CeraVe

Resurfacing Retinol Serum (Post-Blemish)

SerumBudgetEvening only
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Encapsulated retinol with licorice and niacinamide, targeted at post-acne marks and uneven texture. The CeraVe ceramide base buffers irritation — a gentle entry retinol rather than a high-strength one.

What this is good for

✓ Great forPost-Acne MarksRough TextureCongestion

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%Glycerin
~3–10%Dimethicone
~2–6%Niacinamide
~1.5–4%Caprylic/Capric…
~1–2%4 ingredients
≤ 1% each5 more ingredients below 1%
position-estimated %1% regulatory line

What's actually doing the work

Retinol
Encapsulated 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.
Niacinamide
Vitamin B3
Vitamin
Vitamin B3. Regulates sebum, strengthens the barrier by boosting ceramide synthesis, evens tone by limiting pigment transfer, and calms inflammation. Well-tolerated at 2–10%; one of the most versatile, evidence-backed actives.
Licorice Root
Glycyrrhiza / Brightening Botanical
Botanical
A key active in this formula. See the glossary for the full breakdown of how Licorice Root works, the evidence behind it, and how to use it.

Routine placement

Evening only

Looking for a dupe?

The closest active-matched alternative is the Beauty of Joseon Glow Serum : Propolis + Niacinamide (70% 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.

Similar on the shelf

Put this in context

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.