Skin 1004's answer to the question every retinol user has asked: why doesn't my serum absorb deeply enough?

The Retinol 0.2 Boosting Shot Ampoule uses micro-spicules — microscopic sea sponge-derived needles averaging 13μm in size, smaller than the average pore — to create temporary micro-pathways in the skin's surface that drive active ingredients 132.8% deeper than spicule-free formulas. The stretchy, elastic ampoule texture wraps tightly to skin for prolonged contact. Dual retinoids: 0.2% retinol plus retinal in the same formula. Madagascar centella and madecassoside cushion the retinol experience. Clinically improved elasticity, density and wrinkle appearance in 2 weeks. 30ml.

• Micro-Spicule Delivery System — Hydrolyzed Sponge, Avg 13μm — spicules are microscopic needle-like structures naturally found in sea sponges; when applied to skin and massaged, they create temporary microchannels in the stratum corneum (the outermost skin layer) without breaking the skin; these channels allow actives to bypass the barrier layer that normally limits topical absorption; clinical testing showed 132.8% higher absorption rate versus a spicule-free control formula; at an average of 13μm, the spicules are smaller than the average pore opening, ensuring they work without discomfort or irritation
• Retinol 0.2% + Retinal — Dual Retinoid Formula — retinol and retinal are both vitamin A derivatives but work at different speeds; retinol is converted by the skin into retinoic acid over two steps, making it gradual and well-tolerated; retinal (retinaldehyde) is one step closer to retinoic acid, so it works faster and more potently than retinol while remaining gentler than prescription tretinoin; combining both in one formula gives simultaneous slow-acting and faster-acting retinoid activity — clinically proven to improve skin elasticity, firmness and wrinkle appearance in 2 weeks
• Squalane — Retinol Stability + Barrier Support — squalane serves two roles in this formula; it stabilizes retinol (which degrades quickly when exposed to air and light) to ensure the active remains potent; and it reinforces skin barrier lipids that retinol can temporarily disrupt during adaptation — this is one reason retinol beginners often tolerate this formula better than pure retinol serums
• Madagascar Centella Asiatica + Madecassoside + Panthenol — the cushioning complex that makes 0.2% retinol approachable; centella provides full-spectrum cica calming (asiaticoside, asiatic acid, madecassic acid); madecassoside as an isolated active adds concentrated barrier repair on top; panthenol soothes and hydrates — together they minimize the redness, dryness and peeling that beginners typically experience during retinol adaptation
• Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae Rhamnoides) + Mung Bean Extract + Adenosine — sea buckthorn provides rare omega-7 (palmitoleic acid) and a dense antioxidant profile; mung bean extract detoxifies and provides a mild brightening effect; adenosine is Korean FDA-approved for wrinkle improvement and complements the retinoid anti-aging action; tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E) adds antioxidant stability to protect the retinol from oxidation

⚠️ Contains Retinol — do not use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Use at night. Follow with SPF the next morning.

Korean skincare at Olive Kollection since 2018 — free shipping on orders over $40.