Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml
by Skincyclopedia
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Skincyclopedia's 1% Retinol Serum is an oil-based formulation built around a high-strength retinol concentration, paired with squalane as the primary carrier and tocopherol (Vitamin E) as an antioxidant stabiliser. Best for Dry to normal skin seeking anti-aging retinol treatment and Experienced retinol users comfortable with 1% concentration.
According to the AIScored 0–100 scoring system, Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml by Skincyclopedia scores 64.0/100, ranking #25 out of 38 products in Retinol & Retinoids (2026). Strongest category: Value For Money (74.0/100). Weakest: Skin Compatibility (50.0/100).
Is Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum ... worth buying?
“Skincyclopedia's 1% Retinol Serum pairs a clinically validated retinol dose with squalane, which hydrates and won't clog pores—it's a no-fuss option for acne-prone skin, though the lightweight base means it's gentler than some competing retinols. Scoring 64/100, this works best for people already used to strong actives, as the formulation suggests it's designed for experienced retinoid users rather than those taking their first steps with the ingredient.”
What Do Reviewers Say About Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml?
Sample excerpts from currently available source material used in this product analysis.
"I love this range of Skincare, however this was the first time buying the Retinol Serum. It's slightly runny, unlike most of their products which are think and lush. The price is amazing, and the results seem good so far."
"My go to serum for retinol. Not too greasy. My skin is clear, bright and soft. Doesn't have a strong smell. I usually pair with a moisturiser."
"Luxurious feel, great product left my skin glowing. Definitely on my repeat order list"
"Good face serum but I think it's little expensive. If money is not problem for you then go for it. Check ingredients, I found similar serum in local pharmacy for affordable price. Overall nice"
"I am on my 3rd one and can confirm that it definitely helps with fine lines and skin texture. I use it with their hyaluronic acid every morning before I apply my face cream. Brilliant and well worth the money"
How does Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with ... score?
Detailed score breakdown and key findings from our analysis of 13 reviews across 1 source.
Pros
- +1% retinol is a clinically validated concentration for wrinkle reduction, acne, and dark spot correction
- +Squalane is a lightweight, non-comedogenic emollient (comedogenicity 1/5) that minimises dryness and supports the skin barrier during retinol use
- +Tocopherol stabilises retinol and provides antioxidant protection, extending shelf life and efficacy
- +Dark glass packaging protects retinol from light degradation — a genuine formulation quality marker
- +Consistently praised for value-for-money given the active concentration
Cons
- -Oil-based squalane vehicle is poorly matched to the 'oily and acne-prone' skin claim — multiple reviewers reported greasiness and poor absorption on oily skin
- -1% retinol is high-strength for a first-use product; significant risk of peeling, redness, and purging without gradual introduction
- -At least one reviewer applied it in the morning — the product copy does not clearly warn against daytime use without broad-spectrum SPF, which is a safety gap
- -No INCI list publicly available to verify ingredient order, additional actives, or presence of fragrance/alcohol
Best For
Watch Out
- !Not well-suited for oily or acne-prone skin despite label claims — squalane-based formula can feel heavy and occlusive
- !1% retinol requires careful introduction (1–2x per week) to avoid retinol dermatitis, flaking, or barrier disruption
- !Must be used in PM only — retinol is photosensitive and increases UV sensitivity; daily SPF 30+ is mandatory
- !Those with rosacea, eczema, or compromised skin barrier should start at a lower retinol concentration (0.025–0.1%)
- !Fragrance status unknown without full INCI — fragrance-sensitive users should verify before purchase
What is Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml?
Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml is a retinol & retinoids product by Skincyclopedia, scoring 64.0/100 on AIScored.
- • 💙HIGH STRENGHTH ANTI-AGING TREATMENT formulated to firm mature skin, reduce wrinkles and dark spots, and exfoliate dead cells to enhance renewal.
- • 💙ONE OF VERY FEW SCIENTIFICALLY-PROVEN anti-wrinkle ingredients.
- • Proven beyond doubt to reduce the depth and number of wrinkles over time.
- • ✨ACNE AND ACNE SCAR CARE.
- • Pimple patches not working? Our serum has blemish removal qualities that patch up the condition of oily, spot-prone skin.
- • ✨DRIES OUT BLEMISHES, exfoliates dead cells, and lightens scars in a few applications.
- • Enjoy clear complexion with ordinary, but effective actives.
- • ✅PERFECT FOR NORMAL, COMBINATION AND OILY SKIN – Ideal anti-wrinkle and anti-acne solution.
- • Suitable for both men and women.
How We Score Supplements
Our methodology analyses review data, ingredient science, and product information, then scores each product on a 0-100 scale across evidence-based categories:
Effectiveness
How well the product delivers its claimed benefits, based on reviews and ingredient evidence.
Ingredient Quality
Bioavailable forms, clinically effective dosages, clean label, minimal fillers.
Value for Money
Price relative to ingredient quality, dosage count, and effectiveness.
Side Effects Profile
Higher score = fewer side effects. 100 means virtually no adverse reactions reported.
Certifications & Testing
Third-party lab testing, GMP certification, and independent quality verification.
Overall Score
Weighted combination of all factors. Our bottom-line recommendation.
Price History (90 days)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml worth buying in 2026? ▼
What is the best price for Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml in the UK? ▼
What are the pros and cons of Skincyclopedia 1% Retinol Serum with Squalane and Vitamin E - Acne Prone and Oily Skin Moisturiser, Dark Spot Remover and Pore Minimizer, for Men and Women, 30ml? ▼
What the Data Says About Retinol & Retinoids
Retinol vs retinaldehyde: which actually scores higher?
Retinaldehyde leads by 17.2 points on effectiveness. Across 42 retinol/retinoid products we scored, the 3 retinaldehyde products average 78.3 on effectiveness versus 61.1 for 31 retinol products.
The retinaldehyde products in our database:
- Naturium Retinaldehyde Cream Serum 0.05% — 80 effectiveness, 83 overall
- Paula's Choice CLINICAL Pro Retinaldehyde — 74 effectiveness, 64 overall
- Medik8 Crystal Retinal 3 — 81 effectiveness, 79 overall (uses retinaldehyde despite the name)
All three beat the retinol average on effectiveness. The biological reason: retinaldehyde sits one conversion step closer to retinoic acid, the form your skin actually uses. Retinol requires two conversions; retinaldehyde requires one.
The honest caveat: 3 products is a small sample. The gap is wide enough to take seriously, but we'd want more retinaldehyde products on the market before calling it definitive. For now, the data favours retinaldehyde — but your options are limited.
Why do most retinol products score below average?
31 retinol products average 61.1 on effectiveness. Most land in mediocre territory. The molecule works — but the average product doesn't deliver it well.
The top retinol performers prove it can be done right:
- Paula's Choice CLINICAL 1% Retinol — 82 effectiveness, 76 overall
- Indeed Labs Retinol Reface — 80 effectiveness, 75 overall
- The Ordinary Retinol 0.5% in Squalane — 75 effectiveness, 74 overall
Three factors separate winners from the rest:
- Concentration. Products with clearly stated, meaningful percentages (0.5%–1%) score higher. Many products list retinol without disclosing how much.
- Stability. Retinol degrades with light and air exposure. Good packaging (airless pumps, opaque tubes) and encapsulation technology keep the molecule intact.
- Supporting ingredients. Top scorers pair retinol with stabilisers, squalane, or delivery systems that protect it until it reaches your skin.
The average retinol product fails on one or more of these. A retinol label doesn't guarantee results — the formulation behind it determines whether you're getting active retinol or degraded filler.
Disclaimer: AIScored provides research-backed summaries based on publicly available reviews and product information. This is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Affiliate links may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.
What Are Other Top Retinol & Retinoids?
Other top-rated retinol & retinoids you might want to compare.
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