COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream Reviews

Name: The Retinol 0.1 Cream
Brand: COSRX
Rating: 4.55 (1110 reviews)

COSRXThe Retinol 0.1 Cream

4.55

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50 Reviews

럭기03
May 12, 2025 (UTC)
Oily SkinAcne Skin
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Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
Many of you are using retinol products these days, right? I also heard it's great for improving skin elasticity and texture, so I chose COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream as my entry-level product. However... my mom and I had completely opposite reactions. So, this review could be more accurately described as a 'generational user experience.' Advantages: First, my mom in her 50s was very satisfied. At an age sensitive to deep dryness, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity, she loved how this product made her skin texture smoother and helped her makeup apply better. She said it absorbs well without irritation, provides hydration, and is 'perfect for her skin,' so she's been using it consistently. Moreover, compared to high-end retinol products, the price is reasonable, and the texture is soft and rich, making it great for night care. The 0.1% concentration is also suitable for beginners before moving on to higher concentrations of retinol, which is another plus.
Cons
On the other hand, I'm 23 with sensitive combination skin, and my skin reacted badly after just two uses. The first day it felt a bit tingly, and on the second day, I broke out with small, heated blemishes on my forehead and cheeks. I thought it might be an 'adjustment period,' but my skin was already too stressed, so I stopped using it. It's a sad story of literally 'emptying the bottle after two uses...' This product can be irritating, especially for young skin with a weak or thin skin barrier, or for those with super sensitive skin. Also, be cautious when using it alongside other exfoliating products (AHA/BHA, scrubs, etc.) as it may cause even more irritation.
Tip
If you want to use this product safely, here are some tips: 1. Strictly follow an 'adaptation routine.' Start by applying a small amount only 1-2 times a week, and gradually increase based on your skin's reaction. 2. To reduce irritation, use it as the last step in your skincare routine or mix it with a moisturizer. 3. Absolutely avoid using it when your skin is sensitive. Skip it before and after your menstrual cycle, right after exfoliation, or on days with high sun exposure. 4. Sunscreen is a must. Always apply a high SPF sunscreen during the day! Retinol makes your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Overall Review: COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream can be an excellent functional cream for middle-aged and older individuals with relatively resilient skin, but it may be too harsh for sensitive or younger skin. Even though it's marketed as entry-level, I learned firsthand that it's not automatically safe for everyone. I strongly recommend considering your skin condition before use and approaching it slowly with an adaptation period.

0보름달
Apr 9, 2025 (UTC)
Combination Skin
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Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
The way it absorbs is decent. It seems like it could be a really great product if used correctly, but I personally feel some irritation.
Cons
First off, having to store it in the refrigerator is a bit of a hassle. Also, the irritation was quite intense for me, causing redness for a while! So it's not really a product I'm eager to reach for.

윰쩡민
Feb 6, 2025 (UTC)
Combination SkinSensitive Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
My skin is very sensitive and dry, with some oiliness, making it a combination sensitive type! After using this for about two weeks in the evening after cleansing, followed by toner and ampoule, I apply a small amount. The next morning, my skin feels smooth and my pores appear significantly reduced. Even the fine lines around my eyes, though not deep, have noticeably faded.
Cons
Since my skin is quite sensitive, I found that applying it once a day caused some irritation. I experienced dead skin cells, a burning sensation, and redness, so I temporarily stopped using it. However, I did eventually return to it.
Tip
It's great to apply between the eyebrows, at the corners of the eyes, and around the mouth. High-concentration retinol is sensitive to light and heat, so it's best to store the product in a skincare fridge and apply it at night!

momo:)blue
Dec 29, 2024 (UTC)
Oily SkinSensitive SkinAcne Skinproduct.Atopy Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
Absorbs like a dream! It glides on smoothly, like you're applying a cream with the texture of slightly melted butter. The absorption rate is incredibly fast. Despite looking a bit oily at first glance, it's not at all - it sinks in almost immediately after application. However, don't expect too much in terms of hydration. It feels even lighter than a water cream. I used it every other day for two weeks, then daily for another two weeks, applying it as the final step after my daily mask routine. This product is ideal for those with thick skin layers and a strong skin barrier. It's also great for anyone looking to address pigmentation, improve skin tone, or minimize pores. I noticed gradual improvements with daily use. I snagged it for just 3000 won during a Hwahae repurchase deal event. Though I bought it without high expectations, I'm grateful for this product as it really delivered on the retinol benefits. The 20ml size is comparable to a small tube of ointment.
Cons
The initial experience was a bit challenging. Perhaps due to the unfamiliar retinol ingredient, I woke up the next day with a massive pimple. This scared me into stopping use until the blemish calmed down. After my skin fully recovered, I resumed use, mixing it with other creams. Breakouts only occurred at the beginning. I wouldn't recommend this for those with thin skin prone to redness.
Tip
When you first start using it, I suggest applying it as the very last step after your cream, or mix it with your moisturizer. Your skin might be a bit shocked by the retinol at first. Once your skin seems okay with it, using it daily along with a mask can yield dramatic results. Remember to store it in the refrigerator! The second-generation retinol is sensitive to heat and light. Make sure to apply it in the evening. If you absolutely must use it during the day, be sure to follow up with a mineral sunscreen.

junction
Nov 7, 2024 (UTC)
수부지Acne Skin
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The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
To be honest, this was my first time trying retinol, and I bought it because I heard Cosrx's version was good. However, after using it for about a month, I'm not really sure about the results.
Cons
Apparently, it's normal for retinol to cause a slight tingling sensation when you first apply it. But it seems like it didn't agree with my skin, as my complexion actually got worse.

노란머리이
Nov 5, 2024 (UTC)
Combination SkinSensitive SkinAcne Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
My skin tends to be on the dry side, quite sensitive, and I have some blemishes, unfortunately. This makes choosing skincare products quite challenging for me. After using this product, I've noticed it's less irritating compared to others I've tried.
Cons
The disappointing part is that while I used small amounts without any discomfort for the first three days, I started experiencing breakouts after that.

럭키비데
Sep 26, 2024 (UTC)
Oily SkinSensitive Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
I don't have any positives... my skin broke out with severe blemishes
Cons
It seems this was too strong for a beginner. I developed hard, painful acne. I think I need to readjust my skin starting with milder products.
Tip
Start with gentler products...

coolpasta
Sep 11, 2024 (UTC)
Dry Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
The absorbs well and has a nice, firm texture, but in my case it caused redness and tingling, so I'll need to reduce how often I use it.
Cons
I think because my skin is thin, after using it about 3 times, my skin became red and had a burning sensation. Even applying toner stung, so I had to use a healing ointment. It took about a week to get better.
Tip
For those with thin skin, it might be best to use this only once a week.

쀼우울
Aug 22, 2024 (UTC)
Dry SkinSensitive SkinAcne Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
My skin is gradually becoming brighter and feels softer, which I love!
Cons
However, due to my contact dermatitis, my dermatologist advised against using it... I'm heartbroken

응아니라고
Jul 29, 2024 (UTC)
Normal SkinSensitive Skin
Review under verification
The content is currently being reviewed by the Hwahae operations team, and the verification will be completed by the next business day (excluding weekends and holidays) from the date the review was written.
Reviewed by The Hwahae Testers
This review was written by The Hwahae Testers who received the product for free and evaluated it with a sense of representing Hwahae. The review is completely unbiased and honest, with no guidelines or restrictions. Reviews by The Hwahae Testers undergo the same strict verification process as regular reviews, and if they don't meet our standards, revisions will be requested.
Pros
It absorbs beautifully and blends well with other creams, making it perfect for layering
Cons
I'm afraid retinol just doesn't agree with my skin. Even though I followed all the usage instructions, my skin became super sensitive