Medik8

Renude

blemishes

dull skin

enlarged pores

fine lines

firmness

pigmentation

scarring

uneven texture

wrinkles

I have chosen this medium strength retinol night treatment to smooth skin, tackle congestion and reduce the visible signs of ageing you mention as concerns.

encapsulated retinaldehyde

Vitamin A, aka Retinol, is one of the most well-researched actives used in skincare today. Retinol and all of its derivatives are broken down within the skin first into retinaldehyde, then into retinoic acid, the active form recognised by the body to trigger it’s skin benefits.

Retinoic acid (aka tretinoin) is the gold standard of anti-ageing and works in a number of ways. Firstly, it blocks the production of collagen-degrading enzymes, meaning collagen does not get broken down as quickly in the skin. After prolonged use (6M+), it has also been shown to stimulate the production of type I and type III collagen, reducing wrinkles and improving skin firmness. It has been shown to protect against UV-induced damage, as well as reducing the appearance of hyperpigmentation in the skin. Skin treated with retinoids is smoother, more even-toned, firmer and younger looking.

3-0-Ethyl ascorbic acid is a modified version of L-ascorbic acid (pure Vitamin C), designed to improve its stability and skin penetration abilities, to achieve optimum skin benefits. Once absorbed into the skin, the ethyl group is removed, and l-ascorbic acid is returned to its active form, where it can best support the skin to achieve visible brightening & anti-ageing results.

ethyl ascorbic acid

Vitamin C has many skin benefits, including its action as an antioxidant, to neutralise free radicals (reactive molecules with an unpaired electron), preventing them from causing damage to cells within the body. Vitamin C is also involved in the collagen-production process, so provides anti-wrinkle activity through this mechanism. Lastly, Vitamin C inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin-synthesis, and can therefore visibly reduce areas of hyperpigmentation in the skin.

Sodium hyaluronate is the sodium salt of hyaluronic acid (a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body), created to improve the ingredient stability. It works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

sodium hyaluronate

Hyaluronic acid is a polysaccharide which occurs naturally in the body. Hyaluronic acid works as an extremely powerful humectant, able to attract 1000x its own weight in water, to immediately plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. The body’s own production of hyaluronic acid slows with age, so supplementing this ingredient in topical formulations helps to support the skin’s natural moisture-binding, anti-ageing mechanisms.

tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate

Tocopheryl acetate is a specific form of the fat-soluble Vitamin E, with improved stability vs. Tocopherol. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

tocopherol acetate

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble Vitamin contained in many plant oils, or can also be produced synthetically. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

Rediscover youthful skin with Crystal Retinal™, Medik8’s latest innovation in vitamin A is now available in four strengths. Formulated with stabilised retinal, a powerful derivative of vitamin A with next-generation anti-ageing results. Unmatched in its age-defying power, retinal can deliver results comparable to clinical-grade vitamin A up to 11 times faster than classic forms of retinol.1 The ground-breaking overnight serum visibly minimises fine lines and wrinkles; firming and plumping the complexion to resurface skin texture and soften the face. Featuring hyaluronic acid, glycerin and vitamin E, it hydrates skin at every level to deliver a supple, even-toned, more youthful-looking complexion. More than that, it actively helps reduce blemish-causing bacteria to keep skin clear and balanced. In just 4 weeks, skin is noticeably younger, smoother and undeniably radiant.

Retinoids are clinically proven in treating both acne and ageing concerns. These low-strength options are great for introducing sensitive skin to retinoids.

Beginner/sensitive retinoid serum picks

We consider Medik8 to be the Queen of retinoid innovation, and this serum does not disappoint. A great introduction to retinoids, it uses 0.01% encapsulated retinaldehyde, which has shown to deliver results 11x faster than retinol, without any of the commonly associated side effects (dry, flaky skin, redness, irritation). The silky lightweight creamy serum also includes glycerin, vitamin e and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin.

UK made

Cruelty free

Awarded

Vegan

dark circles

eye bags

undereye wrinkles

I have chosen this eye cream for your routine as a bit of an all-rounder for targeting the eye area. It includes peptides to help with fine lines, antioxidant plant extracts from saskatoon berry and dragon fruit extract, glycerin and hyaluronic acid to hydrate and plump, and caffeine to de-puff.

Arginine is an amino acid which occurs naturally within the human body. It is a popular ingredient in skincare for a number of reasons; it offers antioxidant protection, it hydrates the skin by stimulating the body's own production of humectants like urea and it can also repair visible skin damage.

arginine

Caffeine, derived from the coffee plant, is used in skincare as an antioxidant and a vasoconstricting agent. Its antioxidant properties help to protect against free radicals, neutralising them before they can cause damage to the skin cells. Its vasoconstricting abilities make it good for draining water retention from around the eye area, to reduce puff, and for reducing skin redness by constricting the capillaries whose dilation visually increases skin redness by passing blood closer to the skin’s surface.

caffeine

Glycerin is a humectant present in all natural lipids. It works to attract water molecules towards it, plumping & hydrating the applied area, resulting in smooth, soft, hydrated skin. It is one of the most widely used humectants in skincare, due to it’s high performance and broad availability (making it very cost-effective). Recent research has shown that it’s ability to penetrate the layers of the skin is superior to that of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid, making it a brilliant choice for overall skin hydration, and suitable for all skin types.

glycerin

Niacinamide, also known as Vitamin B3 and Nicotinamide, has many skincare benefits. Firstly, it regulates sebum production in the skin, which in turn reduces blemishes and visible pore size. It also reduces facial redness by improving microcirculation, which means moving the blood inside the capillaries away from the face to reduce visible redness. It also has the ability to strengthen the natural lipid barrier of the skin by encouraging ceramide production (the building blocks which seal our skin cells together), which in turn increases the hydration within the epidermis. Lastly, niacinamide works to help reduce hyperpigmentation by blocking melanin from being deposited on the skin cells.

niacinamide

palmitoyl tripeptide

Many peptides function as anti-ageing ingredients in skincare, due to their ability to fit specific receptors in the body to trigger anti-ageing responses. This includes mechanisms like collagen production, cell regeneration or even blocking muscle contractions to smooth expression lines. Peptides are made up of amino acids, and are unique in shape, with a huge variety available to target specific responses in the body.

palmotoyl tetrapeptide

Squalane is a natural substance usually derived from olives. It is structurally very similar to our skin’s own sebum, so is a great ingredient to support our own natural skin processes. In drier skin, which is naturally lacking in natural sebum, it helps to support the skin barrier to prevent water loss, which results in more hydrated, smooth and plump skin. Due to its sebum-mimicking structure, it is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t cause breakouts, so is also suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. It can be a great option to reduce any over-stimulation of the sebaceous glands, which can occur with excess cleansing (and make breakouts worse). It also works to support the skin barrier to combat any drying effects caused by ingredients commonly associated with acne treatment, so is a great ingredient for all skin types.

squalane

A nourishing yet fast absorbing night-time eye cream which strikes while cells are the most active: during the twilight hours.

barrier support

ultra dry skin

I have chosen this ultra-nourishing night cream for your evening routine, to really support the skin barrier and reduce any dryness or sensitivity in the skin. It is packed with barrier-supporting ingredients so perfect for those with drier skin types, or in combination with stronger actives in your routine to balance any drying effects.

Acetyl Glucosamine is an amino acid sugar

acetyl glucosamine

Amino acids are the small building blocks that make up peptides, and proteins. Each amino acid has a unique structure, and as such plays a specific role within the body. There are around 20 different types considered to be most important for human health. In the outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, they are present in the ‘natural moisturising factors’, our skin’s own moisturising mechanism, and they help to support water transport between skin cells to keep our surface smooth and hydrated.

amelanchier alnifolia (saskatoon berry) fruit extract

Saskatoon berries are small, purple berries, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to protect from free radical damage.

Caprooyl Phytosphingosine is a mixture of fatty acids Caproic acid and Phytosphingosine. It acts as a precursor for ceramide synthesis, meaning it encourages the skin to produce ceramides naturally.

The function of ceramides is to hold the skin cells together by creating a barrier against water-loss from the inside-out, and external aggressors from the outside-in. They make up almost 50% of our skins composition, but they can be depleted by UV, free radicals & pollution, and their production also naturally slows with age. This leads to an impaired skin barrier, which results in dry, rough skin with more visible wrinkling and redness. Encouraging the skin’s natural production of ceramides leads to an improved skin barrier, resulting in smoother, more hydrated, younger-looking skin.

caprooyl phytosphingosine

Our outer layer of the skin, the stratum corneum, has a multilamellar structure (essentially a fine membrane), made up of lipids (fats), to form a non-permeable barrier. This keeps water inside the skin, and acts as the first defense against external aggressors. The lipids which make up the majority of this are known as ceramides, which are produced naturally in the body from a range of other naturally-occurring lipids, which we class here as essential lipids (not the same as essential fatty acids, which are deemed ‘essential’ as the body cannot produce these naturally.) Using these lipids in skincare helps to support the natural skin barrier, preventing water-loss to keep skin hydrated and balanced.

Caprooyl Sphingosine is a mixture of fatty acids Caproic acid and Sphingosine. It acts as a precursor for ceramide synthesis, meaning it encourages the skin to produce ceramides naturally.

The function of ceramides is to hold the skin cells together by creating a barrier against water-loss from the inside-out, and external aggressors from the outside-in. They make up almost 50% of our skins composition, but they can be depleted by UV, free radicals & pollution, and their production also naturally slows with age. This leads to an impaired skin barrier, which results in dry, rough skin with more visible wrinkling and redness. Encouraging the skin’s natural production of ceramides leads to an improved skin barrier, resulting in smoother, more hydrated, younger-looking skin.

caprooyl sphingosine

ceramide

Ceramides are long chains of lipids, which occur naturally within the epidermis. Their function is to hold the skin cells together by creating a barrier against water-loss from the inside-out, and external aggressors from the outside-in. They make up almost 50% of our skins composition, but they can be depleted by UV, free radicals & pollution, and their production also naturally slows with age. This leads to an impaired skin barrier, which results in dry, rough skin with more visible wrinkling and redness. Applying ceramides topically can increase the levels of ceramides in the epidermis, and therefore supports the natural healthy functioning of the skin.

ceramide ap

ceramide eop

ceramide eos

ceramide np

ceramide ns

ferric hexapeptide

Phytosphingosine (PS) is a lipid which naturally occurs in the stratum corneum (the top, visible layer of our epidermis). This acts as a precursor for ceramide synthesis, meaning it encourages the skin to produce ceramides naturally.

Studies have also shown PS to offer anti-acne benefits, it is believed by reinforcing the protective barrier, and therefore reducing specific abnormalities in the skin functioning that lead to acne (invading inflammatory bacteria, increased keratinization, increased sebaceous gland activity).

phytosphingosine

This botanical extract is very high in polysaccharides, giving it great humectant qualities. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and some research shows this to have collagen-boosting properties.

tremella fuciformis (snow mushroom) extract

An advanced antioxidant night cream that works while you sleep to restore and deeply hydrate skin. Including Medik8’s Midnight Repair Complex™, which features powerful antioxidants such as dragon fruit extract, saskatoon berry and restoring peptides to encourage cell repair throughout the night. Advanced ceramides are used in an optimised ratio to help plump and hydrate skin as well as restoring its natural defence barriers. Powerful antioxidants work to counteract damage caused by free radicals throughout the day. Designed to be used after vitamin A, the formula works perfectly alongside retinol to moisturise skin and leave the complexion smooth, supple and younger-looking.

Peptides can stimulate specific mechanisms in the skin (e.g. collagen production), so are great ingredients for keeping skin looking youthful for longer.

Youth-boosting moisturiser picks

This formula has been clinically proven to lift, firm and add volume to the skin. It contains high levels of maltobionic acid to gently resurface, smooth & brighten the skin, alongside anti-ageing peptides to firm and lift, and acetyl glucosamine to brighten and natural resveratrol (from grape extract), to act as a powerful antioxidant. Oil free, non-comedogenic.

Packed with naturally-occurring constituents of the skin barrier, such as ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids, this formula is great for nourishing drier skin or supporting strong actives like retinoids or acids in your routine. It also contains peptides to firm, acetyl glucosamine to brighten, and dragonfruit extract to tighten.

This rich cream works by delivering hyaluronic acid into the skin, whilst stimulating the skins own production of this powerful humectant to deliver long term hydration to the skin. It also works to plump the skin, boost radiance and provide visible anti-ageing effects, with a user trial showing that after 4 weeks, 82% agreed their wrinkles appeared reduced.

Nourishing, yet quick to absorb, this fuss-free moisturiser contains two different peptides, to firm skin and reduce fine lines. Alongside this, glycerin as a humectant to hydrate, and Vitamin E as an antioxidant.

This afforable nourishing formula contains a blend of ingredients to support overall skin health. A seaweed-derived collagen works to plump and hydrate the skin, lactic acid gently exfoliates, magnesium pca boosts radiance and shea butter nourishes.

I have chosen this day cream and your moisturiser & SPF step, as it hydrates the skin whilst providing against UV and environemental damage. It include two powerful antioxidants, Vitamin C and Superoxide dismutase, to help protect from free radicals, alongside Hyaluronic acid to hydrate and Carnosine to prevent wrinkle formation. A great all-round multifunctional product to address your needs.

Carnosine is a peptide used in skincare as an antioxidant and a soothing agent. Research also shows this also has an effect against glycation (a process which accelerates ageing).

carnosine

Ectoin is an emollient used in skincare to help maintain moisture balance in the skin. New research shows it may also be able to protect against certain environmental aggressors, such as pollutants and UV. This is believed to be down to its antioxidant properties, as well as the ability to protect skin from dehydration from the surrounding environment.

ectoin

moringa oleifera seed extract

Moringa seeds contain a wealth of over 30 antioxidants, helping to provide protection against free radical damage. It also contains Vitamina A, C and E and is thought to have skin soothing abilities.

Superoxide dismutase is an enzyme produced naturally in the body, specifically to break down the free radical superoxide (an oxygen with an excess electron and thus a negative charge). It is considered to be the body’s most important antioxidant and works by catalysing the conversion of superoxide, into elemental oxygen (O2) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), a process known as dismutation. This action is part of the body’s natural anti-ageing mechanism, so including this ingredient in skincare supports this natural protection process.

superoxide dismutase

Our most advanced day cream ever. Combining comprehensive environmental protection in a deeply hydrating SPF 30 moisturiser to help prevent premature skin ageing. Advanced Day Total Protect includes Pollution Shield, anti-infrared, anti-blue light and anti-A.G.E technology alongside SPF 30 and 5* UVA protection all in a lightweight moisturiser. Effectively protecting skin from free-radical damage, this is the ultimate daily hydrator for total environmental protection. Despite the high SPF, the advanced moisturiser is super-light and has an invisible finish, making it the perfect daily cream. Fine lines and wrinkles are visibly reduced and future skin ageing is prevented.

Broad-spectrum sunscreen is the cornerstone in every skincare routine. These SPF30 formulas are lightweight and layer well over the rest of your routine.

Daily SPF30 Sunscreen picks

Hailed as their most advanced protection formula, this Medik8 cream includes protection against pollution, blue light, infra-red and glycation (one of the body's ageing mechanisms), whilst boasting broad-spectrum SPF30. A solid all-rounder option for moisturising and protecting in one.

This non pore-clogging SPF30 uses patented mousse technology, which allows the formula to bind to our skin's surface, creating a uv shield which lasts for up to 6 hours. It also includes collagen, hyaluronic acid and vitamins c and e, to deliver antioxidant protection, hydration and anti-ageing benefits to boot.

lack of radiance

redness

An exceptional alternative for those who are unsuitable for retinoids. This multitasking serum combines baukuchiol to help improve signs of aging along side of skin brightening peptides to boost radiance, skin tone and smooth texture. This nourishing serum also combines centella asiatica and Inka omega oil to reduce inflammation, calm redness and strengthen and replenish the skin barrier.

aloe barbadensis leaf extract

Aloe vera has been used for millennia as a natural medicine across many regions of the world, with references as early as Cleopatra using it as part of her beauty routine. It contains around 75 active constituents, including Vitamins A,C & E to provide antioxidant protection, 8 enzymes to inhibit inflammatory processes in the body and 9 different minerals to support the body’s natural functioning. It also includes sugars to provide hydrating humectant properties, fatty acids to provide anti-inflammatory & antiseptic properties, and hormones to promote wound healing. 

bakuchiol

Bakuchiol has been dubbed as ‘nature’s retinol’ due to its ability to achieve some of the same skin benefits (without the side effects). Studies have shown this plant active, when used twice daily, to result in visible improvements in wrinkle depth, skin smoothness, elasticity & uneven skin tone.

Centella asiatica, also known as 'Cica' or 'Gotu Kala' is a medicinal herb that has been used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for centuries. It is primarily used in skincare for its soothing, hydrating and antioxidant properties.

centella asiatica leaf extract

Jojoba oil is a natural oil from the jojoba plant. It is structurally similar to our skin's natural sebum (oil), so absorbs very well into the skin and doesn't clog the pores. It is fantastic for nourishing the skin and is naturally high in fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins to optimise skin barrier health.

jojoba oil

Smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving overall skin texture and tone with this plant-based vitamin A (retinol) alternative.Harnessing the clinically proven but gentle power of 1.25% bakuchiol (pronounced 'bak-oo-chi-ol'), Bakuchiol Peptides is the perfect age-defying option for those who can't use retinol (e.g. during pregnancy or while nursing). This lightweight and calming serum works to deliver a visibly smoother, plumper, and youthful-looking complexion that's more even in tone and texture. Plus, another of Medik8's innovative stability systems ensures the formula remains potent and effective until the very last drop..

I have chosen this 97% oil-free moisturiser to balance and soothe blemish-prone skin. This mattifying formula includes natural pre and probiotics to support the skin's bacterial ecosystem, alongside soothing actives to calm inflammation and support a healthy skin barrier.

alpha-glucan oligosaccharide

Prebiotics in simple terms, can be classed as a food source that encourages the growth of good bacteria on the skin. The microbiome (the ecosystem of bacteria on the skin) is a relatively new discovery and we are learning that this is linked to many different aspects of our health, mood and appearance. A diverse breadth in the strains of bacteria living on the skin results in a healthy microbiome, and some early research has linked certain imbalances in this microbiome to skin conditions such as acne, ezcema and psoriasis.

Beta Glucans are polysaccharides found naturally in oats, fungi, seaweed and yeast. They are best known for its skin-soothing properties, showing excellent effects at reducing redness and other symptoms of sensitive skin. They do this via barrier-supporting properties, as they form a film on the skin’s surface to offer protection against daily environmental stressors, which can aggravate sensitive skin. They also stimulate macrophage function in the body (immune cells which fight invading bacteria), so offer added benefit to those with already compromised skin barriers more susceptible to bacterial infection, for example ezcema-prone or or drier skin types. Their polysaccharide nature makes them an effective humectant, meaning they can draw water molecules towards them to plump and hydrate the area.

beta glucan

Cinnamon bark acts as a natural antibacterial to help prevent the growth of acne-causing bacteria. It is also thought to regulate sebum production to prevent pores from becoming blocked. As it is a plant extract, it is naturally high in antioxidants which offer the skin protection against free radical damage.

cinnamomum zeylanicum bark extract

Lactobacillus Extract Filtrate is a cell-free extract (CFE) of the lactobacillus microorganism. This means it is no longer a living bacteria (probiotic), but an extract of a once-living bacteria, which functions as a prebiotic. This active has been shown via clinical studies from the manufacturer, Evonik, to encourage the growth of beneficial skin bacteria, as well as support the natural skin barrier function, helping to protect against skin roughness and dryness.

lactobacillus extract filtrate

Saccharide Isomerate (trade name: Pentavitin), is a plant-derived carbohydrate used as a hydrating ingredient in skincare. It carbohydrate structure allows it to function as a humectant, drawing water towards it to plump and hydrate the area it is applied to. Studies from the manufacturer have shown that this hydrating effect can still be measured 72 hours after application, due to the ingredients superior ability to bind to the skin.

saccharide isomerate

Humectants are hydrophilic (water-loving) ingredient type that are able to attract water towards them via charges between the molecules. They are therefore brilliant hydrators, and are able to plump out fine lines and wrinkles via surface hydration to provide an anti-ageing effect.

This daily moisturiser works with the skin’s natural mechanisms to balance the complexion and boost hydration, leaving a mattifying effect that looks flawless underneath make-up. Lightweight and silky soft, it blends easily across the skin, sinking in effortlessly to provide a matte and visibly nourished complexion. Its delicate citrusy scent is derived from natural essential oils that have been carefully selected to refresh and uplift. The Glycolic Acid Activator instantly dissolves into the skin as a perfect base for Balance Moisturiser to get to work.

These moisturisers contain high concentrations of niacinamide, which helps to regulate sebum production in the skin to reduce blemishes and blackheads.

Niacinamide moisturiser picks

This 97% oil-free formula focuses on balancing the skin's microbiome (the ecosystem of bacteria on the skin, which when out of whack can lead to skin imbalances like acne). It includes a host of prebiotics to encourage a healthy microbiome, alongside niacinamide to regulate sebum and fade post-blemish pigmentation, and beta glucan to soothe inflammation. It comes with a glycolic acid activator which can be used as a treatment a few times per week to deep clean the skin to reduce breakouts further.

This moisturiser is rich in ceramides to support the skin's natural lipid barrier, alongside niacinamide to balance oil production and encourage natural ceramide production in the skin, plus glycerin and hyaluronic acid to hydrate.

This hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic moisturiser combines 5% niacinamide to regulate sebum production and minimise post-blemish pigmentation, alongside omega fatty acids to support the natural lipid barrier, so is a great option to support the skin whilst using stronger anti-blemish actives in your routine such as retinoids and acids, which can disrupt this barrier.

I have chosen this add-on to your regime as a targeted blemish treatment. As soon as you feel the blemish under the skin, start applying this twice daily and it should go down within 24H (but keep applying morning and evening until you can't feel any pain when you touch the area - with clean hands!).

Azelaic acid is found naturally in grains such as barley, wheat and rye, but can also be produced commercially in the lab. It has several benefits in skincare including as an anti-inflammatory, with evidence showing great results in treating rosacea symptoms (swelling & redness) via this mechanism.

Azelaic also has an anti-blemish activity - firstly, it is an antibacterial which works to kill acne-causing bacteria, P.Acnes. Secondly, it prevents pores becoming blocked by the skin’s natural shedding process, which makes it harder for this bacteria to populate inside the pore to cause a blemish (it needs an oxygen-free environment to thrive).

Studies have also shown azelaic acid to inhibit melanogenesis (production of melanin), so also has benefits in treating hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory acne scarring. It has good skin tolerability, so can be used to treat more sensitive skin types in concentrations of around 10%.

azelaic acid

octadecenedioic acid

Dioic acid is a naturally-occurring acid found in plant and animal fats/oils. It is used in skincare for its ability to regulate sebum production in the skin, as well as it’s antibacterial action against acne-causing P.Acnes bacteria. It has also been shown to visibly reduce hyperpigmentation, with results being comparable to that of hydroquinone (the gold standard prescription for treating hyperpigmentation).

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), which occurs naturally in willow bark. Salicylic acid works as an exfoliating acid to dissolve the keratin that binds the outermost layers of the skin, encouraging the natural exfoliation process of the skin.

Due to its oil-soluble form, salicylic acid can penetrate inside the pore, to clear out dead skin cell build up and prevent comedones (blocked pores) from occurring, or acne-causing bacteria to overpopulate within the pore. This P.Acnes bacteria is anaerobic so needs an oxygen-free environment to thrive, and thus require a pore to be blocked.

salicylic acid

Visibly reduce breakouts in just 24 hours* with Blemish SOS. This rapid action treatment gel works quickly to diminish blemishes while remaining completely invisible on the skin. That means no dry residue. Infused with maximum strength salicylic acid and soothing niacinamide, the dual-action formula clears pores and calms inflammation to promote a flawless, healthy complexion. The fast-acting formula is also enriched with azelaic acid to fight blemish-causing bacteria and dioic acid to help control oil production within the skin. Simply apply the quick-drying formula to clean skin, on its own or under make-up, to instantly target individual blemishes or problem areas. Complete with a handbag-friendly tube, this fuss-free gel can be used at home or on-the-go to see you through any skin emergency.

A targeted spot treatment is a great add-on to your routine for emergencies - these contain acids to unclog pores and heal the blemish.

Spot treatment picks

The formula contains salicylic acid to clear out the pores, niacinamide to soothe inflammation and regulate oil production, and azelaic acid to fight blemish-causing bacteria. It has been shown to visibly reduce breakouts within 24H of use.

I have chosen this soothing formula as your daily moisturiser, to address skin redness, as well as offering anti-ageing benefits via non-irritating natural actives.

aloe barbadensis (aloe vera) leaf juice

Aloe vera has been used for millennia as a natural medicine across many regions of the world, with references as early as Cleopatra using it as part of her beauty routine. It contains around 75 active constituents, including Vitamins A,C & E to provide antioxidant protection, 8 enzymes to inhibit inflammatory processes in the body and 9 different minerals to support the body’s natural functioning. It also includes sugars to provide hydrating humectant properties, fatty acids to provide anti-inflammatory & antiseptic properties, and hormones to promote wound healing.

avena sativa (oat) kernel extract

Oat extract is known to have soothing, anti-inflammatory effects in the skin, and is a popular active for treating symptoms of dry skin. It also has antioxidant properties so is able to protect the skin against free radicals caused by pollution and UV.

Bisabolol is a naturally-occurring active found in the chamomile plant, although this can also be created synthetically. It’s key properties are as an anti-inflammatory and soothing agent, with some studies also showing it to have a brightening effect on the skin. Bisabolol is also a rich source of Panthenol (Vitamin B5), which acts as a humectant, meaning it draws water molecules towards it to plump and hydrate the area. Studies have also shown that bisabolol can enhance the penetration of other actives into the skin, so is great when used in combination with other actives designed to work at the basal layer of the epidermis, or in fact the dermis.

bisabolol

White tea is a potent antioxidant, so is able to help protect against free radical damage. It is also thought to have anti-ageing properties by inhibiting the action of collagen and elastin-degrading enzymes in the skin.

camellia sinensis (white tea) leaf extract

chrysanthemum parthenium (feverfew) flower extract

Feverfew is a flower species, belonging to the daisy family, rich in active flavonoids and alpha-pinene. It has been used in ancient medicine for centuries to treat everything from headaches, constipation, vertigo, worms, spasms & arthritis. One of the oil-soluble flavonoids, Tanetin, has been shown to modulate inflammatory responses in the body, whilst other flavonoids provide antioxidant protection. Alpha-pinene provides anti-inflammatory benefits, as well as exhibiting powerful antimicrobial activity.

Perfluorodecalin is a synthetic active, used in skincare to dissolve and deliver oxygen into the skin. A lack of oxygen in the skin can cause unwanted bacteria to populate, for example in conditions like acne and rosacea. Adding extra oxygen into the skin, creates a hostile environment for these anaerobic (oxygen-hating) bacteria to survive.

perfluorodecalin

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate (PAD) is a water-soluble derivative of azelaic acid which conveys many of the same benefits as pure azelaic acid. It is a gentle anti-inflammatory so is suitable for sensitive skin, and is able to improve rosacea and acne symptoms, as well as fading pigmentation left from acne.

Potassium Azeloyl Diglycinate

silybum marianum (milk thistle) fruit extract

Milk thistle extract is used in skincare for it’s soothing and skin-restoring abilities, as well as its antioxidant abilities.

Tackle the signs of ageing and redness in one cream. A multi-action treatment for redness-prone skin, containing bakuchiol which offers retinol-like anti-ageing results without irritation, at clinical trial levels. Mineral green pigments quickly blend with your skin tone upon application, instantly neutralising redness for a more even complexion. Niacinamide and aloe vera soothe and calm skin to keep sensitivity at bay. Perfluorodecalin infuses skin with oxygen to help support the natural healing process. Caffeine helps to reduce the size of blood vessels to diffuse the appearance of flushing. Perfect for use under make-up or alone for quick colour correction and all-day hydration. The restorative cream provides immediate relief for all types of redness including rosacea, thread veins and redness caused by blemishes. Calmwise Colour Correct is an alcohol-free formula which helps to reduce discomfort, prevent environmental damage and reduce skin reactivity; all while soothing and calming redness.

I have chosen this soothing, non-comedogenic oil-serum to target redness and inflammation in the skin. The key active in the formula has been proven to reduce redness after 1 months use, so you should see visible results quickly with this serum.

Sage is a plant extract, naturally high in antioxidants which offer the skin protection from free radical damage. Sage has additional anti-inflammatory benefits which helps to soothe skin which is prone to redness.

salvia officinalis (sage) extract

Teprenone, a synthetic active produced by manufacturer Sederma, is believed to provide all-round anti-ageing benefits by supporting the cells natural replication process, and preventing telomere lengthening in the process. Whilst the research is not robust enough to prove this, the study carried out showed promising in-vivo results after 1 month, with instrumental results showing an improvement in skin firmness, elasticity & tone. The same study also showed an improvement in skin smoothness and skin redness, as well as a reduction in pore size.

teprenone

tocopheryl acetate

A soothing recipe of just 7 ingredients to calm redness and provide intensive relief to sensitive skin. By improving the skin’s natural barrier function, this nourishing sage-infused serum helps to combat all kinds of redness, including flare-ups caused by day-to-day environmental stress, irritants and dryness. Crafted with teprenone, a patented anti-redness ingredient designed to restore stressed, angry skin. Clinical trials have shown that teprenone can reduce redness by up to 30% after just 1 month of use as well as reducing visible signs of ageing.* As the ultimate restorative serum, it improves skin firmness and hydration, leaving skin supple and glowing. Overtime, Calmwise Serum leaves damaged, sore skin looking calm and feeling comfortable.

These serums have been formulated to reduce redness in the skin, using clinically-proven technologies to soothe and reduce reactivity.

Redness reducing serum picks

A non-comedogenic, lightweight oil formula, this serum includes terprenone and sage extract as it's core active ingredients. Terprenone has been clinically proven to reduce redness by 30% after 1 month of daily use. Sage extract acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant to soothe and protect the skin.

This is a fantastic all-round serum for reducing redness and inflammation in the skin. It contains neurophroline, which works by blocking cortisol (our stress hormone), in the skin, and therefore reducing the impact of stress on the skin, in turn reducing redness.

Unfragranced

I have chosen this gentle daily cleanser for you to address inflammation. With actives to soothe, strengthen & protect the skin, it should help to calm redness and reduce any associated discomfort.

brassica oleracea capitata (cabbage) leaf extract

Cabbage Leaf Extract is a natural extract rich in flavonoids and anthocyans. Flavonoids are plant polyphenols which offer antioxidant protection against reactive free radicals. Anthocyans are substances produced by the plant in nature to protect against environmental stressors: UV radiation, oxidation & temperature. Studies have also shown that Cabbage Leaf extract provides anti-inflammatory benefits when applied topically to the skin. 

Chorophyll is a plant substance which is naturally high in vitamins and contains a high concentration of antioxidants, which helps protect the skin.

chlorophyllin-copper complex

Turmeric is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm skin irritation. It also has antioxidant properties to help protect against free radical damage.

curcuma longa (tumeric) root extract

Phytonadione epoxide, the INCI name for Vitamin K1 oxide, is an oxidised version of Vitamin K1, a naturally occurring vitamin found in certain plants and algae.

phytonadione epoxide

Vitamin K1 is a naturally occurring vitamin found in certain plants and algae.

This extremely gentle formula is designed to reduce cell sensitivity and to prevent the development of facial redness and flushing. Vitamin-rich ingredients repair enlarged and broken capillaries, to minimise their appearance at the surface, while botanical oils soothe and calm. New ingredient Green Chlorophyll heals delicate skin and provides vital antioxidant benefits while Vitamin K improves skin's overall health. Used daily, it lightly removes make-up, impurities and debris without stripping the skin of its essential lipids, leaving it feeling refreshed and balanced every time.

These soothing cleansers have been specifically formulated for those with sensitive, redness-prone skin types to provide the very gentlest of cleanses.

Soothing cleanser picks

This gel to oil to milk cleanser is fantastic for offering a thorough cleanse whilst keeping skin perfectly balanced. The formula has even undergone clinical testing to prove that it causes no irritation within the skin.

Specifically designed to reduce redness in the skin, this gentle foam formula includes Teprenone to reduce redness and support the skin barrier, alongside chlorophyll to provide antioxidant protection, and Vitamin K to reduce inflammation and promote healing. Sweet Orange oil gives it a blissful uplifting fragrance.

This ultra-gentle, fragrance-free formula removes make-up and impurities without disrupting the delicate lipid barrier. Using minimal ingredients, and housed in packaging which keeps the formula from needing any preservatives, this is a fantastic option for hyper-sensitive skin or those with an impaired barrier.

This award-winning creamy cleanser is ultra gentle on the skin, and cleanses without stripping. The formula has an oat milk base, for which the oats are grown on the Q+A farm and contains oat seed oil which is rich in fatty acids to support the skin barrier.

I have chosen this gentle clarifying cleanser for you to tackle congestion in the skin. It contains soothing Vitamins E and B3 to hydrate and calm inflammation, alongside Salicylic and Mandelic acids to unblock pores, and Tea tree oil to purify, making it a great choice for congested, irritatated skin.

Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), derived from bitter almonds. AHAs work by dissolving the keratin binding the outermost layer of skin cells, speeding up the skin’s natural exfoliation process. This leads to smoother, brighter, clearer skin, whilst reducing skin discolouration & fine lines/wrinkles with continued use.

Mandelic acid has a larger molecular weight vs. other acids in the AHA category. It is twice the molecular weight of glycolic acid for example (the smallest AHA on the market), so it tends to be better tolerated than smaller AHAs, which penetrate the skin much faster. Research also shows that mandelic acid is particularly effective at improving some forms of pigmentation, compared with other AHAs.

mandelic acid

Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant, native to Australia. Tea tree leaf oil is known to have antibacterial qualities, the mechanism for this is not completely understood, but research shows that it could be due to an ability to damage the bacterial cell wall.

It also has anti-inflammatory effects, due to its content of terpen-4-ol, which studies have shown reduces inflammation in the skin when applied topically. These functions make it a great ingredient for the use in acne treatments, both to kill p.acnes bacteria, but also reduce the associated inflammation.

melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) leaf oil

Tocopherol, aka Vitamin E, is a fat-soluble Vitamin contained in many plant oils, or can also be produced synthetically. Vitamin E is found naturally in our own skin, and it’s main benefit is to offer powerful antioxidant protection against pollution and free radical damage. It also helps to support our skin’s natural lipid barrier, which in turn improves the hydration levels within the epidermis, as water loss through the skin is minimised.

tocopherol

Gently remove daily oil, impurities and make-up with Clarifying Foam, an easy-to-use cleanser designed for blemish-prone skin. This deeply purifying, antibacterial foaming cleanser unclogs pores and lightly exfoliates the skin without causing dryness or irritation. An exfoliating blend of mandelic acid and salicylic acid is teamed with natural tea tree oil to renew and detoxify the complexion, while soothing niacinamide calms the appearance of problematic skin. This ensures the skin’s natural protective oils are left balanced and blemish-causing bacteria are diminished. Over time, tone and texture of skin is significantly improved.

I have chosen this multi-functional serum for your routine to brighten and even skin tone whilst reducing congestion and targeting fine lines. It's a perfect all-rounder, with 10% niacinamide, peptide, hyaluronic acid and zinc pca.

Zinc PCA is a synthetic active, derived from zinc and pyrrolidone carboxylic acid. Zinc is known to regulate sebum production, as well as inhibit the growth of the P.Acnes bacteria to improve acne symptoms. PCA is a component of the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF), which acts as a humectant to draw water to it, and when synthesized with zinc, it can actually improve the efficacy of zinc, by making it more bioavailable and easily-absorbed.

Studies have also shown that zinc PCA can inhibit the activity of destructive enzymes within the skin, therefore providing a protective, anti-ageing mechanism to the skin. 

zinc pca

Zinc is known to regulate sebum production, as well as inhibit the growth of the P.Acnes bacteria to improve acne symptoms.

This nourishing and clarifying peptide-infused serum absorbs immediately, helping to create a luminous-looking complexion.

These treatments contain niacinamide, which works to regulate oil production, minimise redness, fade hyperpigmentation and support the skin barrier.

Niacinamide treatment picks

This serum combines 10% niacinamide alongside peptides. So you get all of the multi-functional benefits of niacinamide, alongside the youth-boosting properties of peptides.

Medik8 Crystal Retinal 1

Description

How to use

Ingredients