SEOUL 1988 Serum : Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng

High-Density Firming Serum with Retinal and Black Ginseng

A firming care serum that combines 2% retinal—11 times more reactive than retinol—with black ginseng extract. Liposome technology encapsulates retinal in micro-capsules for stable delivery, allowing this high-performance ingredient to adhere gently to skin while minimizing irritation. It delivers the deep nourishment of a cream with the lightweight adherence of a serum, finishing fresh without any sticky residue.

Visible Skin Changes After 2 Weeks of Use

Meaningful results were confirmed in a human application test conducted on 21 adult women aged 36–60.

• 11.69% improvement in skin texture roughness
• 6.87% improvement in skin elasticity aging index

A separate skin irritation test confirmed a non-irritating result, making it safe for sensitive skin.

A Formula That Targets Texture, Tone, and Firmness All at Once

The hero ingredient, retinal, helps smooth rough skin texture and supports turnover cycle management. Black ginseng extract delivers nourishment to tired skin and focuses on firming care. Niacinamide, a tone-correcting ingredient, helps brighten a dull complexion, while bakuchiol works in synergy with retinal to complement firming care. Formulated without artificial fragrance, this serum is recommended for those concerned with loss of firmness, sagging skin, or a dull, lackluster complexion.

Use it in your evening routine, during the serum step

After toning, apply during your essence or serum step. Because it contains retinal, it's most effective when applied right after toner and before your cream, to support optimal absorption. Follow with a moisturizer to help lock in all the nourishing benefits.

Best used at night

Retinal is light-sensitive, so we recommend using it in your evening routine. If you do use it during the day, always apply sunscreen. Using it at night aligns with your skin's natural turnover cycle, making it even more effective for refining skin texture.

Start with a pea-sized amount and gently press in

Dispense an appropriate amount and spread evenly across your face and neck. It's best to apply when your skin has settled after toning. If there's too much residual moisture on the surface, it may cause irritation, so wait until your toner is halfway absorbed, then gently tap and massage the serum in.

Pairing suggestions by skin concern

• Firming focus: Layer with a firming cream to amplify the strengthening benefits of black ginseng extract and bakuchiol
• Tone-evening needs: Formulated with niacinamide, it helps brighten and even out skin tone without needing a separate brightening serum
• If dryness is a concern: Seal everything in with a rich moisturizer to lock in hydration

Important guidelines for retinal use

If you're new to retinal, start with twice a week for 1–2 weeks, then gradually increase to every other night, and eventually nightly as your skin builds tolerance. Avoid using it on the same day as AHA, BHA, or high-strength vitamin C to minimize the risk of irritation—stagger them instead. Store in a cool place away from direct sunlight, and avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Product ingredients list.

The list of ingredients is subject to change. Please consult the packaging of the product purchased.