In the nearly two decades I’ve been writing about all things beauty, serums are probably the products I see most frequently arriving in my inbox for review consideration. While there are plenty of serums out there that fulfill their intended purpose — moisturizing, brightening, firming — after years of trying them out, it’s the innovative products that really catch my eye.
So when I opened my recent delivery and found Skinceuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst, an exfoliating anti-aging serum with a multi-acid complex that gently exfoliates to speed up skin cell turnover, I was intrigued. As we age, our skin cells turnover rate slows down, leading to more signs of aging like fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. This makes it harder for anti-aging products to be absorbed by the skin. Retinol has always been my go-to for promoting skin cell renewal, but retinol products can also irritate my somewhat sensitive skin. Since I live in Florida, I also have to be mindful of increased sun sensitivity from retinol use. In other words, I’m always on the lookout for a good alternative to retinol.
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Instead of retinol as an active ingredient, SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst contains 7.7 percent alpha hydroxy acid complex, which acts as a surface exfoliant, and beta hydroxy acid complex, which is an exfoliant that refines skin texture and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It also contains 1 percent taurine, an antioxidant found naturally in skin that stimulates cell renewal, helps skin retain moisture, and reduces the signs of aging.
SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst is designed to enhance the effectiveness of other anti-aging products, so I started using it as the first step of my nightly skincare routine after washing my face. The formula is light and watery. To avoid smudging, do not use more than 1/3 of the dropper indicated (I speak from experience). I really liked how the serum absorbed quickly into my skin and allowed me to immediately apply other products. After a week, my always-dull skin was much smoother and had a fresh glow. There was also a visible reduction in pesky fine lines (especially crow’s feet and “11s”) and oversized pores. All of these benefits were achieved without any visible peeling, redness, dryness, or irritation that can occur with the use of retinol.
The brand advises that SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst also helps reduce dark spots and is gentle enough to use under a retinol. The results I got from using the serum alone were so good that I didn’t see the need to try it alongside a retinol product. Others agree, with one shopper who is sensitive to retinol being pleased to get the same results with the serum without the peeling. Another shopper over 65 called the serum “groundbreaking,” and one reviewer raved that her skin looks more hydrated and radiant every morning.
If you’re looking for a retinol alternative, an effective anti-aging agent, or both, shop SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst and other popular serums from the brand below.
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