Hailed the gold standard in anti-ageing, retinoids are one of three active ingredients that any dermatologist or skincare expert worth their salt would recommend (the other two are Vitamin C and SPF, FYI).

A derivative of Vitamin A, retinol has had a bad reputation in the past thanks to it sometimes causing temporary dryness and potential irritation while skin adjusts. However, the benefits – which include collagen stimulation and accelerated skin cell turnover, which in turn smooth fine lines and enhance skin texture, as well as helping to correct pigmentation – definitely outweigh both of those things.

The retinol market has been booming over the last few years with more and more brands launching clever new products – but the newest – and arguably the most impressive of the lot, has just launched.

Medik8’s r-Retinoate Intense, £210, which is being billed as the ‘ultimate Vitamin A’, is a souped up version of the brand’s existing r-Retinoate, which was the first of its kind when it launched in 2015, thanks to the fact it could be worn both day and night.

In short, Medik8 has combined two of its most powerful formulas – retinaldehyde (which has been proven to stimulate collagen synthesis 11x faster than traditional retinol) and retinyl retinoate (which is 8x more powerful). When combined, the results are pretty ground-breaking, and for skincare nerds (like Stylist’s beauty editor, Lucy) it essentially has the power to break the internet because it’s so impressive.

The fact that r-Retinoate Intense is both 11x faster than retinol and is 8x more powerful means it has the ability to re-energise and rejuvenate skin overnight. It also has the ability to increase firmness, whole helping to visibly smooth fine lines and wrinkles. So, over time, your complexion will appear much brighter, more hydrated and will have a natural glow. It really is a true revelation – and one of the most effective formulas that you can buy that won’t cause prolonged irritation or dryness. 

What’s even better is that it’s suitable for all skin types – but if you’re new to Vitamin A, it’s recommended that you introduce it into your routine slowly. Start using it every third night, gradually building up to every other night until your skin can tolerate it every day. The formula, which is designed to only be used at night, is a super smooth cream infused with both ceramides and peptides for an added hit of moisture - which is definitely welcomed during these cold winter months. 

We’ll see you in the queue.

Medik8’s r-Retinoate Intense, £210, is available to buy now at medik8.com