Dr Koo Level 2 Retinol | Repairing Vitamin A Serum

Level 2 steps up to 2000 IUs of buffered retinol, calibrated for skin that has adapted to Level 1. It encourages collagen and elastin production to soften the mild-to-moderate lines that surface on the forehead, between the brows, and around the eyes. Niacinamide (B3), avocado, and coconut oil enhance delivery deep within the skin matrix, while low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid draws in hydration to keep the surface supple through the exfoliation that refines firmness, texture, and undertone.

Independent clinical evidence — this formulation system
Measured on Level 3 (5000 IUs). Essex Testing Clinic · 33 women, ages 46–69 · nightly use for 8 weeks · evaluated at baseline, 4 and 8 weeks · each participant compared with her own baseline.

• Fine lines & wrinkles (Visia CR 2.2 imaging): 8.9% improvement at 4 weeks, 13.4% at 8 weeks — 100% of participants improved
• Elasticity (Cutometer): +8.4% at 4 weeks, +16.1% at 8 weeks — 94% improved
• Firmness (Cutometer): 28.6% improvement at 4 weeks — 91% improved
• Radiance (imaging): improved at 4 and 8 weeks — 70% improved at 8 weeks
• Irritation: none observed in any participant at any visit; 97% reported no significant sensitivity compared with other retinols

All improvements above were statistically significant (p<0.001, except radiance at 4 weeks p=0.032). Signed final report on file.

Level 2 is the same formulation system at a different retinol concentration (2000 IUs), matched to your skin's tolerance and need. The measurements above were taken on Level 3 (5000 IUs); they are not a result for Level 2.

EVENING PROTOCOL:

1. Cleanse skin thoroughly and pat dry. Wait 2–3 minutes — retinol absorbs best on completely dry skin. Moisture accelerates penetration, which can increase irritation.

2. Dispense a pea-sized amount onto fingertips. Apply in gentle upward strokes across the face, avoiding the immediate eye area and lip corners.

3. Wait 60 seconds before applying your next product. This allows the pH-optimized retinol to begin binding to retinoid receptors without interference from other actives.

4. Follow with your hydration step (Essential Hydration Serum or Hydration Myst) to support the skin barrier during the retinol activation process.

SUNSCREEN IS ESSENTIAL: Retinol increases photosensitivity. Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning, even on cloudy days.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

Weeks 1–2: Mild flaking or tightness is normal — this is your stratum corneum accelerating turnover as retinoid receptors activate. Do not increase frequency.

Weeks 3–4: Skin begins to adapt. Texture smooths as new cell turnover normalizes. Flaking subsides.

Weeks 6–12: Visible improvement in fine lines, pore size, and overall tone as procollagen synthesis increases in the dermis.

WHEN TO ADVANCE: If after 8–12 weeks of consistent nightly use you experience no irritation and want stronger results, you may advance to Level 3 (5000 IUs). Consult Dr. Koo if unsure.

Purified Water, Niacinamide, Squalane, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Cetyl Alcohol, Sclerocarya Birrea Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hexylresorcinol, Retinol, Ceramide NP, Sodium Hyaluronate, Phytosterols, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Dimethicone, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Ethyl Linoleate, Mica, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cetearyl Alcohol, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Polyacrylate, Polysorbate 20, Ethylhexylglycerin, and Stearic Acid