It’s no secret that since I experienced the worst breakouts of my life last year, I became a bit of a skincare junkie. You may remember this post on my Instagram feed, where I shared the SkinCeuticals product range that finally and quickly healed my skin and caused a dramatic change in its overall condition (it was not sponsored). I always specifically refer to SkinCeuticals as “the brand/skincare range that saved my skin”. By now you may also know for the last six months I’ve been going for regular skin treatments with Doctor Leila Sadien at Renascent Health, and she too highly recommends SkinCeuticals as excellent skincare because it is after all, backed by science.
With that being said, can you imagine my excitement whenI was gifted the new SkinCeuticals corrective cream, the Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight! In a nutshell it’s a multi-purpose product for night-use only (so you don’t have to layer many other products) that evens skin tone and texture, corrects, has regenerative properties and really enhances your glow. At the moment, my night routine only consists of me using a SkinCeuticals cleanser, toner, Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight and an eye cream – so no other serums or moisturizers.
WHAT’S MY EXPERIENCE BEEN SO FAR?
In the beginning, because of the strong active ingredients, it’s advised that you avoid the eye area and introduce the product to your face every second night only, then after a week or two, begin using it every single night. However, I was greedy and excited, so I used it every night from the start and thankfully showed no signs of consecutive intolerance. You can definitely feel that the ingredients are powerful; you feel it working on the skin immediately with a slight tingle, and then it settles after a few moments. Some say it can feel a little itchy, but both sensations are normal and nothing to be concerned about. So in order to not cause irritation or to overwhelm my skin, once I’ve cleansed, applied toner and the Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight, I don’t apply any other moisturizer on top of the cream, and I sleep on a satin pillow so that it’s fully absorbed in my skin (cotton pillowcases can absorb a lot of product).
As I expected (because it’s from “the brand that saved my skin”) I noticed a difference in just a few days; significant correction on pimple scars, plumped fine lines and most of all, an enhanced glow. I’ve been using it for about a month now, and those results have only improved and I genuinely feel so much confidence because of how the overall condition of my skin has improved.
Aside from my results, I especially like to use it when I’ve done both proper extractions and when I’ve misbehaved and picked at blocked pores on my skin; because it seems to prevent further inflammation and trauma that can often develop into a full-on break out (warning: do not use this on open sores or pimples). Picking and self-extraction is bad habit that I have, and when I see I’ve gone a little too far I panic, cleanse and apply the Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight. The next day my skin is always soothed and not worse as a result of my actions!
Since the product is so effective and is packed with active ingredients, exfoliators should not be used (the formula exfoliates your skin automatically), and sunblock the next day is non-negotiable. I use the SkinCeuticals Physical Matte UV Defense SPF 50 sunblock every day.
This is what my skin looks like – no photoshop and no make-up – after using it for around one month now:
You can see what’s left of a few old blemish scars – there’s only one really bold one left because it’s from my most recent (dairy-induced) zit.
SO WHAT’S THE BIG DEAL WITH GLYCOLIC ACID?
Alpha hydroxy acids, like glycolic acid weaken the bonds that hold dead skin cells onto the surface of the skin. Once these dead cells have been removed, it stimulates cellular turnover, which thereby enhances the skin’s glow, brightening its appearance and minimizing fine line lines. Since Skinceuticals managed to stabilize and include a true 10% glycolic free acid formula in this cream, not only does it correct, but it has anti-aging effects too.
WHAT ELSE IS IN IT?
The formula contains 2% phytic acid which provides dual-action exfoliation and promotes skin clarity and glow by preventing the causes of skin dullness. It also has 1% soothing complex of botanical waxes (including jojoba and sunflower seed oil) which creates a comfortable and breathable layer that also protects and locks in moisture.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST? IS IT WORTH IT?
The current retail price is R1528 for 50ml, which I know, for some sounds steep. BUT, it’s important to note that SkinCeuticals is a cosmeceutical medical grade skincare brand, which backed by science and healthcare professionals (including my doctor) and more effective than cosmetic and spa skincare. I will go as far as saying in general SkinCeuticals products are the fastest working products I’ve ever used, and the results are truly quantifiable. Previously I had excellent results with the Blemish & Age Defense Corrector (also one of Dr Leila’s favourites) and I honestly feel the Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight is an even better corrector and better value for money, not only for its result, but because you’re getting about four times more product with multiple functions for around R200 more.
WHERE CAN I PURCHASE IT?
Click here to shop Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight and here to shop all other SkinCeuticals products.
From treatments to products and diet, I’ve tried it ALL to get back the clear and scar-free, glowing skin I once had. I can confidently say that although I do use other skincare products (especially when my skin is in a good state and doesn’t need too much TLC), SkinCeuticals is still by far my favourite skincare range, and the Glycolic 10 Renew Overnight is a fantastic addition to their collection.
xx
By sharing her personal style, fashion and beauty advice, written reflections and more, Fashion Breed is a place for women to learn, relate and connect.
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