What skinbetter science is known for
I think of skinbetter science as clever but comfortable. Its best-known ingredient is AlphaRet, a retinoid joined to lactic acid. In AlphaRet Overnight Cream it sits with glycolic acid, ceramides and squalane, to help smooth the look of lines and uneven texture while keeping skin comfortable enough for nightly use.
The other pillar is Alto. Alto Defense Serum and Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum are antioxidant serums with vitamins C and E and a wide blend of plant antioxidants. They're designed to help skin cope with pollution and everyday stress, and over time they help skin look brighter, more even and less red. Alto Advanced adds a patented antioxidant aimed at the stress skin creates on its own.
Around those two sit the specialists: Mystro for balance, Even Tone Correcting Serum for dark patches, InterFuse peptide creams for face and eyes, and Trio, a moisturiser for dry or compromised skin.
Who it suits
skinbetter science suits people who want results-focused skincare without a long list of steps. It's worth a look if you'd like a retinoid made with comfort in mind, or if your skin looks dull, tired or a little red.
Oily or blemish-prone? AlphaRet Clearing Serum pairs AlphaRet with salicylic acid and zinc to help pores look clearer.
Where to start: my starter routine
Morning: cleanse with Cleansing Gel, a mild foaming gel that suits all skin types, including sensitive skin. Apply a thin layer of Alto Advanced Defense and Repair Serum to your face, neck and chest. Moisturise if you need to, then SPF. We don't stock a skinbetter sunscreen, so I'd pair it with Heliocare 360° Sensation, which is ultralight and sits well under make-up.
Evening: cleanse, Alto again, then a thin layer of AlphaRet Overnight Cream over your face and neck, keeping it away from the eyes. If your skin is dry, follow with Trio Rebalancing Moisture Treatment.
The A-Team Duo Advanced gives you Alto Advanced and AlphaRet Overnight Cream in smaller sizes. It's the simplest way to try the heart of the range.
AlphaRet is a retinoid, so introduce it the way you would any other. Patch-test first and start two or three nights a week, building up as your skin allows. Wear SPF every day. It isn't for use while you're pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.
Tanisha's tipA thin layer of AlphaRet is all you need. Using more won't speed things up, it just makes dryness more likely.
How it fits with other brands and clinic treatments
skinbetter science mixes well with simple products from other brands, like a gentle cleanser or a mineral SPF. Where I'd be careful is doubling up on actives. AlphaRet Overnight Cream already contains a retinoid and glycolic acid, so don't add another retinol, retinal or strong acid toner at the same time.
Before and after clinic treatments, retinoids and acids usually need a pause. Your practitioner will tell you when to stop AlphaRet and when to restart. In the meantime, a gentle cleanser, Trio and your SPF are comfortable steps to keep going, if your practitioner agrees.
How skinbetter science is sold here
skinbetter science is sold only through authorised providers, so we offer it after a free 15-minute consultation by phone, video or in one of our clinics. One of my skin experts will look at your skin and help you choose the right Alto and AlphaRet. There's no obligation, and once your routine is set you can order and reorder here.
