Super Retinol Fluid, 45ml

Retinol 1%, encapsulated in liposomes, with bakuchiol, vitamin C and niacinamide. The most loaded serum in the range.

Retinol at a proper working strength, held in liposomes, tiny vesicles that mimic the skin’s own lipid structure. That protects the retinol from breaking down and releases it gradually into the skin, which is what makes a 1% concentration wearable rather than punishing.

Alongside it: bakuchiol, a plant active that works on similar pathways to retinol without the same irritation, ET-vitamin C at 1% for tone and collagen support, niacinamide at 1% to calm and even things out, hesperidin methyl chalcone for redness, and squalane and alpha-bisabolol to keep the whole thing comfortable on the skin. Vitamin E rounds it off as an antioxidant.

For lines, texture, dullness and sun damage together, in one bottle, at a strength that means business.

How to use: evening only, after cleansing and toning. Start once every two or three nights and build up as your skin tolerates it. Reduce frequency if it feels dry or sensitive. SPF during the day is not optional with a retinol at this strength.

Good to know: not for use in pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Use within six months of opening. If you already use the Retin-oil Booster, you don’t need both: at 0.3% versus 1%, this is the step up once you’ve built tolerance, not a starting point. Worth asking us which is right for you before you spend £87.

Free collection from the clinic at 18A Pamber Heath Road. UK postage available, free over £75.