Celimax Retinol Shot vs Retinal Shot: Which Should You Buy?
Quick answer: If you want a retinol serum, pick the 30 ml bottle marked RETINOL. If you already tolerate a retinoid and specifically want to try retinal, look for the 15 ml tube marked RETINAL. Both say 0.1%, but that number refers to a different ingredient in each. You don’t need to buy both to get started.
Celimax Retinol vs Retinal at a glance
| What to check | Retinol Serum | Retinal Booster |
|---|---|---|
| Pack | 30 ml silver bottle | 15 ml silver tube |
| Formula | 0.1% retinol + 9-peptide complex | 0.1% liposomal retinal + Matrixyl |
| Shop at MMRK | Shop Retinol Serum 30 ml | Shop Retinal Booster 15 ml |
Why the same percentage isn’t the same strength: Retinol and retinal are different forms of vitamin A. The 0.1% tells you how much of the named ingredient is in each formula. It doesn’t tell you which one your skin will tolerate better or how quickly you’ll see results.
How to use Celimax Retinol Shot Serum (30 ml)
Celimax suggests starting at night with a small amount on the areas you want to target. If you’re new to retinoids, the brand suggests every other night for the first two weeks. Increase only if your skin stays comfortable. Follow with a moisturizer.
How to use Celimax Retinal Shot Booster (15 ml)
Start at night with a small amount on targeted areas. Celimax suggests every other night at first for new users and says you can spread it more widely once your skin has adjusted. There’s no need to increase the frequency or cover your whole face if your skin isn’t tolerating it.
For either product: Wear sunscreen in the morning. If you’re looking for a lighter finish, see our guide to sunscreen for oily skin. Avoid retinoids during pregnancy.
Do I need both products?
No. Start with one so you can tell how your skin responds. If you already use a retinoid, don’t add the other Celimax product to the same routine just because both labels say 0.1%.
Does tingling mean it’s working?
No. Celimax notes that mild tingling can happen, but it doesn’t tell you how well the product is working. If you get burning or persistent redness, stop using it. If irritation doesn’t settle, ask a dermatologist.
References for ingredients, directions and skin care: Celimax Retinol Serum instructions, Celimax Retinal Booster instructions, and American Academy of Dermatology guidance on retinoids.