I’ve been using the Mary & May Retinol 0.1% + Bakuchiol + Cica serum for a few weeks now, and I like how gentle it is compared to other retinol products I’ve tried. When I first apply it, the texture feels light and a little watery, almost like a hydrating essence. It spreads easily across my skin and feels cooling at first, which is soothing, especially at nighttime, when it is the only time I use it. I don't use it in the morning because these types of skincare ingredients even if it's an alternative retinol can still be sensitive in the sun. I was a little nervous at first because my skin can be sensitive, but the combination of cica helps calm things down. It didn’t sting or make my skin peel, which I appreciated. The texture is lightweight and sinks in quickly without leaving a sticky or greasy feel. The scent is subtle but noticeable at first, it has this herbal, slightly medicinal smell mixed with something fresh, almost like green tea and cica combined. It’s not perfumey or artificial, and it fades pretty quickly after I pat it in. I can’t say I’ve seen a major difference in fine lines yet, but my skin does look more even and a little brighter overall. There’s a very faint scent, kind of clean and plant-like, but it fades quickly.
