Fewer Wrinkles with
Science-Backed Skincare That Actually Works
You wake up one morning and notice it: that first crease that wasn’t there yesterday. Maybe it’s a faint line between your brows. Or soft crinkles near your eyes that makeup suddenly loves to settle into. They start as whispers, and over time, they become louder.
But where do they come from?
Fine lines and wrinkles form when collagen production slows down (starting in your 20s), and your skin’s ability to renew itself begins to decline. Add in sun damage, oxidative stress, lifestyle habits, and repetitive facial expressions,and suddenly your once-plump skin starts to look a little tired.
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How Do Fine Lines, Wrinkles & Crow’s Feet Actually Form?
Before we dive into the magic of skincare ingredients, let’s talk about why wrinkles show up in the first place and what’s going on beneath the surface of your skin.
1. It All Starts With Collagen & Elastin Breakdown
Your skin is made up of structural proteins: collagen and elastin which keep it firm, plump, and bouncy. Think of collagen like scaffolding and elastin like springs. Over time, your body naturally produces less of both, especially after the age of 25.
When these proteins break down or aren’t replenished fast enough, the skin starts to sag, fold, and crease. That’s when those first fine lines start to appear, usually around your eyes (hello, crow’s feet), mouth (smile lines), and forehead.
2. Repetitive Muscle Movement = Expression Lines
Every time you smile, squint, laugh, or furrow your brow, your facial muscles contract and your skin moves with them. When we’re young, that skin snaps right back into place. But as we age, the skin’s ability to “bounce back” slows down.
Repeated expressions start to leave a lasting mark, forming dynamic wrinkles (ones that appear with movement), which eventually become static wrinkles, visible even when your face is at rest. Crow’s feet, for example, are often the result of years of smiling and squinting and are amplified by sun exposure and thinner skin around the eyes.
3. Loss of Moisture & Lipids = Dry, Crepey Texture
Skin doesn’t just lose structure with age, it also loses hydration and natural oils. As your skin barrier becomes weaker, it struggles to retain moisture, leading to a drier, duller, and more crepey appearance. Fine lines become more pronounced when skin is dehydrated, and wrinkles deepen when the surface becomes uneven or rough.
4. UV Damage = Accelerated Aging
Sun exposure is one of the fastest ways to age your skin because of a process called photoaging. UV rays break down collagen, slow skin cell turnover, and lead to pigmentation issues, making fine lines and wrinkles appear sooner and more severe.
Even a few minutes of unprotected sun exposure every day can cause microscopic damage that builds over time, especially around the delicate eye area.
5. Oxidative Stress = Cellular Damage
Pollution, toxins, stress, and poor lifestyle habits (like smoking or lack of sleep) expose the skin to free radicals, which are unstable molecules that cause oxidative stress. These free radicals damage skin cells, slow down repair processes, and trigger inflammation and all of this accelerate wrinkle formation.
Fine lines and wrinkles are a natural part of aging, but they’re heavily influenced by both internal changes (like collagen loss and hydration decline) and external factors (like UV rays and lifestyle).
The result?
Skin that’s less resilient, less radiant, and more prone to creasing and sagging. But here’s the good news: skincare science is catching up.
And there are ingredients proven to help reverse, prevent, and minimize the look of wrinkles, especially when used early and consistently.
The Truth About Retinol:
It Works, but At What Cost?
For decades, retinol was the holy grail solution. And for good reason: it’s been shown to improve fine lines, stimulate collagen, and speed up skin cell turnover.
But here’s the thing they don’t always tell you: Retinol may be effective, but it comes with a price: redness, dryness, irritation, flaking, and sensitivity to the sun. For those with sensitive skin or darker skin tones, these side effects can lead to long-term damage, including hyperpigmentation and a compromised skin barrier.
Retinol is a Vitamin A derivative that must undergo two conversions in the skin to become active retinoic acid, the active ingredient (Retinol → Retinaldehyde → Retinoic Acid). Once converted, it binds to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in the skin and triggers:
✔ Increased collagen synthesis
✔ Enhanced cell turnover
✔ Improved melanin dispersion (for a more even tone)
But here’s the problem: retinol’s multi-step conversion process is inefficient. And because it’s unstable and highly active, it often causes:
✔ Erythema (redness)
✔ Desquamation (peeling/flaking)
✔ Barrier disruption
✔ Photosensitivity
For many people, especially those with melanin-rich or sensitive skin types, this “standard” approach leads to more harm than good.
That’s why dermatologists and cosmetic chemists have been turning to a next-gen alternative.
Meet Retinaldehyde: The Smarter, Gentler, More Potent Retinoid
Retinaldehyde (aka Retinal) is the direct precursor to retinoic acid, which means it gets to work faster and more effectively than retinol, without causing as much irritation. It’s like the power of prescription retinoids, with the gentle approach your skin actually tolerates.
To make it easy to understand, Retinal skips the first conversion step and converts directly into retinoic acid within the skin.
This means:
✔ It’s 11x more bioavailable than retinol
✔ It reaches therapeutic concentrations faster
✔ It’s less irritating because it’s time-released and pH-balanced
✔ It offers antibacterial properties, making it ideal for acne-prone skin
So, it's no wonder why we worked so hard to bring you our best version of this incredible ingredient!
But, we didn’t stop there…
Introducing: Saranghae NiaRetin Complex Duo With 0.1% Retinal and 10% Niacinamide
This two-step serum system is clinically designed to visibly reduce the signs of aging without compromising skin health. This potent pairing features a gentle yet highly effective retinal formula for nighttime renewal and a brightening antioxidant serum for daytime defense. Together, they deliver smoother, firmer, more luminous skin you can feel and see.
What’s Inside the Duo?
Serum 1: 0.1% Retinal + 2% Squalane Serum
A next-generation Vitamin A treatment that works while you sleep to accelerate skin renewal and reduce the look of wrinkles, texture, and sun damage without the common irritation.
Retinal at 0.1% is up to 11x more potent than retinol. Retinal works quickly to smooth lines, increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen production.
Squalane at 2% is a deeply hydrating emollient that mimics skin’s natural oils, helping to restore the barrier and buffer retinal’s intensity for a balanced, radiant result.
Serum 2: 10% Niacinamide + 1% Glutathione Serum
Wake up dull, tired skin with a powerful brightening and firming blend. This antioxidant-rich serum fights oxidative stress while evening out tone and restoring elasticity.
Niacinamide at 10% is a gold-standard B3 vitamin that minimizes pores, improves skin texture, and boosts firmness while visibly fading dark spots.
Glutathione at 1% is known as the “master antioxidant”. Glutathione helps defend against environmental aging and oxidative stress, promoting a clear, luminous complexion.
✔ Reduces fine lines and wrinkles
✔ Boosts skin firmness and elasticity
✔ Fades dark spots and uneven pigmentation
✔ Strengthens and protects the skin barrier
✔ Enhances glow and skin clarity
Who It’s For
Perfect for all skin types, especially those 30+ looking to prevent or reverse early signs of aging. Whether you’re battling fine lines, sun damage, or dullness, this duo is your targeted solution for a smoother, firmer, and brighter complexion.
Try the Saranghae NiaRetin Complex Duo With 0.1% Retinal and 10% Niacinamide and start seeing results within weeks!
The NiaRetin Complex Duo stacks two products together.
1 - Saranghae Advanced Renewal Retinal Serum with 0.1% Retinal + 2% Squalane
2 - Saranghae Advanced Pore Minimizing & Skin Tone Corrective Serum with 10% Niacinamide + 1% Glutathione
100% GUARANTEE: If you're not happy with your results, we'll fully refund your purchase within 45 days even if the products are used.
Why Niacinamide + Glutathione Supercharge Retinal
Retinal works hard. But it works best with backup.
Even the most powerful actives need support, and that’s where Niacinamide and Glutathione come in.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): The Skin Barrier Guardian
✔ Strengthens your moisture barrier by boosting ceramides
✔ Soothes inflammation + reduces redness from retinoids
✔ Improves texture, tone, and minimizes pores
Paired with Retinal, niacinamide helps prevent dryness and irritation while boosting visible results like firmness and brightness.
Glutathione: The Master Antioxidant
✔ Fights off free radicals from UV, pollution, and stress
✔ Helps repair skin and preserve collagen
✔ Recycles other antioxidants so Retinal stays effective
Together, they’re a power trio:
Retinal renews. Niacinamide protects. Glutathione defends.
Your skin? Glowing, calm, and ready for anything.
“I Thought I Could Never Use Retinoids… Until This Duo Changed Everything.”
Amanda's Journey with Retinols
Our very own Saranghae Ambassador, Amanda, recently shared her story with retinols, and we knew we had to feature it, because we know that she isn't the only one!
"I used to think glowing skin just wasn’t in the cards for me. My skin is what dermatologists politely call “reactive.” One wrong move: a new serum, a little sun exposure, a slightly stronger exfoliant, and my whole face would turn red, itchy, and inflamed for days.
Retinol? Forget it. I tried it once, and I was peeling so badly around my mouth that it just wasn't worth it. I am about to turn 40, and it isn't fair that everyone has this glass skin online and so since I already use the entire Saranghae line, it was time to give the Retinal a chance.
What happened next felt… kind of magical.
Week 1: No redness. No burning. No flaking. Just soft, calm skin. I’d never used a retinoid without irritation before. I applied the NiaRetin Duo (the Niacinamide has been in my routine for a full year now - love it!) at night, followed by the Orora Bioactive Collagen Cream.
Week 2: My skin started to look brighter. Like I wasn’t so tired. My pores looked smaller, and I wasn’t wearing nearly as much makeup.
Week 3: I was getting compliments. “Your skin looks amazing, what are you doing?” My laugh lines? Softer. The little creases around my eyes? Fading..
I still wear SPF (religiously), but I no longer feel like my skin is under siege every time I step outside.This isn’t just skincare. It’s confidence in a bottle.
To anyone who’s ever said “retinol isn’t for me”, try this. If you’ve been told you have to choose between gentle and effective, this is your sign. You don’t have to compromise anymore."
Key Ingredients
10.1% Retinal (retinaldehyde)
Retinal, also known as retinaldehyde, is a derivative of vitamin A and is widely recognized for its importance in skincare due to its potent anti-aging, acne-fighting, and skin-renewing properties.
It is part of the retinoid family, which includes other compounds like retinol and retinoic acid. However, retinal is considered one of the most effective forms of vitamin A in skincare because of its ability to improve the skin with fewer side effects compared to other retinoids.
2Glutathione at 1%
Glutathione is a peptide and an antioxidant that occurs naturally in our skin. It comprises three amino acids: cystine, glycine, and glutamic acid. Its function is to help defend against visible signs of environmental damage.
The current belief is that the gradual decline of glutathione in our skin is one of the main factors that contributes to visible signs of aging.
Glutathione helps restore our skin’s surface, brightens dull skin, and helps reverse hyperpigmentation by disrupting the enzyme tyrosinase (which is responsible for the production of melanin).
3Niacinamide at 10%
Niacinamide (vitamin B3 or nicotinamide) is known in the skincare world as one of the BIG 3, along with vitamin C and retinol.
It is a water-soluble vitamin that helps minimize enlarged pores, improve uneven skin tone, reduce UV damage, reduce fine lines & wrinkles, and strengthen the skin’s outer barrier.
After niacinamide is applied to our skin, it is broken down into the coenzyme nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide, which is easily absorbed and utilized by our skin to produce those incredible benefits. A coenzyme is a biological molecule (essential for human health) that efficiently facilitates the biochemical reaction in our body i.e., destroys toxins, supports collagen production, etc..
It is one of the most versatile ingredients, benefiting almost all skin concerns and skin types.
Glutathione at 1%
Glutathione is a peptide and an antioxidant that occurs naturally in our skin. It comprises three amino acids: cystine, glycine, and glutamic acid. Its function is to help defend against visible signs of environmental damage.
The current belief is that the gradual decline of glutathione in our skin is one of the main factors that contributes to visible signs of aging.
Glutathione helps restore our skin’s surface, brightens dull skin, and helps reverse hyperpigmentation by disrupting the enzyme tyrosinase (which is responsible for the production of melanin).
5Allantoin
An extract from the Comfrey Plant (native to Asia and Europe) that aids in rapid skin healing and skin soothing.
At a cellular level, allantoin acts as a keratolytic agent, which means it gently encourages the shedding of dead skin cells from the epidermis. This process not only helps smooth the skin’s surface, but also makes it easier for other active ingredients (like Retinal or Niacinamide) to penetrate more effectively.
Try the Saranghae NiaRetin Complex Duo With 0.1% Retinal and 10% Niacinamide and start seeing results within weeks!
The Hyperpigmentation Due stacks two products together
1 - Saranghae Advanced Renewal Retinal Serum with 0.1% Retinal + 2% Squalane
2 - Saranghae Advanced Pore Minimizing & Skin Tone Corrective Serum with 10% Niacinamide + 1% Glutathione
100% GUARANTEE
If you're not happy with your results, we'll fully refund your purchase within 45 days even if the products are used.
Key Benefits
1Accelerates Skin Renewal and Visibly Reduces Wrinkles
Retinal (Retinaldehyde) is a next-generation retinoid that converts directly into retinoic acid—11x faster than retinol—to deliver accelerated anti-aging results without the irritation.
It works by binding to retinoic acid receptors (RARs) in the skin, stimulating collagen production, increasing epidermal thickness, and boosting cellular turnover.
This leads to a measurable reduction in the depth, length, and number of fine lines and wrinkles over time. You’ll see smoother texture, firmer skin, and a visible softening of crow’s feet and expression lines, all without the harsh side effects typical of traditional retinoids.
2Strengthens Skin Barrier and Boosts Hydration
Squalane is a biomimetic emollient that mimics the skin’s natural sebum and supports the lipid barrier.
It prevents transepidermal water loss while delivering deep hydration without clogging pores.
Paired with niacinamide, this duo fortifies the skin’s defenses, helping sensitive or compromised skin retain moisture and bounce back faster from stress.
3Clinically Proven to Brighten Skin and Fade Hyperpigmentation
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) is a clinically studied brightening agent that works by inhibiting melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, meaning it helps reduce the appearance of dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Consistent use leads to a more radiant, even complexion with improved clarity and diminished blotchiness or discoloration.
4Neutralizes Free Radicals and Repairs Oxidative Damage
Glutathione is the skin’s master antioxidant, known for its ability to protect against oxidative stress by directly scavenging free radicals and regenerating other antioxidants like Vitamin C and E.
This helps reduce signs of premature aging caused by pollution, UV exposure, and stress, making skin look clearer, healthier, and more resilient over time.
5Calms Irritation and Supports Healing
Allantoin, derived from the Comfrey plant, promotes gentle exfoliation while enhancing tissue regeneration and calming inflamed skin.
It’s especially useful for those experiencing dryness, redness, or flaking, as it soothes without sensitizing, making it ideal for pairing with active ingredients like retinal.
6Reduces Redness and Balances Oil Production
Niacinamide is also proven to regulate sebum production and reduce erythema (redness), making it beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin types alike.
By minimizing both excess oil and inflammation, it helps reduce breakouts and the discomfort often associated with active skincare routines.
TESTIMONIALS
Skin Concerns: Adult acne, clarity, texture, tone
“I was always embarrassed and self-conscious - why was I the only adult I knew with adult acne? My clear skin is a game changer. I walk around the office feeling proud (and for the first time can wear my hair pulled back away from my face!).
Saranghae, you change appearances for the better, but more importantly, you give people newfound confidence. Thank you!”
Jennifer Tannenbaum
Skin Concerns: Redness, texture, tone
“I suffered for years with on and off cystic acne, scarring and redness. After just a few weeks, I am in love with Saranghae. I am so happy with my results. The Complete 5 Step Routine takes care of all my concerns.”
Brittany Macedino
Skin Concerns: Wrinkles & fine lines, elasticity & firmness, tone
“At 66 years old, I am concerned about my skin looking healthy and radiant, and would like to achieve this if it’s still at all possible. I know there is a huge difference in my skin. The texture of it and everything else. I have a lot of acne scars from when I was young, I was a sun worshiper so I did a lot of skin damage, so to have my face look better now than it did at 45 is huge, it’s huge!”
Kathy Fisher
Skin Concerns: Tone, texture, signs of aging, elasticity & firmness
"I will continue to use these products as my face hasn’t felt this soft since high school and things are starting to look like I think they should. There is a new radiance, but more importantly, my crow’s feet have significantly diminished. Next to tackle, get rid of my crow’s feet totally (or have them only appear when I smile as they should) …"
Aimee Baldwin
Skin Concerns: Adult acne, tone, texture, hyperpigmentation, elasticity & firmness
“Saranghae has improved the clarity and the evenness of my skin. It has this healthy glow. I don’t have any breakouts, I’m not worried about any major hyperpigmentation, the firmness and elasticity of my skin looks good. I have people complimenting my skin left and right. People are amazed by the results”
Terrell Britten
Skin Concerns: Hyperpigmentation, overall health of skin, signs of aging (eyes), tone
“I started to see changes within the first week of using love Saranghae. By the end of 45 days my skin looked great. I’m receiving so many compliments, and inquiries asking what I’m doing for my skin now. Thank You!”
Sarah Van Leuven
Skin Concerns: Fine lines, wrinkles, tone, elasticity and firmness
“I am 44 and have been using the 5 Step Routine for two months. I am in love with these products, I couldn’t believe the results. I am so thrilled, thank you!”
Maydele Jorge VanHatten
Skin Concerns: Wrinkles & fine lines, dehydration, tone
"I've been using the products morning and night for five and a half weeks. I definitely see an overall improvement in my skin, reduced pores, less puffiness, brighter even skin tone, and dare I say it, I think my grand canyons are looking ever so slightly softened! The finer lines are definitely less noticeable"
Karen Scerino
Skin Concerns: Adult acne, tone, texture, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation
“When I say nothing else has worked for my skin before, I mean it. Finally, after years of struggling, I found a solution. This routine has reduced my acne, reduced my acne scarring and hyperpigmentation, which was an added bonus. Saranghae Five Step System has given me my confidence back! I never thought such a simple thing would change my skin so drastically, but two months later I am writing this with a fresh face and glowing skin.”
Sarah Schwab
Frequenty Asked Questions
If your question is not listed here, please do not hesitate to contact us by clicking on the button below.
Our team of skincare experts are happy to answer any questions you may have.
Try the Saranghae NiaRetin Complex Duo With 0.1% Retinal and 10% Niacinamide and start seeing results within weeks!
The NiaRetin Complex Duo stacks two products together.
1 - Saranghae Advanced Renewal Retinal Serum with 0.1% Retinal + 2% Squalane
2 - Saranghae Advanced Pore Minimizing & Skin Tone Corrective Serum with 10% Niacinamide + 1% Glutathione
100% GUARANTEE: If you're not happy with your results, we'll fully refund your purchase within 45 days even if the products are used.
Our Customers Say
Geoff K.
Verefied Reviewer
Skin type: combination
Age range: 35+
Overall concerns: hyperpigmentation
About 3 weeks in and I can definitely see it working. I've had freckle like spots on my cheeks for decades and my wife noticed yesterday that they've definitely lightened up.
One thing I will say is that the spots will not "disappear" they get lighter and blend in with your normal skin. I'm excited to see the results in another month!
Jennifer L.
Verified Reviewer
Skin type: oily, sensitive
Age range: 55 to 64
Skin concerns: wrinkles & spots
I've dealt with hyperpigmentation all my life so it's not something that I thought about all that often so it's just became a normal part of my life. But I was so impressed with the rest of Saranghae's products that I decided to try the dark spot repair serum first and then the pore minimizing serum.
I've been using it for several months now and looking in the mirror, what a difference! The hormonal acne that I get once a month and any other acne scarring from random breakouts is now gone and my skin looks so bright and firm.
Of all the skin care products I've ever used, this may be the one mtaking the biggest visible difference in a relatively short amount of time. I'm 61 and my skin is better now than it ever and I attribute that to Saranghae.
XiaoLe
Verified Reviewer
Skin type: sensitive
Age range: 35+
Skin concerns: pore control, pigmentation
what an incredible product. You get 2 of the best brightening and pore control ingredients in one bottle and at very high concentrations as well.
It's definitely helped with some discoloration and my skin is brighter and more clearer. And as the product promises, my pores look like it's been erased with every application. I love this serum.