A two-step retinoid treatment mask for skin that has lost definition: enlarged-looking pores, uneven texture and slackness along the jaw and cheeks. Step one is a concentrated Reti-A ampoule; step two is a hydrogel sheet that holds it against the skin while it works.

The ampoule combines three routes to the same receptor family. Retinol is the classic vitamin A alcohol, converted in the skin to retinaldehyde and then retinoic acid. Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is a retinoic acid ester that binds retinoid receptors directly, so it acts without that conversion and is generally better tolerated. Bakuchiol, a meroterpene from Psoralea corylifolia, produces retinol-like changes in gene expression without being a vitamin A derivative. Alongside them sits VT's CICA REEDLE technology — microscopic spicules from freshwater sponge that create transient micro-channels in the stratum corneum, improving how much of the active layer reaches the living epidermis. Niacinamide, Adenosine, Allantoin and a full centella profile buffer the retinoid load.

The hydrogel sheet is why this works as an occlusive treatment rather than a wash-off: it holds far more water than cotton and clings to contours without slipping.

Key ingredients

• Retinol — pure vitamin A; supports cell turnover and collagen signalling over time.
• Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate — a receptor-binding retinoid ester that skips the conversion retinol needs, giving activity with less irritation.
• Bakuchiol — plant-derived retinol alternative that reinforces the effect without adding vitamin A load.
• CICA REEDLE (Hydrolyzed Sponge spicules) — micro-spicules that open temporary channels to improve delivery of the actives above.
• Niacinamide — supports barrier function and helps offset retinoid dryness.
• Centella Asiatica with asiaticoside and madecassoside — calms the flush and tightness retinoids can cause.

How to use

1. Cleanse and apply toner.
2. Apply the step-one ampoule (1.5 g) evenly and let it settle.
3. Peel the backing films from the hydrogel sheet and smooth it into place.
4. Leave on 20-40 minutes for a standard treatment, or longer for intensive care.
5. Remove and massage the remaining essence in. Do not rinse.
6. Follow with moisturiser; sunscreen the next morning is essential.

Recommended frequency

• Retinoid-experienced skin — once or twice weekly.
• New to retinoids — once a week, on a night with no acids or other retinoids.
• Sensitive skin — every ten to fourteen days, starting with a 20-minute wear.
• Timeline — smoothness is visible the same evening; genuine texture and pore refinement need six to twelve weeks.

Best suited to

Adult skin concerned with texture, visible pores and early loss of firmness. Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding because of the retinol, and skip it on broken, sunburnt or irritated skin.

Specifications

• Format — two-step treatment: ampoule sachet plus hydrogel sheet mask
• Volume — 1.5 g ampoule and 33 g hydrogel sheet per treatment
• Key actives — Retinol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Bakuchiol, Hydrolyzed Sponge spicules, Niacinamide, Centella Asiatica
• Texture — silky ampoule with a faint spicule grip; cool, heavy, form-fitting hydrogel
• Origin — made in Korea

Good to know

The spicules give a mild prickle or warmth on application; this settles within minutes, but it means the mask should not be combined with AHAs, BHAs or a separate retinoid on the same night. Retinoids increase photosensitivity, so daily SPF is not optional. Keep away from the eye area and lips, and patch test if you are new to retinoids. The formula contains propolis extract, so avoid it if you are sensitive to bee-derived ingredients.