celimax THE VITA-A Retinol Shot Tightening Serum 30ml

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 (retinoids are synthetic; no other animal-derived ingredients detected). / *Brand-stated; not certified by an independent body.

Navigating the world of retinoids can be intimidating, especially when you're looking for visible results without the harsh irritation. The celimax Vita-A Retinol Shot is expertly formulated to bridge that gap. This potent yet gentle serum combines a trio of Vitamin A actives—Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate, and the plant-based alternative Bakuchiol—to effectively target signs of aging like fine lines, loss of firmness, and enlarged pores.

Its thoughtful formula is designed to accelerate skin cell turnover, boost collagen production, and refine skin texture, revealing a smoother, more youthful-looking complexion. Ideal for those ready to incorporate a serious anti-aging active into their routine, this serum delivers powerful results while prioritizing skin comfort.

• Who It's For: Best suited for intermediate to advanced skincare users who are not new to active ingredients. Ideal for those with normal, combination, or oily skin types concerned with signs of aging.
• What It Solves: Addresses fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, uneven skin texture, and the appearance of enlarged pores.
• What to Expect: A lightweight, milky serum that absorbs without greasiness. An initial "purging" period (temporary breakouts) is possible for the first 2-4 weeks as skin adjusts. Visible improvements in texture can be seen in 4-8 weeks, with more significant reduction in fine lines after 8+ weeks of consistent use. Daily sunscreen is essential.

This serum is for PM use only due to its retinoid content, which can be destabilized by sunlight and make your skin more sun-sensitive.

Minimalist PM Routine (3 Steps):

1. Cleanse: Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities, sunscreen, and makeup. If wearing heavy makeup, double cleanse (oil cleanser first, then a water-based cleanser).
2. Treat (This Product): Apply 2-3 drops of the Vita-A Retinol Shot Serum to dry skin. Gently pat until absorbed.
3. Moisturise: Follow with a nourishing, barrier-supporting moisturiser to lock in the serum and hydrate your skin. This step is crucial to minimise potential dryness from the retinoids.

Optional Additions:

• Hydrating Toner/Essence: You can apply a gentle, hydrating toner or essence before the retinol serum to provide a layer of hydration and help buffer the active, reducing potential irritation.
• Sleeping Pack: On nights you are *not* using this retinol serum, you can apply a sleeping pack as the final step for an extra boost of overnight hydration.

PM Use Only:

• Amount: 2-3 drops for the entire face. A little goes a long way.
• Apply to: Clean, dry face and neck. Avoid the delicate skin around the eyes and corners of the mouth.
• Method: Dispense onto fingertips and gently pat into the skin until absorbed. Do not rub vigorously.
• Wait Time: Allow the serum to fully absorb for 1-2 minutes before applying your moisturiser.

Ramp-Up Frequency (Crucial for New Retinoid Users):

• Weeks 1-2: Use only 2 times per week on non-consecutive nights (e.g., Monday and Thursday).
• Weeks 3-4: If your skin shows no signs of irritation, increase to 3 times per week (e.g., Monday, Wednesday, Friday).
• After Week 4: You can gradually increase to every other night, or daily if your skin tolerates it well without dryness or peeling. Listen to your skin and adjust as needed.

The "Sandwich" Method for Sensitive Skin:

If you have sensitive skin or are worried about dryness, try this technique:
1. Apply a thin layer of a simple moisturiser.
2. Wait a few minutes, then apply the Retinol Shot serum.
3. Finish with another layer of moisturiser. This "sandwich" buffers the retinol, making it gentler on the skin.

Watchouts: A temporary increase in breakouts ("purging") is possible. If you experience excessive peeling, redness, or burning, reduce frequency or take a break for a few days. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) in the morning is non-negotiable when using this product.

To get the best results from retinoids while protecting your skin barrier, it's essential to alternate active nights with recovery nights. Do not use other strong exfoliants (like high-concentration AHAs or BHAs) on the same night as this retinol serum.

Example PM Schedule for Beginners:

• Monday: This Product (Retinol Night)
• Tuesday: Soothing & Hydrating Routine (No strong actives. Focus on ingredients like Centella, Snail Mucin, or Ceramides).
• Wednesday: Soothing & Hydrating Routine
• Thursday: This Product (Retinol Night)
• Friday: Soothing & Hydrating Routine
• Saturday: Optional Exfoliation Night (Use a gentle AHA/BHA product *instead of* retinol) OR a Soothing Routine.
• Sunday: Soothing & Hydrating Routine

AM/PM Cheat-Sheet:

• This Retinol Serum: PM only, 2-4 times per week.
• Vitamin C Serums: AM only, daily.
• AHA/BHA Exfoliants: PM only, 1-3 times per week, on nights you are not using retinol.
• Niacinamide & Hyaluronic Acid: Can be used AM and PM, and can be layered in the same routine as retinol.
• Sunscreen: AM only, every single day.

Mauritius Climate Note: In our humid climate, you might find a lighter moisturiser is sufficient after the serum. Always protect your skin with high SPF sunscreen during the day, as sun exposure is intense year-round.

Patience and consistency are key with retinoids. Results are cumulative and improve over time.

• Immediate: The serum has a lightweight, silky texture that absorbs well. Your skin may feel slightly smoother upon application due to the formula's hydrating base.
• Weeks 1-4 (The Adjustment Phase): You may experience a "purging" period where underlying breakouts surface more quickly. This is normal as cell turnover increases. You might also notice some mild dryness or flakiness as your skin acclimates. This is a sign to ensure you are moisturizing well.
• Weeks 4-8 (Initial Improvements): Skin texture should start to feel noticeably smoother and softer. The appearance of pores may look more refined, and the initial purging and dryness should subside.
• Weeks 8+ (Visible Transformation): With consistent use, you can expect a visible reduction in the appearance of fine lines and a firmer, bouncier feel to the skin. Overall skin tone may appear more even and radiant. Continued use helps maintain and improve these results.

Myth: "I need the strongest prescription retinoid for it to work."

Reality: Stronger isn't always better, especially without guidance. While prescription tretinoin is powerful, it often comes with significant irritation, peeling, and redness that can be difficult to manage and may even lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) in deeper skin tones if not used correctly. This serum offers a smarter approach by combining multiple forms of Vitamin A (Retinol and Retinyl Palmitate) with Bakuchiol, a gentle plant-based alternative. This multi-pronged strategy provides effective anti-aging benefits with a much lower risk of irritation, making it a safer and more sustainable choice for long-term use without a doctor's supervision.

This serum works best when supported by hydrating and soothing ingredients. Avoid layering it with other strong actives in the same PM routine to prevent irritation.

✅ Works Well With:

• Niacinamide: An excellent partner for retinoids. Niacinamide helps strengthen the skin barrier, reduce redness, and can even enhance the anti-aging benefits.
• Hyaluronic Acid, Snail Mucin, Panthenol: These hydrating and soothing ingredients are perfect to use before or after this serum to replenish moisture and calm the skin, minimizing potential dryness.
• Ceramides: Using a ceramide-rich moisturiser after this serum will help lock in hydration and support a healthy skin barrier, reducing the risk of irritation.

⚠️ Use with Caution:

• Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid): It's best to separate these. Use your Vitamin C serum in the morning (for antioxidant protection) and this retinol serum at night. Using both at the same time can be too much for the skin and may reduce the efficacy of both.

🚫 Avoid Using in the Same PM Routine:

• AHAs & BHAs (Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid): Do not use this serum on the same night as a strong chemical exfoliant. This can easily lead to over-exfoliation, damaging your skin barrier and causing severe irritation. Alternate nights instead.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: Can potentially destabilize some forms of retinol and is very drying. Use on alternate nights or use a benzoyl peroxide wash in the morning and this serum at night.

• 🟢 Ideal For: Normal, Combination, and Oily skin types looking for a potent anti-aging treatment.
• 🟡 Use with Caution: Dry skin types can use this serum but must pair it with a rich, nourishing moisturiser and introduce it very slowly to avoid exacerbating dryness. The "sandwich method" (moisturiser before and after) is highly recommended.
• 🔴 Not Recommended For: Extremely sensitive or reactive skin, or skin with a compromised barrier (e.g., red, stinging, peeling). It is also not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Focus on barrier repair first before introducing a potent active like this.

This serum is formulated to address multiple signs of skin aging and texture irregularities:

• Fine Lines & Wrinkles: Actively works to smooth the appearance of expression lines and fine wrinkles by boosting collagen production and accelerating cell renewal.
• Loss of Firmness & Elasticity: Helps to improve skin's bounce and firmness, leading to a more lifted and youthful appearance over time.
• Uneven Skin Texture: Refines the skin's surface, reducing roughness and creating a smoother, softer feel.
• Enlarged Pores: Helps to minimise the appearance of pores by keeping them clear and supporting the surrounding skin structure.

Key Actives Explained:

• Retinyl Palmitate (1.009%): The gentlest form of retinoid in the formula, it converts to retinol in the skin. It provides a slow, steady release of Vitamin A to help with cell turnover and antioxidant protection.
• Bakuchiol (0.2%): A plant-derived antioxidant that functions similarly to retinol, helping to refine skin texture and reduce fine lines, but with a significantly lower potential for irritation. It also helps to stabilize retinol.
• Retinol (0.0461%): The gold-standard anti-aging ingredient. This pure form of Vitamin A works to speed up cell turnover, stimulate collagen production, and improve skin's firmness and texture.
• Squalane: A skin-identical lipid that provides excellent, non-greasy moisture and helps to support the skin's natural barrier, reducing dryness that can be associated with retinoid use.

Full INCI List:

Water, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Squalane, Methylpropanediol, Retinyl Palmitate(10,090ppm), Retinol(461ppm), Bakuchiol(2,000ppm), Allantoin, Trehalose, Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Ficus Carica (Fig) Fruit Extract, Morus Alba Fruit Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Nut Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Stearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sorbitan Olivate, Cetearyl Olivate, Coptis Japonica Root Extract, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Arachidyl Alcohol, Caprylyl Glycol, Tromethamine, Behenyl Alcohol, Xanthan Gum, Arachidyl Glucoside, Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA.

• Fragrance: This product is formulated without any artificial fragrances. It has a neutral, very faint scent from its raw ingredients. (Scent Intensity: 0/5)
• Essential Oils: This product does not contain any essential oils.
• EU Allergens: Based on the provided INCI list, this formula is free from the 26 declarable fragrance allergens regulated by the EU.

Its minimalist formulation makes it a good choice for those who are sensitive to fragrances or essential oils.

Important Precautions:

• 🚫 Not suitable for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• ☀️ This product increases sun sensitivity. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is mandatory to protect your skin.
• For external use only. Avoid direct contact with eyes, lips, and corners of the nose. Do not apply to broken, wounded, or irritated skin.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Patch Test Protocol for First-Time Use:

Retinoids are potent ingredients. A patch test is essential to check for sensitivity before applying to your entire face.

1. Apply a small (pea-sized) amount of the serum to a clean, discreet area of skin, such as behind your ear or on your inner arm.
2. Wait 24 hours. Monitor the area for any signs of excessive redness, itching, burning, or blistering.
3. If no significant irritation occurs, you can proceed with using the product on your face, starting with a low frequency as recommended in the "How to Use" section.
4. If you experience a severe reaction, discontinue use immediately. A slight tingling or mild redness can be normal initially, but persistent discomfort is a sign to stop.

• Texture: A lightweight, milky, and slightly viscous serum.
• Feel on Skin: Spreads easily with a silky slip and absorbs within a minute, leaving the skin feeling hydrated and smooth without any heavy or greasy residue.
• Finish: Dries down to a natural, satin finish.
• Scent: Fragrance-free, with a very subtle, almost undetectable scent from the base ingredients.
• pH: The pH of this product is not publicly disclosed by the brand, but retinoid formulations typically work best in a slightly acidic to neutral range (approx. pH 5.5 - 6.5) to ensure stability and skin comfort.
• Comedogenicity Note: While formulated to be non-greasy, individual responses can vary. As with any new product, monitor your skin for any signs of congestion.

• "My skin is peeling and feels dry."
  This is a common side effect of retinoids, known as retinization.
  Solution: Reduce your usage frequency to once or twice a week. Apply a richer, barrier-supporting moisturiser (look for ceramides or panthenol). Try the "sandwich method": apply moisturiser, then the retinol serum, then more moisturiser.
• "I'm breaking out more after starting this serum!"
  This could be "purging," where the increased cell turnover brings underlying micro-comedones to the surface faster. Purging typically occurs in areas where you usually break out and clears up within 4-6 weeks.
  Solution: Be patient and consistent, but simplify the rest of your routine. Ensure you are not experiencing an irritant breakout (new pimples in unusual places, accompanied by redness and itching). If the breakout is severe or persists beyond 6 weeks, stop using the product.
• "The serum feels a bit tingly when I apply it."
  A mild, temporary tingling can be normal for some people when starting a new active ingredient.
  Solution: Ensure you are applying it to completely dry skin. If the tingling is uncomfortable or persists, it may be a sign of irritation. Reduce frequency and ensure your skin barrier is well-supported with a good moisturiser.

This retinol serum is well-suited for evening use in Mauritius, with a few adjustments for our climate:

• Humid Summer: The lightweight texture is perfect for our warm, humid nights. You may find that a light gel-cream moisturiser is all you need on top. Do not skip moisturising entirely, as retinoids can still be drying even in high humidity.
• Drier Winter/AC Environments: During cooler months or if you spend a lot of time in air-conditioning, your skin will lose more moisture. You will likely need to follow the serum with a more substantial, nourishing cream to prevent dryness and protect your skin barrier.
• Sun Exposure: Sun protection is the most critical part of using a retinol serum in Mauritius. Our UV index is high year-round. You must commit to applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every single morning, without exception, to protect your newly sensitive skin and prevent sun damage that would counteract the serum's benefits.

The efficacy of this serum is based on the well-established science of its key ingredients.

• Ingredient Rationale (Retinoids): Topical retinoids (like Retinol and Retinyl Palmitate) are among the most researched ingredients in dermatology. Independent studies have consistently shown that they work by binding to retinoic acid receptors in the skin, which in turn regulates gene expression. This leads to increased collagen production, accelerated skin cell turnover, and a reduction in the enzymes that break down collagen (MMPs). [cite_start]The clinical result is a measurable improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and overall skin texture[cite: 3593, 3627, 3906].
• Ingredient Rationale (Bakuchiol): Bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound that has been clinically compared to retinol. A double-blind, randomized study found that 0.5% bakuchiol applied twice daily was comparable to 0.5% retinol once daily in its ability to reduce wrinkles and hyperpigmentation, but with significantly less stinging and scaling reported by users. This supports its role as a gentle, synergistic partner to traditional retinoids.
• Brand-Specific Data: celimax has not made public the results of specific clinical trials for this exact product formulation. The performance expectations are based on the established scientific consensus regarding its active ingredients at their typical effective concentrations.

Understanding how long your product will last helps you plan your skincare budget effectively.

• Bottle Size: 30ml
• Estimated Doses per Bottle: Approximately 100-120 uses (based on 3 drops per application).

Estimated Duration:

• When starting (2-3 times per week): The bottle should last approximately 8-10 months.
• For regular use (every other night): The bottle should last approximately 6-7 months.

This long lifespan offers excellent value, making it a cost-effective investment in your long-term skin health. You can expect to reorder this product roughly every 6-9 months, depending on your usage frequency.

To support your skin while using this active serum, pair it with gentle, hydrating, and protective products. Here are some in-stock suggestions to build a complete and effective routine.

Starter Essentials (AM & PM Support)

• ROUND LAB 1025 DOKDO CLEANSER 150ML — A gentle, low-pH cleanser that effectively removes impurities without stripping your skin's moisture barrier.
• celimax THE VITA-A Retinol Shot Tightening Serum 30ml — Your targeted treatment for fine lines and texture, used only at night.
• Beauty of Joseon RELIEF SUN : RICE + PROBIOTICS 50ML — An essential lightweight, hydrating sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage during the day, which is crucial when using retinoids.

Enhanced Recovery Routine (PM Focus)

• COSRX ADVANCED SNAIL 96 MUCIN POWER ESSENCE 100ML — Use this hydrating and repairing essence before the retinol serum to soothe skin and reduce potential irritation.
• celimax THE VITA-A Retinol Shot Tightening Serum 30ml — Your primary treatment for skin renewal.
• ETUDE SOONJUNG 2X BARRIER INTENSIVE CREAM 60ML — A fantastic barrier-repair cream to use after the serum to lock in moisture, calm the skin, and prevent dryness.

This serum is an excellent choice for targeting signs of aging with a multi-ingredient Vitamin A approach. However, your perfect product depends on your skin's tolerance and specific goals. Here are a few other options from our catalog to consider:

• For a Gentler Start: EQQUALBERRY Bakuchiol Plumping Serum 30ml
  — Choose this if... you are new to anti-aging actives or have very sensitive skin.
  — Why: Bakuchiol provides retinol-like benefits (improving texture and fine lines) but is known for being much gentler and less likely to cause irritation.

• For a Lower Retinol Dose: The Ordinary RETINOL 0.2% IN SQUALANE 30ML
  — Choose this if... you want to start with a very low concentration of pure retinol to build tolerance.
  — Why: This formula offers a straightforward 0.2% retinol suspended in moisturising squalane, making it a good entry point for beginners.

• For a Different Anti-Aging Mechanism: The Ordinary MATRIXYL 10% + HA 30ML
  — Choose this if... you want to target wrinkles with peptides instead of retinoids.
  — Why: Matrixyl is a powerful peptide complex that works by stimulating collagen production to improve firmness and reduce static and dynamic wrinkles, offering a different pathway to anti-aging results.

Mindful Consumption Note: If you already have a comparable anti-aging serum at home, we encourage you to finish it first to avoid waste and to give your current product a fair chance to deliver results.

• Packaging: This serum comes in a 30ml opaque glass bottle with a dropper applicator, which helps protect the light-sensitive retinoid ingredients from degradation.
• Storage: To maintain potency, store the bottle in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat (like a cabinet or drawer). Refrigeration is not necessary but can help prolong the life of active ingredients.
• Travel: The 30ml size is travel-friendly and suitable for carry-on luggage. Ensure the cap is tightly secured to prevent leaks.
• Recycling (Mauritius): The glass bottle is recyclable. Please rinse it out and dispose of it in your local glass recycling bin. The dropper may need to be disassembled (glass pipette, plastic/rubber bulb) and disposed of according to local guidelines.

Here’s a summary of authentic, unsponsored feedback from users in online communities like Reddit. Note: These are anecdotal experiences and individual results will vary.

• On Efficacy and Gentleness (Reddit, r/AsianBeauty, 2024-05): Many users praise this serum as an effective yet gentle entry into the world of potent retinoids. One user noted, "It definitely helped with my fine lines and some closed comedones without the crazy peeling I got from other retinols." The combination of different retinoids and bakuchiol is frequently cited as a reason for its good performance with minimal irritation.

• On Texture (Reddit, r/AsianBeauty, 2024-02): The "light, milky texture that sinks in quickly" is a common point of praise. Users with combination and oily skin appreciate that it doesn't feel heavy or greasy, making it easy to layer under a moisturiser. One comment mentioned, "I love that it doesn't leave a sticky feeling like some other serums."

• A Fair Caveat (Reddit, r/AsianBeauty, 2023-11): While most find it gentle, it is still a retinoid product. A few users mentioned experiencing some initial dryness or a minor purge. One user advised, "Definitely start slow! I used it every night from the beginning and got a bit flaky. When I dropped back to 3x a week, it was perfect." This highlights the importance of following the recommended ramp-up schedule.

celimax is a Korean skincare brand built on the principle of "honesty and trust." They focus on creating effective, high-quality skincare by being transparent about their ingredients and formulations. Their philosophy is to deliver genuine results by using proven active ingredients at optimal concentrations, ensuring that what's on the label is what's in the bottle. celimax aims to provide reliable solutions for various skin concerns, combining dermatological science with clean, skin-friendly formulas.

100% Authentic, Direct from South Korea. At Adilsons, we pride ourselves on our rigorous sourcing process. We work directly with official brand distributors in South Korea to ensure every product we sell is genuine, fresh, and of the highest quality. We understand the trust you place in us for your skincare journey, and we honour that trust by guaranteeing the authenticity of every item in our store.

1. What's the difference between this serum and a prescription retinoid like Tretinoin?
This serum uses cosmetic-grade retinoids (Retinol, Retinyl Palmitate) and Bakuchiol, which are effective for anti-aging but gentler and available without a prescription. Prescription Tretinoin (Retinoic Acid) is a much stronger, pure form of retinoic acid that works faster but comes with a higher risk of significant irritation, peeling, and redness. This serum is designed for effective, long-term use with better tolerability.

2. Can I use this serum with a Vitamin C product?
It's best to separate them to avoid potential irritation and ensure both products work optimally. We recommend using your Vitamin C serum in your morning routine for its antioxidant benefits and using this Retinol Shot serum only at night.

3. Is this product safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
No. As a general precaution, the use of retinoid products is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

4. Will this make my skin purge?
It's possible. Retinoids accelerate skin cell turnover, which can bring underlying micro-comedones (clogged pores) to the surface, causing a temporary increase in breakouts. This "purge" usually lasts for 2-6 weeks. If breakouts are severe, occur in new areas, or persist longer, it may be irritation rather than purging, and you should stop use.

Best For: Individuals looking to step up their anti-aging game with a potent yet thoughtfully formulated retinoid serum to address fine lines, texture, and firmness.

Key Benefits:

• Combines three types of Vitamin A actives for a comprehensive effect.
• Noticeably improves skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines over time.
• Formulated to be gentler than many high-strength retinol products, reducing the risk of severe irritation.

Keep in Mind:

• Requires a gradual introduction period ("ramping up") to allow skin to adapt.
• Daily and consistent sunscreen use is absolutely mandatory.
• Not suitable for complete beginners to skincare actives, or for use during pregnancy.

• Coverage: Island-wide delivery (Mauritius).
• Processing & Timing: Orders are typically processed within 1-2 business days. After pickup by our delivery partners, delivery usually takes an additional 1-5 business days.
• Express Options: May be available depending on your region. Please contact us on WhatsApp at +230 5 778 2336 to inquire.
• Returns: For hygiene and safety reasons, we do not accept returns or exchanges on skincare products for change-of-mind.
• Refunds: Refunds are processed for items that are defective, damaged upon arrival (must be reported within 48 hours), or incorrect.

This is a quick snapshot. For full details, please refer to our official policy pages, which will always be the final authority.

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