Press Sample (Affiliate Links)
I have been using Vitamin A-based products (from which retinol and retinal-based serums are derived) for many years, and I have found that many of the over-the-counter varieties lack the expected efficacy, or they can irritate the skin. I have used both over-the-counter and prescription versions, and Osmosis Renew Level 4 Vitamin A Serum is my current favorite.
Osmosis Renew Level 4 Vitamin A Serum is formulated with a high concentration of Vitamin A, to encourage cell turnover and renew the skin, and Lactic Acid and Algae extract to brighten it. However, unlike many Vitamin A derivatives, that can dry out the skin and cause it to flake and feel taut, this wonderful retinal formula contains Hyaluronic Acid to deeply hydrate the skin as well as peptides to plump and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. I have never experienced flaking, peeling, redness, or any irritation, and my skin can be a bit sensitive at times. It has a faint and pleasant aroma from its extracts and oils, but it is neither long-lasting, nor in the least bit pungent.
Skin is left soft, smooth, supple and hydrated. As with all retinol-based products, I wear at least an SPF 40+ sunscreen to protect the skin, and I avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. I also avoid scrubs, peels and any other kind of exfoliants when using this serum.
Caution: If you are considering adding a Vitamin A-based product into your skincare routine, then I would highly suggest consulting with your doctor first to have your skin thoroughly evaluated. What might appear to be an area of hyperpigmentation, could actually be a cancerous or pre-cancerous lesion, and the last thing that you want to do is treat it with topicals of any sort. I simply cannot sufficiently underscore the extent to which this is important. I sought advice from my physician before I began using retinol, and had my skin thoroughly evaluated for any suspicious areas discoloration, moles etc.
According to Osmosis,
Renew is designed for resilient or conditioned skin types who desire a dramatic restoration of the skin rejuvenation process. The most potent combination of fibroblast stimulators encourages the reversal of the skin aging.
Directions: Shake lightly and apply 1-2 pumps morning and evening.
*0.15% Retinaldehyde. Gluten-Free and Vegan.
$88.00 for 1 oz. from Osmosis, Skin Care RX and Dermstore (Affiliate Links).
Press Sample. All views expressed are categorically my own.
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Though I have tried their wonderful makeup line, I still haven't tried their skincare - and skincare is what Osmosis is most known for! Sounds like the Vitamin A serum would be a good place to start. I love that it has HA in the formula!
ReplyDeleteTheir skincare is first rate, and I definitely recommend trying some of their products at some point. This serum is really wonderful, and I agree that it is a good place to start!
DeleteI incorporate Osmosis products into my skincare routine daily. I think they have some of the best products on the market, especially this Vitamin A serum.
ReplyDeleteI agree, their products really are fantastic, and this serum is probably my very favorite out of all of their serums that I have tried over the years!
DeleteI love that you pointed out that we should talk to our docs about this as a good fit. I have very sensitive skin so I would call my derm!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Judy! I always think that is an important reminder, and it should never be taken for granted!
DeleteI think I used this a long time ago and I wasn't sure if I was using it right. I'm not used to retinols so that could be why.
ReplyDeleteIf you still have the bottle, you might want to dig it out and try it again! It's a very effective serum!
DeleteHOOahh... a little rich for my blood but sounds amazing
ReplyDeleteIt definitely is on the expensive side, but a little goes a long way, and it is so effective!
DeleteI really want to buy the serum based on your description of how it works!
ReplyDeleteI am very impressed by the efficacy of this serum, and it is so gentle! I think that you would be quite impressed by it!
DeleteI'm so glad I read this post! Every retinol product I've tried I end up peeling and don't continue because I hate the flakes! This sounds perfect for me!
ReplyDeleteThis is one of the most gentle retinol-based products that I have tried, and I have experienced no irritation, redness or peeling. I highly recommend it, if you are seeking a retinol-based serum to add into your skincare routine.
DeleteGreat caution on hyperpigmentation. Yes see a doctor for dark spots first. especially suspicious ones
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kath! I think that it is very important to operate with an abundance of caution, and to always consult your doctor before trying to treat hyperpigmentation. As you know, sometimes spots do not appear suspicious, and they can actually be cancerous or precancerous!
DeleteThis formula sounds so good for my skin type. I love retinols, but they usually dry me out so bad. I love that this also contains hyaluronic acid!
ReplyDeleteI love using retinoids as well, abut I really don't like it when it causes my skin to become irritated, or causes it to peel! This one is gentle and effective! I highly recommend it!
DeleteNiacinamide as the second ingredient? Sign me up!
ReplyDeleteEXACTLY!
DeleteHi there Lola...I love the Osmosis Vitamin A serums, actually all the serums. I am using Renew. I think it is important to note this product is not retinol based but contains retinal aka retinaldehyde. It is more effective for many reasons, not least of which is that retinal is more effective than retinol because it more readily converts to retinoic acid i the skin, which is the same as tretinoin or Retin A. It does so without the irritation of traditional retinols in any product I have tried containing retinal.
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