After using it for a week, I’m sharing my Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum review. Trader Joe’s skincare products are sneakily good!
I popped into Trader Joe’s the other week for two items and, naturally, walked out with at least 7. But I feel like I should receive an award because I kept it under 10 items. One of the items I spontaneously tossed into my cart is new – Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum.
Trader Joe’s skincare products are sneakily good (I love breaking out my Trader Joe’s Marula Oil for when my skin feels dry, full review here) and are budget-friendly. Before this, I did not use any retinol products in my skincare. The closest product is Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel, which I use every other night. I was eager to see if Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum was effective for its price point of $10. After using the serum for a week, here are my thoughts and experience.
Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum Review
What exactly is Baobab Seed Oil?
Baobab seed oil comes from the baobab tree, a fruit tree that grows in the southern countries of Africa. The oil is cold-pressed from the seeds.
How does Baobab Seed Oil help your skin?
Baobab seed oil has been shown to have numerous health benefits to your skin, including moisturizing, softening skin, improving skin texture and elasticity, reducing inflammation, helping to repair the skin barrier, and helping the skin heal faster.
Does it smell?
Nope! It’s virtually scent-free. If there is a scent, it’s too light to detect.
Is it heavy on your skin or feel greasy?
Not at all. The retinol night serum absorbs very quickly into your skin and doesn’t leave any residue at all.
How do I include it in my routine?
In the evenings, I wash my face with Trader Joe’s Face Wash with Tea Tree Oil (I’ve used this cleanser for 10+ years and swear by it, especially during the hot, humid months) and then immediately apply toner to my face, neck, and décolletage. Toner helps your skin absorb serums more effectively, meaning it boosts the serum’s power! You can skip the toner step if you want but it’s my personal preference to do it. I love my Beautycounter Hydrating Essence toner, its scent reminds me of a spa. Side note: I also apply the toner to the back of my hands for an extra hydration boost.
After these steps, I applied Trader Joe’s Retinol Night Serum. I followed the directions on the label and applied 2 pumps to my face and neck. 1 pump was enough for my face and neck, 1 pump for my décolletage. I used this every other night to give my skin time to adjust to it. The label directions recommend you start incorporating this serum slowly into your routine by using twice per week and increase usage as your skin tolerates.
As a final step, I applied a moisturizer to seal the serum in and prevent dryness.
With retinol, it’s very important to make sure you use SPF sunscreen daily. I apply mine every morning before I head out the door.
Did you notice any difference in your skin?
It’s still early but I have noticed my skin feels smoother and appears brighter than it did before I starting using the serum. I did not have a bad reaction to the serum so I am going to keep it in my routine. Retinol serums can be pricey and I feel that for $10, this is an affordable serum that will get the job done.
P.S. Always do a patch test when introducing new items into your skincare routine.
