How retinol and niacinamide became the power couple of anti-ageing skin care

Behind every good skin care product there’s often a hero active ingredient. But what can really level up results is when two of those heroes come together.

Retinol and niacinamide are two of the most powerful, dermatologist-recommended actives in their own right. And while some actives can’t be combined, this duo has come together to tackle the signs of skin ageing in one genius formula.

But first, let’s brush up on the benefits of the pair…

The benefits of retinol

Retinol has long been the gold standard ingredient in anti-ageing skin care. It’s a favourite amongst dermatologists because of how effectively it increases cell turnover and improves skin texture. Think: dead cells replaced with fresh active cells.

It helps to stimulate all the good stuff our skin naturally produces (which slows down as we age), like collagen, hyaluronic acid and elastin. Given it can do all that, it’s no wonder it’s the most-known ingredient for renewing the skin and visibly reducing wrinkles.

The benefits of niacinamide

Niacinamide also has a stellar reputation. Dermatologists love it for its ability to smooth and brighten the skin, particularly when it comes to dealing with hyperpigmentation.

Targeting this common sign of ageing, niacinamide actually inhibits the transfer of melanin in the skin AKA the cause of pigment (which results in brown and dark spots).

Also known as vitamin B3, the active’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties overall help to create a more even, healthy-looking complexion. Who doesn’t want that?!

Why they work so well together

Now it’s time to formally introduce you to the product that harnesses this power couple: the new L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Retinol + Niacinamide Pressed Cream ($59.95 at Chemist Warehouse).

It cleverly blends the anti-ageing duo into a deeply hydrating night cream to visibly reduce wrinkles and brighten skin in just 14 nights.*

“When we combine retinol, known for its ability to fight key signs of ageing such as wrinkles and uneven skin texture, and niacinamide, which helps soothe and brighten skin, the result is an intense dual action,” says Elisabeth Bouhadana, Global Scientific Director L’Oréal Paris International. “This specific association really brings something new, because wrinkles are not the only sign of premature ageing.”

With this breakthrough, multiple signs of ageing can be tackled simultaneously, rather than seeking separate products for each separate issue.

Not only that, it’s housed in an innovative, hygienic pressed jar for the perfect single dosage with each press. Convenient and genius.

The results don’t lie

If you’re worried combining these ingredients together might dim their power, don’t be.

The development team behind the pressed cream specifically searched for the best actives to not only work alongside retinol, but that would deliver its powers to the skin more effectively.

In clinical testing, skin was found to feel deeply moisturised and hydrated after a single application^. And in just 14 nights, wrinkles were visibly reduced and skin tone more even*.

Some heroes just work better together. It’s why we have The Avengers, after all.

*Cosmeto-clinical study, 31 women, 2 weeks.

^Clinical tests among 59 women representing Fitzpatrick skin types (I-IV)

Main image credit: Getty

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