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recommended for:

all skin types, including sensitive skin
fine lines and wrinkles
uneven texture and tone
pores

Our high-dose wrinkle serum visibly reduces the 4 signs of skin aging in just 2 weeks.* Gentle enough for nightly use, this serum features a 3.5% Retinoid Complex + Squalane to minimize the appearance of pores, smooth texture, even tone, and reverse the look of wrinkles. Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum delivers the benefits of a retinol while maintaining the health of the skin barrier.

*Clinical results with 30 volunteers on reduction in appearance of wrinkles, pores, dark spots, and uneven texture in 2 weeks test.

benefits

Gentle yet effective: A retinoid serum suitable for sensitive skin that delivers visible anti-aging benefits while supporting the skin barrier. Gentle enough for nightly use.
Reduce visible signs of aging: Our serum works to reverse the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin looking youthful and rejuvenated.
Enhanced skin resilience: Formulated with a 3.5% Retinoid Complex and nourishing Squalane, Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum supports skin resilience.
Hydrating + strengthening: Infused with beta-glucan, our serum not only hydrates the skin but also strengthens the skin barrier, protecting it from environmental damage.
Seamless integration: Lightweight gel serum that absorbs quickly and is easy to incorporate into your nightly skin care routine, making it easy to reap the benefits without any hassle.
Refined texture + tone: Visibly reduces the appearance of pores and evens skin tone for a smoother, more radiant complexion.

how to use

After cleansing and drying your skin, apply a small amount of Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum evenly over your entire face. Avoid getting it into your eyes.
For best results, use the serum nightly before going to bed, allowing it to work overnight.
Monitor your skin’s response. If you experience dryness or redness, reduce the application frequency to every other night or as needed. Incorporating hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid into your skin care routine can also help to minimize irritation.
During the day, protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen with a suitable SPF like Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 to prevent UV damage.
For an optimal routine, apply retinol after cleansing and before moisturizer to help support smoother, more even-looking skin over time.

ingredients

Water/Aqua/Eau, Squalane, Glycerin, Hexyldecanol, Propanediol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Retinol, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Aniba Rosodora (Rosewood) Wood Oil, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Santalum Album (Sandalwood) Oil, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Extract, Cupressus Sempervirens Oil, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Abies Sibirica Oil, Tocopherol, Beta-Glucan, Caprylyl Glycol, BHT, Ceramide NP, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Cetyl Palmitate, 1,2- Hexanediol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Polysorbate 60, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Hydroxystearic Acid, Polysorbate 20, Sorbitan Isostearate, Laureth-23, Trideceth-6 Phosphate, Sodium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Sodium Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Linalool.

Dermalogica is dedicated to maintaining the accuracy of the ingredient lists on this website. However, because ingredients are subject to change, we cannot guarantee that these lists are complete, up-to-date and/or error-free. For an accurate listing of ingredients in each product, please refer to your product packaging.

sustainability

1.0 oz:

Materials: Bottle/Pump: Mixed Material, Cap: PP (resin code 5), Carton: Paper

What’s Recyclable: The bottle of this Dermalogica product is recyclable. The paper used in this carton is recyclable and comes from FSC certified responsibly managed forests.

How to Recycle: Ensure bottle is as empty as possible. Place bottle, pump and cap into waste bin. Place carton in its recycling bin.

To learn more about Dermalogica's sustainability efforts, please click here.

FAQ

What is Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum?

A high-dose wrinkle serum formulated with a 3.5% Retinoid Complex plus squalane to target fine lines, texture, tone, and pores while supporting the skin barrier. It delivers the benefits of a potent retinoid serum while remaining gentle enough for nightly use.

Who is this serum recommended for?

Recommended for all skin types concerned with fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture and tone, and enlarged pores. It’s barrier-supporting formula allows for gentle nightly use while maintaining skin resilience.

What are the key active ingredients?

Key ingredients include A complex of fast-acting Granactive Retinoid®, Retinol, time-released encapsulated Retinol, and a Retinol Booster support a continual release of skin-smoothing actives working at different speeds to address the four signs of skin aging. Concentrated Squalane works with soothing, oat-derived Beta-Glucan to help support recovery for healthier-looking skin.

How do I use a retinol serum?

Apply a small amount of serum evenly across cleansed skin at night, avoiding the eye area. Follow with a moisturizer to maintain hydration. Start every other night if you are new to retinol, gradually increasing to nightly use. If dryness or redness occurs, reduce frequency. Wear an SPF during the day. Consistent application is key to improving texture, tone, and fine lines.

Can I use this retinol serum every night?

Yes. Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum is designed to be gentle enough for nightly use. If you’re new to retinol, start every other night and gradually increase as skin adjusts.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

Many users report this serum is gentle; introduce gradually and patch test if you have known sensitivity or reactive skin. Pairing with hydrating products or a moisturizer can help maintain comfort and reduce irritation.

What is the texture like?

Lightweight, gel-like serum texture that absorbs quickly and feels non-greasy.

How much should I use?

A little goes a long way-one pump or a pea-sized amount is typically sufficient to cover the face.

Can I layer retinol with other products?

Retinol works well with hydrating serums and moisturizers. Avoid layering multiple strong active ingredients at the same time to minimize irritation.

Can retinol be applied around the eyes?

Avoid the delicate eye area unless the product specifically indicates it is safe. Use an eye-specific product like Age Reversal Eye Complex in combination for optimal results.

What’s the difference between retinol and retinoid?

Retinol is a type of retinoid. A retinoid is a vitamin A derivative with many subtypes, including retinol. Retinoids like Retinoic Acid are stronger and often prescription-only, while retinol is gentler and available over-the-counter in products like serums.

How long does it take to see results?

User experiences vary; many report improvements in texture, tone and pore appearance, but results depend on individual skin and routine. Consistent nightly use typically provides the most noticeable benefits over time.

What sizes or variants are available?

0.34 oz (10mL) and 1.0 oz (30mL)

dynamic skin retinol serum

retexturizes and evens skin tone

dynamic skin retinol serum

Price:

$99

or 4 payments of $24.75 with or

Select Size: 0.34 oz 1.0 oz

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recommended for:

all skin types, including sensitive skin
fine lines and wrinkles
uneven texture and tone
pores

*Clinical results with 30 volunteers on reduction in appearance of wrinkles, pores, dark spots, and uneven texture in 2 weeks test.

Professional Treatment Pairing:

luminfusion

supercharged resurfacing treatment

FIND A PROFESSIONAL

View full details

benefits

Gentle yet effective: A retinoid serum suitable for sensitive skin that delivers visible anti-aging benefits while supporting the skin barrier. Gentle enough for nightly use.
Reduce visible signs of aging: Our serum works to reverse the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin looking youthful and rejuvenated.
Enhanced skin resilience: Formulated with a 3.5% Retinoid Complex and nourishing Squalane, Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum supports skin resilience.
Hydrating + strengthening: Infused with beta-glucan, our serum not only hydrates the skin but also strengthens the skin barrier, protecting it from environmental damage.
Seamless integration: Lightweight gel serum that absorbs quickly and is easy to incorporate into your nightly skin care routine, making it easy to reap the benefits without any hassle.
Refined texture + tone: Visibly reduces the appearance of pores and evens skin tone for a smoother, more radiant complexion.

how to use

After cleansing and drying your skin, apply a small amount of Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum evenly over your entire face. Avoid getting it into your eyes.
For best results, use the serum nightly before going to bed, allowing it to work overnight.
Monitor your skin’s response. If you experience dryness or redness, reduce the application frequency to every other night or as needed. Incorporating hydrating ingredients like Hyaluronic Acid into your skin care routine can also help to minimize irritation.
During the day, protect your skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen with a suitable SPF like Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF 50 to prevent UV damage.
For an optimal routine, apply retinol after cleansing and before moisturizer to help support smoother, more even-looking skin over time.

ingredients

sustainability

1.0 oz:

Materials: Bottle/Pump: Mixed Material, Cap: PP (resin code 5), Carton: Paper

What’s Recyclable: The bottle of this Dermalogica product is recyclable. The paper used in this carton is recyclable and comes from FSC certified responsibly managed forests.

How to Recycle: Ensure bottle is as empty as possible. Place bottle, pump and cap into waste bin. Place carton in its recycling bin.

To learn more about Dermalogica's sustainability efforts, please click here.

FAQ

What is Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum?

Who is this serum recommended for?

What are the key active ingredients?

How do I use a retinol serum?

Can I use this retinol serum every night?

Yes. Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum is designed to be gentle enough for nightly use. If you’re new to retinol, start every other night and gradually increase as skin adjusts.

Is it suitable for sensitive skin?

What is the texture like?

Lightweight, gel-like serum texture that absorbs quickly and feels non-greasy.

How much should I use?

A little goes a long way-one pump or a pea-sized amount is typically sufficient to cover the face.

Can I layer retinol with other products?

Retinol works well with hydrating serums and moisturizers. Avoid layering multiple strong active ingredients at the same time to minimize irritation.

Can retinol be applied around the eyes?

Avoid the delicate eye area unless the product specifically indicates it is safe. Use an eye-specific product like Age Reversal Eye Complex in combination for optimal results.

What’s the difference between retinol and retinoid?

How long does it take to see results?

What sizes or variants are available?

0.34 oz (10mL) and 1.0 oz (30mL)

real skin, real results

Overall rating: 4.6884 / 5 from 1181 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum is highly regarded for its gentle yet effective formula that visibly reduces wrinkles, pores, and dark spots. Customers appreciate its creamy texture and the noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture. The serum is also praised for making the skin feel soft and hydrated.

Summary topics

Gentleness (5%): Customers expressed appreciation for the gentle and effective retinol serum that did not cause any irritation or breakouts.
Retinol Effectiveness (17%): A significant number of customers brought up that this retinol is the best they have ever used.
Pore Reduction (5%): Customers raved about the product's ability to reduce pores and make their skin look smoother.
Creamy Texture (9%): Customers expressed appreciation for the creamy texture of the product, which was mentioned multiple times in the reviews.
Skin Appearance (35%): A substantial number of customers appreciated that the retinol product made their skin look amazing and younger.

Review topics: [size, irritation, fragrance, issues, absorbs, smell, weight, price, improvement, skin, results, works, quality, feels, benefits, difference, packaging, texture, looks, service, pores, wrinkles, face, serum, formula, spots, ingredients, retinol, acne, consistency].

Review highlights

"My acne has completely cleared, my texture is almost gone and my skin is feeling super soft." — Megan B.
"My skin feels smoother, and my pores do look smaller." — Chrissy
"This serum decreased my wrinkles and fine lines in under 2 weeks and my skin is glowing and looks radiant!!" — Gina c.

Reviews

Excellent product but. . .

"Very good product, except that the quantity only lasts for a very short period and relative to that, the price is very expensive. I would want a larger container and a more reasonable price."

— Ben F. (5/5)

It's all about the routine

"Lines are less noticeable on my face and fullness is returning. Like the feel of the substance and it goes on without effort. With clean skin day and night, I start with antioxidant hydramist and follow with dynamic skin retinol serum. At night I use powerbright overnight cream and in daytime I use intensive moisture balance moisturizer. It's a simple but productive routine and all of the products have a agreeable scent."

— Mollye B. (5/5)

Can't get past the smell

"I have tried many dermalogica products and have loved them all, but this is one I would not purchase again. The texture is nice, but it smells terrible. It smells exactly like a stink bug."

— SKB (2/5)

a staple

"I use this every evening and like the smaller size for TSA compliant carry on travel! No irritation or redness, can see a difference in just a few days."

— Anna D. (5/5)

Must have for breakouts

"I love how it stops breakouts before they start and treats current breakouts. It keeps my skin smooth and clear. I’ve been using it for almost a year now after receiving a sample."

— Sharon E. (5/5)

I absolutely love the dynamic

"I absolutely love the dynamic skin retinol! They leave my skin looking healthy, smooth, and glowing. I've noticed such a big improvement in my complexion, and the products are definitely high quality. I look younger each day I use it. The only downside is the price. if you're looking for skincare that delivers real results."

— Shannon B. (5/5)

Really good addition to your

"Really good addition to your daily routine. Worth the money."

— Desiree R. (5/5)

Amazing retinol serum

"Fantastic serum I already seen little improvement in under my eyes and forehead wrinkles are less than before i started I will continue and see the full results thank you dermalogica"

— Felicité B. (5/5)

Highly Recommend

"I use this every evening with my night moisturizer. It makes my skin glow. I don't like the high price but the product itself is wonderful. Highly recommend!"

— Angela J. (5/5)

Noticed fine lines on my

"Noticed fine lines on my face going away after 2 weeks of use and an overall more firm, plump look to my skin"

— Emmy K. (5/5)

Q&A

I started to have sun / dark spots. Will this help with it? Thanks: Hello Vee, Thank you for contacting Dermalogica! Yes, the Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum can help improve the appearance of dark spots, and our PowerBright collection is also specifically designed to help address uneven pigmentation. Dark spots can take time to fade because excess pigment may sit deeper within the skin. With consistent use and daily sunscreen, improvement is typically gradual and may take multiple skin renewal cycles to become more noticeable. We also offer complimentary 20-minute video consultations with one of our licensed Professional Skin Therapists, who can provide personalized recommendations based on your skin and concerns. You can schedule your consultation here: https://www.dermalogica.com/pages/video-consultations-page We hope this helps, and we're happy to support you in finding a routine that works best for your skin! Kindly, Sandra Customer Service Agent
Can I apply pro-collagen banking serum after i apply this?: Hello Tiffany, Thank you for your question, In general, we do not suggest layering more than one serum. Active ingredients work best when they have access to the skin, and some serum formulas create a barrier which may prevent a second serum from penetrating the skin. For maximum benefit, we recommend incorporating more than one into your routine by using one in the AM and one in the PM. You would use the dynamic skin retinol at nighttime, and the pro collagen banking serum as your daytime serum in this case Kind Regards Willow Dermalogica Professional Skin Therapist
Can this be used everyday: Hi Ronda, Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains a high 3.5% dose of retinoids to retexturize the skin and even out skin tone without irritation. Use nightly on clean skin and always follow with moisturizer. It is critical to wear sun protection during the day when using this product at night! Please note, that we typically recommend starting a few nights per week and gradually increasing nights to build tolerance. I hope this helps answer your questions, feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or concerns, we're happy to help! Kind Regards, Leslie Dermalogica Pro Skin Therapist
What is best product for milia: Hello Diana, thank you for reaching out to Dermalogica! We are happy to help. May you please respond to this email and confirm if you are allergic to specific skincare ingredients. Kind Regards. Beatriz.
I purchased a bottle of this product in December 2024 and have just now opened it, late June 2025. I can’t locate an expiration date on the bottle or box. I expect will use it several times/ week but can you offer me some guidance here ? Sometimes my obligations interrupt my plans. Thanks: Unopened, most Dermalogica products will have a 2-3 year shelf life. If there is a printed expiration date for active ingredients or SPF, that date will indicate when that ingredient starts becoming less active, similar to a prescription medication. For products without an expiration date that are opened, the small open jar symbol on the package will indicate the "best used by" period for that product. This ranges from 6-24 months depending on the product, labeled as 6M, 12M, or 24M respectively.