Let Me Share My Tea on APLB's Coenzyme Q10 Retinol Ampoule Serum | Olivetalk | K-Beauty reviews by influencers | Korean skincare & makeup
Let Me Share My Tea on APLB's Coenzyme Q10 Retinol Ampoule Serum
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Let Me Share My Tea on APLB's Coenzyme Q10 Retinol Ampoule Serum

 

Product Info

 

• Where to Purchase : Amazon

• Price : $14.99 (Often on sale for ~£7.84)

• Volume : 1.35oz

• Made in : South Korea

• What is it & What Does it Do? A blend featuring 44.1% Coenzyme Q10, Retinol, and Centella Asiatica Leaf Water designed to reduce fine lines, brighten the complexion, and support the skin barrier. The formula also includes Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane for hydration.

• Supposedly Good For : All skin types, including sensitive.

** My take : I’d agree, especially for sensitive skin. That said, oily skin types may enjoy this more than drier skin, thanks to the lightweight, watery texture.

• Vegan? Not specified.

• Cruelty-Free? Yes.

• Fungal Acne-Safe? No.

• EU Allergen-Free? Yes.

• Shelf Life After Opening : 12 months

• pH : 5.0–6.5

• Packaging : Plastic bottle with a dropper. No leakage or mess during use.

• Directions (from the brand) : "Apply a moderate amount to the face and gently dab for better absorption."

 

How I Use It

I use this in the evening under a moisturizer. Since it’s so gentle and non-irritating, I also apply it to my neck without issue.

 

Key Ingredients

• Antioxidants : Coenzyme Q10 – boosts collagen and protects against free radical damage.

• Centella Derivatives : Asiaticoside – calming and wound-healing.

• Retinol – supports cell turnover and skin texture, albeit in a very low concentration.

• Barrier Support : Glycerin and Squalane – mimic natural skin oils.

• Hydrators : Hyaluronic Acid, Glucose, Fructose.

• Soothing Agents : Beta-Glucan and Allantoin.

* While the formula includes buzzwords around delivery systems, there’s currently no clinical data backing their uniqueness. It’s likely standard tech like encapsulation or emollient carriers, good, but not groundbreaking.

 

Texture

A lightweight, watery serum that’s non-sticky, non-greasy, and absorbs quickly. It feels refreshing and lightly hydrating on the skin.

• Sticky? No.

• Greasy? No.

• Pills/balls up? Not in my experience.

•Stings on compromised skin? No. It’s very gentle.

 

When to Use It

Both summer and winter as dry skin types may want something richer layered on top.

 

Layering

Easy to layer without pilling. Just don’t overdo it because too much product may interfere with makeup.

 

Fragrance

Fragrance- and essential oil-free. There’s no noticeable scent.

 

What I Like

• Fragrance & EO-free

• Lightweight and hydrating

• Absorbs quickly

• Non-greasy, non-tacky

• Extremely gentle, even on sensitive or compromised skin

 

What I Don’t Like

• Retinol is present in a negligible amount, so the formula won’t deliver strong well-aging effects.

• Not rich enough for dry skin types, especially in colder seasons.

 

Overall Rating & Final Thoughts

3.5/5. A gentle, barrier-friendly serum that offers hydration and antioxidant support in a featherlight texture. While it's a solid option for sensitive or oily skin types, the retinol content is far too low to expect visible anti-aging results. Think of this as more of an antioxidant booster than a true retinol treatment.

 

Would I Repurchase?

For the hydration, gentle formula, and Q10 benefits, yes.

For retinol efficacy? No.

 

Good Under Makeup?

Yes, just use a small amount to avoid any potential separation.

 

How Long I’ve Used It

2–3 months, with plans to finish the bottle.

 

The Effect

• Short term : Hydrated, soothed skin with zero irritation.

• Long term : No significant change in fine lines or skin texture, but my skin remained calm and moisturized throughout use.

 

So, Does It Work?

As a hydrating, antioxidant serum, yes.

As a retinol treatment, no, not in a meaningful way.

This is best suited for retinol beginners, sensitive skin, or anyone looking for a gentle, calming addition to their nighttime routine.

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