Age Defense Retinol Serum 5X · Nightly · Surgeon-formulated
The retinol a surgeon reaches for. Softer-looking lines, night after night.
All-trans retinol paired with bakuchiol and licorice root in a patented delivery system, formulated for nightly use without the usual retinol drama. Two to three drops. Then sleep.
- Visibly softens the look of fine lines, especially around the mouth
- Smoother-looking texture and refined-looking pores
- The look of firmer, more even skin with consistent use
- Bakuchiol-buffered so sensitive skin can build up gradually
Most retinol products are abandoned in week two. This one is built to be kept: all-trans retinol, buffered with bakuchiol, in a delivery system I patented so it works without the flaking.
Key actives
What is in it, and why.
Every active is here for a reason you can read. Full INCI below.
All-trans retinolThe active
The form of vitamin A skin recognizes directly. Supports the look of smoother texture and softer fine lines with consistent nightly use.
BakuchiolPlant-derived buffer
Pairs with retinol to keep the formula comfortable, so you can build up to nightly use rather than quitting in week two.
Licorice root extractBotanical
Helps support a more even-looking tone alongside the retinol.
Caffeine + botanical polyphenolsAntioxidants
Soothe the look of redness and help defend against environmental stressors.
Renara™Proprietary recovery complex
ShimChingMD's proprietary recovery complex, the anchoring technology behind every formula in the line. Supports hydration and a healthier-looking complexion over time.
Full ingredient list
Isopentyldiol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Polysorbate 80, Ethoxydiglycol, Caffeine, Camellia Sinensis Polyphenols, Bakuchiol, Retinol, Purified Water, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Polysorbate 20.
The evidence
Surgeon-formulated. Patented formula.
Not a marketing retinol. The formulation behind this serum was studied and published, and the delivery system is patented.
Draelos ZD, Peterson RS. J Drugs Dermatol. 2020;19(6):625–631. Patented formula US12226510B2. Appearance benefits only; individual results vary.
- Softens the look of fine lines and wrinkles
- Smoother-looking texture and refined-looking pores
- The look of firmer skin
- A more even, resilient-looking complexion
From Dr. Ching
Every formula I put my name on solves a real problem I see in my Honolulu clinic. This one solves the retinol that people buy and never finish.
Same standards I hold in surgery. Same level of care I give my own patients.
How to use
Where it goes in the routine.
Protect.
Unwind.
Mild tingling in the first weeks is normal. If skin feels hot or irritated, step back to two nights a week.
Pairs with
Build the routine around it.
Hydra Repair Cream
Seals the serum in. Ceramides, cholesterol and squalane for retinol weeks.
Sunshield Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen
All-mineral SPF 50, sheer finish. Non-negotiable on retinol.
I have received the age defense serum from ShimChingMD for free. I am so satisfied with this serum. The transformation on my skin in the 2 weeks using this product is amazing. My skin looks brighter and so much smoother. I will continue using it.
Reviews
From people who use it.
Questions
Asked before buying.
How is this different from a drugstore retinol?
It uses all-trans retinol, the form skin recognizes directly, buffered with bakuchiol and delivered through a patented system (US12226510B2) that was studied and published. The goal is a retinol you keep using, not one you abandon in week two.
Will I purge or flake?
Some tingling or light dryness in the first two to three weeks is normal. Start two to three nights a week, use a moisturizer over it, and build up. If skin feels hot or irritated, step back.
Can I use it with vitamin C?
Yes. Vitamin C in the morning, retinol at night. They complement each other.
Is it okay for sensitive skin?
The formula pairs retinol with bakuchiol specifically to keep it comfortable. Start slowly, two nights a week, and patch-test if you are reactive.
How long does a bottle last?
Two to three drops nightly from a 30 mL bottle lasts about two to three months.
What about pregnancy?
Retinol is generally not recommended during pregnancy or nursing. Ask your physician.
Individual results vary. Appearance benefits only. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.