No. This serum contains retinal (retinaldehyde), which is a form of vitamin A. All retinoids — including retinal, retinol, and tretinoin — are advised against during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to potential risks to fetal development. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, please avoid this product and consult your healthcare provider for safe alternatives. Bakuchiol-only serums may be a better option during this time.

No. This serum contains several ingredients that may feed Malassezia yeast, including Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil (rich in oleic acid, C18), Sorbitan Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, and Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate. If you are prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, this product is not recommended. Look for fungal-acne-safe retinal alternatives with minimal oils and esters.

This serum already contains retinal and a stabilized vitamin C derivative (3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid), so additional retinol or vitamin C is not necessary and could increase irritation. Avoid layering with AHAs (glycolic acid, lactic acid) or BHAs (salicylic acid) on the same night, as combining strong exfoliants with retinal can over-strip the skin barrier. Instead, alternate nights: use this serum on some evenings and your AHA/BHA on others.

This serum is designed for all skin types but is especially beneficial for combination, mature, and aging skin. The lightweight texture suits oily and combination skin, while the glycerin and ginseng provide enough hydration for normal to dry types (with a moisturizer on top). Sensitive skin users should approach with caution — start slowly and use the sandwich method. It is particularly effective for those concerned with fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, uneven texture, and loss of firmness.

Results vary by individual, but most users report a timeline of: improved hydration and glow within 1-2 weeks, smoother texture and refined pores by weeks 3-4, visible fine line reduction and brightening by weeks 6-8, and significant overall improvement after 3 months of consistent use. Retinal works in the deeper layers of skin, so meaningful structural changes (collagen production, wrinkle reduction) take at least 6 weeks to become visible. Consistency is key — use it regularly as part of your PM routine.

Apply this serum in your PM routine after cleansing and toning, on dry skin. Follow with moisturizer to lock in the actives. The recommended order is: Cleanser → Toner → Seoul 1988 Serum → Moisturizer. For sensitive skin, apply a light layer of moisturizer before the serum as well (sandwich method). Always apply SPF 30 or higher the following morning, as retinal increases sun sensitivity. This serum is best used at night since retinal can degrade when exposed to sunlight.

This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The formula contains Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil and Sunflower Seed Oil, but these are present in small amounts and are low on the comedogenic scale. The primary base (ginseng extract, water, glycerin) is non-comedogenic. Retinal itself actually helps unclog pores by accelerating cell turnover. Most users, including those with acne-prone skin, find this serum does not cause breakouts. However, initial purging (temporary increase in breakouts as skin adjusts) is possible during the first 2-4 weeks.

The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 30ml bottle typically lasts approximately 2-3 months with regular nightly use (a pea-sized amount per application). The opaque, airless pump packaging helps protect the retinal from light and air degradation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration can further extend freshness and provides a cooling sensation during application.