Some BY MI LHB24-SBM0050 Serum Review
Our verdict
A rare combination of retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol in a single serum at $20.60 makes this one of the most ingredient-dense budget options in the anti-aging category. The 3,000-review base at 4.3 stars gives real confidence in consistent performance.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Buyers who want a multi-retinoid formula with plant-based bakuchiol support at a budget price, particularly those exploring retinoid-based skincare for the first time.
Skip if
You have retinoid sensitivity or are pregnant (retinoids require medical guidance during pregnancy), prefer an active-free formula, or need a morning-use serum without built-in sun protection.
- Form Drop
- Skin type All
- Key ingredients Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol
- Size 30 Milliliters
- Scent Unscented
- Skin tone All
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.3/5
4.3 average across 3,000 owner ratings
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Popularity4.6/5
3,000 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other anti-aging skincare: serums, night creams, facial peels, wrinkle patches and anti-aging devices we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
Some By MI is a South Korean skincare brand with a strong presence in the K-beauty segment and a track record of delivering active-forward formulas at accessible price points. This 30 ml serum at $20.60 lists retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol together in one formula, which is an unusual and genuinely interesting combination at this price.
Retinol and retinal are both vitamin A derivatives, with retinal (retinaldehyde) being one step closer to retinoic acid in the conversion pathway, meaning it may act more efficiently than retinol at equivalent concentrations. Bakuchiol is a plant-derived compound that has been studied for its ability to support the look of skin renewal in a way that may complement retinoid activity, with a generally milder tolerance profile.
With 3,000 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the buyer base is large and the rating is solid. Unscented and listed for all skin tones, the formula casts a wide net for compatibility. For a retinoid serum under $25, this is a strong offering.
Pros
- Triple-active formula: retinol, retinal, and bakuchiol in one product
- Very affordable at $20.60 for 30 ml
- 3,000 reviews at 4.3 stars offers strong purchase confidence
- Unscented formula for all skin tones reduces compatibility barriers
- Drop format allows precise dosing
Cons
- Retinoids require gradual introduction and can cause initial sensitivity or peeling
- Not suitable for daytime use without sun protection (retinoids increase photosensitivity)
- Concentration details for each active are not listed in the spec data
- Some users new to retinoids may need to alternate use rather than apply nightly
Specifications
- Form
- Drop
- Skin type
- All
- Key ingredients
- Retinol, Retinal, Bakuchiol
- Size
- 30 Milliliters
- Scent
- Unscented
- Skin tone
- All
Performance notes
Retinol is one of the most studied skincare actives for supporting the appearance of skin renewal and the look of fine lines over time. Retinal (retinaldehyde) is a more efficient vitamin A form that converts to retinoic acid in fewer steps than retinol, making it potentially more effective at lower concentrations. Bakuchiol has shown in some studies that it may target similar pathways to retinoids while being tolerated better by sensitive skin. Together, this trio targets the appearance of aging from complementary angles, which is unusual to find in a sub-$25 product.
What buyers say
3,000 reviews is a meaningful sample, and the 4.3-star average in that context reflects genuine, consistent satisfaction rather than early-adopter enthusiasm. The rating landing slightly below 4.5 suggests a small but real proportion of buyers experienced adjustment-period sensitivity or had unmet expectations, which is common with retinoid products. Overall the signal is positive and reliable.
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Frequently asked questions
Can beginners use a serum with retinol and retinal?
It is possible but worth approaching carefully. Retinal is more potent than retinol, and combining it with retinol and bakuchiol in one formula may be more than a retinoid-naive skin can handle nightly from the start. Starting with every-other-night use and building up over 4 to 6 weeks is a widely recommended approach to minimize peeling or redness during the adjustment period.
Do I need sunscreen when using this serum?
Yes. Retinoids are photosensitizing, meaning they can make skin more reactive to UV exposure. This serum is best used in a nighttime routine, and daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF product in the morning is strongly recommended when any retinoid is part of your routine. Skipping SPF while using retinoids is one of the most common mistakes that leads to irritation or uneven skin tone.
What makes retinal different from retinol?
Both are forms of vitamin A. Retinol converts to retinaldehyde (retinal) and then to retinoic acid in the skin, with each conversion step reducing the active concentration. Retinal skips the first conversion step, which means it may deliver closer to the active form at lower concentrations compared to retinol. Some research suggests retinal works faster than retinol at equivalent doses, though it can also be more likely to cause early adjustment reactions.