K-Secret Seoul 1988

♥ Cruelty-Free

The entry point to K-SECRET’s celebrated retinal system — a daily moisturising cream formulated for anyone ready to experience next-generation care that helps smooth the look of fine lines without the irritation that holds most people back. Retinal (retinaldehyde) is fundamentally different from retinol: it converts to its active form in the skin in a single step rather than two, making it significantly faster-acting and more potent at the same concentration. The Liposome delivery system encapsulates the Retinal in microscopic lipid spheres that release it slowly and evenly into the skin throughout the night, maximising efficacy while keeping sensitivity to a minimum. Fermented Rice and Fermented Ginseng bring traditional Korean brightening and nourishing benefits alongside the retinal’s collagen-stimulating action. Bakuchiol, three Growth Factors and a stable form of Vitamin C help support a firmer-looking, smoother complexion from multiple angles. A smooth, fast-absorbing cream that leaves no residue. Fragrance-Free. Paraben-Free.

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your doctor before use.

Skin Concerns

• Fine lines & early signs of ageing
• Uneven texture
• Dullness
• Uneven tone
• Loss of firmness
• Enlarged pores

Skin Types

• All Skin Types — Hypoallergenic and suitable for every complexion, including reactive skin.
• Sensitive / Retinol-Beginners —Real retinal results without the redness, flaking or adjustment period.
• Mature / Ageing — Firms and resurfaces faster and deeper than any conventional retinol cream.

How to Use

In the evening, after cleansing and toning, apply a pea-sized amount to clean, dry skin and gently massage until fully absorbed. Begin with 2–3 times per week and gradually increase to nightly use as tolerance builds.

Actives Retinol and Retinal deliver real results — but they also increase UV sensitivity. Protect that progress every morning with SPF50+. Avoid use alongside exfoliating acids, high-strength Vitamin C or other retinal/retinol products.

Tip: Apply to completely dry skin — retinal absorbs most effectively and with least irritation on a dry (not damp) surface after cleansing.

Full Ingredients (INCI)

Water, Cetyl Ethylhexanoate, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Propanediol, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Sodium Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Polyisobutene, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment (1,000ppm), Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Saccharomyces/Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces/Potato Extract Ferment Filtrate, Xanthan Gum, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Disodium EDTA, Ethylhexylglycerin, Allantoin, Caprylyl Glycol, Adenosine, Glyceryl Acrylate/Acrylic Acid Copolymer, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Sorbitan Oleate, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal (100ppm), Silica, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Tocopherol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Bakuchiol, SH-Oligopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1.

Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer’s discretion. For the most complete and up-to-date list, always refer to the product packaging.

♥ Cruelty-Free

The most concentrated product in the entire Seoul 1988 range — an eye cream formulated with 4% Retinal Liposome, the highest strength in the collection, precisely because the skin around the eyes ages fastest and needs the most targeted intervention. What makes this safe at such a high concentration is the Liposome delivery system: the retinal is encapsulated and released gradually, so it reaches the delicate eye area with none of the redness or tightness that conventional retinoids would cause. Fermented Soybean Extract delivers brightening and antioxidant benefits that visibly address dark circles over time. Bakuchiol, a stable form of Vitamin C, three Growth Factors and five herbal root extracts complete one of the most comprehensive eye-area formulas in K-beauty. A rich yet fast-absorbing cream that leaves the contour area visibly smoother, more rested and noticeably more awake — from the very first use. Fragrance-Free. Paraben-Free

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your doctor before use.

Skin Concerns

• Crow’s feet & eye-area wrinkles
• Dark circles
• Loss of firmness
• Fine lines
• Puffiness
• Dehydration

Skin Types

• All Skin Types — Dermatologically tested; begin with alternate evenings and build to nightly use as the eye area adjusts.
• Mature / Ageing — The highest retinal concentration in the range helps the eye area look visibly firmer and smoother with consistent use.
• Dark Circles / Fatigue — Fermented Soybean brightens the under-eye zone progressively, reducing the appearance of tiredness with consistent use.

How to Use

Evening use recommended. After applying serum, take a rice-grain-sized amount and divide it between the fingertips of both ring fingers. Gently tap around the eye contour and across the brow bone until fully absorbed. For sensitive skin or beginners, use the sandwich method: apply a light moisturiser first, then the eye cream, then a second thin layer of moisturiser. Start with 2–3 times weekly.

Actives Retinol and Retinal deliver real results — but they also increase UV sensitivity. Protect that progress every morning with SPF50+. Avoid use alongside exfoliating acids, high-strength Vitamin C or other retinal/retinol products.

Tip: This eye cream can also be applied to smile lines, forehead lines and neck — the 4% retinal liposome concentration is safe for all these areas thanks to the slow-release liposome technology.

Full Ingredients (INCI)

Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Butylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate, Niacinamide, Pentaerythrityl Tetraethylhexanoate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Butylene Glycol, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Propanediol, Glyceryl Stearate, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal, Silica, Disodium EDTA, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Lactobacillus/Panax Ginseng Root Ferment Filtrate, Lactobacillus/Rice Ferment, Lactobacillus/Soybean Ferment Extract, Saccharomyces/Coix Lacryma-Jobi Ma-Yuen Seed Ferment Filtrate, Saccharomyces/Potato Extract Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Bakuchiol, SH-Oligopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1.

Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer’s discretion. For the most complete and up-to-date list, always refer to the product packaging.

🌿 Vegan · Cruelty-Free

A high-powered brightening serum that brings together one of the highest available concentrations of Niacinamide (Vitamin B3, 15%) in K-beauty with Yuja — the prized Korean citron fruit, abundant in natural Vitamin C and antioxidants — for a visibly clearer, more luminous complexion. At 15%, Niacinamide inhibits melanin transfer to the skin’s surface, progressively fading dark spots and post-blemish marks, while regulating sebum production and tightening the appearance of pores. Yuja Oil amplifies the brightening effect with its antioxidant richness and brings a subtle radiance-enhancing glow. Glutathione and Tranexamic Acid reinforce the formula’s discolouration-fighting power across multiple pathways. Unique Agar Gum Capsules melt into the skin on application, delivering deep hydration and preventing moisture loss throughout the day. Squalane, Shea Butter and Macadamia Oil provide lasting nourishment without heaviness. Fragrance-Free. Paraben-Free

Skin Concerns

• Dark spots & hyperpigmentation
• Marks left behind by blemishes
• Dullness
• Uneven skin tone
• Enlarged pores
• Dehydration

Skin Types

• All Skin Types — Well-tolerated daily.
• Oily / Acne-Prone — Regulates shine and minimises pores while progressively clearing the marks that breakouts leave behind.
• Dull / Uneven Skin — Delivers a noticeably more even and radiant complexion with consistent daily use.

How to Use

After cleansing and toning, apply 3–5 drops and spread evenly over the face. Pat gently until absorbed, then follow with moisturiser. Use morning and evening. Always follow with SPF 50 + during the day when targeting dark spots.

Tip: 15% Niacinamide is a high concentration - if your skin is new to this active, begin with evening use only and build gradually to twice daily as tolerance develops.

Full Ingredients (INCI)

Water, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, Glycereth-26, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Pentylene Glycol, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Squalane, Panthenol, Hydrogenated Polydecene, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Adenosine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Gellan Gum, Agar, Sodium Phytate, Beta-Glucan, Citrus Junos Fruit Oil, Glutathione, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hydroxydecyl Ubiquinone, Melia Azadirachta Flower Extract, Ocimum Sanctum Leaf Extract, Melia Azadirachta Leaf Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Corallina Officinalis Extract, Tranexamic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Tocopherol, Sodium Ascorbyl Phosphate.

Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer’s discretion. For the most complete and up-to-date list, always refer to the product packaging.

♥ Cruelty-Free

The most concentrated retinal serum in your SAENG SKIN collection — and arguably one of the most impressively formulated retinal serums available in K-beauty at this price. Retinal is a fundamentally different molecule from retinol: it sits one step closer to the skin’s active form, meaning it works faster, more visibly and more effectively at the same concentration. This serum delivers 2% Retinal via a Liposome delivery system — encapsulated in lipid spheres that release it slowly and precisely through the night — paired with 58% Black Ginseng Extract, a rare form of Korean ginseng processed nine times for amplified antioxidant potency. The result is a dual-action formula that visibly tightens, firms and resurfaces while the ginseng’s concentrated richness restores radiance from within. Bakuchiol works alongside the retinal to further boost collagen production, while a stable form of Vitamin C, Niacinamide and three Growth Factors address texture, tone and firmness simultaneously. The most results-driven product in the Seoul 1988 range. Fragrance-Free. Paraben-Free

If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please consult your doctor before use.

Skin Concerns

• Visible signs of ageing
• Fine lines & wrinkles
• Loss of firmness
• Uneven texture
• Dullness
• Hyperpigmentation

Skin Types

• All Skin Types — Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested; suitable for every complexion with gradual introduction.
• Mature / Ageing Skin — The most results-driven product in the Seoul 1988 range for a visibly smoother, firmer-looking complexion.
• Experienced Retinol Users — A significant and worthwhile step up — the same commitment, noticeably stronger results.

How to Use

In the evening only, after cleansing and toning, apply a pea-sized amount to clean, completely dry skin. Gently massage until fully absorbed. Follow with a plain moisturiser. Start with twice weekly in weeks 1–2, every other night in weeks 3–4, then nightly from week 5 onwards.

Actives Retinol and Retinal deliver real results — but they also increase UV sensitivity. Protect that progress every morning with SPF50+. Avoid use alongside exfoliating acids, high-strength Vitamin C or other retinal/retinol products.

Tip: The ‘sandwich method’ — applying a thin layer of plain moisturiser before and after the serum — provides an extra buffer for those new to retinal at this concentration, reducing any initial sensitivity without affecting results.

Full Ingredients (INCI)

Water, Glycerin, Dipropylene Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Butylene Glycol, Methyl Gluceth-20, Polyglyceryl-3 Methylglucose Distearate, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Sorbitan Stearate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Carbomer, Tromethamine, Betaine, Tocopherol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Adenosine, Disodium EDTA, Cholesterol, Polyglyceryl-10 Oleate, Brassica Campestris (Rapeseed) Sterols, Phytosteryl/Behenyl/Octyldodecyl Lauroyl Glutamate, Retinal, Silica, Aluminum/Magnesium Hydroxide Stearate, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Arctium Lappa Root Extract, Cnidium Officinale Root Extract, Dioscorea Japonica Root Extract, Paeonia Suffruticosa Root Extract, Rehmannia Chinensis Root Extract, 3-O-Ethyl Ascorbic Acid, Bakuchiol, SH-Oligopeptide-1, SH-Oligopeptide-2, SH-Polypeptide-1.

Ingredients are subject to change at the manufacturer’s discretion. For the most complete and up-to-date list, always refer to the product packaging.