Hello everyone who's stopped by!
I'm reviewing the L'Oreal Paris Revitalift serum with clean retinol for deep wrinkles. I've already used not one, not two, but three bottles of this stuff (if I'm counting correctly), and it's not my first rodeo with retinol-based face creams. So, I'll compare it to my previous experiences.
The product packaging💥 1. The Manufacturer's Promises
The product packaging has the manufacturer's description, but if the images don't load or it's hard to read, I'll just copy the info from the website where I bought this serum. I've purchased it three times from the same site, so I'll just copy the product details from the product card.
New night serum Revitalift Laser with retinol - a powerful anti-aging treatment that corrects visible signs of aging, including deep wrinkles.
The stabilized formula of the serum, patented, is designed to maintain its effectiveness and prevent retinol from breaking down (under the influence of light and oxygen).
Active ingredients:
• Clean retinol 0.2% - the most potent form of retinol. Fights visible signs of aging, such as deep wrinkles and uneven skin texture
I was promised more than just a run-of-the-mill skincare product – I was promised a powerful anti-aging treatment that could even tackle deep wrinkles. The formula was supposed to be so robust that it wouldn't break down from sunlight or oxygen, ensuring results whether I used it in the day or at night.
Info on the back of the box💥 2. My Expectations. What I Thought I'd Get When I Bought It
I was hoping to get a product that was not only effective but also safe. Before this, I used a luxury cream and ended up with a skin reaction that took months to clear up. At least I was smart enough to test it on my arm first, rather than my face.
Info on the box up closeI wanted to use this serum to give my aging skin a fresh new look. I didn't need to get rid of wrinkles, but I did want to smooth out the lines between my eyebrows and the fine lines on my forehead – before they turn into full-blown wrinkles.
I was hoping to get a smooth face without harming my skin or causing red spots, dryness, or other negative side effects that retinol can bring. I'll explain why I'm so worried about my skin in the next chapter.
Product description on the packaging💥 3. On Which Skin Type I Used the Product
My skin is delicate. It's always been that way. It's not dry, but it's prone to dryness and can react strongly (although I'm not allergic) if the cosmetics are too harsh. It's a normal skin type, and since I'm getting older, I'm losing subcutaneous fat.
Because of the loss of subcutaneous fat, it becomes even thinner - not just to the touch, but you can actually see it. With each passing year, it's looking more and more like a newspaper. Of course, regular care slows down the process and gives it a healthy (and sometimes even plump) appearance. However, the aging process is still happening, even if it's slower than usual.
More info on the boxI'm using retinol with caution because of my skin's delicacy, even though I'm not reactive and don't have allergies or breakouts. In general, if the cosmetics are good quality and used correctly, my skin doesn't bother me and reacts normally.
I've noticed no deep wrinkles, but my forehead's starting to look a bit saggy, and there are two creases between my eyebrows. My face shape's lost its definition a long time ago. Overall, my skin looks tired, and it's lost its natural glow. So, I was hoping to add some brightness and a bit of freshness to my complexion with retinol (which it can do, trust me), smooth out those creases, and even out my forehead.
Product descriptionI've never had any injections, and I don't plan on it. In my skincare routine, I've used all sorts of masks, creams, toners, emulsions, masks, and serums, but no needles or surgery.
💥 4. Usage Period. How I Used It
I've been using it for two winters in a row now. Last year, I used up two bottles over the winter. This year, I've only used one bottle so far. So, this is my third bottle and my second season of using it.
I never use retinol products during the summer. I know that if you use high SPF products all the time, you can use them in the summer too, but I'm not willing to take that risk. My skin is really prone to hyperpigmentation from the sun, and even high SPF doesn't always help (or doesn't help enough).
Manufacturer's recommendations on the packagingI've been using the serum only at night, never during the day. I apply it to clean skin, but not right after cleansing – I give my skin a bit of time to produce some natural moisture. I don't follow up with any moisturizer, just leave the retinol product on my face overnight, and then go to bed after it's fully absorbed.
I only use it 2-3 times a week because I'm afraid to use it more often. I've had issues with the 'Estee Lauder' cream I mentioned earlier – it basically burned my skin on my elbows when I tested it out.
Pulling out the serum from the boxI tried the serum from Geltek (it even has a higher concentration of retinol, supposedly) twice a week because my skin had gotten used to retinol and wasn't reacting to it as strongly anymore. In my opinion, Geltek's serum was more gentle than Estee Lauder's, and I didn't feel as anxious using it. With L'Oreal's serum, I felt completely calm, but I'm still keeping an eye out for any signs of irritation. I've never been able to get rid of retinol-induced redness quickly, even with moisturizers and soothing creams applied from dawn till dusk, 24/7. And even with those, the aftermath would take a long time to heal.
I avoid applying it around my eyes, but I do apply it to the orbital bone - that area needs some TLC too. So, I apply L'Oreal's serum there, but I was hesitant to use Estee Lauder's. I didn't use Geltek's serum there very often either.
The back of the serum bottleI wash my face in the morning as usual, just using a gentle cleanser to remove the night cream and serum. Then I apply my daytime moisturizer and go about my day.
I've noticed that the manufacturer recommends applying a broad-spectrum SPF product in the morning before heading out, but I only use those during the summer. After applying a serum, I stick with my regular skincare routine. On top of my moisturizer, I apply a tinted moisturizer with SPF (if I plan to go outside, but if I'm just staying indoors, I skip the sunscreen).
Doser-cap and serum color - white💥 5. User Characteristics
The serum comes in an opaque bottle (which is great for retinol, as it doesn't like light and oxygen). The doser on the bottle isn't a pump, but a dropper. While it's not as convenient as a pump, it's still better than just pouring the serum onto your hand directly from the bottle.
When I first bought this serum, it had a slightly yellowish tint. Not super yellow, but definitely noticeable. All the subsequent serums I've purchased have been white. Maybe the manufacturer changed the formula or reduced the amount of dye (or maybe they completely removed it from the formula). I'm not sure, since my first bottle is long gone and I didn't take a photo of the ingredients.
Outer appearance of the serumI was pleasantly surprised by the texture and consistency of this serum - it's light, smooth, and not too runny. It's opaque, glides on easily, and has a subtle scent.
The ingredient list is available on the seller's website, but I'd recommend checking the packaging for the most up-to-date information. Here's the ingredient list from the product card on Riv Gosh's website, where I purchased the serum.
AQUA / WATER • GLYCERIN • ALCOHOL DENAT. • ISONONYL ISONONANOATE • PENTYLENE GLYCOL • DICAPRYLYL ETHER • GLYCINE SOJA OIL / SOYBEAN OIL • PROPYLENE GLYCOL • PEG-6 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES • CITRIC ACID • PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-T-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE • SODIUM HYALURONATE • TRISODIUM ETHYLENEDIAMINE DISUCCINATE • RETINOL • DICAPRYLYL CARBONATE • AMMONIUM POLYACRYLOYLDIMETHYL TAURATE • BUTYLENE GLYCOL • CAPRYLYL GLYCOL • GLYCERYL ISOSTEARATE • PPG-6-DECYLTETRADECETH-30 • TOCOPHEROL • XANTHAN GUM • BENZYL ALCOHOL • CITRONELLOL • ISOEUGENOL • LIMONENE • LINALOOL • PHENOXYETHANOL • PARFUM / FRAGRANCE
In terms of user experience, the serum feels nice and is easy to use, but as a daily moisturizer, it's not for me. I think it's not suitable for sensitive skin, as retinol can be quite harsh, even though it does help with anti-aging. The manufacturer recommends a gradual introduction to the product.
Application:
Your skin needs time to adjust to retinol, so it's essential to use the serum gradually.
Apply 3-4 drops to clean, dry skin at night before your moisturizer.
Use the product with SPF (at least SPF-20) in the morning.
Week 1: Use it 2 times a week
Week 2: Use it every other night
Week 3: Use it every night as your skin gets accustomed
Keep in mind that high-strength retinol can cause redness, tingling, and dryness at the beginning of use.
As you can see, the manufacturer recommends using it every night as your skin gets used to it. But I don't do that. I explained why earlier - my skin is just too sensitive for daily retinol. I think oily skin can handle it every day, but dry and thin skin might need to use it less often.
By the way, I store the opened bottle in the fridge, even though it's not transparent. It's just safer that way. Plus, my bathroom gets pretty hot, and the bottle heats up during daily use, even if it's stored in a cabinet.
You can see on my hand that the serum isn't thick, it's light💥 6. My Personal Experience and Results
I'll break this section down into parts to make it easier to read.
👉 6.1. The usage process
The process of using it is pretty straightforward and enjoyable. The serum glides smoothly over my face, so it's quite economical. I don't need to force it onto my skin like thick, dense creams do – it doesn't leave a sticky residue. A few drops cover my entire face, and I use a couple more for my neck. I can even apply it to my décolletage, but I'm guilty of being a bit stingy with that area sometimes.
Right after I apply it, it feels slightly tacky, but it absorbs quickly and the tackiness disappears. My skin feels comfortable, and I don't have to worry about ruining my pillowcase.
My skin before using the retinol serumThe serum doesn't leave any greasiness behind, and I didn't notice any excessive shine. Even if there is some natural shine, it's not a big deal for me since I don't use it during the day and I'm not planning any outdoor activities.
By the way, it's not a substitute for my regular skincare routine because it's specifically designed for nighttime use. I still need to buy separate day and night creams for my skincare routine.
My skin before applying the retinol serum👉 6.2. Correcting visible signs of aging
I've gotta say, this serum does smooth out the skin, but it's not a total game-changer. Maybe if you use it every night, it'll really iron out those wrinkles or deep creases. But with my own skin issues, it doesn't quite do the trick, but it does help a bit. However, come summer, they come back because I don't use it then, and I just stick with my usual skincare routine.
As for contouring, it doesn't quite lift the skin like I'd hoped – it's still a bit puffy – but the next morning, my skin looks amazing: fresh, bright, radiant, and smooth. To the touch, it feels silky and even a bit more firm.
My skin after using this retinol serumMy skin tone becomes more even, and it doesn't look dull. Overall, it really does visually rejuvenate the skin, but not to the point where I'm jumping for joy. I've used products with similar effects before, but without retinol. Actually, I've tried a bunch of them. But my skin's pretty receptive to these kinds of products – it's not thick, weathered, or rough – they just absorb easily and deliver results (as long as the product isn't a dud). However, this serum is way more effective than this blue retinol mask. I've been using both with the same frequency – 2-3 times a week – so that's not the issue.
How my skin looks after using the retinol serum👉 6.3. Skin Care
I was promised that this serum would not only update my skin cells with retinol, but also provide skin care thanks to the presence of hyaluronic acid and oils. I'm not sure how well they care for my skin, because I'm evaluating the overall effect - my skin isn't drying out, it's not thinning, and it looks great.
I'm really not a fan of hyaluronic acid - in the long run, it didn't even improve the appearance of my thin skin, and now I prefer peptide products and avoid products with hyaluronic acid. But this serum definitely outperforms all my previous retinol products in terms of skin care. At least, I wouldn't call it extremely powerful (although it is strong), and not hazardous either. For example, the Estee Lauder cream may have been more effective, but it was actually scary to use - it irritated my skin, and it caused redness later on, plus it made my skin peel and flake, which took a long time to heal (and it even itched). I won't forget that anytime soon.
Comparison: my skin before and after using the serum👉 6.4. Safety
I have to say, the manufacturer's warning about needing time to get used to retinol was spot on, especially if you have sensitive skin like me. I've had some not-so-great experiences with retinol products from high-end brands in the past, but this serum has been a game-changer. I've been using it consistently and haven't experienced any irritation or discomfort.
I did have a comparison product, a gel serum from a different brand, that was more potent in terms of its effects, but this one was just as effective, if not slightly less so. And the blue retinol mask I used was safe, but not as impactful as I had hoped (it was a bit weaker than the L'Oreal mask I've used before).
Overall, I'm really impressed with how safe this product has been for my skin, even with my sensitive skin type. I've been using it for a while now and haven't had any issues, which is a big deal for me.
Comparison: skin before and after using the retinol serum💥 7. Side Effects
I'm happy to report that this serum hasn't caused any redness, irritation, or stinging sensations for me, which is a big relief. Typically, retinol products can be a bit harsh on my skin, but this one has been a breeze to use. I've even applied it without any issues, which is a testament to its gentle formula.
I didn't experience any irritation or redness from using this product. No itchiness, no rashes, and no signs of my skin freaking out. But I wasn't using it in extreme conditions - I wasn't taking it outside, I wasn't exposing it to the sun, and I was following a daily skincare routine between uses.
If you're new to retinol products, I'd suggest starting with a lower frequency - maybe just every other day, and even try it out on your arms first (your skin is thicker there).
💥 8. The Verdict
I mentioned in my previous review that I'd tried retinol products from both high-end and budget-friendly brands. This serum is affordable, but it's the most effective and gentle one I've used so far. So, I'd definitely recommend it - it's not going to give you a decade-long facelift or get rid of wrinkles, but it will improve the quality of your skin, its tone, texture, and brightness.
I don't often rave about skincare products. Most of them make big promises that don't quite deliver. But I've bought this serum multiple times, and I'll continue to do so. It's not the most powerful product out there, but it gets the job done, and it's worth the price for its minimal risk of irritation.