The Vita-A Retinol Shot is a light, melting serum that spreads easily and disappears in a few seconds. It is reserved for the evening, on clean, thoroughly dry skin. It is for anyone who wants to start using retinol without jumping into an overly strong formula.
A retinol serum with peptides for firmness
The ingredient list of the European version shows retinol at 0.1%, a starting concentration. Retinol speeds up surface renewal: over time, the texture looks finer, fine lines less marked and the complexion more even. The effects build over several weeks, rarely before one to two months.
Nine peptides also appear in the composition, including palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 and acetyl hexapeptide-8. These signals are better documented than many trendy actives, but their effects remain modest and gradual; they support the retinol rather than replace it. Panthenol, allantoin and sunflower oil temper the dry feeling of the first few weeks.
The name "Shot" refers to Hydrolyzed Sponge, microparticles of marine sponge that the brand calls A-Shot. This type of ingredient can cause slight tingling on application: that is expected, but a burning feeling that lasts is not. Discover the full range in the Celimax collection.
How to use
- Weeks 1 to 2: two evenings a week, a small amount on dry skin, avoiding the eye area, the sides of the nose and the lips.
- After that: increase by one evening at a time if the skin is not peeling or turning red.
- Afterwards: a simple moisturiser.
- The next morning: sunscreen is a must.
Do not combine it on the same evening with an AHA or BHA exfoliant, or with a pure vitamin C. If you are unsure between retinol and retinal, our guide which retinal to choose compares the two.
Which skin is it for?
Normal to combination skin showing its first fine lines, an uneven texture and a loss of tone. Very dry or very reactive skin should start one evening in three, mixing it into their cream. It is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. As marine sponge is of animal origin, the formula is not vegan.
Product details
- Size: 30 ml
- Brand: Celimax
- Product type: retinol serum, for evening use
- Ingredients: Water (Aqua), Methylpropanediol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Panthenol, Polypropylsilsesquioxane, C14-22 Alcohols, Glyceryl Stearates, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Hydrolyzed Sponge, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Tocopherol, Retinol (0.1%), Allantoin, Arginine, Undecane, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Polyglyceryl-6 Laurate, Adenosine, Tridecane, Disodium EDTA, Daucus Carota Sativa (Carrot) Root Extract, Myristyl Glucoside, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, PVM/MA Copolymer, Butylene Glycol, Beta-Carotene, Glucose, Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Nonapeptide-1, Hexapeptide-9, Dipeptide-2, Copper Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-5, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4.
- Country of manufacture: South Korea
- Precautions for use: contains vitamin A; take your daily intake into account before use. Evening use only, with sun protection the next day. Not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes; do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Keep out of the reach of children.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a good first retinol?
Yes, its starting concentration and the soothing ingredients around it suit a first approach, as long as you build up gradually.
Tingling, redness, flaking: is that normal?
A little dryness in the first few weeks is common. Space out your application evenings if it bothers you, and stop if the skin burns.
Can I use it in the morning?
No. Retinol degrades in light and makes the skin more sensitive to the sun: it goes on in the evening.
How long does the bottle last?
A small amount is enough for the whole face. At a few evenings a week, the 30 ml bottle will last several months of routine.
Patience and consistency are retinol's best allies: settle this serum into your evenings and let the weeks do their work. More skincare for firmer-looking skin awaits in the anti-ageing and firmness selection.
