innisfree Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule: Beginner-Friendly Retinol With Centella Buffer

innisfree's Retinol Cica Repair Ampoule is the brand's most targeted anti-aging product in the accessible-price tier: a 30ml ampoule combining retinol with cica (centella asiatica) to buffer irritation. The Cica component is what makes this formulation beginner-friendly. Pure retinol serums typically cause 1 to 3 weeks of flaking and redness during introduction; a cica-buffered retinol delivers retinol's effects with less of the retinization phase.

$37.44 for 30ml is mid-tier retinol pricing, comparable to COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil and ilso ER Firming Serum. innisfree doesn't publicly list the retinol concentration but the product is positioned for beginners to intermediate retinol users, suggesting 0.1 to 0.3% range. For users who want to try retinol without committing to prescription-tier strength or the COSRX oil, this is a reasonable entry.

What It Does

Retinol converts to retinoic acid, stimulating collagen synthesis and cell turnover. Centella asiatica (cica) calms inflammation and reduces the irritation retinol typically causes. Panthenol supports barrier recovery. The ampoule texture absorbs cleanly and layers well under moisturizer. Over 8 to 12 weeks: smoother texture, softer fine lines, improved tone.

Who It's For

• Retinol beginners: Primary target.
• Sensitive skin wanting retinol without heavy irritation: Cica buffer.
• Early anti-aging users (late 20s to 30s): Fine line prevention.
• innisfree routine builders: Matches the broader Cica line.
• Not for pregnancy/nursing.

Key Specs

• Volume: 30ml
• Price: $37.44
• Hero ingredients: retinol, centella asiatica (cica), panthenol
• Texture: ampoule
• Fragrance: very light

How to Use

PM only. After cleansing and toner, dispense 2 to 3 drops, press across face. Avoid eye and mouth corners. Wait 10 minutes, follow with moisturizer. Start 2 to 3 nights per week for 2 weeks, work up to 4 to 5 nights. Always SPF in the morning. Avoid layering with AHA, BHA, or vitamin C in the same session.

FAQ

What concentration of retinol?

Not publicly listed, likely in the beginner-to-intermediate range (0.1 to 0.3%). If the label states otherwise, trust the label.

innisfree vs COSRX Retinol 0.5?

innisfree is lower concentration, beginner-friendly, water-based serum. COSRX is higher concentration (0.5%), oil-based, intermediate-level. For first-time retinol users, innisfree. For graduated users, COSRX.

Is the cica component effective?

Yes, centella is one of the better-validated buffer ingredients. It genuinely reduces the irritation phase of retinol introduction.

How long until results?

Texture improvement: 4 to 6 weeks. Fine line softening: 8 to 12 weeks. Firmness: 12+ weeks.

How long does 30ml last?

2 to 4 months depending on frequency of use.

Related Products

Pair with the innisfree Green Tea Hyaluronic Cream or innisfree Black Tea Ampoule. Browse Korean retinol.