Isntree - Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum (20ml)

Isntree Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum is a beginner-friendly retinoid serum with 0.1% retinol, 0.3% retinyl palmitate and 0.6% bakuchiol — buffered with five peptides, five ceramides and TECA to reduce the dryness retinol usually causes.

Isntree Hyper Retinol EX 1.0 Serum at a glance

What "Retinol EX 1.0" actually means

The name suggests 1% retinol, which would be an unusually high strength. In fact the 1% figure is the combined total of three different ingredients: 0.1% retinol, 0.3% retinyl palmitate and 0.6% bakuchiol. That distinction matters, so it's worth unpacking.

The 0.1% retinol is the part doing most of the work — a genuine retinoid, and a sensible entry-level strength. Retinyl palmitate is a retinol ester that the skin must convert through several steps before it becomes active, making it substantially weaker than the same amount of retinol. Bakuchiol, which makes up more than half the "1%", is not a retinoid at all — it's a plant-derived compound that produces some similar visible effects through a different pathway, and it is included here largely to add gentle activity without adding irritation.

None of this makes it a bad product. A 0.1% retinol serum with peptides, ceramides and TECA is a well-judged formulation for someone starting retinoids, and the supporting ingredients genuinely help with the barrier disruption retinol causes. But you should buy it understanding it as a gentle 0.1% retinol serum, not a 1% one — and the brand's claim of "no irritation" is optimistic. Retinoids commonly cause some dryness or flaking in the first few weeks, even at low strengths.

Because it contains real retinoids, two rules apply without exception: daily sunscreen is essential, since retinoids increase sun sensitivity, and it should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

How to use it

1. At night only, after cleansing, on completely dry skin.
2. Take two to three drops and pat gently onto the skin.
3. Follow with moisturiser to buffer the retinoid.
4. Start twice a week and increase gradually over several weeks as your skin adapts.
5. Wear sunscreen every morning — non-negotiable with any retinoid.

Pair it with a hydrating step such as the Ultra-Low Molecular Hyaluronic Acid Serum, or browse the full Isntree range at EmartGCC.

Frequently asked questions

Is this really a 1% retinol serum?

No. The "1%" is a combined figure for three ingredients: 0.1% retinol, 0.3% retinyl palmitate and 0.6% bakuchiol. The actual retinol content is 0.1% — a gentle, beginner-appropriate strength. Bakuchiol, the largest component, is not a retinoid at all.

Can I use it while pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. It contains retinol and retinyl palmitate, both true retinoids, which are contraindicated during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor about alternatives such as azelaic acid or a bakuchiol-only product.

Will it irritate my skin?

Possibly, despite the brand describing it as non-irritating. Retinoids commonly cause dryness, tightness or mild flaking during the first few weeks as skin adjusts — this is normal. The ceramides and TECA reduce it, but starting twice weekly rather than nightly is the most effective way to minimise it.

Do I need sunscreen with this?

Yes, absolutely. Retinoids increase sun sensitivity, and UV exposure will undo the fine-line benefits you're using it for. Daily sunscreen is a requirement, not a suggestion, with any retinoid.

Why has the serum turned a deeper yellow?

Retinol oxidises and darkens naturally over time. The brand notes this colour shift is expected. A gradual change is normal; if the texture separates or it develops an off smell, stop using it.

Can I use it with acids or vitamin C?

Not in the same session. Keep vitamin C to mornings and exfoliating acids to alternate nights. Layering them with a retinoid significantly raises the risk of irritation and barrier damage.

Buying Isntree in Kuwait

EmartGCC supplies 100% original Isntree with free standard home delivery across Kuwait, usually next day. Areas beyond Fahaheel and Jahra carry a 3 KD delivery surcharge. Cash on delivery is available, and unopened items can be returned within 14 days.