innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Acne Serum — 2% Salicylic Acid, Green Tea Soothing Complex for Sensitive, Acne-Prone Skin

This Korean-formulated serum targets active blemishes and helps prevent new breakouts while minimizing the dryness and irritation commonly tied to retinol. Designed for sensitive and acne-prone complexions, the formula pairs innisfree's Gentle Retinol technology with a Green Tea Soothing Complex—Green Tea Ceramide and Green Tea Biome—to support the skin barrier and microbiome as it works. Clinical testing on a small panel reported reduced redness, fewer blemishes and improved texture with daily use.

How does this serum treat existing breakouts?

The serum uses 2% salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid that penetrates pores to help dissolve debris and unclog follicles, reducing blackheads and whiteheads. Combined with retinol technology, it accelerates skin turnover to help congested skin clear faster.

• 2% salicylic acid targets pore congestion and surface blemishes.
• Gentle Retinol technology enhances cell turnover with lower irritation risk.
• Noncomedogenic formula reduces likelihood of new clogged pores.

Will this serum irritate sensitive or easily reactive skin?

innisfree formulated this serum for sensitized skin by blending mild retinol technology with calming green tea-derived ingredients to soothe and support skin resilience. Clinical and self-assessments in testing reported high rates of minimal dryness and low irritation when used as directed.

• Green Tea Ceramide mimics natural ceramides to help soothe and reinforce the barrier.
• Green Tea Biome supports a balanced skin microbiome for calmer skin environment.
• Dermatologically tested and labeled noncomedogenic for sensitive-prone users.

How should I use it in my daily routine for best results?

Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, spreading a thin layer over areas of concern. It can be used once to three times daily depending on tolerance; always follow with sunscreen in the morning and a moisturizer if you experience dryness.

• Use after cleanser and toner on clean skin.
• Apply thinly to acne-prone areas; adjust frequency (1–3x daily) per tolerance.
• Follow with SPF each morning and moisturizer as needed at night.

What results can I expect and when?

Test participants reported improvements in redness, fewer blemishes and smoother texture over days to weeks of consistent use. Individual results vary; gradual improvements in congestion and marks are typical as cell turnover increases.

• Many users noticed reduced redness and fewer blemishes after one week of daily use in testing.
• Ongoing use reported improvements in post-acne marks and skin texture after several weeks.
• Consistency and sun protection improve outcomes and reduce sensitivity risk.

Who is this for? This serum is intended for people with oily, combination or acne-prone skin who want an active yet mild treatment to clear blemishes and calm flare-ups. It’s suitable for sensitive skin types seeking retinol benefits without harsh irritation, and for anyone who wants a routine-friendly acne treatment that pairs easily with moisturizers and SPF. Avoid using with other strong exfoliating actives without professional guidance; perform a patch test if you have a history of severe sensitivity.

Ingredients

Water / Aqua / Eau, Glycerin, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Dibutyl Adipate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cholesterol, Allantoin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract, Asiatic Acid, Retinol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Hyaluronic Acid, Mannitol, Ceramide NP, Carbomer, Beta-Glucan, Beta-Carotene, Phytosphingosine, Salicylic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11, Propylene Glycol Alginate