hydration with centella, salicylic acid, and hyaluronic acid.

This water-based serum pairs a stabilized pure retinol with Jeju-sourced centella formula technology to deliver visible smoothing while minimizing discomfort. Designed for daily use when introduced gradually, the formula includes salicylic acid for mild exfoliation, hyaluronic acid and ceramide-rich liposomes for moisture, and multiple safety tests for non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic performance. It aims to improve texture and barrier resilience without heavy residue, making it suitable for a range of skin types including combination and acne-prone skin when used correctly.

How should I introduce this retinol serum to avoid irritation?

Start slowly and monitor your skin's response: patch-test first, then apply every other night or less often during the first two weeks. Increase frequency gradually as tolerance builds, and always pair retinol with hydrating steps to reduce dryness and flaking.

• Patch test 24–48 hours before full-face use.
• Begin with 1 pump on alternate nights; progress to nightly if tolerated.
• Apply on damp skin and follow with a moisturizer to lock in hydration.
• Use sunscreen each morning to protect renewed skin layers.

What results can I expect and how soon?

Users typically notice improved texture and a calmer complexion after consistent use for several weeks; the formula focuses on smoothing, reducing roughness, and supporting the skin barrier. Because retinol-driven changes are gradual, optimal results often appear over 6–12 weeks with ongoing application.

• Mild exfoliation and clearer pores from salicylic acid.
• Smoother skin surface with regular retinol use.
• Increased hydration and barrier support from hyaluronic acid and Cica liposomes.
• Surveyed users reported feeling more protected against external stressors within two weeks.

Can acne-prone or sensitive skin types use this serum safely?

The formula was tested for hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic properties and includes soothing centella and ceramide-enriched liposomes to cushion retinol's effect. Sensitive or acne-prone skin can often tolerate this product when introduced slowly and combined with gentle, supportive skincare.

• Contains centella asiatica to calm irritation.
• Jeju Cica Liposome™ provides ceramide-like nourishment for the barrier.
• Water-based texture reduces clogging risk for oily or acne-prone skin.
• Avoid layered use with strong acids or physical exfoliants to prevent over-sensitization.

How do I fit this serum into my AM and PM routine?

Use this serum in the evening once tolerance is established; in the morning keep your routine focused on hydration and sun protection. If using it in both AM and PM, always finish daytime application with a broad-spectrum SPF to protect newly formed skin.

• Evening: cleanse, apply 1–2 pumps of serum, then moisturizer.
• Morning: gentle cleanse, hydrating serum or essence, moisturize, and SPF 30+.
• Do not combine with strong AHAs/BHAs or physical scrubs on the same day.
• Layer under creams rather than heavier oils for best absorption.

Who is this for? This serum is made for newcomers to retinol and anyone seeking a moderated retinol experience with soothing support—ideal for those with combination, oily, or acne-prone skin who want smoother texture without a heavy cream. It also suits users who prioritize gentle, daily-use actives and prefer a water-light finish. If you have very reactive skin, follow the gradual introduction advice and consult a dermatologist if unusual redness or persistent irritation occurs.

Ingredients

Water / Aqua / Eau, Glycerin, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Dibutyl Adipate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cholesterol, Allantoin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract, Asiatic Acid, Retinol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Hyaluronic Acid, Mannitol, Ceramide NP, Carbomer, Beta-Glucan, Beta-Carotene, Phytosphingosine, Salicylic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11, Propylene Glycol Alginate