Here's our complete breakdown comparing the ingredients, attributes, and more of Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum versus Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum .
Published on August 04, 2023
Overview
What they are
These products are both cruelty-free and reef safe serums. They have a total of 15 ingredients in common
Cool Features
They both contain ceramides, retinoid and Vitamin E
Suited For
They're both likely to be good for fighting acne, anti aging, dry skin, brightening skin, sensitive skin, oily skin, reducing pores, scar healing, dark spots and better texture
Free From
They both do not contain any parabens or sulfates
What's Inside
They both contain common allergens and fragrances
We independently verify ingredients, and our claims are backed by peer-reviewed research. Spot a product that need an update? Let us know.
Price
Ingredient Info
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum 53 ingredients
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum 43 ingredients
Alcohol Free
This product is free of harsh alcohols 🎉
Contains Silicon
Ingredients in this product that are types of silicon:
Contains Fragrance
Ingredients in this product that are forms of fragrance:
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Oil Free
This product is free of oils 🎉
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Reef Safe
This product is free of ingredients that damage reefs 🎉
Contains EU Allergens
Ingredients in this product that are EU allergens:
Non Vegan
This product is not vegan 😥
Cruelty Free
This product is cruelty-free 🎉
Contains Alcohol
Ingredients in this product that are types of alcohol:
Silicon Free
This product is free of silicons 🎉
Contains Fragrance
Ingredients in this product that are forms of fragrance:
Sulfate Free
This product is free of sulfates 🎉
Paraben Free
This product is free of parabens 🎉
Contains Oils
Ingredients in this product that are types of oil:
Not Malassezia Safe
Ingredients in this product that are not malassezia safe:
Reef Safe
This product is free of ingredients that damage reefs 🎉
Contains EU Allergens
Ingredients in this product that are EU allergens:
Vegan
This product is vegan 🎉
Cruelty Free
This product is cruelty-free 🎉
At a glance
Click on any of the items below to learn more
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum 53 ingredients
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum 43 ingredients
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Benefits
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Concerns
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Notable Ingredients
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Benefits
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Concerns
This product contains 2 ingredients that may have this attribute:
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Join SkinSortIngredients Compared
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum 53 ingredients
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum 43 ingredients
Water • Cyclopentasiloxane • Isopropyl Palmitate • C14-22 Alcohols • Polymethylsilsesquioxane • Dimethicone • Propanediol • Glyceryl Stearate • Peg-100 Stearate • Shea Butter Ethyl Esters • Retinol • Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate • Ceramide NP • Sodium Hyaluronate • Solanum Lycopersicum Fruit Extract • Swertia Chirata Extract • Squalane • Punica Granatum Extract • Tocopheryl Acetate • Glycine Soja Extract • Urea • Yeast Amino Acids • Trehalose • Inositol • Taurine • Betaine • Glycerin • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride • Dimethyl Isosorbide • Silica • Ethylhexyl Palmitate • Silica Dimethyl Silylate • Butylene Glycol • Lecithin • Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/Vp Copolymer • C12-20 Alkyl Glucoside • Cetyl Palmitate • Laureth-23 • Polysorbate 20 • Trideceth-6 Phosphate • Synthetic Fluorphlogopite • Phenoxyethanol • Ethylhexylglycerin • Chlorphenesin • Disodium EDTA • Sodium Hydroxide • Tristearyl Citrate • Sodium Benzotriazolyl Butylphenol Sulfonate • CI 77891 • CI 14700 • Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone • Citronellol • Parfum
Water • Squalane • Glycerin • Hexyldecanol • Propanediol • Dimethyl Isosorbide • Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer • Hydroxyacetophenone • Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate • Retinol • Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil • Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract • Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil • Aniba Rosodora Wood Oil • Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil • Santalum Album Oil • Oryza Sativa Bran Extract • Helianthus Annuus Extract • Cupressus Sempervirens Oil • Juniperus Virginiana Oil • Abies Sibirica Oil • Tocopherol • Beta-Glucan • Caprylyl Glycol • BHA • Ceramide NP • Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride • Cetyl Palmitate • 1,2-Hexanediol • Ethylhexylglycerin • Polysorbate 60 • Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate • Hydroxystearic Acid • Polysorbate 20 • Sorbitan Isostearate • Laureth-23 • Trideceth-6 Phosphate • Sodium Hydroxide • Citric Acid • Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 • Sodium Benzoate • Benzyl Alcohol • Linalool
Ingredients Side-by-side
Ingredients that are highlighted in purple are present in both products.
Learn more about what what Com. / Irr. ratings are
Ingredients Explained
These ingredients are found in both products.
Ingredients higher up in an ingredient list are typically present in a larger amount.
Water. It's the most common cosmetic ingredient of all. You'll usually see it at the top of ingredient lists, meaning that it makes up the largest part of the product.
So why is it so popular? Water most often acts as a solvent - this means that it helps dissolve other ingredients into the formulation.
You'll also recognize water as that liquid we all need to stay alive. Talk about multi-purpose! If you see this, drink a glass of water. Stay hydrated!
Learn more about WaterMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 1.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 1.
Propanediol helps absorb ingredients into your skin, boosting their benefits. It can act as an emollient, making your skin softer. Propanediol can help products last longer by boosting the properties of preservatives within the formulation.
Propanediol is not likely to cause sensitivity and considered safe to use.
It is derived from corn or petroleum with a clear color and no scent.
Learn more about PropanediolMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 7.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 5.
Retinol is a gold-standard ingredient for anti-aging. It is a form of Vitamin A and belongs to the class of retinoids that also includes tretinoin.
Why is retinol famous?
It has the most scientific studies backing up its skin benefits out of all the non-prescription ingredients.
Retinol is proven to:
This is why retinol is effective at removing wrinkles, fading dark spots, treating acne, and reducing the appearance of pores.
Studies show retinol is less effective when exposed to UV. Be sure to look for appropriate packaging to keep your retinol potent (similar to Vitamin C).
Using retinol or any retinoids will increase sun-sensitivity in the first few months. Though studies show retinoids increase your skin's natural SPF with continuous use, it is best to always wear sunscreen and sun-protection.
We recommend speaking with a medical professional about using this ingredient during pregnancy.
Retinol may cause irritation in some people, so be sure to patch test. Experts recommend 'ramping up' retinol use: start using this ingredient once a week and work up to using it daily.
Read about Tretinoin
Learn more about RetinolMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 11.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 10.
This ingredient is a retinoid. It usually goes by a more common name: "Granactive".
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) belongs to the class of retinoids that also includes retinol and tretinoin.
Retinoids have been proven to:
So what is the difference between all the retinoids? Most retinoids need to go through a conversion line to become effective on skin. The ending product is retinoic acid. Retinoic acid is AKA tretinoin.
HPR is an ester of tretinoin. Emerging studies suggest HPR to have an added benefit that other retinoids don't have: Low irritation.
A study from 2021 found HPR to have the greatest stability when exposed to light and temperature out of all the commercial retinoids.
A note about naming: The name "Granactive" is the trade name and the name most commonly used on packages.
Granactive is the name of the mixture - about 90% solvent and 10% HPR. A product with 5% granactive has 0.5% HPR.
Learn more about Hydroxypinacolone RetinoateMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 12.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 9.
Ceramide NP is a type of ceramide.
Ceramides are intercellular lipids naturally found in our skin that bonds dead skin cells together to create a barrier. They are known for their ability to hold water and thus are a great ingredient for dry skin.
Ceramides are an important building block for our skin barrier. A stronger barrier helps the skin look more firm and hydrated. By bolstering the skin ceramides act as a barrier against irritating ingredients. This can help with inflammation as well.
If you would like to eat ceramides, sweet potatoes contain a small amount.
Read more about other common types of ceramides here: Ceramide AP Ceramide EOP
Learn more about Ceramide NPMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 13.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 26.
Squalane is an emollient that helps the skin hold onto moisture. It's an oily liquid that occurs naturally in certain types of fish and plant oils.
Because squalane boosts hydration in the skin, it also comes with plenty of benefits: it is an antioxidant and can help fight free radicals and skin damage. Squalane is also found to have a detoxifying effect when applied.
Squalane comes from squalene, which occurs naturally within the sebum of our skin. It is one of the oils our skin produces to keep itself hydrated. Squalane is the hydrogenated version of squalene and has a longer shelf life.
Research shows that squalane is non-irritating (even at 100% concentration).
In general, it's a fantastic ingredient. It does a great job at hydrating the skin, and it's suitable for those with sensitive skin.
The source of squalane may impact malassezia / fungal acne. This is because olive oil derived squalane can contain impurities such as fatty acids and plant waxes. Sugarcane derived squalane is recommended for anyone with malassezia concerns.
Is squalane vegan? This depends on the source. Squalane can be derived from both plants and animals. Most squalane used in skincare comes from plants.
Please note: the source of squalane is only known if disclosed by the brand. We recommend reaching out to the brand if you have any questions about their squalane.
Read more about squalene with an "e".
Learn more about SqualaneMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 17.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 2.
Glycerin is already naturally found in your skin. It helps moisturize and protect your skin.
A study from 2016 found glycerin to be more effective as a humectant than AHAs and hyaluronic acid.
As a humectant, it helps the skin stay hydrated by pulling moisture to your skin. The low molecular weight of glycerin allows it to pull moisture into the deeper layers of your skin.
Hydrated skin improves your skin barrier; Your skin barrier helps protect against irritants and bacteria.
Glycerin has also been found to have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Due to these properties, glycerin is often used in wound and burn treatments.
In cosmetics, glycerin is usually derived from plants such as soybean or palm. However, it can also be sourced from animals, such as tallow or animal fat.
This ingredient is organic, colorless, odorless, and non-toxic.
Glycerin is the name for this ingredient in American English. British English uses Glycerol/Glycerine.
Learn more about GlycerinMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 27.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 3.
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride is an emollient, solvent, and texture enhancer. It is considered a skin-softener by helping the skin prevent moisture loss.
Within a product, Caprylic Triglyceride can thicken the product and make spreadability easier by dissolving clumping compounds. An added benefit of Caprylic Triglyceride is its antioxidant properties.
Caprylic Triglyceride is made by combining glycerin with coconut oil, forming a clear liquid. Caprylic Triglyceride has not been found to be toxic for human use in concentrations under 50%.
While there is an assumption Caprylic Triglyceride can clog pores due to it being derived from coconut oil, there is no research supporting this.
Learn more about Caprylic/Capric TriglycerideMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 28.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 27.
Dimethyl Isosorbide is a solvent and helps deliver actives into your skin. It is created from sorbitol.
As a solvent, dimethyl isosorbide helps dissolve other ingredients. This helps ensure even distribution of an ingredient. It may also be used to decrease the thickness of a product.
Studies show dimethyl isosorbide is able to penetrate skin to deliver other ingredients into the skin, making them more effective.
Learn more about Dimethyl IsosorbideMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 29.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 6.
Cetyl Palmitate is a wax-like substance.
It comes from palmitic acid and palmityl alcohol. Cetyl Palmitate may not be safe for Malassezia folliculitis, or fungal-acne.
This ingredient is naturally found in the guava fruit and stony corals.
Learn more about Cetyl PalmitateMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 37.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 28.
Laureth-23 is created by reacting ethylene oxide with Lauryl Alcohol.
It is a cleansing ingredient. This means it helps lift oils and dirt so they may be rinsed away with water.
The 23 refers to the number of repeating ethylene oxides in the molecule.
Learn more about Laureth-23Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 38.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 36.
Polysorbate 20 is made by combining ethoxylation of sorbitan, ethylene oxide, and lauric acid. It is a mild cleansing agent, surfactant, and emulsifier.
As a surfactant, it helps collect dirt and oils for washing. Emulsifiers prevent oils and water from separating.
Polysorbate 20 also adds scent to a product. Since it is made using sorbitol, it has a sweet scent. Sorbitol can also be found in fruits such as apples and peaches.
The lauric acid used to create Polysorbate 20 is often derived from coconuts.
Polysorbate 20 may not be fungal acne safe.
Learn more about Polysorbate 20Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 39.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 34.
We don't have a description for Trideceth-6 Phosphate.
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 40.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 37.
Ethylhexylglycerin (we can't pronounce this either) is commonly used as a preservative and skin softener. It is derived from glyceryl.
You might see Ethylhexylglycerin often paired with other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. Ethylhexylglycerin has been found to increase the effectiveness of these other preservatives.
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 43.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 30.
Sodium Hydroxide is also known as lye or caustic soda. It is used to adjust the pH of products; many ingredients require a specific pH to be effective.
In small amounts, sodium hydroxide is considered safe to use. However, large amounts may cause chemical burns due to its high alkaline.
Your skin has a natural pH and acid mantle. This acid mantle helps prevent harmful bacteria from breaking through. The acid mantle also helps keep your skin hydrated.
"Alkaline" refers to a high pH level. A low pH level would be considered acidic.
Learn more about Sodium HydroxideMurad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum contains this as ingredient number 46.
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum contains this as ingredient number 38.
Here's what our community thinks of the ingredients in these two products.
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum 53 ingredients
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum 43 ingredients
Usage
Here's some more info on how this product is used by our community.
When to use
Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum 53 ingredients
Dermalogica Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum 43 ingredients
Alternatives
Our Dupe Finder has found 18 potential alternatives that have similar ingredients to Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum.
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