Core Four (Retinoid Alternative)
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Core Four (Retinoid Alternative)
Core Four (Retinoid Alternative)

Core Four (Retinoid Alternative)

The four pregnancy-friendly essentials your skin needs

229 reviews

The Barefaced Core Four (Retinoid Alternative) is a simplified skincare system designed to strengthen skin over time. Each step—exfoliate, protect, correct, and brighten—works together to improve clarity, tone and texture while supporting healthy skin function day to day. Built for consistency and lasting results, the Core Four focuses on long-term skin health to deliver results that last beyond the moment.

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Round Out Your Routine

Hydrating Lotion
Hydrating Lotion
lightweight, antioxidant rich, age-defying moisturizer
$115
Key Benefits

  • Improves the look of fine lines + uneven texture without retinoids
  • Helps keep pores clear + skin balanced
  • Visibly brightens dull tone for a more even-looking complexion
  • Supports healthy skin renewal with consistent use
  • Designed for skin that can’t tolerate traditional retinoids
  • Suitable for sensitive skin types
How to Use

Morning Routine

After cleansing, apply Toning Pads, gently swiping one pad across your face, neck and chest. Follow with 2-5 drops of Liquid Gold to face, neck and chest, then apply Overachiever and moisturizer. Finish with SPF for broad-spectrum protection.

Evening Routine

Double cleanse. Gently swipe a Toning Pad across your face, neck and chest. Apply 2-5 drops of Liquid Gold and let it absorb. Apply Overachiever. Follow with Hydrating Lotion (or your preferred moisturizer).

Getting Started Tips

Introduce one new product a day, starting every other day to monitor tolerance. Once tolerated, increase to daily use. If you have sensitive skin, wait 1 week between introducing new products to avoid irritation.

Ingredients

Toning Pads/II: 1 jar/60 pads

  • Glycolic Acid: Brightens + exfoliates
  • Lactic Acid: Hydrates + smooths fine lines
  • Salicylic Acid: Clears pores + fights breakouts

Liquid Gold: 1 fl oz/30 mL

  • L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 15%: Brightens + defends
  • Vitamin E: Enhances antioxidant efficacy

Tinted/Sheer Protection SPF 50+: 2 fl oz/60 mL

  • Zinc Oxide 14.5% & Octinoxate 7.5%: Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection

Overachiever: 1 fl oz/30 mL

  • Bakuchiol: Enhances efficacy + reduces sensitivity
  • Resveratrol: Improves texture/radiance + reduces redness/inflammation

View Full Ingredients

Toning Pads: Water (Aqua), SD Alcohol 40-B, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Succinic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol

Toning Pads II: Water (Aqua), Sd Alcohol 40-B, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Succinic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol

Liquid Gold: Water (Aqua), Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Propanediol, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Extract, Morus Alba Leaf Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Coconut Oil Ethyl Ferulate Esters, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Coconut Alkanes, Lecithin, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Silica, Tocopherol 

Overachiever: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Maltodextrin, Propanediol, Bakuchiol, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Bisabolol, Azelaic Acid, Saccharide Isomerate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Sprout Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Lycium Barbarum Callus Culture Extract, Resveratrol, Isomalt, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Lecithin, Bacillus Ferment, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Caffeine, Sodium Lactate, Undecane, Tridecane, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Silica, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sclerotium Gum, Sodium PCA, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Citrate

Tinted Protection SPF 50+:

  • Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 14.5% & Octinoxate 7.5%
  • Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Niacinamide, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Polyisobutene, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Butylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caffeine, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Sucrose, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Xanthan Gum, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloydimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA

Sheer Protection SPF 50+:

  • Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide 14.5% & Octinoxate 7.5%
  • Inactive ingredients: Purified Water, Niacinamide, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Polyisobutene, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Butylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caffeine, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Sucrose, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Xanthan Gum, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloydimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA

Jordan Harper, NP

From the Expert

Clinically-Proven Ingredients You’ll Love

  • No parabens
  • No fragrance
  • No phthalates
  • No sulfates
  • No artificial dyes
  • No mineral oil
  • No formaldehyde donors
Ingredient Highlights
Glycolic Acid

Brightens + exfoliates

L-Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) 15%

Provides antioxidant protection + collagen stimulation while visibly brightening + evening skin tone

Bakuchiol

Retinoid alternative that helps improve texture + tone, fights acne + has antioxidant power

Zinc Oxide (14.5%) & Octinoxate (7.5%)

Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection

See Full Ingredients

Toning Pads: Water (Aqua), SD Alcohol 40-B, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Succinic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol

Toning Pads II: Water (Aqua), Sd Alcohol 40-B, Glycolic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Lactic Acid, Mandelic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Water, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Ethylhexylglycerin, Succinic Acid, Disodium EDTA, Phenoxyethanol, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Tocopherol

Liquid Gold: Water (Aqua), Ascorbic Acid, Glycerin, Propanediol, Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Curcuma Longa (Turmeric) Root Extract, Ganoderma Lucidum (Mushroom) Extract, Morus Alba Leaf Extract, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Fruit Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Coconut Oil Ethyl Ferulate Esters, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Coconut Alkanes, Lecithin, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Sclerotium Gum, Pentylene Glycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA, Sodium Hydroxide, Silica, Tocopherol 

Overachiever: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Maltodextrin, Propanediol, Bakuchiol, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Bisabolol, Azelaic Acid, Saccharide Isomerate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Sprout Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Lycium Barbarum Callus Culture Extract, Resveratrol, Isomalt, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Lecithin, Bacillus Ferment, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Tocopherol, Caffeine, Sodium Lactate, Undecane, Tridecane, Pullulan, Xanthan Gum, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Caprylyl Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol, Silica, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sclerotium Gum, Sodium PCA, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Citrate

Tinted Protection SPF 50+:

  • Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 14.5% & Octinoxate 7.5%
  • Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Niacinamide, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Polyisobutene, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Butylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caffeine, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Sucrose, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Xanthan Gum, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloydimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA

Sheer Protection SPF 50+:

  • Active ingredients: Zinc Oxide 14.5% & Octinoxate 7.5%
  • Inactive ingredients: Purified Water, Niacinamide, Oleth-3 Phosphate, Neopentyl Glycol Diheptanoate, Polyisobutene, Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate, Butylene Glycol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Caffeine, Panthenol, Dimethicone, Sucrose, Lactic Acid, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Stearate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Xanthan Gum, Lauryl PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloydimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Phenoxyethanol, Disodium EDTA

Where it Fits in Your Routine

  • 01 CLEANSE
  • 02 TONE
  • 03 ANTIOXIDANT
  • 04 STRENGTHEN
  • 05 HYDRATE
  • 06 PROTECT
Barrier Balance Cream Cleanser

36 reviews

Barrier Balance Cream Cleanser
A creamy, barrier-supporting cleanser made for skin in its 30s, 40s & beyond
Toning Pads

4308 reviews

Toning Pads
reveals brighter, smoother skin & unclogs pores - best for first time users + normal/dry skin
Liquid Gold

4719 reviews

Liquid Gold
hydrating, 15% vitamin C serum
Overachiever

4043 reviews

Overachiever
a skin-boosting serum
Hydrating Lotion

2279 reviews

Hydrating Lotion
lightweight, antioxidant rich, age-defying moisturizer
Tinted Protection SPF 50+

2118 reviews

Tinted Protection SPF 50+
broad-spectrum mineral based sunscreen

FAQs

What is the difference between Core Four and Core Four Retinoid Alternative?

Choose the Core Four kit if you want the classic Barefaced routine with RetinAL Skin, a nighttime retinoid formulated for effective results and improved tolerability. Choose the Core Four (Retinoid Alternative) kit if you are pregnant or avoiding retinoids; this kit replaces RetinAL Skin with Overachiever, a gentler, bakuchiol-powered retinoid alternative.
What products are included in the Core Four?

The Barefaced Core Four includes exfoliating Toning Pads or Toning Pads II, Liquid Gold vitamin C serum, and Tinted Protection SPF 50+ or Sheer Protection SPF 50+, plus RetinAL Skin as the nighttime retinoid. The Core Four (Retinoid Alternative) includes Overachiever instead of RetinAL Skin.
Should I choose Tinted Protection SPF 50+ or Sheer Protection SPF 50+?

Choose Tinted Protection SPF 50+ if you want a universal tint with soft-focus coverage that helps visibly soften imperfections, or Sheer Protection SPF 50+ if you prefer a lightweight finish without added tint. Both provide broad-spectrum sun protection plus hydrating and smoothing skincare benefits.
What’s the difference between Toning Pads and Toning Pads II?

Both pads exfoliate to help smooth and brighten skin. Toning Pads provide gentler exfoliation to help clear pores and smooth uneven texture. They’re a good starting point if you’re new to exfoliating acids or your skin tends to be dry or sensitive.

Toning Pads II provide stronger exfoliation and are better suited to skin that already tolerates exfoliating acids, especially if you’re looking to address excess oil, stubborn congestion, or uneven texture.

Once your skin is used to Toning Pads, you can move up to Toning Pads II if you want stronger exfoliation. If Toning Pads are working well for you, stick with them. You’re already getting the benefits of regular exfoliation.
Should I start with Toning Pads or Toning Pads II?

Start with Toning Pads if you’re new to Barefaced pads or exfoliating acids, or if your skin tends to be dry or sensitive. Once your skin tolerates Toning Pads well, consider Toning Pads II if you want stronger exfoliation for oiliness, congestion, or uneven texture. You can stick with Toning Pads if they’re working well for you.
Can I wear Barefaced SPF under makeup?

Yes, Barefaced SPF can be worn under makeup. Apply SPF as the final step in your morning skincare routine, let it set, and keep previous layers light if you are prone to pilling.
Is this product considered pregnancy or nursing-friendly?

We recommend consulting your healthcare provider for any specific concerns.
How often should I use Toning Pads or Toning Pads II?

Start by using either pad every other day for two weeks after cleansing. If your skin tolerates it well, gradually increase to once daily, then up to twice daily if needed. If your skin feels dry or irritated, cut back use. On days you use Polishing Pads on your face, use them in place of Toning Pads or Toning Pads II for the entire day.
Can I use Toning Pads with vitamin C?

Yes, you can use Toning Pads with vitamin C if your skin tolerates the combination. After cleansing, apply Toning Pads first, then follow with your vitamin C serum, such as Liquid Gold. If you’re new to either product, introduce them one at a time before using them together.
How do I apply my products?

Apply skincare products from thinnest to thickest: cleanse, exfoliate if scheduled, apply serums, then moisturize. Finish with sunscreen in the morning, and follow each treatment product’s specific directions. For a step-by-step guide, read How to Layer Your Skincare Products.
What is your Shipping and Returns policy?

Orders are processed Monday through Friday, excluding weekends and major holidays. Standard shipping typically takes 5–7 business days; Alaska and Hawaii may take longer. Full-price items in new or gently used condition may be returned by mail within 30 days of purchase, with some returns subject to a $9.95 handling fee. Select products and merchandise are final sale. See our Shipping + Returns policy for full details.

Overall rating: 4.860262 / 5 from 229 reviews.

AI Generated Review Summary

The Barefaced Core Four (Retinoid Alternative) is a skincare system that enhances skin texture and tone. Customers report improved clarity, reduced fine lines, and brighter, smoother skin. While some experienced hormonal breakouts, the routine is simple, effective, and pregnancy-friendly.

Summary topics

  • Breakouts (5%): In general, customers found that this product improved their skin texture and reduced fine lines. However, some experienced hormonal breakouts.
  • Results (9%): It was observed by customers that they were pleased with the results and found it easy to follow.
  • Difference (9%): It was reported by customers that they noticed a huge difference in their skin after using the product.
  • Routine (7%): It was noted by customers that the routine is simple, effective, and Pregnancy-friendly.
  • Fine Lines (5%): It was noted by customers that the line to text is really cool and the best product in the business.

Review topics: ["smell","results","quality","issues","feels","improvement","skin","routine","texture","looks","face","difference","breakouts","acne","alternative","set","formula","glow","pores","lines","spots","shade","irritation","core four","kit","gold","sunscreen","overachiever","bundle","toning pads"].

Review highlights

  • "My skin feels so amazing and refreshed and my sunspots have gotten lighter too" — Jill P.
  • "Smooth skin, minimal breakouts and reduction in fine lines." — Nicol
  • "I’m a few weeks in to utilizing the pregnancy friendly bare essentials product line and my skin is so happy." — Emily S.

Reviews

Pleasantly surprised

"I love it all except the vitamin c. It’s the only one that my skin didn’t get much out of. I also causes a brick color like stain on my white silk pillowcase. I had to test each solo and discovered it was the vitamin c. Obsessed with the over achieve and the toning pads. I’ve been using the original toning pads and recently stepped up to the 2 and I love it. I’m still battling blackheads, but this has helped. Wish something would eradicate my blackheads. Enjoying the spf too. Doesn’t cause me to breakout which is a bonus. I like that it’s included in the set because you really need it, especially using these products. I highly recommend."

— INGRID A. (4/5)

In love!

"I wish I had discovered these products sooner. The toning pads have helped smoothen the texture of my skin and my sensitive skin can handle all of these products."

— Sara S. (5/5)

Notice a difference in my

"Notice a difference in my skin in just a few short weeks!"

— kayla g. (5/5)

Daily staples

"I started buying this kit about 3 years ago and keep coming back! Best skincare routine for my skin--goes on nicely and doesn't look weird/clump/feel oily after wearing all day. I will switch and use the retinoid when I am not pregnant--love that there are options and that I can switch between toning pads 1 & 2 and tinted vs non-tinted SPF."

— Emma W. (5/5)

Simplified face care

"I love the simplicity of barefaced face care. My skin has never looked as good as it does now after almost a year of consistent use."

— Analeise P. (5/5)

love the products!!

"i have only been using for a couple of months but definitely feel brighter!!!"

— miranda e. (5/5)

Love this system!

"These products are amazing! I have sensitive skin and tolerate all of them well! The sunscreen was new to me and it feels really nice on my skin that is usually quite sensitive to other brands."

— Miranda R. (5/5)

So good I’ll buy it again!

"If you are looking for products that are both effective and safe, I cannot recommend making the switch enough. It takes a little research, but finding brands that prioritize skin health over cheap fillers is totally worth it!"

— Mikaela J. (5/5)

Mostly Love!

"I love the pads, vitamin C, and the overachiever! However, the tinted moisturizer has a musty smell to it. I have ordered this in the past and it smelled more like sunscreen. This one smells badly and I have a hard time using it when I can smell it on my face! Not sure if something changed in the formula, but a little bummed!"

— Alli M. (4/5)

Minimal, yet effective!

"I’ve seen a reduction in fine lines and an overall boost in my skin’s glow in just 4 short weeks! A little product goes a long way! The only product that is mediocre is the tinted spf. It doesn’t blend in well and is streaky. All of the other products I plan to reorder."

— Tabitha S. (4/5)

Q&A

Can I exchange the spf for something else? I still have plenty of spf
Hi Summer! Yes, you can visit our returns portal to submit your return request. Please feel free to reach out to us at hello@barefaced.com with any additional questions you may have!
Hi there! How much glycolic acid and sacylic acid is in the toning pads? Specifically percentages? I ask because am pregnant.
Hi Kate! While exact percentages are proprietary to Barefaced, the Toning Pads have up to 2% glycolic acid and the Toning Pads II have up to 5% glycolic acid. Glycolic acid helps to exfoliate and slough off the dead skin cells revealing a "glow". Both pads have up to 2% salicylic acid which helps to cleanse the pores and improve breakouts. Please feel free to reach out to us at hello@barefaced.com with any additional questions!
Which Bare Necessities should I get for aging skin? I am 53 years old
Hi Alison, The Bare Necessities we recommend for aging skin is Liquid Gold, Barefaced Tinted or Sheer SPF (based on preference), Toning Pads, and RetinAL Skin Therapy. 😀

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