innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Acne Serum — 2% Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide & Ceramides for Sensitive Skin

innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Acne Serum is a daily, sensitive-skin–friendly treatment that combines gentle Korean retinol technology with 2% salicylic acid, green tea ceramides, niacinamide and microbiome-supporting ingredients to reduce acne, calm redness and refine texture.

This lightweight serum is formulated to help clear existing blemishes, prevent new breakouts and soothe irritated skin without the dryness or stinging often linked to stronger retinol products. It pairs a low-irritation retinol delivery system with a clinically tested 2% salicylic acid concentration and a Green Tea Soothing Complex designed to support the skin’s barrier and microbiome, making it suitable for daily use on a range of skin types.

How does this serum address acne and blemishes?

The serum targets the root contributors to breakouts by combining exfoliating salicylic acid with a gentle retinol mechanism that speeds cellular turnover. Salicylic acid helps clear pores and reduce blackheads, while the retinol system supports ongoing renewal with lower irritation risk than standard retinol formulas.

• 2% salicylic acid to exfoliate inside pores and reduce congestion.
• Gentle retinol technology to improve turnover without strong irritation.
• Niacinamide to visibly even skin tone and reduce post-acne marks.
• Noncomedogenic and dermatologically tested for sensitive skin compatibility.

Will this serum cause dryness or redness on sensitive skin?

The formula is designed to minimize common retinol-related side effects by blending soothing botanicals and ceramide-like molecules with the active acids. Clinical assessments showed most users experienced reduced redness and minimal dryness when used as directed.

• Green Tea Ceramide derived from seed oil helps replenish barrier lipids.
• Green Tea Biome ingredient supports a balanced skin microbiome.
• Clinical results reported high rates of no dryness and reduced flare-up redness.

How should I use the serum in my daily routine?

Apply the serum after cleansing and toning, using a thin layer over acne-prone areas. Start with once daily, increase to 1–3 times daily as tolerated, and always follow with sunscreen in the morning to protect renewed skin.

• Use after cleanser and toner on dry skin; pat gently until absorbed.
• Begin with a single nightly application, then adjust frequency based on tolerance.
• Apply broad-spectrum SPF in the morning; avoid concurrent strong exfoliants without guidance.

What results can I expect and how quickly?

Clinical testing and user assessments indicate visible improvements in redness, acne frequency and texture over weeks of consistent use. Some users notice reduced redness and fewer breakouts within the first week, while broader texture and post-acne mark improvements typically appear over several weeks.

• Early improvements: many users reported less redness within one week.
• Six-week changes: notable reductions in acne, smoother texture and fewer post-acne marks.
• Maintained use supports clearer, more even-looking skin over time.

Who is this for: innisfree Gentle Retinol Salicylic Acne Serum is aimed at people seeking a daily acne treatment that balances effectiveness with gentleness—suitable for oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin types that want to reduce blemishes, calm irritation and improve skin texture without heavy drying. If you are using other active treatments, consult product layering guidance or a skincare professional to integrate this serum safely into your routine.

Ingredients

Water / Aqua / Eau, Glycerin, Propanediol, Niacinamide, Dibutyl Adipate, Butylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Cholesterol, Allantoin, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Tocopherol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Methyl Stearoyl Taurate, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Asiaticoside, Madecassic Acid, Camellia Sinensis Seed Extract, Asiatic Acid, Retinol, Stearyl Glycyrrhetinate, Hyaluronic Acid, Mannitol, Ceramide NP, Carbomer, Beta-Glucan, Beta-Carotene, Phytosphingosine, Salicylic Acid, Acacia Senegal Gum, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11, Propylene Glycol Alginate