Mary&May Spicule Retinol PDRN Cream 15g

The same marine micro-spicule technology, here doubled (2,000 ppm, i.e. roughly 180,000 to 200,000 spicules per tube) and paired with a nano-liposomal retinol at 1,000 ppm: a texture that melts without any grain, designed to limit the usual discomfort of retinol.

Why we love it

Nano-encapsulation aims to improve the stability and absorption of retinol while reducing its irritation potential; the CICA PDRN complex and 2% panthenol support the skin during the adjustment period. Retinol remains a demanding active: it should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding, never combined with AHAs/BHAs or pure vitamin C on the same evening, and it requires sun protection the following morning. Mary&May reports internal results on pores, fine lines, and firmness; in the absence of an independent published study we could verify, we describe here what the formula does rather than a brand-supplied figure.

How to use it

Use only in the evening, 2 to 3 times a week at first, then daily if your skin tolerates it: apply a hazelnut-sized amount on dry skin, as the last step before night cream, never on damp skin or combined with an exfoliant the same evening. Sun protection is mandatory the following morning. The tingling of the spicules adds to that of the retinol: space out applications if the skin reddens.

Who it's for

Skin already used to retinol that wants to go further on pores and fine lines, mature skin with uneven texture, excluding pregnancy and breastfeeding. Beginners should start with a spicule-free retinol cream. A companion to our Retinol range and our PDRN products.