Retinol Mafia™ – Encapsulated Retinol for Wrinkles & Acne

Name: Retinol Mafia™ – Encapsulated Retinol for Wrinkles & Acne
Brand: 5 Circle Skin Care
Price: 129.0 USD
Availability: InStock

$129.00

Quantity

Remodel, renew, and refine — powerful retinol to fight wrinkles, acne & spots.

Retinol Mafia™ is the encapsulated powerhouse retinol serum that accelerates youthful cell turnover, remodels collagen and elastin, and targets fine lines, wrinkles, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Retinol and hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) deliver advanced retinoid activity for smoother texture and brighter tone, while dimethyl isosorbide ensures deeper penetration without irritation. Sodium hyaluronate and squalane hydrate and condition the barrier to minimize dryness or peeling. This 5.5% formulation is potent yet buffered for nightly use — skin becomes firmer, clearer, and more even over time. Start slow and always use SPF daily.

How to Use

Apply 3–4 drops to clean, dry skin at night (start 2–3 times/week).
Gently pat into face and neck; avoid eyes and mouth.
Follow with moisturizer to buffer (especially first few weeks).
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning — retinoids increase sun sensitivity.
Patch test first; introduce slowly to avoid irritation.

Key Benefits

Boosts collagen & elastin to firm and reduce fine lines/wrinkles
Improves acne & clears congestion with retinoid activity
Fades hyperpigmentation, dark spots & uneven tone
Refines texture & minimizes pores over time
Hydrates & supports barrier to minimize dryness/peeling
Encapsulated for better tolerance & deeper delivery

Key Ingredients

Retinol — promotes collagen, smooths lines & fights acne.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) — advanced retinoid for tone & texture.
Sodium Hyaluronate — deep hydration support.
Squalane — lightweight barrier conditioning.
Dimethyl Isosorbide — enhances penetration & tolerance.

See full ingredient list

Aqua, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Glycerin, Retinol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Squalane, Lecithin, Polysorbate 20, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Caprylyl Glycol.

Best For

Acne-prone, aging, and hyperpigmentation-prone skin types.
Ideal for fine lines, wrinkles, acne, dark spots, uneven texture, dullness, and anyone seeking powerful retinol results.

Additional Details

Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Do NOT use during pregnancy or breastfeeding — retinoids are contraindicated. Consult your physician.
Step: 2 in the 5 Circle System (after cleansing, before moisturizer)

5 Circle Skin Care, by Denise Bell, licensed esthetician with 15+ years of experience. Austin, TX.

Frequently Asked Questions

How strong is this retinol and how should I start? +

The 5.5% encapsulated retinol + HPR is potent but buffered for tolerance. Start with 2–3 nights per week, pea-sized amount, and build to nightly as tolerated. Always follow with moisturizer and SPF in the morning — retinoids increase sun sensitivity.

Will this cause purging or irritation? +

Possible mild purging (temporary breakouts as pores clear) or dryness/peeling in first 2–4 weeks — common with retinoids. The hyaluronate and squalane help minimize irritation. Start slow, moisturize well, and avoid other actives initially.

Can I use this with other actives like vitamin C? +

Yes — but separate times. Use Retinol Mafia at night, and vitamin C (like VC Serum) in the morning. The encapsulated delivery reduces irritation, but always moisturize and use SPF.

Is this good for acne and hyperpigmentation? +

Yes — retinol unclogs pores and reduces acne, while HPR helps fade post-acne marks and hyperpigmentation. Results show in 8–12 weeks with consistent use. Pair with gentle cleansing and SPF.

Is this pregnancy safe? +

Do NOT use during pregnancy or breastfeeding — retinoids (retinol & HPR) are contraindicated. Consult your physician for alternatives.

Do I need to use sunscreen with this? +

Yes — always. Retinoids increase sun sensitivity. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ daily (like Eclipse or Solstice) and reapply every 2 hours outdoors. Skip retinol if you can't commit to SPF.