K-Secret - Seoul 1988 Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng Serum 30ml

K‑Secret Seoul 1988 Retinal Liposome 2% + Black Ginseng Serum (30 ml) — ingredients, benefits, how it works, what to expect, usage tips, and more. If you like, I can also make a shorter version or a version suited for your market.

What Is It

This is a Korean advanced anti‑ageing facial serum from K‑Secret’s Seoul 1988 line. The formula combines retinal (in liposome form) at what is termed “2% Retinal Liposome” together with a high proportion of Black Ginseng extract (about 58%) plus adjuncts like peptides, niacinamide, bakuchiol, vitamin C derivative etc

It’s designed to address signs of ageing (wrinkles, fine lines), uneven texture / tone, pigmentation, elasticity, barrier support, antioxidant defence, and general skin health. 

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

Here are the principal ingredients and what they do, plus how they interact:

What the “2% Retinal Liposome” Really Means / Strength

This is a commonly asked question. The “2% Retinal Liposome” does not mean 2% pure retinal (retinaldehyde). Instead it refers to a formulation in which retinal is incorporated in liposomes, and the retinal content is significantly less than 2% by pure weight. Some sources (users) believe the actual retinal delivered is around 0.02% pure retinal (i.e. much lower) because of the liposomal form and because liposomes dilute the active. 

This lower real retinal dose means it's milder / gentler than strong medical retinoids, but still effective over time if used properly.

Benefits & What It Does to the Skin

When used properly and regularly, this serum offers several benefits:

1. Reduces fine lines & wrinkles — retinal promotes cell turnover, boosts collagen, speeds up skin renewal. With time, superficial lines smooth out.

2. Improves tone & texture — uneven skin texture (roughness, dullness) tends to become smoother; pores appear more refined.

3. Brightening effect — through antioxidant actions (black ginseng, vitamin C derivative), niacinamide, peptides. Helps fade hyperpigmentation, dark spots.

4. Boosts elasticity / firmness — with peptides, retinal, ginseng all contributing to collagen production and skin barrier support.

5. Antioxidant protection, barrier strength — free radical damage (from sun, pollution, etc.) is reduced; protective elements (ginseng, vitamin E, etc.) help the skin resist environmental stress. The skin barrier is better supported so less sensitivity over time. 

Texture, Feel & Sensory

• Lightweight, serum texture. Absorbs relatively quickly, not heavy or greasy.

• Unscented or minimal fragrance (many sources say “fragrance‑free” or “free from artificial colors/fragrance”) which reduces irritation risk. 

• Non‑sticky finish; leaves a smooth skin feel. Because of liposomes and oils in formula (macadamia oil etc.), there is likely a nourishing backup effect

Suitability & Skin Types

• Suitable for all skin types, but especially helpful for aging / mature skin, dull skin, or skin showing first signs of wrinkles. 

• Also seems formulated to be tolerable by sensitive skin (due to lower effective retinal, supporting ingredients, lack of harshness). But still, caution needed especially for first time retinoids.

Possible Side Effects / What to Expect

Because retinal is a retinoid‑derivative, some side‑effects or adjustment period are to be expected:

• In early use: mild dryness, flaking, peeling, slight redness or sensitivity. This is fairly typical for any retinoid/retinal product.

• Use of liposome encapsulation and supportive ingredients helps moderate / reduce these effects.

• Also, photosensitivity: skin may become more sensitive to sunlight, so daily sunscreen is essential.

How to Use It (Best Practices)

To get the best results and minimize irritation:

1. Patch test first. Try on a small patch (jawline or behind ear) for at least 24‑48 hours, especially if you have sensitive skin.

2. Start slowly. Use only 2‑3 times per week initially. As your skin adjusts, gradually increase to every other night, then possibly nightly if tolerated. 

3. Always, evenings only for retinoid/retinal products. In the morning, use a broad‑spectrum sunscreen with sufficient SPF.

4. After cleansing & toning: apply a small amount of the serum, let absorb, then follow with moisturiser. You may also buffer with a richer, gentle cream if dryness or irritation occurs.

5. Avoid using strong exfoliants (chemical peels, strong AHA/BHA) on the same night as using this unless your skin is well tol­erant.

6. Keep the formula sealed, stored away from direct sunlight (retinoids degrade with light/heat).

Expected Timeline of Results

What people generally observe over time:

• First few weeks (1‑3 weeks): possible mild irritation, dryness, but also some increased smoothness, slight glow, reduced dullness.

• 4‑8 weeks: more noticeable improvements in skin texture; fine lines start softening; skin looks more even in tone; pores may appear less obvious.

• 8‑12 weeks and beyond: greater firmness, elasticity; deeper lines may reduce; pigmentation more even; overall skin radiance improved.

Pros & Potential Cons

Pros:

• Combines strong anti‑aging actives (retinal, peptides) with antioxidants (black ginseng, vitamin C derivative) in one formula.

• Liposomal delivery of retinal helps with tolerability.

• “Clean‑beauty” feel: fewer harsh additives (fragrance, strong alcohols, sulfates etc.) in many of its listings.

• Multi‑action: anti‑wrinkle, brightening, tone & texture, elasticity.

Cons / Watch‑outs:

• Cost may be on the higher side depending on local pricing.

• Even though it’s gentler than prescription retinoids, some irritation is possible—especially for first time users.

• Needs consistent use + sun protection to see full effect.

• May not be ideal for very sensitive or reactive skin types unless introduced very gradually.

• If pregnant or nursing, many retinoids/retinal derivatives are not recommended — check with a healthcare provider.

How It Compares to Other Retinoids / Serums

• Retinal vs Retinol: Retinal is more potent than retinol, but less harsh than prescription retinoic acid. It requires fewer conversion steps in the skin.

• Liposome delivery: helps gentler / more evenly distributed action, better absorption, less irritation.

• Black ginseng & peptides give multi‑layered benefit (antioxidant + repair + elasticity) that some simple retinol/retinal serums omit.

• So this product sits in the “advanced yet tolerable” category — powerful enough for visible results over time, but with mitigating ingredients to reduce harshness.

Ingredient List (Full / Other Notables)

Here’s a more complete list of things in the serum (key plus supportive) from sources:

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. 

Packaging & Other Practical Details

• Volume: 30 ml (1.01 fl oz).

• Made in Korea

• Many listings note expiration dates (for example, one source says “Expiration Date: 2027‑08‑19 or later”). 

• The serum is often described as unscented or minimally scented. Doesn’t contain artificial colorants or strong fragrance in many formulations.

Who It’s Best For / Ideal Use Scenarios

This serum is a good match if you:

• Are beginning to see early signs of aging (fine lines, slight sagging), or want to prevent them.

• Have dullness, uneven skin tone or texture you want to smooth.

• Want to improve firmness / elasticity.

• Prefer formulas with natural/herbal components (ginseng, peptides, botanical extracts) as complements to potent actives.

• Are okay with using retinoids (or derivatives) and willing to introduce them gradually.

It might be less ideal if:

• Your skin is extremely reactive/allergic or you have active skin barrier issues.

• You are pregnant or breastfeeding (check guidance).

• You want a completely fragrance‑free / minimalist ingredient list (though this is close, but still has some oils etc.).

Tips to Maximize Results

• Use only at night.

• Always pair with a good moisturiser to counteract dryness.

• Don’t forget sunscreen during the day (SPF 30+, ideally 50) — retinoids increase sun sensitivity.

• Build up tolerance: start slow (every 2‑3 nights) → alternate nights → every night if skin tolerates.

• If irritation occurs: reduce frequency; use buffer (e.g. applying a thin layer of moisturiser first, then serum), or even mix serum with moisturiser.

• Keep other strong actives (strong chemical exfoliants, strong acids) to other nights or pause while adapting.

What To Expect After Use

If using properly:

• Within a few weeks: fresher, glowy skin; maybe some flaking or dryness initially.

• After 1‑2 months: smoother texture; fine lines less obvious; better hydration and skin firmness.

• Over longer term (3+ months): more even tone; hyperpigmentation fading; overall younger, healthier appearance.