The Game-Changing New Retinol Products To Know
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While we’re big advocates of incorporating a retinol-based product into our skincare regimes, not all are created equal. At the forefront of the retinol game is Murad’s genius Youth Renewal line-up – currently the bestselling retinol range in the US and the winner of countless beauty awards worldwide.
The Youth Renewal Serum has long been a beauty bestseller (industry insiders say it’s “revolutionary”) but the addition of two new products – a Youth Renewal Night Cream and Eye Serum – is causing quite the stir.
Remind us what retinol does?
Retinol is a derivative of vitamin A, one of the body’s key nutrients. Vitamin A’s wrinkle-fighting prowess was discovered in the early 70s, when doctors found acne patients who were being treated with prescription vitamin A were soon experiencing newly soft, less pigmented, line-free skin. Thus, in addition to being a trusted treatment for acne, retinol is famous for its anti-ageing properties.
When retinol comes into contact with the skin, enzymes in the body convert it into retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A. This, in turn, boosts cell turnover, ramps up collagen production, neutralises free radicals and fades pigmentation. In short, retinol can treat and prevent everything from cystic acne to sun-induced wrinkles and dark spots.
What makes this range different?
It’s all down to the formula. The secret? Three different high-tech delivery systems: a fast-acting retinoid (a stronger form of vitamin A) supercharges results by quickly boosting cell renewal. Secondly, tiny spheres containing retinol slowly melt onto the skin and deliver a sustained supply in low doses.
Finally, all three products are packed with a soy-based retinol booster, which works to improve the skin’s absorption of molecules such as retinol and peptides. Throw in hydrating hyaluronic acid and swertia flower extract to boost firmness and it’s no wonder beauty editors are falling over themselves to get their hands on the range.
Is it suitable for all skin types?
Whilst retinol, in theory, is ideal for oil, combination and acne-prone skin, the Murad range goes one step further and makes retinol suitable for everyone, whether you suffer from combination skin or are prone to dry patches. Moreover, it’s never too early to start using the trio – if it’s anti-ageing benefits you’re after, aim to start incorporating the range in your skincare regime by your late 20s.
How does one use it?
For best results, use the three-product line-up before bed (the majority of retinoids aren’t photo stable, meaning their active ingredients are broken down by UV rays, rendering them less effective). Start by applying the Renewal Serum onto clean skin, following with the Night Cream and the Eye Serum. If your skincare budget doesn’t stretch to all three products, start with the hero serum.
However, those with drier skin types may prefer the Night Cream, packed with peptide-rich red algae extract, while those concerned with crow’s feet should try the potent Eye Serum.
Does it really work?
You bet. A huge 93% of users of both the Eye Serum and Renewal Serum saw a reduction in lines and wrinkles in just four weeks; a further 98% reported overall smoother skin and 87% noticed firmer eye area skin in less than a month, too.
Anything else?
All three products are made without parabens, sulfates or phthalates, and the entire range is gluten-free and hypoallergenic, so rest assured these are results-driven, quality products with no nasties that really do what they say.
Want in? Prices start from £65; visit Murad.co.uk
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