Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum 0.5 oz — 6.5% Retinoid Blend for Smoother, Even-Looking Skin

Formulated as a concentrated, nighttime serum, this 0.5 oz treatment pairs a 5% retinoid ester blend with 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol and 0.5% blue-green algae that mimics retinoid activity. Stabilized blends work alongside encapsulated CoQ10 and soothing botanical extracts—like Hawaiian white honey, bisabolol, cactus extract, and ginger—to deliver targeted actives while minimizing surface irritation. This product is presented as a high-potency option for experienced retinoid users seeking a performance-driven addition to their evening routine.

How does this serum fit into an evening skincare routine?

Apply the serum after cleansing and before heavier oils or creams, ideally on dry, clean skin. Start gradually to assess tolerance, then increase frequency as skin acclimates; always follow with sunscreen during the day when using retinoid products.

• Use 2–3 nights weekly at first, then increase per tolerance.
• Layer under moisturizer to reduce surface dryness.
• Avoid mixing with other strong actives the same night (vitamin C, AHA/BHA) until tolerance is established.

What ingredients deliver the serum’s high-dose performance?

The formula combines a 5% retinoid ester blend and a 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol for both stability and deeper delivery. A 0.5% blue-green algae extract offers plant-derived, retinoid-like activity while encapsulated CoQ10 and botanical soothers help support the skin’s appearance.

• 5% retinoid ester blend for stabilized effectiveness.
• 1% liposomal-encapsulated retinol to improve delivery and potency.
• 0.5% blue-green algae as a natural retinoid-alternative extract.
• CoQ10, Hawaiian white honey, bisabolol, cactus, and ginger for calming support.

How should sensitive or new retinoid users approach this product?

Because this serum is concentrated, beginners and sensitive skin types should introduce it slowly and perform a patch test first. If irritation occurs, reduce frequency or consult a skincare professional; pairing with a gentle moisturizer can help mitigate dryness and redness.

• Patch test behind the ear or inner forearm before full-face use.
• Begin with once or twice weekly applications and build up gradually.
• Apply moisturizer after serum to buffer potential dryness.

What results can users reasonably expect and when?

Visible changes in skin texture and tone may appear over weeks to months, depending on individual skin and frequency of use. Because it’s a high-strength formula, consistent use combined with sun protection is key to safer, steady improvement in skin appearance.

• Initial tolerance period: 2–4 weeks with reduced frequency as needed.
• Noticeable texture and tone refinements often emerge after several weeks.
• Daily SPF recommended to protect skin during retinoid use.

Who is this for: Sunday Riley A+ High-Dose Retinoid Serum suits experienced retinoid users or those seeking a potent topical solution to help improve the look of uneven texture, visible signs of aging, and congestion-prone skin. It’s best for those who can introduce high-strength actives gradually and commit to night-time use plus daytime sun protection. If you are new to retinoids or have very reactive skin, consider a lower-strength retinoid or consult a skincare professional before starting.

Ingredients

Water/Eau/Aqua, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Propanediol, Triheptanoin, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Disiloxane, Hexyldecanol, Diheptyl Succinate, Phenylpropanol, Phenyl Trimethicone, PPG-24-Glycereth-24, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Honey Extract/Extrait de Miel, Opuntia Ficus-Indica (Prickly Pear) Fruit Extract, Bisabolol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Retinol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Ubiquinone, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Tocopherol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Lecithin, 1,2-Hexanediol, 4-t-Butylcyclohexanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Phospholipids, Polyglyceryl-10 Stearate, Sorbitol, Cetylhydroxyproline Palmitamide, Polysilicone-11, Benzoic Acid, Dehydroacetic Acid, Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer, Sodium Phytate, Phenoxyethanol, Glyceryl Polyacrylate, Alcohol, Polysorbate 20, Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Extract, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Hydroxyphenyl Propamidobenzoic Acid, Stearic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Phosphate, Benzyl Alcohol, Decyl Glucoside, Algae Extract, Hexylene Glycol, Potassium Sorbate