COSRX THE RETINOL 0.5 OIL 20ML

Values You Can Trust: Halal-Friendly* / Vegan-Friendly* / Cruelty-Free* / 100% Authentic Guarantee

*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no ethanol/denat.; no haram animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data (no animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body.

Dealing with fine lines, a loss of firmness, or a texture that isn't as smooth as it used to be can be frustrating. This potent, intermediate-strength retinol oil is formulated for those who have already used retinol and are ready for a higher concentration to visibly improve skin texture, elasticity, and the appearance of wrinkles for a more youthful complexion.

• Product Type: Anti-aging facial oil (retinoid treatment).
• Best For: Intermediate to advanced retinoid users. Not suitable for beginners, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
• Key Benefits: Visibly improves fine lines and wrinkles, enhances skin firmness and elasticity, refines skin texture, and promotes a radiant glow.
• Core Ingredients: Pure Retinol (0.5%), Plant-Derived Squalane, Tocotrienol (Super Vitamin E).
• Texture & Finish: A lightweight, nourishing oil that absorbs without heavy greasiness.

This is a powerful PM-only treatment. Introduce it slowly.

1. (PM) Cleanse: Wash your face thoroughly.
2. (PM) THIS PRODUCT: Apply 2-3 drops to dry skin. See "How to Use" for the crucial ramp-up schedule.
3. (PM) Moisturise: Follow with a gentle, hydrating moisturiser to seal it in and buffer potential irritation.

Note: Already using a strong active like AHA, BHA, or another retinoid at night? Alternate nights to avoid irritation (substitute, don’t stack).

This product is for PM use only. Your morning routine should focus on protection and hydration to support your skin as the retinol works.

• 1. Cleanse: Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser.
• 2. Hydrating Toner/Essence (Optional): Adds a layer of moisture to keep skin comfortable.
• 3. Antioxidant Serum (Optional): Can help protect against environmental damage, but avoid potent Vitamin C serums initially to prevent irritation.
• 4. Moisturiser: A simple, soothing moisturiser.
• 5. Sunscreen SPF 30+ (Non-Negotiable): Retinol makes skin more sensitive to the sun. Daily, consistent sunscreen use is essential to protect your skin and see results.

Use this oil on nights you are NOT using other strong exfoliants like AHA or BHA pads.

• 1. Double Cleanse: Start with an oil cleanser to break down sunscreen and makeup, followed by a water-based cleanser.
• 2. THIS PRODUCT (COSRX Retinol 0.5 Oil): On dry skin, apply 2-3 drops.
• 3. Moisturiser: Wait a few minutes, then apply a nourishing moisturiser to lock everything in and support your skin barrier. For extra sensitive skin, try the "sandwich method": apply a thin layer of moisturiser, then the retinol oil, then another layer of moisturiser.

Crucial Ramp-Up Period for New Users of this Strength:

• Weeks 1-2: Use only 1-2 times per week at night. Mix 1 drop with your moisturiser or apply to areas of concern only.
• Week 3 onwards: If your skin shows no signs of irritation, you can increase to 3 times per week (every other night).
• Experienced Users: If your skin is well-acclimated, you may be able to use it every night. Always monitor for irritation.

PM Use Only:

• Amount: 2-3 drops for the entire face. More is not better and will increase the risk of irritation.
• Apply to: Dry, clean face and neck. Avoid the immediate eye area, corners of the nose, and mouth.
• Method: Gently pat into the skin until absorbed.
• Wait time: Allow it to absorb for a few minutes before applying your moisturiser.

If-This / Then-That:

• Dry or Sensitive Skin? Use the "sandwich method": apply a layer of moisturiser before and after the retinol oil to buffer its intensity.
• Oily Skin? In Mauritius' humid summer, this oil might be hydrating enough to be your last step at night.
• Seeing Peeling or Redness? Reduce frequency to once a week, or take a 3-5 day break and focus on barrier repair with soothing ingredients like Centella or Ceramides.

Watchouts: Stinging or redness means you are using it too frequently or combining it with other strong actives. "No results" often means inconsistent use or lack of daily sunscreen.

Safety: Do not use on broken or irritated skin. Stop use if a persistent rash or burning occurs. Not for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. ALWAYS wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher during the day when using any retinol product.

Retinol works best when you give your skin rest days. Do not use it on the same night as other strong exfoliants (AHA/BHA).

Example Week for Building Tolerance (PM Focus):

• Monday: THIS PRODUCT (Retinol)
• Tuesday: Soothing Night (Hydrating toner, barrier-repair cream, no strong actives)
• Wednesday: Exfoliant Night (AHA/BHA product, if you use one)
• Thursday: Soothing Night
• Friday: THIS PRODUCT (Retinol)
• Saturday: Soothing Night
• Sunday: Soothing Night

Rules:

• One strong active per night. This is the most important rule for barrier health.
• If irritation occurs, increase "Soothing Nights" and reduce active nights.
• Sunscreen is mandatory every single morning. Retinol makes your skin more vulnerable to sun damage, and UV exposure negates its benefits.

Patience and consistency are key with retinol.

• Immediate: Skin may feel softer and have a slight glow due to the squalane oil base.
• Weeks 2-4 (The "Retinization" Period): You may experience a "purge" where underlying breakouts surface, or some dryness and light peeling. This is a normal part of the skin adapting. Stick with it, and ensure you are moisturizing well.
• Weeks 4-12: Skin texture should start to feel noticeably smoother. The purging phase should subside. Pores may appear more refined.
• 3-6 Months+: Visible improvement in fine lines, firmness, and overall skin tone. The full benefits of retinol are seen with long-term, consistent use.

• Why use a cosmetic retinoid, not a prescription without guidance? This 0.5% Retinol oil is a potent, high-strength cosmetic. It's designed to deliver significant results with a lower risk of the severe irritation that can come with prescription-strength tretinoin. Start slow to build tolerance safely.
• Why use a pea-size amount, not more? More retinol does not mean faster results—it just means more irritation. A few drops (2-3) are enough to cover the face in a thin, effective layer. Over-applying wastes product and compromises your skin barrier.
• Why use sunscreen, not just hope for the best? Retinol accelerates cell turnover, exposing fresh, new skin that is highly vulnerable to UV damage. Not using sunscreen daily while using retinol can lead to more sun damage, increased pigmentation, and irritation, completely undoing the product's benefits.

• Works Well With: Niacinamide (can help reduce retinol irritation), Hyaluronic Acid (for hydration), Peptides, and Ceramides (to support the skin barrier). Layer these before your retinol oil, or mix with a simple moisturiser.
• Use with Caution: Vitamin C. It's best to use Vitamin C in your AM routine and this retinol oil in your PM routine to avoid potential irritation and ensure both actives work at their optimal pH.
• Avoid Using in the Same Routine: Strong exfoliating acids (AHA, BHA like glycolic or salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, and other retinoid products. Alternating nights is the safest way to incorporate them.

• Normal / Combination / Oily: Excellent. The oil base is lightweight enough for most, and the active retinol is effective for texture and aging concerns common to these types.
• Dry: Suitable, but must be paired with a rich, nourishing moisturiser to counteract potential dryness from the retinol. The squalane base is beneficial.
• Sensitive / Rosacea-Prone: Not recommended. This is a high-strength formula. Start with a lower concentration like the COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream to build tolerance first.
• Acne-Prone: Can be beneficial for some types of acne and post-acne texture, but be prepared for a potential purging period. The soybean oil in the formula may be a consideration for highly reactive or fungal acne-prone individuals; patch testing is crucial.

• Loss of skin firmness and elasticity
• Fine lines and deep wrinkles
• Uneven skin texture and roughness
• Visible signs of premature aging from sun exposure
• Dull, lackluster complexion

• Official Korean Name: 코스알엑스 더 레티놀 0.5 오일
• Romanized: Koseu-al-ekseu Deo Retinol 0.5 Oil
• Period After Opening (PAO): 6 months. Retinol degrades with exposure to air and light.
• Date Marks: Check packaging for 제조 (manufacturing date) or 까지 (expiration date).
• Country of Manufacture: South Korea

• Halal Status: Halal-Friendly*. This product has not been officially Halal certified. Based on a review of its ingredients (Squalane is plant-derived, no animal fats, no ethanol/denatured alcohol), it does not appear to contain any prohibited substances.
• Vegan Status: Vegan-Friendly*. This product is not certified vegan, but its ingredient list does not contain any obvious animal-derived components.
• Animal Testing Policy: Cruelty-Free*. COSRX states they are a cruelty-free brand and do not test on animals. They are not certified by an independent body like Leaping Bunny or PETA. The brand sells in Mainland China through channels that may be exempt from pre-market animal testing requirements for 'general' cosmetics.

*Self-assessed by Adilsons based on available ingredient data. / *Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body. / *Mainland China may permit post-market testing in certain cases; brand policy applies.

• MFDS Class: Functional Cosmetic for Wrinkle Improvement (주름 개선 기능성 화장품). The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (formerly KFDA) in Korea has recognized the key active as effective for this purpose.
• Functional Ingredient: Retinol (0.5%).
• Clinical Evidence: Efficacy claims for improving elasticity and fine lines are based on the well-established dermatological evidence for retinol as an ingredient and brand-internal testing. No independent, publicly available clinical trial data for this specific product is disclosed.

This product is a cosmetic and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Key Actives Explained:

• Retinol (0.5%): The star ingredient. A pure form of Vitamin A, it is one of the most proven over-the-counter ingredients for anti-aging. It accelerates skin cell turnover, boosts collagen production, and refines skin texture to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. (Ingredient Rationale)
• Squalane: A plant-derived, skin-identical lipid that provides lightweight moisture without feeling heavy or greasy. It supports the skin's natural barrier, preventing moisture loss and helping to buffer the potential drying effects of retinol. (Ingredient Rationale)
• Tocotrienol (Super Vitamin E): A more potent form of Vitamin E, this antioxidant helps protect the skin from environmental damage and works with retinol to improve overall skin health and radiance. (Ingredient Rationale)

Full INCI List: 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.

Formulation Notes: Anhydrous (water-free) oil base to stabilize the pure retinol. BHT is used as a preservative to prevent the oils and retinol from oxidizing.

• Fragrance Status: Fragrance-Free. It has no added artificial fragrances or essential oils. It may have a very faint, neutral scent from the base oils.
• EU Allergens: None declared by the brand.
• Potential Irritants: The primary potential irritant is Retinol itself, which can cause dryness, redness, and peeling, especially during the initial phase of use. Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil is a consideration for those with a specific soy allergy. A patch test is highly recommended.

Who Should Use With Caution:

• This is a high-strength retinol product. It is NOT for retinol beginners.
• Individuals with very sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema should avoid this strength and start with a much lower concentration.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do NOT use if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

Photosensitivity Warning: Retinol significantly increases your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Daily use of broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is mandatory. Failure to do so can result in increased sun damage.

Purging: Retinol accelerates cell turnover, which can cause a temporary increase in breakouts known as "purging." This typically occurs within the first 2-4 weeks and should subside. If breakouts are severe or persist beyond 8 weeks, discontinue use and consult a professional.

Patch Test Protocol:

1. Apply one drop of the oil to a small, discreet area, like behind your ear or on your inner arm.
2. Wait 24 hours to check for any signs of severe irritation, redness, or itching.
3. If no reaction occurs, apply to a small area of your face (like the jawline) for one night.
4. If your skin remains calm, you can proceed with the slow introduction schedule in the "How to Use" section.

• Texture: A lightweight, fluid oil.
• Finish: Leaves a nourished, dewy glow on the skin that absorbs well without feeling overly heavy or sticky.
• Scent: None.
• pH: Not applicable as this is an anhydrous (water-free) formula.
• Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Compatibility: Contains Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, which may be a trigger for some individuals with fungal acne. Patch testing is essential. The Squalane base is FA-safe.

• Issue: My skin is red, peeling, or feels tight.
  Fix: You're likely using it too often. Reduce frequency to once a week. Apply a barrier-repairing cream (with ceramides or Centella) on top. Use the "sandwich" application method (moisturiser -> retinol -> moisturiser).
• Issue: The oil feels a bit heavy.
  Fix: Use fewer drops (1-2 is enough). Or, on very humid nights in Mauritius, try using it as your final skincare step in place of a separate moisturiser.
• Issue: I'm breaking out more after starting.
  Fix: This may be skin purging, which is temporary. It should clear within 4-8 weeks. Ensure you are not using other new products. If it's painful, cystic, or persists, stop using the product as it may be irritation.
• Issue: I'm not seeing results after a few weeks.
  Fix: Retinol is a marathon, not a sprint. Visible results for wrinkles and firmness take at least 3-6 months of consistent use. Also, ensure you are wearing sunscreen daily, as UV damage will counteract any progress.

• Humid Summer: For oily and combination skin types, this nourishing oil might be sufficient as a final moisturising step in your PM routine. If you have very oily skin, you might prefer a lighter retinol serum or cream during the most humid months.
• Drier Winter / Air-Conditioned Environments: The oil texture is excellent for providing an extra layer of nourishment and preventing moisture loss in drier conditions. Layer it under a good moisturiser to combat the drying effects of AC.
• Sun Protection: Given the high UV index in Mauritius year-round, diligent application of SPF 50+ every morning is non-negotiable when using this product.

Your trust is our priority. Adilsons sources all COSRX products directly from the brand or their authorized distributors in South Korea. Every item is guaranteed 100% authentic.

To ensure authenticity, check for the official packaging (box and bottle with correct branding), batch code, and expiration date. Imported products may have a distributor's sticker. If you have any doubts, please contact us on WhatsApp at +230 5 778 2336 with photos, and we will be happy to verify your product.

• Retinol (0.5%): The anti-aging benefits of retinol are supported by decades of independent dermatological research. It is a well-established ingredient for stimulating collagen, accelerating cell turnover, and improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. (Independent Study)
• Squalane & Tocotrienols: The moisturizing and antioxidant properties of these ingredients are based on established cosmetic science principles and ingredient data. (Ingredient Rationale)
• Overall Product Efficacy: Claims of improving skin elasticity and providing a youthful glow for this specific formula are based on the brand's internal assessments and the known functions of its key ingredients. (Brand Claim—no public dataset available for independent verification).

Understanding the long-term value of your skincare investment:

• Size: 20ml
• Dosage: Approx. 2-3 drops per use (at night only). A 20ml bottle contains approximately 400 drops.
• Usage Calculation (Starting Out): If used 3 times per week, that's ~9 drops per week. The bottle would last approximately 44 weeks (about 10 months).
• Reorder Cadence: With regular, consistent use (3-5 times a week), you can expect to reorder this product every 7-10 months, making it a very cost-effective treatment.

Build a supportive routine around this potent retinol oil using products from our catalog.

Supportive PM Retinol Routine

• Gentle Cleanser: ROUND LAB 1025 DOKDO CLEANSER 150ML — A low-pH cleanser that effectively cleans without stripping, preparing your skin for actives.
• Treatment: THIS PRODUCT (COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil) — Your primary anti-aging step.
• Barrier Support Moisturiser: SKIN1004 MADAGASCAR CENTELLA SOOTHING CREAM 75ML — A lightweight cream with Centella Asiatica to calm potential irritation and support skin barrier health.

Essential AM Protection Routine

• Gentle Cleanser: ROUND LAB 1025 DOKDO CLEANSER 150ML — A gentle start to your day.
• Hydrating Toner: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner 250ml — Calms and hydrates the skin before applying sunscreen.
• Sunscreen (Mandatory): Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN : RICE + PROBIOTICS 50ML — Provides high-level, broad-spectrum protection with a comfortable, moisturizing finish and no white cast, essential for protecting retinol-treated skin.

Compatibility Note: Avoid using other strong actives like AHA or BHA exfoliants on the same night as this retinol oil.

This oil is an excellent choice for experienced retinoid users whose primary concerns are visible signs of aging like fine lines and loss of firmness. However, your skin is unique. Consider these alternatives from our catalog if your needs are different:

• For Retinol Beginners (Gentler Strength): The Ordinary RETINOL 0.2% IN SQUALANE 30ML — Choose this if you are new to retinol. It offers a much lower concentration to help your skin build tolerance with minimal irritation, while still providing the benefits of retinol in a nourishing squalane base.
• For an Even Higher Strength: The Ordinary RETINOL 1% IN SQUALANE 30ML — Choose this if you are a very advanced retinoid user and your skin has fully adapted to 0.5% strength without any irritation. This is a high-potency formula for maximum efficacy.
• For a Different Retinoid Form (Retinal): Beauty of Joseon REVIVE EYE SERUM : GINSENG + RETINAL 30ML — Choose this if you want the benefits of a stronger retinoid form (retinal works faster than retinol) in a gentle, hydrating formula. While designed for eyes, it can be used on the full face as a gentle-but-potent alternative for targeting fine lines.
• For a Plant-Based Alternative: EQQUALBERRY Bakuchiol Plumping Serum 30ml — Choose this if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have very sensitive skin that cannot tolerate retinoids. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived ingredient shown to provide similar anti-aging benefits to retinol without the associated irritation and photosensitivity.

Mindful-use: If you already have a comparable retinol product at home, we encourage you to finish it first. This helps you get a fair assessment of its results and reduces waste.

• Format: 20ml bottle with a dropper applicator for controlled dispensing.
• Packaging: The oil is housed in a dark, opaque glass bottle to protect the light-sensitive retinol from degradation.
• Sustainability: The glass bottle is recyclable in Mauritius. Please rinse it before disposal. The outer carton is made of paper and is also recyclable.
• Storage: To maintain potency, store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat, such as a cabinet or drawer. Refrigeration is recommended to prolong the stability of the retinol.
• Travel: The 20ml bottle is travel-friendly and below the 100ml liquid limit for flights. Ensure the cap is screwed on tightly to prevent leaks.

Note: These are aggregated sentiments from online forums and reviews. Individual results will vary.

• On Texture and Feel: "I was expecting it to be heavy, but it's a surprisingly light oil. It gives my skin a nice glow overnight without feeling greasy. I use it as the last step and it seals everything in." - Paraphrased from Reddit, r/AsianBeauty (2024)

• On Efficacy for Fine Lines: "I've been using this for about 4 months, maybe 3-4 times a week. The fine lines on my forehead are definitely softer. It's not a miracle, but the improvement is visible. You have to be patient and consistent with it." - YesStyle review (2024)

• A Fair Caveat (The Purge): "Be warned, if you're moving up from a lower percentage, you might get a mini-purge. I had a few breakouts in the second week, but they cleared up faster than usual. Don't give up right away, and make sure to moisturize!" - Amazon customer review (2024)

COSRX is a globally recognized K-beauty brand that stands for "Cosmetics + Rx (Prescription)". Their philosophy is rooted in creating effective, ingredient-focused, and accessible skincare solutions for everyday concerns. With a commitment to minimalism and functionality, COSRX develops products with high concentrations of proven actives and simple, skin-friendly formulas to deliver tangible results.

• Retinol: A form of Vitamin A, and a gold-standard ingredient in anti-aging skincare. It works by accelerating cell turnover and stimulating collagen production.
• Squalane: A lightweight, non-comedogenic oil that mimics the skin's natural sebum, providing excellent hydration and barrier support. The one used here is derived from plants.
• Tocotrienol: A potent form of Vitamin E with powerful antioxidant properties that helps protect the skin from environmental damage.
• Purging: A temporary period of increased breakouts that can occur when starting a new active ingredient like retinol, as it speeds up the rate at which underlying clogs surface.
• MFDS: The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in South Korea, the regulatory body that certifies functional cosmetics for benefits like wrinkle improvement or brightening.
• Anhydrous: A formula that is completely free of water.

Sold by Adilsons, an authorized retailer of authentic K-beauty in Mauritius.

• WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336
• Email: info@adilsons.mu
• Visit Us: Adilsons corner, La Place, Citadelle Mall, Port Louis

At Adilsons, we are committed to providing you with only 100% authentic, high-quality skincare sourced directly from trusted brands and their authorized distributors in South Korea. We believe in empowering you with truthful, evidence-based information to help you make mindful and effective choices for your skin's health.

Is 0.5% retinol too strong for me?

If you have never used a retinol product before, yes, 0.5% is likely too strong. We recommend starting with a lower concentration (0.1% to 0.3%) to allow your skin to build tolerance before moving to this intermediate strength.

Can I use this oil if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

No. It is widely recommended to avoid all forms of retinoids (including retinol) during pregnancy and breastfeeding as a precaution.

Why do I have to wear sunscreen with this?

Retinol accelerates cell turnover, which brings new, delicate skin cells to the surface. This new skin is more susceptible to sun damage. Using retinol without daily sunscreen can lead to increased sun sensitivity, burns, and hyperpigmentation, effectively negating the benefits of the product.

Will this make my skin peel?

Some light peeling or flakiness can occur during the initial "retinization" period as your skin adapts. This is normal. To minimize this, introduce the product very slowly and ensure you are using a good, nourishing moisturiser. If peeling is excessive or painful, reduce the frequency of use.

• Best For: Individuals with previous retinol experience looking to step up their anti-aging routine to target texture and fine lines more effectively.
• Key Benefits:
  • Potent 0.5% concentration of pure retinol for visible results.
  • Nourishing squalane and antioxidant-rich oil base helps buffer potential irritation.
  • Excellent long-term value, as only a few drops are needed per use.
• Keep in Mind:
  • Not suitable for absolute beginners, sensitive skin, or during pregnancy.
  • Requires a slow and careful introduction period to avoid irritation.
  • Daily sunscreen use is non-negotiable.

• Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
• Processing & Timing: Orders process in 1–2 business days. Delivery typically takes 1–5 business days after partner pickup.
• Express: May be available by region; request on WhatsApp: +230 5 778 2336.
• Liquids/Sensitive Items: Serums and oils like this one are available for pickup or door-to-door delivery only.
• Pickup: Available at Citadelle Mall, Port Louis.
• Returns: No change-of-mind exchanges on skincare.
• Refunds (Summary): For items defective/damaged on receipt (report within 48h) or with a manufacturing defect within 6 months. Opened skincare is non-returnable unless damaged on delivery.

Source of Truth: This is a quick snapshot. If anything differs, the policy pages below are final.

• Refunds & Returns: https://adilsons.mu/policies/refund-policy
• Shipping: https://adilsons.mu/policies/shipping-policy