Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Serum
The Verdict & Review beautydecoded:
Dry skin: Avoid
Oily skin: Very good
Anti-aging effectiveness: Very good ⭐
Effectiveness on blemishes: Very good ⭐
Effectiveness on hyperpigmentation: Very good ⭐
Effectiveness on redness: Very poor ❌
Sensitive skin: Not suitable ❌
Description
AQUA, PROPANEDIOL, HELIANTHUS ANNUUS SEED OIL (Sunflower vegetable oil), CETEARYL OLIVATE, SORBITAN OLIVATE, HYDROXYPINACOLONE RETINOATE (Granactive retinoid), ROSA CENTIFOLIA FLOWER EXTRACT (May rose (allergen)), Calendula officinalis flower extract (Calendula «Marigold»), Chamomilla recutita flower extract (Wild chamomile (German)), GANODERMA LUCIDUM EXTRACT, TRAMETES VERSICOLOR EXTRACT, CHENOPODIUM QUINOA SEED EXTRACT, MELATONIN (Antioxidant), ORYZA SATIVA BRAN EXTRACT (Rice), SUNFLOWER EXTRACT (Sunflower), ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS LEAF EXTRACT (Rosemary), TOCOPHEROL (Vitamin E), GLYCERIN, LINOLEIC ACID (Fatty acid), PHYTOSTEROLS, PHOSPHOLIPIDS, JOJOBA ESTERS, CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC TRIGLYCERIDE, SODIUM HYALURONATE (Hyaluronic acid), XANTHAN GUM, ACACIA SENEGAL GUM, SODIUM GLUCONATE, DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE, METHYLHEPTYLGLYCERIN, CAPRYLHYDROXAMIC ACID, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, CITRIC ACID
My Doctor's Diagnosis: Analysis and Target
Pacifica Beauty's Wake Up Beautiful Retinoid Serum is primarily intended for people who want to prevent and correct the signs of skin aging, including wrinkles, loss of firmness, and uneven skin tone. Its formula also targets improving skin texture and radiance. My expert opinion is that the brand offers a comprehensive approach, combining innovative active ingredients and plant extracts for complete anti-aging action, while respecting sensitive skin with soothing agents.
Formula Analysis: Key Assets
Three active ingredients stand out in this formula:
- Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate This retinol derivative, also known as Granactive Retinoid, acts directly on the skin's retinoid receptors. It stimulates cell renewal, promotes collagen synthesis, and reduces wrinkles and pigmentation spots, while being better tolerated than traditional retinol.
- Sodium Hyaluronate : A form of hyaluronic acid, it intensely hydrates the skin by retaining water in the dermis, helping to plump up wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
- Melatonin : A powerful antioxidant, it protects the skin from oxidative stress at night and promotes cell regeneration during sleep.
The presence of chamomile, calendula, and May rose extracts provides a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect, ideal for limiting potential irritation associated with retinoids.
Tips and Application Ritual
I recommend applying this serum in the evening, on clean, dry skin, before your moisturizer. It is compatible with moisturizing active ingredients (hyaluronic acid, ceramides), but it is best to avoid combining it with other retinoids or exfoliating acids (AHAs/BHAs) to limit the risk of irritation. It is essential to use sunscreen in the morning.
My Final Verdict & Safety Opinion
This serum stands out thanks to its combination of a new-generation retinoid, moisturizing active ingredients, and soothing plant extracts. Its light texture and subtle fragrance make it a pleasure to use. The only possible downside is the presence of fragrant extracts (May rose), which may not be suitable for very reactive skin. In conclusion, it is an excellent choice for an effective anti-aging routine that is gentle on the skin.






