Renewal Crème 50ml

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative. Once applied, skin enzymes convert it in two steps to retinoic acid, the form that interacts with retinoid receptors in the epidermis and dermis. Because that conversion is gradual, retinol acts more slowly than prescription retinoids and is generally better tolerated.

The formula pairs it with three antioxidants working through different routes: tocopherol (vitamin E) in the lipid phase, ubiquinone within cell membranes, and magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, a stable vitamin C derivative, in the water phase.

Sodium hyaluronate and polyglutamic acid hold water in the upper layers. Ectoin, jojoba esters, oat kernel extract and soybean sterols support the barrier while skin adjusts to the retinol.

Skin concerned with visible ageing, uneven tone and texture. Suitable for normal to dry skin. Best introduced gradually if you have not used a retinoid before.

Apply to clean, dry skin in the evening. Start two to three nights a week and build up as tolerated. Always follow with SPF 30 or higher the next morning, as retinol increases sensitivity to UV.

Use alongside

Hydrating serums and essences applied beforehand. A broad-spectrum SPF the following morning, which is not optional with a retinol.

Keep apart

Other retinoids, including prescription tretinoin and over-the-counter retinal. Doubling up increases irritation without increasing benefit.

Exfoliating acids such as glycolic, lactic or salicylic. Use them on alternate evenings rather than the same one.

Introducing it

Two to three evenings a week for the first fortnight, building up as your skin adjusts. Buffering, applying moisturiser first, reduces irritation while you settle in.