I’ve been wanting to add retinol to my skincare regimen because from what I’ve researched, retinol is touted as the be-all-end-all of anti-aging skincare, and is one of the only skincare products with real science behind it. It is made from vitamin A and promotes faster skin cell turnover—I definitely need THAT!
So when the folks from Rustan’s The Beauty Source invited me to the launch of Murad’s latest skincare collection I was excited!
Retinol Youth Renewal Serum, Night Cream & Eye Serum
The claims:
Serum: Murad has perfected the science of Retinol with this breakthrough serum, powered by Retinol Tri-Active Technology: a fast-acting Retinoid, a time-released Retinol, and a Retinol booster. This potent, yet gentle, formula quickly and visibly minimizes lines and deep wrinkles, firms, evens skin tone and boosts radiance for more vibrant, youthful-looking skin.
Night Cream: Activate youth while you sleep. This luxurious Retinol night cream, powered by breakthrough Retinol Tri-Active Technology, delivers transformative results to visibly minimize lines and wrinkles and smooth skin’s texture. A peptide-rich Red Algae Extract helps improve firmness and elasticity to restore youthful contours. This intensely nourishing overnight cream melts into skin for a supple, vibrant complexion.
Eye Serum: This potent treatment minimizes the look of wrinkles and crow’s feet while infusing skin with a nutrient-rich Marine Kelp Complex to lift, firm and visibly brighten dark circles. See more revitalized, youthful-looking eyes starting in
Solution for:
Fine lines & wrinkles
Loss of firmness
Rough texture
Dryness
Who should use retinol products? “Retinol, or vitamin A, is best for 30+ skin with fine lines and wrinkles, however you can start using retinols younger if you want to. Younger skin types may not see the effects as much as older skin types as they have less age concerns, however prevention is better than cure. Retinol can enhance collagen production to prevent the formation of future lines and wrinkles. Combined with a high SPF and vitamin C in the morning, you are setting yourself up for great skin for life.” Source
My experience after using the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Collection after 5 consecutive nights:
I used all three Murad Retinol Youth products for five consecutive nights. This was my night time skincare regimen: I did a double cleanse using Always Sunday Coco Shake Oil Cleanser / Makeup Remover Brightening Foaming Wash and Milk Froth Brightening Foaming Wash then I used the Pink Punch Clarifying Toner. After prepping my skin (make sure it’s super dry before going on to the next skincare step to ensure that your face fully absorbs the retinol), I applied the Murad Retinol Youth Eye Serum followed by the Face Serum and then I smother the Night Cream on my face last. Since I have dry skin, I also used a few drops of Always Sunday Amethyst Crystal Elixir Face Oil to seal in the moisture, especially because I sleep with the airconditioner on.
After using it for 5 consecutive nights, the texture of my face became smoother. AH-MAY-ZING! #truetoitspromise
Pro: Since prescription-strength retinols can be harsh on the skin, the Murad Retinol Youth collection, particularly the serum, was gentle on my dry, sensitive skin yet effective in smoothening my skin’s surface. My face is not only smooth, it’s glassy smooth!
Con: I did not see much difference under my eye area after using it for five consecutive nights (I did notice a slight difference after using it for two weeks—3x a week on the 2nd week).
Verdict: The major change was the smooth texture of my skin. This collection is impressive on how fast and effective the results are. It has become a part of my night time skin regimen (I use it 3x a week) as it helps stimulate collagen production while also protecting my skin against wrinkles.
TBH, it’s a bit price-y but I don’t feel guilty recommending it as it really works. If you must buy just one item, get the Murad Retinol Youth Renewal Serum and just use a night cream and an eye cream that you already have.
Murad is available at Rustan’s The Beauty Source
Full disclosure: I was gifted the Murad Retinol Youth collection. I tried and tested all the products and all thoughts and opinions are my own.