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OTC · No prescriptionSkinnovationDermatological (anti-ageing/anti-acne topical)

Active Retinol 0.5%

Retinol 0.5% w/v (in topical serum/solution base)

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Active Retinol 0.5% is used for helps improve signs of photoageing (fine lines, wrinkles), uneven skin tone and texture; supports acne-prone skin by helping prevent comedones; promotes smoother, brighter-looking skin.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Balaji Krishnan, MBBS · Updated October 2026

Licensed pharmacyPharmacist-verified order

Key details

Salt: Retinol 0.5% w/v (in topical serum/solution base)
Available variants: NA 30ML
Best price: ₹3,905 (₹130.15 per ml)
MRP: ₹4,110
Prescription: Not required
Manufacturer: SKINNOVATION

Ordering notes

Delivery details are shown when the medicine is back in stock.
Returns & refunds: orders can be cancelled before dispatch; after dispatch, returns depend on the item category. Read the full policy

Composition of Active Retinol 0.5%

Active Retinol 0.5% contains Retinol 0.5% w/v (in topical serum/solution base). It belongs to the Topical retinoid (vitamin A derivative/keratolytic) class of medicines.

Uses of Active Retinol 0.5%

  • Helps improve signs of photoageing (fine lines
  • Wrinkles)
  • Uneven skin tone
  • Texture
  • Supports acne-prone skin by helping prevent comedones
  • Promotes smoother
  • Brighter-looking skin

Benefits of Active Retinol 0.5%

In Nutritional deficiency
Active Retinol 0.5% tops up vitamins and minerals the diet is not supplying, correcting the deficiency and the tiredness, poor healing or frequent infections that go with it.
In Support during recovery
Active Retinol 0.5% helps meet the body's raised need for nutrients while it recovers from an illness, surgery or a period of poor eating.
In Antioxidant supplementation
Active Retinol 0.5% supplies nutrients the body uses to limit everyday cell damage, as part of a balanced diet rather than a replacement for one.

How Active Retinol 0.5% works

Retinol (vitamin A derivative) is converted in skin to retinoic acid, which increases cell turnover and supports collagen synthesis. It helps reduce comedone formation, improves texture, and gradually fades pigmentation and photoageing changes.

How to take Active Retinol 0.5%

For external use only. Apply a pea-sized amount as a thin layer to clean, dry face at night; start 2-3 nights/week and increase as tolerated. Use moisturizer if needed; apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) every morning. Avoid applying on broken/irritated skin and avoid eye/lip corners.

Take it exactly as your doctor prescribed. Do not change the dose or stop early on your own.

Missed dose and overdose

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is almost due, skip the one you missed — never take two doses together to catch up.

If you take too much

An overdose of this medicine can cause vomiting, stomach pain and, with some minerals, damage over the longer term. Do not wait for symptoms to appear — go to the nearest emergency department and take the pack or strip with you.

Side effects of Active Retinol 0.5%

Most side effects of Active Retinol 0.5% are mild and settle as the body gets used to the medicine. The ones reported most often are:

  • Dryness
  • peeling/flaking
  • redness
  • burning/stinging
  • itching
  • irritation
  • increased sun sensitivity
  • temporary acne flare

Stop the medicine and get help at once for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, wheezing or difficulty breathing. Tell your doctor about any side effect that persists or worries you.

Safety advice for Active Retinol 0.5%

AlcoholCAUTION
Use with caution (alcohol intake doesn’t directly interact, but alcohol-based skincare with retinol may increase irritation).
PregnancyUNSAFE
Not recommended (avoid during pregnancy; consult doctor).
Breast feedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Consult your doctor before using this while breastfeeding.
DrivingSAFE
Not expected to affect your ability to drive.
KidneyCAUTION
Use with caution if you have kidney disease. Your doctor may adjust the dose or monitor your kidney function.
LiverCAUTION
Use with caution if you have liver disease. Your doctor may adjust the dose or monitor your liver function.

Warnings and precautions

Patch test before use. Avoid use on eczematous, sunburnt, or broken skin. Reduce frequency or stop if severe irritation occurs. Do not combine the same night with other strong irritants/exfoliants (AHA/BHA/peels) unless advised. Avoid waxing/laser/abrasive procedures on treated areas due to irritation risk. Use sunscreen daily; limit sun exposure. Keep out of reach of children. Consult a dermatologist if you have very sensitive skin, rosacea, or are using prescription retinoids.

Do not take Active Retinol 0.5% if

Not for anyone with a known allergy to this medicine or to any ingredient in the pack.

Interactions with other medicines

Increased irritation with AHAs/BHAs (glycolic/salicylic), benzoyl peroxide (can inactivate/irritate—separate timing), other retinoids (tretinoin/adapalene/isotretinoin), abrasive scrubs, alcohol-based toners, chemical peels; photosensitizing agents may increase sun sensitivity.

How to store Active Retinol 0.5%

Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep container tightly closed; do not freeze.

Quick tips for Active Retinol 0.5%

  • Take it with food to reduce nausea.
  • A varied diet remains the best source of these nutrients.

People taking Active Retinol 0.5% are often asked to check these from time to time. Your doctor decides which and how often.

Manufacturer and class

Manufacturer:
SKINNOVATION
Therapeutic class:
Dermatological (anti-ageing/anti-acne topical)
Drug class:
Topical retinoid (vitamin A derivative/keratolytic)

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Active Retinol 0.5% FAQs

What is Active Retinol 0.5% used for?
Active Retinol 0.5% is commonly used for Helps improve signs of photoageing (fine lines, wrinkles), uneven skin tone and texture; supports acne-prone skin by helping prevent comedones; promotes smoother, brighter-looking skin. Always follow your doctor's advice, this information is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional medical guidance.
What are the benefits of Active Retinol 0.5%?
Nutritional deficiency: Active Retinol 0.5% tops up vitamins and minerals the diet is not supplying, correcting the deficiency and the tiredness, poor healing or frequent infections that go with it. It is also used for support during recovery, antioxidant supplementation.
What is the salt in Active Retinol 0.5%?
Active Retinol 0.5% contains Retinol 0.5% w/v (in topical serum/solution base). If you are allergic to any of these active ingredients or excipients, do not take this medicine and speak to your doctor first.
How should I take Active Retinol 0.5%?
For external use only. Take it exactly as prescribed; do not change the dose or stop early without talking to your doctor.
How does Active Retinol 0.5% work?
Retinol (vitamin A derivative) is converted in skin to retinoic acid, which increases cell turnover and supports collagen synthesis.
Is Active Retinol 0.5% a prescription medicine?
No. Active Retinol 0.5% is available over the counter (OTC), no prescription is required. However, it is always safer to consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
What are the common side effects of Active Retinol 0.5%?
The side effects reported most often with Active Retinol 0.5% are Dryness, peeling/flaking, redness, burning/stinging, itching. Most are mild and settle as the body adjusts; tell your doctor if any of them persist or worry you, and stop the medicine and seek help at once for a rash, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing.
Can Active Retinol 0.5% be taken during pregnancy?
Active Retinol 0.5% is not recommended in pregnancy. Always tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding before starting Active Retinol 0.5%.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Active Retinol 0.5%?
Limit alcohol while taking Active Retinol 0.5%; it can worsen the side effects.
What if I miss a dose of Active Retinol 0.5%?
Take it as soon as you remember.
Is Active Retinol 0.5% habit forming?
No. Active Retinol 0.5% is not known to be habit forming when taken as prescribed.
How much does Active Retinol 0.5% cost on PingMeDoc Pharmacy?
Active Retinol 0.5% starts at ₹3,905 (MRP ₹4,110) on PingMeDoc Pharmacy. Available in NA 30ML. Final price is confirmed at checkout and may vary by variant and location.
Who manufactures Active Retinol 0.5%?
Active Retinol 0.5% is manufactured by SKINNOVATION. PingMeDoc Pharmacy sources medicines only from licensed manufacturers and distributors.
How is Active Retinol 0.5% delivered?
Active Retinol 0.5% is delivered across India via our licensed pharmacy partners. Standard delivery timelines are confirmed at checkout. Chennai customers can opt for chargeable same-city express delivery.

Active Retinol 0.5%, Quick facts

Salt
Retinol 0.5% w/v (in topical serum/solution base)
Best price
₹3,905 (₹130.15 per ml)
MRP
₹4,110
Prescription
Not required (OTC)
Brand
SKINNOVATION
Manufacturer
SKINNOVATION
Therapeutic class
Dermatological (anti-ageing/anti-acne topical)
Drug class
Topical retinoid (vitamin A derivative/keratolytic)
Habit forming
No
Variants
NA 30ML
Delivery
Standard across India

References

Compiled from the manufacturer's prescribing information and the sources below, and reviewed by a registered pharmacist. It does not replace your own doctor's advice.

  1. Manufacturer labeling/ingredient information, established dermatology literature on topical retinoids, standard cosmetic/dermatological safety guidance
  2. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India, approved drug and schedule listings.
  3. National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) 2022, Government of India.
  4. Manufacturer's package insert / prescribing information for Active Retinol 0.5%.
  5. World Health Organization, ATC/DDD classification and Model Formulary for the active ingredient.

Next steps

Safety disclaimer

Product information is for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. Always follow a clinician's guidance and upload a valid prescription when required.