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Daily Foaming Cleanser for Makeup, Excess Oil and Impurities
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol
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Dermaceutic Laboratoire
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol
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The skincare focus
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol
Retinol Serum for Fine Lines, Uneven Texture and Loss of Radiance
Explore our ingredient glossaryDermaceutic Laboratoire
The formula, explained.
The ingredients behind this formula—and what they bring to your skin.
Pure Retinol
A vitamin A derivative that supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and loss of radiance.
1% Retinol Boost
A marine algae-derived bio-retinoid that works alongside pure retinol to enhance visible results while supporting skin comfort.
1% Ceramide Complex
Helps replenish essential skin lipids, reinforce the moisture barrier and maintain balanced hydration.
Ingredient imagery is illustrative. Explore the full ingredient list below.
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ColorescienceTotal Protection® No-Show™ Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50
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No-Show™ Mineral is the sheerest-of-the-sheer, all-mineral sunscreen that blends into skin so beautifully you'll forget it’s there.
Worth knowing
The finer details.
A closer look at your skin, your routine and what goes into the formula.
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol
Retinol Serum for Fine Lines, Uneven Texture and Loss of Radiance
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol is a nighttime retinol serum available in two strengths to address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, dullness and other visible signs of skin aging.
Both formulas use Dermaceutic’s triple-retinol technology, combining immediate-release and encapsulated pure retinol with a marine-derived bio-retinoid called Retinol Boost. This multi-action system supports both immediate and progressive skin-renewing benefits while helping maintain skin comfort.
Ceramides, panthenol, allantoin, vitamin C derivatives and vitamin E complement the retinol complex by supporting hydration, antioxidant protection and the skin’s moisture barrier.
Choose Activ Retinol 0.5 for a progressive introduction to retinol or Activ Retinol 1.0 for a more intensive treatment when the skin is already accustomed to retinoids.
Both formulas are fragrance-free and vegan.
Choose Your Strength
Activ Retinol 0.5 – Progressive: Formulated with 0.2% pure retinol and 1% Retinol Boost. This is the recommended starting point for clients who are newer to retinol or prefer a gradual approach.
Activ Retinol 1.0 – Intensive: Formulated with 0.3% pure retinol and 1% Retinol Boost. This more intensive option is best suited to experienced retinol users addressing more established visible signs of skin aging.
Benefits
- Helps visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- Supports smoother and more refined-looking skin texture
- Restores radiance to dull, tired-looking skin
- Helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone
- Supports firmer and more supple-looking skin
- Encourages the skin’s natural renewal process
- Helps improve visible signs of photoaging
- Provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
- Supports the skin’s moisture barrier with ceramides
- Available in two strengths for a progressive treatment approach
- Fragrance-free
How to use
- Before you begin: Apply in the evening to clean, completely dry skin.
- Application: Activ Retinol 0.5: Begin two evenings per week.Gradually increase to every other evening and eventually nightly use when the skin remains comfortable.
- Activ Retinol 1.0: Use only when the skin is already accustomed to retinol.Begin one or two evenings per week and gradually increase the frequency according to skin tolerance and professional recommendations.
- Reduce the frequency if persistent dryness, redness, burning or excessive flaking develops.
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 every morning and limit unprotected sun exposure.
- Contains vitamin A. Consider your daily vitamin A intake before use.
- To finish: Allow the serum to absorb before applying a moisturizer.
- Keep in mind: Distribute a small amount over the face and neck, avoiding the eye contour, eyelids, lips and mucous membranes.
- Do not apply to irritated, sensitized or broken skin.
- Avoid using Activ Retinol in the same routine as AHAs, BHAs, exfoliating scrubs, intensive peels or other retinoid products.
- Activ Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Precautions
Full Ingredient List
Activ Retinol 0.5 Full Ingredient List
Water (Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Diglycerin, Undecane, Panthenol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Retinol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids, Allantoin, Glycerin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tridecane, Carbomer, Phosphatidylcholine, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Propanediol, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Lecithin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Lactic Acid, Sodium Citrate, P-Anisic Acid.
Activ Retinol 1.0 Full Ingredient List
Water (Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Diglycerin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Undecane, Panthenol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Retinol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids, Allantoin, Glycerin, Tridecane, Phosphatidylcholine, Carbomer, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Propanediol, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Lecithin, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Lactic Acid, Sodium Citrate, P-Anisic Acid.
Ingredient lists may be updated by the manufacturer. Refer to the packaging of your selected variant for the most current ingredient information.
Shipping & returns
For delivery and return information, view our policy.
Retinol Serum for Fine Lines, Uneven Texture and Loss of Radiance
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol is a nighttime retinol serum available in two strengths to address fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture, dullness and other visible signs of skin aging.
Both formulas use Dermaceutic’s triple-retinol technology, combining immediate-release and encapsulated pure retinol with a marine-derived bio-retinoid called Retinol Boost. This multi-action system supports both immediate and progressive skin-renewing benefits while helping maintain skin comfort.
Ceramides, panthenol, allantoin, vitamin C derivatives and vitamin E complement the retinol complex by supporting hydration, antioxidant protection and the skin’s moisture barrier.
Choose Activ Retinol 0.5 for a progressive introduction to retinol or Activ Retinol 1.0 for a more intensive treatment when the skin is already accustomed to retinoids.
Both formulas are fragrance-free and vegan.
Choose Your Strength
- Activ Retinol 0.5 – Progressive: Formulated with 0.2% pure retinol and 1% Retinol Boost. This is the recommended starting point for clients who are newer to retinol or prefer a gradual approach.
- Activ Retinol 1.0 – Intensive: Formulated with 0.3% pure retinol and 1% Retinol Boost. This more intensive option is best suited to experienced retinol users addressing more established visible signs of skin aging.
Benefits
-
Helps visibly reduce fine lines and wrinkles
-
Supports smoother and more refined-looking skin texture
-
Restores radiance to dull, tired-looking skin
-
Helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone
-
Supports firmer and more supple-looking skin
-
Encourages the skin’s natural renewal process
-
Helps improve visible signs of photoaging
-
Provides antioxidant protection against environmental stressors
-
Supports the skin’s moisture barrier with ceramides
-
Available in two strengths for a progressive treatment approach
-
Fragrance-free
Best For
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol is especially suitable for skin experiencing:
-
Fine lines and wrinkles
-
Rough or uneven skin texture
-
Dullness and loss of radiance
-
Uneven-looking skin tone
-
Visible signs of sun damage
-
Loss of firmness or elasticity
-
Enlarged-looking pores
-
Mature skin
- Skin ready to begin or progress within a retinol routine
How It Works
Dermaceutic Activ Retinol uses triple-retinol technology to provide both immediate and sustained skin-renewing benefits.
Solubilized retinol is designed for immediate release and rapid absorption, while encapsulated retinol is delivered progressively to provide longer-lasting activity. This controlled-release approach helps support continued results while minimizing unnecessary irritation.
Retinol Boost is a next-generation bio-retinoid derived from marine algae. It works alongside the two forms of pure retinol to enhance the formula’s visible age-defence benefits while supporting skin comfort.
The formulas also contain ceramides, panthenol and allantoin to support hydration and the moisture barrier. Vitamin C derivatives and vitamin E provide complementary antioxidant benefits.
The principal difference between the two variants is their pure retinol concentration:
-
Activ Retinol 0.5 contains 0.2% pure retinol
- Activ Retinol 1.0 contains 0.3% pure retinol
Both contain 1% Retinol Boost.
Clinical Results
Activ Retinol 0.5
In an in vivo study conducted over 28 days:
-
100% agreed that their skin texture appeared smoother and more refined
-
97% agreed that their complexion appeared more even
- 87% agreed that wrinkles and fine lines appeared visibly reduced
The study was conducted on 32 volunteers by an independent European research organization. Individual results may vary.
How to Use
- Apply in the evening to clean, completely dry skin.
- Distribute a small amount over the face and neck, avoiding the eye contour, eyelids, lips and mucous membranes.
- Allow the serum to absorb before applying a moisturizer.
Activ Retinol 0.5: Begin two evenings per week.Gradually increase to every other evening and eventually nightly use when the skin remains comfortable.
Activ Retinol 1.0: Use only when the skin is already accustomed to retinol.Begin one or two evenings per week and gradually increase the frequency according to skin tolerance and professional recommendations.
- Do not apply to irritated, sensitized or broken skin.
- Avoid using Activ Retinol in the same routine as AHAs, BHAs, exfoliating scrubs, intensive peels or other retinoid products.
- Reduce the frequency if persistent dryness, redness, burning or excessive flaking develops.
- Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 every morning and limit unprotected sun exposure.
- Contains vitamin A. Consider your daily vitamin A intake before use.
- Activ Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Loshen & Crem’s Recommendation
Choosing the correct strength is more important than beginning with the strongest formula.
We recommend Activ Retinol 0.5 for clients who are new to retinol, returning to retinol after a break or experiencing a dry or easily sensitized skin barrier.
Activ Retinol 1.0 is best reserved for clients who have used Activ Retinol 0.5 consistently and comfortably or who already have experience with comparable retinoid formulas.
Begin slowly and keep the rest of the evening routine simple. Follow with a hydrating, barrier-supporting moisturizer and avoid introducing exfoliating acids at the same time.
Clients prone to dryness may use the sandwich method:
-
Apply a thin layer of moisturizer
-
Follow with Activ Retinol
- Finish with another light layer of moisturizer
Temporary dryness or mild flaking can occur while the skin adjusts, but persistent discomfort is not a sign of better results. Reduce the frequency and focus on barrier support when the skin feels irritated.
Daily sunscreen is essential while using either strength.
Ingredients
- Pure Retinol: A vitamin A derivative that supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and loss of radiance.
- 1% Retinol Boost: A marine algae-derived bio-retinoid that works alongside pure retinol to enhance visible results while supporting skin comfort.
- 1% Ceramide Complex: Helps replenish essential skin lipids, reinforce the moisture barrier and maintain balanced hydration.
- Panthenol: A hydrating and soothing ingredient that helps maintain moisture and improve skin comfort.
- Allantoin: Helps soften and soothe the skin while supporting comfort during retinol use.
- Vitamin C Derivatives and Vitamin E: Provide complementary antioxidant benefits and help defend against environmental stressors associated with visible photoaging.
- Chlorella Vulgaris Extract: A marine-derived ingredient used as part of the Retinol Boost system to complement the activity of pure retinol.
Activ Retinol 0.5 Full Ingredient List
Water (Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Diglycerin, Undecane, Panthenol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Retinol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids, Allantoin, Glycerin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tridecane, Carbomer, Phosphatidylcholine, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Propanediol, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Lecithin, Sodium Hydroxide, Cetyl Alcohol, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Lactic Acid, Sodium Citrate, P-Anisic Acid.
Activ Retinol 1.0 Full Ingredient List
Water (Aqua), Pentylene Glycol, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Diglycerin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Undecane, Panthenol, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Retinol, Chlorella Vulgaris Extract, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phospholipids, Sphingolipids, Allantoin, Glycerin, Tridecane, Phosphatidylcholine, Carbomer, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Propanediol, Sodium Gluconate, Xanthan Gum, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiables, O-Cymen-5-Ol, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Lecithin, Cetyl Alcohol, Sodium Hydroxide, Caesalpinia Spinosa Gum, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Hull Powder, Lactic Acid, Sodium Citrate, P-Anisic Acid.
Ingredient lists may be updated by the manufacturer. Refer to the packaging of your selected variant for the most current ingredient information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dermaceutic Activ Retinol used for?
Activ Retinol is a nighttime serum designed to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, dullness, uneven skin tone, rough texture and other visible signs of skin aging.
What is the difference between Activ Retinol 0.5 and 1.0?
Activ Retinol 0.5 contains 0.2% pure retinol and is intended as the more progressive option.
Activ Retinol 1.0 contains 0.3% pure retinol and provides a more intensive treatment for experienced retinol users.
Both formulas contain 1% Retinol Boost and barrier-supporting ingredients.
Do the names mean 0.5% and 1% pure retinol?
No. The current formulas do not contain 0.5% and 1% pure retinol.
Activ Retinol 0.5 contains 0.2% pure retinol, while Activ Retinol 1.0 contains 0.3% pure retinol. Both also contain a 1% marine-derived Retinol Boost.
Which strength should I choose?
Choose Activ Retinol 0.5 when you are new to retinol, returning after a break or prefer a more gradual introduction.
Choose Activ Retinol 1.0 when your skin is already comfortable with retinol and you want a more intensive treatment.
Should I start with Activ Retinol 0.5?
Yes. Most clients should begin with Activ Retinol 0.5 and progress only when it is used consistently without persistent irritation.
Can Activ Retinol be used every night?
It may eventually be used nightly when well tolerated, but it should be introduced gradually. More frequent application does not always produce faster or better results.
Is dryness or flaking normal?
Temporary mild dryness or flaking may occur as the skin adjusts. Persistent redness, burning or discomfort indicates that the product is being used too frequently or that the skin barrier requires additional support.
Can I use Activ Retinol with glycolic or salicylic acid?
Avoid applying retinol and exfoliating acids in the same routine. Alternating them on different evenings may be appropriate for experienced users under professional guidance.
Can I use Activ Retinol with vitamin C?
A gentle vitamin C product may be used in the morning, with Activ Retinol reserved for the evening. Avoid combining multiple intensive actives when the skin is sensitive or adjusting to retinol.
Can I use Activ Retinol around my eyes?
No. Avoid the eye contour, eyelids and the area immediately beneath the eyes.
Do I need sunscreen while using Activ Retinol?
Yes. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 50 every morning and reapply as needed.
Can Activ Retinol be used during summer?
It may be used during summer when applied only in the evening, introduced gradually and paired with consistent daily sunscreen. Reduce the frequency if sensitivity develops.
Can Activ Retinol be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
No. Dermaceutic does not recommend either Activ Retinol strength during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Is Activ Retinol fragrance-free?
Yes. Both current formulas are fragrance-free.
Is Activ Retinol vegan?
Yes. Both current formulas are vegan.
The care behind your order
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Request an eligible return within 30 days. Items must be unopened, unused and in their original packaging. Final-sale exclusions apply.
Returns & order support
Pure Retinol
A vitamin A derivative that supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and loss of radiance.
1% Retinol Boost
A marine algae-derived bio-retinoid that works alongside pure retinol to enhance visible results while supporting skin comfort.
1% Ceramide Complex
Helps replenish essential skin lipids, reinforce the moisture barrier and maintain balanced hydration.
Panthenol
A hydrating and soothing ingredient that helps maintain moisture and improve skin comfort.
Vitamin C Derivatives and Vitamin E
Provide complementary antioxidant benefits and help defend against environmental stressors associated with visible photoaging.
Allantoin
Helps soften and soothe the skin while supporting comfort during retinol use.
Chlorella Vulgaris Extract
A marine-derived ingredient used as part of the Retinol Boost system to complement the activity of pure retinol.
Curious about your ingredients?
Explore La Matière
A little guidance. A more considered routine.
Your skin.
Our attention.
Beautiful formulas are only part of the story. Knowing what belongs in your routine makes all the difference.
Talk through your skin, the products you already use and the questions on your mind with one of our facialists.
Book a consultation Just a product question? Ask us.Personal guidance, in Edmonton or online.
The care behind your care
A place in your routine.
A team in your corner.
From your first question to your next replenishment, there’s a real person here to help.
01 Make sense of what you already use
You don’t need to start over. Bring us your current routine and we’ll help you understand where a new formula fits.
Ask our team02 Get to know your skin
Take our skin questionnaire for a thoughtful starting point, then speak with us if you’d like to explore your recommendations.
Find your starting point03 Keep the conversation going
A question about how to use it? Unsure about your next step? You’re welcome to come back to our team for guidance.
We’re here to helpFrom our Edmonton boutique
Explore Dermaceutic Laboratoire.
Find your place to begin.
Discover Dermaceutic Activ Retinol at Loshen & Crem, a skin-health boutique and facial studio in Edmonton, Alberta. Explore the Dermaceutic Laboratoire collection online across Canada, or speak with our facialists about how this formula fits into the products you already use.
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Your ritual, beautifully noted.
The guidance you’ll want when you get home: how to use it, what to expect and when to check in. A little reminder, with your team still in reach.