Mature skin usually needs two things: more hydration and consistent care that helps it look firmer. Korean skincare offers several ingredient groups for this – retinol, peptides and PDRN. Below we explain how to combine them in a simple routine.
Key ingredients
- Retinol – a form of vitamin A that helps make fine lines less visible and smooth skin texture. Used in the evening.
- Peptides – chains of amino acids often used in firming care.
- PDRN – an ingredient derived from salmon DNA, popular in Korean serums and creams.
- Hyaluronic acid and niacinamide – hydrate and help even out skin tone; suitable both morning and evening.
A simple routine
Morning
- A gentle cleanser.
- A serum with peptides or PDRN, for example Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum or SKIN1004 Centella Matrixyl 10 Ampoule with Matrixyl 3000 (10%) and Volufiline (5%).
- A moisturiser, for example I’m Sorry For My Skin Age Capture Hydrating Cream.
- SPF cream – essential if you use retinol in the evening. How to choose one is explained in our guide on sun protection.
Evening
- Cleanser.
- Retinol: COSRX The Retinol 0.1 Cream for beginners or COSRX The Retinol 0.5 Oil once your skin is used to it.
- For the eye area – AXIS-Y Vegan Collagen Eye Serum with peptides.
- Cream, for example Neogen Probiotics Youth Repair Cream.
How to start using retinol
- For the first two weeks apply it 2–3 evenings a week, then more often if your skin tolerates it well.
- Do not combine it with AHA/BHA acids on the same evening.
- Before using a product for the first time, test it on a small area of skin.
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding, discuss retinol products with your doctor.
More products
All products are in Anti-ageing, and on the ingredient pages retinol and niacinamide. Want a routine for your skin? Try the routine builder.
