Retinol is an ingredient used widely in skin care for one reason: it works. The vitamin A derivative is incorporated into formulations for all skin types and for a wide range of ages to improve the look of skin tone, texture, pore size and wrinkles. But, retinol can also be irritating, and may dry out skin. As such, chemists know they must balance the risk-reward when crafting their products.
 
SeneGence International has rolled out a new serum that it contends delivers retinol’s efficacy with less risk of irritation, thanks to a natural component from a superfruit found in Asia.
 
By using an extract of rambutan superfruit leaves, SeneGence’s Senior Director of Product Hanna Wagari says the 0.5% retinol in its new Advanced SenePlex+ Renewal Serum delivers results of a formulation containing a higher concentration of this workhorse ingredient.
 
“The rambutan leaf extract boosts retinol’s performance,” she said during a Zoom call to unveil the product to the press. The “retinatural” active ingredient (Nephoria), complements the retinol.
 
According to Wagari, SeneGence tested different percentages of retinol when developing the formulation but with the “retinatural” active ingredient (Nephoria) complementing the retinol, it was able to stay with the lower concentration and get results.
 
In a six-week independent consumer study, 82% of women agreed that it improves skin clarity, leaving a healthy, even tone; 76% said it reduces the appearance of crow’s feet around the eyes and 85% said it improves skin’s overall appearance.
 
The emulsion serum contains nano-retinol; a micro-encapsulated delivery system ensures its sustained release over an eight-hour period, said Wagari.
 
Additionally, Advanced SenePlex+ Renewal Serum contains SenePlex+, the company’s proprietary complex of anti-aging ingredients such as essential oils, peptides and more, as well as meadowfoam seed oil, aloe vera and hyaluronic acid.
  
SeneGence says users should apply 1-2 pumps to a clean face, concentrating on areas of concern, and follow up with an evening moisturizer.