Yahoo Lifestyle Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung's favourite retinol is surprisingly affordable
Retinol, the most famous member of the retinoid family, has steadily become the skincare world's most popular anti-ageing ingredient, with brands incorporating it into all kinds of serums, creams and lotions for the face and body. But, despite retinol's widespread availability – or because of it – we all want a personal recommendation as to the formula worth our time and money. Even if you're Sienna Miller.
"This is a really fantastic secret," the actress says of her favourite retinoid, A313 by Pharma Développement, in the above video, where she shares the contents of her bulging beauty bag.
"Alexa Chung told me about it because she's got the most amazing skin, and it’s described as 'the French-girl secret to great skin' – so we all need that," she continues, wielding the medical-looking tube.
Despite the double A-list endorsement, the wonder product in question doesn't come with an inaccessible price tag. In fact, quite the opposite; A313 is currently available for less than £20 on Amazon.
A313 vitamin A pommade
But what's so special about the unassuming ointment? Well, it actually contains a mild retinol ester – retinyl palmitate – which is a combination of retinol and the fatty acid palmitic. Not only is this specific version of vitamin A effective at at preventing visible signs of ageing, but it boasts antioxidant properties that protect the skin.
The product also harnesses two types of polyethylene glycol (PEG) alongside the retinyl palmitate, which stabilise the vitamin A and help it penetrate more efficiently. Ergo, it's touted as a gentle, while potent, skincare hero.
What its humble price might reveal, however, is that it's not the most elegant of formulations; the texture is thick, with the viscosity of Vaseline. That said, a little therefore goes a long way, making its value even more remarkable.
As per the countless rave reviews online (in addition to the endorsements of bona fide beauty icons), while it takes a bit of getting used to, stick with it and "you will see the benefits". However, any retinol product should be adopted with caution – especially if you're a vitamin A newbie. For expert advice on how to build tolerance, read up on everything you need to know about retinol, here.
You Might Also Like
