Kiehl's

Retinol Skin-Renewing Daily Micro-Dose Serum

SerumPremiumEvening only
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A micro-dosed retinol serum with ceramide and peptide support designed for daily use with less irritation. A gentle daily-retinol approach for those who can't tolerate higher strengths; gradual, cumulative results.
The verdict

What this is good for

✓ Great forFine LinesRough TexturePhotoaging Prevention
The formulation

Ingredient stack

Each ingredient is listed in descending concentration. Above the 1% line the order is regulated — below it, brands can list in any order.

Ingredients above the dashed gold line are dosed above 1% (the regulatory threshold) — these are what the formulation is really built on. Percentages are positional estimates from INCI order unless a brand discloses them.

~50–80%Aqua
~5–25%Dimethicone
~3–10%Glycerin
~2–6%Retinol
~1.5–4%Ceramide NP
~1–2%2 ingredients
≤ 1% each3 more ingredients below 1%
position-estimated %1% regulatory line
Hero actives

What's actually doing the work

Retinol
Micro-Dose Retinol
Retinoid
A vitamin A derivative converted in skin to retinoic acid. Increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen, improving fine lines, tone and texture. Introduce slowly to manage irritation; always pair with morning SPF.
Full glossary entry →
Ceramides
Ceramide NP
Lipid
Barrier lipids that make up much of the stratum corneum's protective matrix. Replenishing them reduces water loss and reinforces resilience — central to barrier repair and to calming dry, reactive skin.
Full glossary entry →
Peptides
Signal Peptides
Peptide
A key active in this formula. See the glossary for the full breakdown of how Peptides works, the evidence behind it, and how to use it.
Full glossary entry →
When to use

Routine placement

Evening only
Cheaper alternatives

Looking for a dupe?

The closest active-matched alternative is the Paula's Choice Clinical 1% Retinol Treatment (77% active overlap). We found 6 options that share this product’s hero actives.

Dupe guide
See all serum dupes for this product
Ranked by ingredient overlap, with an honest note on what’s different in each.
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Next steps

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Skin Stacker is independent and receives no payment from any brand. Ingredient analysis is based on publicly disclosed INCI lists and the peer-reviewed literature. Percentages are positional estimates from INCI order unless a brand discloses them. Formulations change — always re-check the label on your specific batch before using.