EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SKINCEUTICALS’ HUGELY HYPED NEW LAUNCH
The latest addition to the cult brand's line-up, SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum takes exfoliation to a whole new level - and fans can't wait to get their hands on it.
Already launched in the US, the potent exfoliating product is generating lots of buzz among beauty buffs who already count the legendary C E Ferulic and HA Intensifier serums among their skincare essentials.
As SkinCeuticals' new must-have arrives on our shores, here's everything you need to know about Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum…
WHY IS EXFOLIATION IMPORTANT?
For many people, exfoliation is synonymous with face scrubs that slough away dead skin cells.
While these physical exfoliants can be highly effective for brightening dull skin, when it comes to fighting the visible effects of ageing, chemical exfoliation under the skin's surface is more important.
"When you're in your 20s your skin cell turnover takes about four weeks, whereas when you're in your 50s that turnover is about three to four times slower," explains managing director Yashar Rasekh.
"The cells on the outer layer of the skin, because they're not exfoliated as regularly, they're exposed more to environmental factors like pollution and UV rays. As a result, the appearance of ageing is far more prominent."
Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum is formulated with a blend of exfoliating acids, acting as a gentle peel to enhance cell turnover, improve the complexion and hydrate to support the all-important skin barrier.
"When you're young the skin barrier - the function between the epidermis and the dermis layers - is optimal," Yashar explains.
"But as you get older the barrier function starts to flatline, meaning the skin loses hyaluronic acid and collagen."
Collagen is one of the building blocks of skin, giving it firmness, while hyaluronic acid retains moisture, which is why it's crucial to maintain a healthy skin barrier if you want to slow down the signs of ageing.
KEY INGREDIENTS
While other exfoliating serums might contain just one alpha or beta hydroxy acid (AHA or BHA), SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum features a blend of five: phytic, mandelic, lactic, glycolic and salicylic.
Phytic acid helps to brighten the skin, while lactic acid targets discolouration and large pores. Mandelic acid exfoliates without causing irritation and glycolic works to shrink pores and fine lines while also encouraging cell renewal.
Salicylic acid (the only BHA) is oil soluble, meaning it can dissolve excess sebum and unclog pores, helping to prevent breakouts.
Alongside the powerful 7.7% acid blend, the other key component in Cell Cycle Catalyst is 1% taurine, which you may recognise as an ingredient used in energy drinks.
In skincare, the amino acid has a similar function, helping to optimise cellular energy, balance moisture levels and kickstart the skin renewal cycle.
RESULTS
In a clinical trial on participants aged 27 to 68, Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum showed remarkable results, with improvements in the appearance of fine lines, mild to moderate wrinkles, visible pores, rough texture, uneven skin tone and dullness.
After eight weeks, 88% of testers said their complexion was smoother, 86% reported an increase in clarity and 85% noted improved radiance.
"Skin visibly looks younger, you have more elasticity and density is improved significantly," Yashar says.
Rave reviews from the US confirm that the serum is fast-acting, with SkinCeuticals customers saying their complexion looked brighter within weeks. Users also praised the product for its lightweight consistency that absorbed quickly.
HOW TO USE IT
SkinCeuticals Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum can be used daily, either morning or evening, after cleansing.
Apply one-third of a dropper to dry skin, smoothing the formula in with your fingertips. If used in the morning, follow with a high-factor sunscreen such as SkinCeuticals Advanced Brightening UV Defense SPF50.
It also pairs well with Skinceuticals must-have C E Ferulic, enhancing the performance of the vitamin C serum.
"Cell Cycle Catalyst is a great product that can sit side by side with non-surgical treatments," Yashar adds, recommending daily use for 14 days prior to treatments such as a chemical peel to prepare the skin and improve the results of the peel.
The serum can be used alongside vitamin A-based products such as retinol or retinal for a double dose of anti-ageing benefits.
SkinCeuticals is second to none when it comes to complexion-enhancing products that live up to their promises, which is why the skincare company has produced so many fan favourites.
Designed to complement the brand's bestsellers, Cell Cycle Catalyst Anti-Aging Serum looks destined to become another cult hit.
Shop our full range of SkinCeuticals products online or in salon at Paul Edmonds London.