SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream Review

SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream
7.2
/ 10
Moisturizing
10.0 Humectancy icon Humectancy
4.5 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
4.5Anti-wrinkle icon/ 10
Anti-wrinkle
Rich
in Antioxidants
Rich Skin Soothing icon
in Skin Soothers
Ingredients

SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream Ingredients

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Full Ingredient List (INCI):

Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Glycerin, Niacinamide, Propylene Glycol, Lecithin, Retinol, Polysorbate 20, Tocopherol, Alcohol Denat., Potassium Phosphate, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Snail Secretion Filtrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Panthenol, Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin
Review

Does SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream Work?

 
According to CreamScan's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream has to offer:
 
✅ Significant moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 7.2 out of 10.
✅ Considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy: SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream has an anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10, indicating a moderate ability to reduce wrinkles.
✅ Soothing: SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, which may help to reduce irritation and calm the skin.
✅ Antioxidant protection

  

Key Benefits of SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream:
 

🔵🔵 Perfect Moisturizer for Normal to Dry Skin with a Balanced Texture, Neither Too Light nor Too Heavy

According to CreamScan analysis, SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream is highly moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 7.2 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Significantly more humectant. It has a maximum humectancy of 10 out of 10, primarily due to the substantial concentration of Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈9.0%), and a moderate occlusivity of 4.5 out of 10, mainly due to the high content of Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil (est. ≈6.0%) and Stearic Acid (est. ≈2.0%).

This type of moisturizer is ideal for people with normal skin who want maximum hydration in a formula with a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy. It combines a very high concentration of humectants with a moderate amount of occlusive ingredients to deliver effective dual-action moisturizing for normal skin.

This product may also be a good choice for people with normal to dry skin for daily hydration.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

🟣🟣 Considerable Anti-Wrinkle Efficacy

According to CreamScan analysis, SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream has a moderate anti-wrinkle rating of 4.5 out of 10.

It contains 2 active ingredients with proven anti-wrinkle efficacy:

1️⃣ Retinol (est. ≈0.1%),
 the most effective non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. Numerous clinical studies have shown its positive effects at concentrations as low as 0.1%. A study with 36 participants (Kafi et al.) confirmed that a lotion containing 0.4% retinol reduced wrinkle severity by 21% after 24 weeks of use, compared to the same formulation without retinol (vehicle).
 
2️⃣ Niacinamide (est. ≈1.3%),
 one of the most effective and well-researched anti-wrinkle ingredients. A clinical study involving 30 participants (Kawada et al.) confirmed that a cream with 4% niacinamide reduced the average depth of wrinkles around the eyes by 9% after 8 weeks of use, compared to a vehicle (the same formulation without niacinamide).
 
Among others, SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream also contains contains Snail Secretion Filtrate and Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, two ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.
 
Therefore, these ingredients do not contribute to the anti-wrinkle rating.
 
📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some additional anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.
 

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

🍀 Rich in Skin-Protecting Antioxidants

We estimate that SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream is rich (> 3%) in antioxidants, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈9.0%).

A key benefit of antioxidants is their ability to reduce oxidative stress caused by free radicals and therefore prevent accelerated skin aging. Studies also show that antioxidants can protect against environmental damage such as UV radiation and pollution, and help reduce inflammation and skin redness.

🔴 Skin Soothing and Calming Potential

Based on the ingredient list analysis, SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream is rich (> 5%) in soothing ingredients, particularly Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (est. ≈9.0%).

When applied to the skin, compounds of soothing ingredients, such as triglycerides, phospholipids, fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants, work together to soothe the skin through various mechanisms: reducing inflammation, promoting wound healing, repairing the skin barrier, and providing antimicrobial and antioxidant activities.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream

 
CreamScan identified a few things to consider before adding SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ Contains Snail Secretion Filtrate –  a Popular Ingredient with Limited Proven Clinical Efficacy

SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream contains Snail Secretion Filtrate (SSF, SCA), a purified form of snail mucin. Snail Secretion Filtrate is widely promoted for its supposed skincare benefits, including hydration, skin repair, wound healing, and anti-aging. CreamScan conducted an investigation into clinical trials evaluating the potential efficacy of SSF and found no convincing evidence to support its claimed benefits beyond basic moisturization. The full article is available here.

⚠️ May Increase Skin Photosensitivity Due to Retinol

This product contains retinol, which offers powerful anti-wrinkle benefits. The mechanism behind retinol’s action is boosting cell turnover. This process exposes new, more delicate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage.

As a result, using products with retinol may increase the skin's sensitivity, making it more prone to sunburn or irritation when exposed to UV rays.

To protect the skin, dermatologists recommend applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment, along with avoiding direct sun exposure. Retinol should be used at night, as it is sensitive to sunlight and can lose its potency when exposed to UV rays.

📌 Please always check the manufacturer's instructions for using the retinol-containing products, either on their website or product label.

Pros & Cons of SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ Perfect for moisturizing normal skin
Balanced texture, neither too light nor too heavy
Provides considerable anti-wrinkle efficacy thanks to Retinol and Niacinamide
✅ Rich in antioxidants that combat oxidative stress associated with accelerated skin aging and defend against environmental damage
✅ Potentially soothing, as it contains a high concentration of soothing ingredients, specifically Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ May increase skin photosensitivity due to retinol

⚠️ Contains Snail Secretion Filtrate (SSF), a popular ingredient with limited clinical evidence supporting most of its claimed benefits.

   

Summary: SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream
 is an ideal moisturizer for normal skin, combining a very high concentration of humectants with a significant amount of occlusive ingredients in a balanced texture - neither too light nor too heavy.
 
SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream contains ingredients with solid, robust evidence of anti-wrinkle efficacy, in concentrations that may deliver a noticeable anti-wrinkle effect.
 
Rich in antioxidants, SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream helps protect against free radical damage and offers multiple benefits for all skin types, including preventing premature aging, defending against environmental damage, and calming inflammation. This product is also formulated with a high concentration of soothing ingredients, offering the potential to calm and comfort irritated skin. Whether you’re experiencing redness, irritation, or general sensitivity, its soothing properties may help restore balance and provide relief.
 
That said, there are some things about SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream worth noting.
 
This product contains retinol, the most powerful and well-researched non-prescription anti-wrinkle ingredient. However, retinol can make your skin more prone to sun damage and increase sensitivity, so it’s recommended to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 throughout the duration of retinol treatment.
 

Note that SeoulCeuticals Gentle Retinol Cream contains Snail Secretion Filtrate (SSF), an ingredient widely promoted for its supposed skincare benefits, including wound healing and anti-aging. However, a CreamScan investigation of clinical evidence found no convincing data supporting these claims.

📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredient Breakdown

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
65
9
6
4
3
2.5
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Function:
Origin:
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Isopropyl Palmitate
Function:
Origin:
Glyceryl Stearate
Function:
Origin:
Cetyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Stearic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Niacinamide
Function:
Origin:
Propylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Retinol
Function:
Origin:
Polysorbate 20
Function:
Origin:
Tocopherol
Function:
Origin:
Alcohol Denat.
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Phosphate
Function:
Origin:
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Function:
Origin:
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Function:
Origin:
Snail Secretion Filtrate
Function:
Origin:
Tocopheryl Acetate
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:
Phenoxyethanol
Function:
Origin:
Ethylhexylglycerin
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
14.3
9
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
8.9
6.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
7.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 14.3 10
10.0
9
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 8.9 20
4.5
6.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Moisturizing rating
7.2
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
9
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 14.3 10
10
All humectants
14.3
9
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
6
2
0.3
0.3
0.3
All occlusives 8.9 20
4.5
All occlusives
8.9
6.0
2.0
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
10 /10 0.4 0.1 2.5
6 /10 4 1.3 2
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
4.5
Retinol
2.5
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
10 /10
when present at, %
0.4
in this formula, est. %
0.1
Niacinamide
2
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
6 /10
when present at, %
4
in this formula, est. %
1.3
Snail Secretion Filtrate
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
4.5
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
9
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 11.2 3 Rich in antioxidants
All antioxidants
11.2
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
9
Niacinamide
1.3
Tocopherol
0.3
Tocopheryl Acetate
0.3
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
9
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All soothing 11.2 5 Rich in soothing
All soothing
11.2
9
1.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %65
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Est. %9
Function
Origin
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf JuiceA gelatinous juice from Aloe vera leaves that acts as a powerful humectant, emollient, and antioxidant. It contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that soothe irritated skin and have wound-healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil
Est. %6
Function
Origin
Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed OilA fatty oil expressed from sunflower seeds and one of the most commonly used oils in skincare. It has great emollient and occlusive moisturizing properties. Sunflower oil is one of the richest sources of vitamin E – an important skin antioxidant.
Isopropyl Palmitate
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Isopropyl PalmitateAn emollient ester of palmitic acid and isopropanol that gives the skin a smooth, soft, dry, non-oily after-feel. Isopropyl palmitate is listed as a common comedogenic ingredient by acne.org.
Glyceryl Stearate
Est. %3
Function
Origin
Glyceryl StearateAn emollient and emulsifier typically derived from vegetable sources through a chemical reaction with glycerin. It provides stability, texture, and consistency to formulations. Its main function is to allow oil and water to mix.
Cetyl Alcohol
Est. %2.5
Function
Origin
Cetyl AlcoholA waxy solid fatty alcohol derived from palm oil. It is most commonly used as a co-emulsifier and affects the final aesthetic of the product, leaving a soft and silky feeling on the skin. Cetyl alcohol is also used as a viscosity controlling agent.
Stearic Acid
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Stearic AcidA saturated fatty acid found in vegetable butter and animal fats. It is an occlusive moisturizing and emollient ingredient and also helps to maintain the barrier function of the skin.
Glycerin
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Niacinamide
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Niacinamide

Also known as vitamin B3, this ingredient is a true superstar with confirmed moisturizing, anti-acne, hyperpigmentation, and antioxidant benefits. Two studies confirm its significant anti-wrinkle efficacy.

Propylene Glycol
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Propylene GlycolA clear, thick, odorless liquid of synthetic origin. Its main function is to stabilize cosmetic products exposed to varying temperatures. It is also a moderately strong humectant with similar properties to glycerin.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Retinol
Est. %0.1
Function
Origin
Retinol

One of the most famous and well-researched anti-aging ingredients with a maximum anti-wrinkle power of 10 out of 10. It is proven to decrease wrinkles and help the skin regain its thickness, firmness, and texture. Retinol is also effective in treating pigmentation issues such as dark spots and acne.

Polysorbate 20
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Polysorbate 20A viscous, amber-colored liquid that functions as a solubilizer to disperse small amounts of oil into a large water phase. Polysorbate 20 is frequently used to solubilize fragrance oils into water-based emulsions.
Tocopherol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopherol

Simply another name for vitamin E. Tocopherol is a fantastic ingredient and especially beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. It has occlusive moisturizing, emollient, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties.

Alcohol Denat.
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Alcohol Denat.

Denatured alcohol is ethanol that contains additives that make it unsafe to consume. It is mainly used as a solvent and an antimicrobial agent. A major drawback to alcohol denat. is that it dries out the skin.

Potassium Phosphate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium PhosphateA salt of phosphoric acid that normally acts as a weak base.
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) ButterA semi-solid, buttery fat extracted from the seeds of the Shea tree that is a wonderful occlusive and emollient ingredient mainly comprised of fatty acids. Shea butter contains a large amount of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed OilA liquid plant wax, also known as Jojoba oil, pressed from the seeds of Simmondsia chinensis. These seeds can contain up to 50% of liquid wax. It is used as an occlusive moisturizer, emollient, and emulsifier.
Snail Secretion Filtrate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Snail Secretion Filtrate

aka snail mucin, a popular k-beauty ingredient without convincing proof of efficacy.

Tocopheryl Acetate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Tocopheryl Acetate

An antioxidant derivative of tocopherol (vitamin E). It helps to protect cells from free radicals and UV damage through the conversion to active vitamin E in the skin. It is more stable than tocopherol.

Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Symphytum Officinale Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Symphytum Officinale Leaf ExtractA soothing extract that is obtained from the leaves of the comfrey plant. It contains anti-inflammatory allantoin, a caffeine-like compound.
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract

An antioxidant green tea extract. In the deeper layers, it slows down the destruction of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid – thus delaying the signs of aging. It also acts as an anti-acne, soothing, moisturizing, and emollient ingredient.

Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.
Phenoxyethanol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PhenoxyethanolThe most frequently used preservative in skincare. It is a clear, oil-like liquid synthetic substance that protects products from harmful bacteria and yeast, whilst still leaving skin microflora unharmed. It is confirmed by research to be harmless.
Ethylhexylglycerin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
EthylhexylglycerinA preservative booster derived from glycerin. It is commonly paired with other preservatives to improve their efficacy. Ethylhexylglycerin is also a humectant due to its chemical base of glycerin.