Cell Cycle Catalyst

The turnover problem

Young skin renews its surface roughly monthly; with age the cycle stretches, and the surface shows it in dullness, rough patches and uneven tone. This serum's brief is to nudge that rhythm back toward its younger pace.

Five acids, sized like a toolkit

Glycolic acid leads for depth, lactic and mandelic work progressively closer to the surface, salicylic slips into pores, and phytic acid steadies the blend. Graduated molecular sizes let the exfoliation land evenly rather than all at once.

The taurine idea

Taurine, an amino acid central to cellular energy, is the modern addition: support aimed at the renewal machinery itself rather than only the shedding. It is what separates this from a simple acid serum.

Skin whose glow has slowed and whose texture reads rougher than its years; tone and texture complaints that have resisted single-acid products; and retinoid users wanting a working companion for the alternate nights.

Worth knowing

Like every leave-on acid blend it increases sun sensitivity, so daily SPF is non-negotiable during use and the week after. Contains salicylic acid, skip it with an aspirin allergy. Fragrance-free.

Evenings on clean, fully dry skin: a few drops over face and neck, then moisturiser once settled. Start two or three nights a week and build with tolerance.

A brief tingle is the formula announcing itself; persistent stinging is skin asking you to slow down.

Use alongside

Alternate nights with a retinal rather than sharing them, Crystal Retinal being the natural partner, and resist doubling it with other acids in the same rotation. Mornings continue as usual: C E Ferulic, moisturiser, SPF.