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Dermatologists have repeatedly told us that retinoids (like retinol) are essential to any overall skin care routine, especially when it comes to preventing premature skin aging. That’s because, according to board-certified dermatologist Rebecca Marcus, M.D., retinol:It promotes cell turnover and stimulates collagen production.
There’s been some debate about which of these powerful “active” ingredients require a prescription, and Marcus explained that these ingredients are already in an active form that the skin can utilize, making them more potent and faster-acting than OTC products.
Opponents argue that stronger isn’t necessarily better: Retinol, especially prescription-strength, is notorious for causing irritation, especially in mature skin (which Marcus says is more sensitive). Over-the-counter retinol, on the other hand, may be less effective, but it may also be less irritating and better tolerated.
But France’s Pharma Development A313 Retinol Cream, with its unique texture and three effective types of retinol, may offer a happy middle ground between the two. The cream is on sale for nearly 35% off. However, the price drop is unlikely to last very long.
“[A313] “This product has minimal ingredients in the base, making it useful for people who have sensitivities to fragrances and other ingredients that are often found in over-the-counter retinol products,” Marcus says.
And while the company acknowledges that the active ingredients in A313 are not as potent as the retinoid acids found in prescription formulas like tretinoin, it does say that “the three types of retinol in A313 are as effective as some of the strongest over-the-counter retinol ingredients.”
In fact, some users who used prescription-level tretinoin have switched to this alternative, stating that they prefer A313 and have maintained the same results as their prescription-level regimen.
Its unique occlusive texture is more like a balm, and reviews say it’s more hydrating than more expensive products on the market. The brand claims that its 2% retinol concentration helps unclog pores, minimize the look of fine lines, reduce pigmentation, and even out skin texture.
Reviewers agree that this low concentration doesn’t affect A313’s efficacy, and suggest following a gradual, minimal application process to avoid redness and peeling, similar to the “tolerance-building” period required for prescription retinoids. This period typically involves applying a pea-sized amount once or twice a week for a few months, then increasing to more frequent applications. (It’s best to check with your dermatologist to see if retinol is right for you.)
Give A313 a try and target multiple skin concerns with this under-$20 product, or if you need a bit more convincing, take a peek at some promising reviews.
Promising Amazon reviews:
“I’ve tried so many products and spent so much money. This is the best!! I’ll never touch anything else. “My skin is cleaner. My pores are smaller, my lines and wrinkles are gone, and my skin feels softer, which is just what I’ve always wanted.” — Bella.
“I was hesitant to buy it because I thought it would dry out my face like other creams. This really moisturizes my face and I have noticed a huge improvement in the condition of my skin. I’m 40 years old and since I started using this product I can say my face looks younger.” — Miss Pissy
“I’ve been using prescription tretinoin for 20 years and prefer A313 because it gives a thicker moisturizing barrier. It has all sorts of benefits, including keeping skin clear and promoting cell turnover to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles…
1. Start slowly. And by pea-sized, we mean pea-sized. This product spreads well and is super thick. Use it once every day or two or it will irritate your skin. This is a strong product. It will sting if you use it too often. But your skin will gradually learn to tolerate it and you can slowly increase it to once a night.
2. NEVER apply within 45 minutes to an hour of washing your face or taking a shower. This product stings terribly when wet. You don’t need that. Just wait.
3. If you are a woman of a certain age who *ahem* sweats a lot at night, you may only need to use a tiny bit.
This product will literally replace many skin care products. My skin is the clearest, supple and hydrated it’s ever been in my life – this is the miracle cream we all hoped for.” — Husker Mom“Since using A313 for about 6 months, I have noticed a huge improvement in the overall health and condition of my skin. “The reduction in sun-induced pigmentation was immediate and impressive. My sun spots have almost completely disappeared, so I no longer need to cover them with makeup. In addition, my skin appears firmer, smoother, and less wrinkled.” — Diana Duque
“I’ve been using this for 2 weeks. I was looking for something to improve my skin’s texture and hydration. I apply it at night, I notice that my skin feels so much more hydrated in the morning and overall the appearance of deeper lines and fine lines seems less pronounced. I now have no acne and some of the blemishes I had when I first started have cleared up. It stings if I put it too close to my upper eyelid, but if I put it on the corner of my eye or around my lower eyelid it’s fine. At first it stings so I used it every other day, but now I use it every night. I am a believer! The tube size is generous, so only a pea-sized amount is needed.” — Lively
