The Anti-Ageing Ingredients Guide
Rare Skinstore's edit
The Anti-Ageing
Ingredients Guide
A simple guide to the Korean cosmetics ingredients people are talking about: retinoids, PDRN, peptides and NAD+.
You do not need every trending active. The best anti-ageing routine is one that fits your skin, feels comfortable and is used consistently.
Retinoids
The renewal classic
For the look of smoother texture, fine lines and a more even complexion.
What it is
Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives. Retinol and retinal are popular forms used in skincare routines focused on gradual renewal.
What it does
It can help improve the appearance of rough texture, visible pores, fine lines and uneven-looking tone with consistent use.
Who it suits
Skin concerned with texture, early signs of ageing, dullness or post-breakout marks. Sensitive skin should start slowly.
How to use it
Use at night two or three times weekly to begin, then follow with moisturiser. Daily SPF is essential.
Our retinoid picks
Arencia
Retinal Booster Shot
A lightweight nighttime booster for a routine focused on texture, fine lines and clearer-looking skin.
Shop now →
Some By Mi
Retinol Intense Advanced Triple Action Eye Cream
A nourishing eye cream created for fine lines, dryness and a tired-looking eye contour.
Shop now →PDRN
The replenishing layer
For skin that feels dehydrated, stressed or in need of more bounce.
What it is
PDRN is commonly listed as Sodium DNA and is widely used in Korean cosmetics for a replenished-looking complexion.
What it does
It is often paired with hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients to help skin look plumper, calmer and more luminous.
Who it suits
Dull, dry or dehydrated skin, or anyone looking for a comfortable day-and-night anti-ageing step.
How to use it
Apply a PDRN serum after toner, then use a moisturiser to seal in hydration.
Our PDRN picks
Anua
PDRN Hyaluronic Acid Capsule 100 Serum
A lightweight PDRN and hyaluronic acid serum for a smoother, fresher and more hydrated-looking finish.
Shop now →
VT Cosmetics
PDRN Capsule Cream 100
A capsule-infused cream for dry and tired-looking skin that needs a more nourishing, comfortable finish.
Shop now →Peptides
The gentle firming team
For a routine focused on the look of firmness, elasticity and a well-rested glow.
What they are
Peptides are small amino-acid chains used in skincare formulas designed to support a smooth and resilient-looking complexion.
What they do
They support the appearance of elasticity and comfort, making them an appealing everyday option in an anti-ageing routine.
Who they suit
Anyone noticing early fine lines or loss of bounce, especially those who want a gentle active to use regularly.
How to use them
Use an ampoule after toner and before cream, morning or evening. They layer beautifully with hydrating products.
Our peptide picks
Sungboon Editor
Silk Peptide EGF Intensive Ampoule
A multi-peptide ampoule with silk-derived peptides and EGF for a more hydrated and radiant-looking complexion.
Shop now →
Medicube
PDRN Pink Collagen Volume Multi Balm
A portable collagen and peptide-focused balm for a quick moisture and glow boost on cheeks, lips, neck and smile lines.
Shop now →NAD+
The energy-inspired extra
For a more luminous, well-rested-looking complexion.
What it is
NAD+ is a coenzyme used in modern skincare formulas to support the look of a revitalised and energised complexion.
What it does
It is a complementary ingredient for skin that appears tired or dull, alongside the daily essentials of moisturiser and SPF.
Who it suits
Anyone wanting more glow and a smoother-looking finish from a multi-benefit Korean cosmetics routine.
How to use it
NAD+ toners can be used morning and evening. Retinoid-containing NAD+ formulas are best kept for the evening.
Our NAD+ picks
Purito
Retinol Retinal 2000 NAD+ Serum
An advanced dual-phase PM serum combining retinol, retinal and NAD+ for texture, fine lines and visible firmness.
Shop now →
Numbuzin
No.9+ NAD+ PDRN Glow Boosting Toner
A watery glow toner that hydrates and preps skin for a smoother, more luminous-looking routine.
Shop now →Find your ingredient match
Pick the concern you want to prioritise and keep the rest of your routine simple.
| If you want... | Try... | Our pick |
|---|---|---|
| Smoother-looking texture and fine lines | Retinoids | Arencia Retinal Booster Shot |
| More hydration and bounce | PDRN | Anua PDRN Serum + VT Capsule Cream |
| Gentle firming support | Peptides | Sungboon Editor Silk Peptide Ampoule |
| A more energised-looking glow | NAD+ | Numbuzin No.9+ Toner |
Morning
- PDRN, peptides or NAD+ toner
- Moisturiser
- Broad-spectrum SPF
Evening
- Cleanse
- Retinoid or peptide/PDRN step
- Moisturiser or targeted balm
Frequently asked questions
Can I use retinoids and peptides together?
Yes, provided your skin is comfortable. Introduce one new product at a time and keep a retinoid routine simple at first.
Can I use PDRN every day?
Most PDRN products are created for daily use. Always follow the individual product instructions.
Do I still need sunscreen?
Yes. Daily SPF is an essential part of every anti-ageing routine, especially when using retinoids.
Before You Go…
Here are a few handpicked articles to inspire your next self-care moment.
