iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3

Target multiple signs of aging with iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 1%, an advanced formula that blends retinol, antioxidants, and botanical extracts for dramatic skin renewal. This potent resurfacing treatment reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, and rough texture, while supporting skin barrier health with hydrating and soothing agents.

Encapsulated 1% Retinol is combined with powerful botanical boosters like Bakuchiol (a retinol alternative), Vitamin C, and Ectoin for enhanced efficacy with reduced irritation. Designed for experienced retinol users, this formula delivers visible rejuvenation and long-term skin improvement.

Water/Aqua/Eau, Glycerin, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol (1%), Bakuchiol, Ectoin, Squalane, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Sodium Hyaluronate, Panthenol, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 20, Carbomer, Cetearyl Alcohol, Ceteareth-20, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stea

FAQs

Q1. What is Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) in iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion and how does it differ from regular Retinol?
A1. Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is a retinoid ester of retinoic acid — the biologically active form of Vitamin A. Regular Retinol must be converted in two enzymatic steps (retinol → retinaldehyde → retinoic acid) before it can bind to retinoid receptors and produce anti-ageing effects. HPR bypasses these conversion steps and binds directly to retinoid receptors (RAR) at lower concentrations, with clinical studies suggesting comparable efficacy to Retinol at substantially lower irritation risk. Combining encapsulated Retinol and HPR in iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion creates a dual-retinoid system with both immediate (HPR) and sustained (encapsulated Retinol with controlled release) retinoid activity.

Q2. What does Bakuchiol contribute alongside Retinol in this formula?
A2. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived meroterpene phenol from Psoralea corylifolia seeds that activates retinoid receptor signalling through a mechanism independent of the classical retinoid pathway — clinical trials have shown comparable collagen stimulation and anti-wrinkle efficacy to 0.5% Retinol with significantly less photosensitivity and irritation. In iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3, Bakuchiol serves as a complementary retinoid-pathway activator that amplifies the formula's overall anti-ageing efficacy while moderating the irritation threshold — making the combination more tolerable than pure-Retinol formulas at equivalent effect.

Q3. Who should use iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3 and who should not?
A3. The 0.3% concentration is appropriate for adults who have previously used retinol products and tolerate them, or experienced users beginning with the lower concentration of the iS Clinical Retinol range before stepping up to higher concentrations. It is not recommended for retinoid-naive users who have never used retinol before — start with a lower concentration (0.1–0.25%) from another brand and build tolerance first. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Those with active eczema, rosacea, or rosacea-prone skin should consult a dermatologist before use, as the retinoid combination may trigger a flare.

Q4. What is Ectoin in this formula and what does it do?
A4. Ectoin is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative produced by extremophile bacteria to protect their cellular proteins and DNA from extreme environmental conditions. In skincare, it acts as a molecular shield: it forms a hydration shell around cellular structures and proteins, protecting them from UV stress, heat stress, and inflammatory mediator damage. In iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3, Ectoin helps buffer the retinoid-related cellular stress response, reduces the skin's inflammatory reaction to the formula's active ingredients, and contributes to the skin's resilience during the adaptation period — directly addressing the tolerability challenges common in retinol emulsions.

Q5. How should iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3 be introduced into an evening routine?
A5. Apply a pea-sized amount to completely dry skin in the evening, two to three nights per week for the first three to four weeks. Apply after cleansing and allow to fully absorb before applying a Sheald Recovery Balm or moisturiser on top. Never apply to damp skin — moisture significantly increases retinoid absorption and irritation risk. Avoid other exfoliants, acids, and Vitamin C on the same evenings. Always use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or above every morning while using any retinoid. Progress to four to five nights per week, then nightly use, only if the skin shows minimal redness, dryness, or peeling at the previous frequency.

Country of Origin: USA Mfg/Marketer details: Innovative Skincare (iS Clinical), 4950 Gregg Road, Pico Rivera, CA 90660, USA. Imported and distributed in India by an authorised distributor — refer to product packaging for complete importer details. Shelf Life: 24 months from manufacturing date (or as indicated on packaging) Storage: Store at room temperature (15–25°C) away from direct sunlight. Keep tightly closed to minimise oxidation. Safety Information: For external use only. Contains retinol — start with low-frequency use and increase gradually as tolerated. Avoid contact with eyes, lips, and mucous membranes. Retinol increases photosensitivity — use SPF 30+ every morning during and after use. NOT recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. If irritation, peeling, or redness is excessive, reduce frequency or discontinue and consult a dermatologist. Keep out of reach of children.