Retinol NMN Boosting Serum 1.9%

The Medicube Retinol 1.9% NMN Boosting Serum is an advanced nighttime treatment designed to address fine lines, loss of firmness, uneven texture and dullness. Its formula combines multiple vitamin A derivatives with niacinamide, NMN, peptides and barrier-supporting ingredients, creating a comprehensive approach to skin aging.

From a medical skincare perspective, the most important ingredients in this formula are retinol and retinal. Both belong to the retinoid family and are converted within the skin toward biologically active retinoic acid. Retinoids are among the best-studied topical ingredients for photoaging: with consistent use, they support epidermal renewal and collagen metabolism, helping improve the appearance of fine lines, rough texture and uneven pigmentation.

The product is marketed with 1.9% Retinol-some technology. It is important to distinguish this from a serum containing 1.9% pure retinol—the stated percentage refers to Medicube's retinol complex rather than necessarily the concentration of pure retinol itself.

The formula also contains NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide), a derivative related to vitamin B3 and a precursor involved in cellular NAD+ metabolism. While NMN is an interesting emerging ingredient in skin-aging research, evidence for topical NMN is still considerably less established than the evidence supporting retinoids. I therefore consider it a complementary ingredient rather than the primary reason to choose this serum.

Niacinamide appears high in the ingredient list and provides additional benefits for barrier function, uneven pigmentation and overall skin tone. A combination of ceramide NP, cholesterol, squalane, panthenol and beta-glucan helps maintain hydration and support the epidermal barrier—particularly valuable in a retinoid formulation, where dryness and irritation can occur during the adjustment period.

The formula is further complemented by peptides, including Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, as well as adenosine, vitamin E, vitamin C derivatives and Centella asiatica compounds for additional antioxidant and skin-conditioning support.

With gradual and consistent use, the serum is designed to promote a smoother, firmer and more even-looking complexion while supporting hydration an skin barrier function.

Key Benefits

• Contains both retinol & retinal for comprehensive retinoid care
• Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Supports improved skin firmness and elasticity
• Refines rough and uneven skin texture
• Helps improve uneven pigmentation and dullness
• Niacinamide supports the skin barrier and more even skin tone
• Contains NMN and a multi-peptide complex
• Barrier-supporting ceramide, cholesterol, squalane & panthenol
  

Ideal for

Early to established signs of skin aging, fine lines, loss of firmness, rough or uneven texture, enlarged pores, dullness and uneven pigmentation. Particularly suitable for skin already accustomed to active skincare.

If you are new to retinoids, begin 2–3 evenings per week and gradually increase the frequency according to tolerance. Avoid introducing several potentially irritating actives, such as strong AHA/BHA exfoliants, at the same time.

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every morning while using retinoids.

Important: Retinoid-containing skincare should be avoided during pregnancy. If breastfeeding, discuss retinoid use with your healthcare professional.