DermaQuest RiQ Retinol 0.3% 14,8ml

Retinol serum with 4 forms of vitamin A and tranexamic acid

Those who have used retinol for a while know the tension between results and skin comfort. High concentrations provide clear improvement but often come with dryness, peeling, or redness in the first weeks. A thoughtful formula resolves this contradiction by combining different forms of vitamin A instead of using one high dose.

The DermaQuest RiQ Retinol 0.3% builds on this concept with a blend of four different retinoids, enhanced by Allosteris and supplemented with tranexamic acid against pigmentation spots. Thanks to microencapsulation, the active ingredients are released slowly into the skin, synchronized with the natural nighttime repair rhythm. The result is visible rejuvenation without the typical buildup period or peeling phase.

Benefits

• Reduces the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
• Fades pigmentation spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentation
• Refines skin texture and gives visibly smoother and more radiant skin
• Works overnight in sync with the skin’s natural circadian rhythm
• Delivers results without the typical irritation of conventional retinol serums
• Suitable as a follow-up to RiQ Retinal 0.05% or for users experienced with retinol

Active ingredients

Four forms of retinoids 0.3%: This formula combines retinol, retinal (retinaldehyde), retinyl retinoate, and retinyl linoleate. Each form is at a different stage in the conversion chain to retinoic acid, the active form in the skin. By combining different forms instead of one high dose of retinol, the effect is spread over time and the skin remains comfortable. The overall result is more powerful than an equivalent single retinol concentration.

Allosteris: A patented retinoid enhancer that boosts the effect of vitamin A without additional stress on the skin barrier. This complex ensures the skin benefits optimally from the active ingredients with minimal to no downtime.

Tranexamic Acid: An amino acid derivative that blocks the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to skin cells. It is particularly suitable for reducing dark spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory pigmentation. Tranexamic acid also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it ideal for sensitive or reactive skin with pigmentation issues.

Bakuchiol: A plant-based active ingredient from the Babchi plant that works together with retinoids in this formula. Bakuchiol enhances the anti-aging effect while soothing, allowing the skin to better tolerate the higher retinoid concentration.

Papyrus Stem Cell Extract: Plant stem cells from the papyrus plant that strengthen the skin barrier and improve moisture retention. This ingredient stimulates collagen production and provides antioxidant protection against environmental stress and free radicals.

Niacinamide and Sodium Hyaluronate: Niacinamide soothes the skin, reduces redness, and supports the barrier function. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture, keeping the skin supple during retinoid treatment.

How to use

1. Use this serum only in the evening, as retinoids make the skin more sensitive to UV radiation
2. Cleanse the face and optionally apply a toner
3. Dose a pea-sized amount and spread the serum evenly over the face, neck, and décolleté
4. Avoid the eye area and the immediate area around the mouth
5. Finish with a DermaQuest moisturizer of your choice to support the skin barrier
6. Always use sun protection with SPF 30 or higher as the last step in the morning

Build up use gradually: start with two evenings per week, add one evening weekly until daily use. According to DermaQuest, retinol use is recommended in spring and autumn, with a three-month break in between.

Suitable for

• Skin with fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness
• Dull skin with pigmentation spots, melasma, or uneven complexion
• Dehydrated skin with uneven texture
• Users who already have experience with retinol or are ready for a successor to RiQ Retinal 0.05%
• Not suitable during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or with active skin irritation
• Not suitable around professional treatments (pause two weeks before and after)

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference with RiQ Retinal 0.05%?

RiQ Retinal 0.05% contains a single form of retinaldehyde and is intended as an introduction to retinoids for sensitive skin. RiQ Retinol 0.3% combines four different forms of vitamin A in a higher total concentration and contains tranexamic acid for extra effect on pigmentation. This serum is a logical next step for those who already have experience with retinoids.

How many times per week can I use this serum?

Start with two evenings per week and gradually increase to daily use. According to DermaQuest, it is recommended to use retinol three nights per week during the spring and autumn seasons, with a three-month break in between. Adjust this rhythm based on your skin's reaction.

Can I combine this serum with other active ingredients?

Do not combine this serum in the same routine with AHAs, BHAs, or high concentrations of vitamin C. Use vitamin C in the morning and this serum in the evening. Always combine with a good moisturizer and use daytime sun protection with at least SPF 30.