[Cosrx] The Retinol 0.5 Oil 20ml

COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil 20ml

1. Product Overview

A concentrated, oil-based retinol treatment designed to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin texture and enlarged pores.

Formulated with 0.5% pure retinol, squalane and vitamin E antioxidants, this intensive nighttime treatment combines vitamin A-based skin renewal with nourishing emollients.

Its lightweight oil texture spreads smoothly across the skin, helping maintain softness while supporting a firmer, smoother and more radiant-looking complexion over time.

2. Why We Chose It

We selected this treatment for its 0.5% retinol concentration, streamlined 10-ingredient formula and targeted approach to visible signs of skin ageing.

Retinol is a well-established skincare ingredient that supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven texture.

Squalane and soybean oil provide emollient benefits, while tocopherol and tocotrienols offer antioxidant support.

The manufacturer also reports clinical improvements in wrinkle appearance, elasticity and visible pores following regular use.

A targeted option for experienced retinol users seeking a more intensive nighttime treatment.

3. Benefits

• Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Supports smoother, more refined-looking skin texture
• Helps improve the appearance of enlarged pores
• Promotes firmer-looking skin
• Supports improved skin elasticity
• Helps improve the appearance of uneven skin tone
• Promotes a more radiant-looking complexion
• Provides nourishing emollient benefits
• Supports a consistent nighttime skin-renewal routine

Manufacturer-Reported Clinical Results

In a clinical evaluation involving 20 participants, COSRX reports the following improvements:

After 4 weeks:

• Forehead wrinkles: 22.02%
• Nasolabial wrinkles: 18.40%
• Eye-area wrinkles: 17.68%
• External elasticity: 16.91%
• Internal elasticity: 13.43%
• Mouth-corner lifting measurement: 13.78%
• Chin lifting measurement: 13.54%
• Skin-age measurement: 4.28%

After 2 weeks:

• Pore volume measurement: 48.87%
• Pore area measurement: 45.74%

Source: Manufacturer-supplied clinical results attributed to Dermacosmetic Skin Science Laboratory Co., Ltd., involving 20 participants. These percentages refer to study measurements and do not guarantee equivalent visible results for individual users. The underlying clinical report has not been independently verified.

4. Who It’s For

Ideal for experienced retinol users concerned with fine lines, wrinkles, visible pores, uneven texture and loss of firmness.

May suit normal, combination and dry skin that already tolerates vitamin A treatments.

Not recommended as a first retinol product, particularly for sensitive or reactive skin.

Those with an impaired moisture barrier, active irritation or significant dryness should avoid introducing this concentrated treatment until their skin has recovered.

Retinoids should be avoided during pregnancy and when trying to conceive. Seek medical advice regarding use while breastfeeding.

5. How to Use

Evening use only.

After cleansing and applying your usual hydrating products, dispense 1–2 drops onto your fingertips.

Gently spread across targeted areas, avoiding the eyelids, lash lines, lips and other sensitive areas.

Follow with moisturiser as needed.

Weeks 1–2: Building Tolerance

Apply two evenings per week initially. Increase to three evenings only if your skin remains comfortable.

Use a small amount on areas of concern rather than immediately applying across the entire face.

Week 3 Onward: Gradual Adjustment

If well tolerated, increase to every other evening.

Apply a thin, even layer to the face, avoiding sensitive areas.

Do not increase frequency while experiencing dryness, redness, peeling or irritation.

Morning Protection

Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning and reapply as appropriate.

Avoid using other retinoids or strong exfoliating treatments in the same evening routine unless directed by a qualified professional.

6. Ritual Position

PM: Cleanse → Tone → Hydrating Serum → RETINOL OIL → Moisturise

Use as your nighttime retinol treatment, introducing it gradually according to skin tolerance.

Because this is an oil-based formula, it may be applied around the moisturising stage of your routine, according to the manufacturer’s directions.

7. Glass Ritual Pairing

Pair with a gentle cleanser and a moisturiser that supports the skin’s moisture barrier.

ILLIYOON Ceramide Ato Concentrate Cream is a practical companion for maintaining skin comfort during retinol use.

For additional hydration, use a gentle hyaluronic acid serum before the retinol treatment.

Avoid layering with celimax The Vita-A Retinal Shot Tightening Booster in the same routine, as combining concentrated vitamin A treatments increases the risk of irritation.

8. Key Ingredients

Pure Retinol (0.5%) — A vitamin A derivative that supports skin renewal and helps improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and visible pores.

Squalane — A lightweight emollient that helps soften skin and reduce moisture loss.

Soybean Oil — Provides emollient and skin-conditioning benefits.

Tocopherol (Vitamin E) — An antioxidant that helps protect the formulation and provides skin-conditioning benefits.

Tocotrienols — Members of the vitamin E family that provide antioxidant support.

Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride — An emollient that helps maintain skin softness and improves the formula’s spreadability.

9. Full Ingredients

Squalane, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Di-C12-13 Alkyl Malate, Retinol (0.5%), Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, BHT, Tocotrienols, Tocopherol, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil, Hydroxymethoxyphenyl Decanone.

10. Safety & Ingredient Information

Contains 0.5% retinol, a concentrated vitamin A derivative.

Retinol can cause dryness, redness, peeling, irritation and increased skin sensitivity, particularly during initial use.

Introduce gradually and reduce frequency or discontinue use if irritation develops.

Do not apply to broken, inflamed or visibly irritated skin.

Avoid use during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Consult a healthcare professional before use while breastfeeding.

Avoid combining with other retinoids, strong exfoliating acids or potentially irritating treatments in the same routine unless professionally advised.

Contains soybean oil. Individuals with known soy allergies or relevant ingredient sensitivities should review the formula carefully.

For external use only. Avoid direct eye contact. Keep out of reach of children.

Patch testing is recommended before first use.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen consistently during the day.

Store according to the manufacturer’s packaging instructions, away from excessive heat and direct sunlight.

Ingredient Disclaimer: Ingredients and formulations may be changed by the manufacturer without prior notice. The ingredient list provided is for reference only. Always check the ingredient list on the product packaging before use, particularly if you have allergies or sensitivities.

11. Glass Ritual Note

A concentrated nighttime treatment for experienced retinol users seeking to improve the appearance of wrinkles, texture and visible pores.

Introduce it gradually, maintain consistent moisturising and protect your skin with sunscreen during the day.

We don’t buy beauty. We build it.