If there’s one thing my friends consistently ask me for advice on, it’s this: “Anna, how do I incorporate retinol into my skincare routine?” Firstly, I’m thrilled they’re incorporating a retinol regimen. This transformative ingredient, derived from vitamin A, has plenty of skincare wins: it helps smooth fine lines, boost collagen production and refine uneven texture. But with so many options on shelves – and plenty of myths around its usage – sensitive-skinned souls may have historically avoided it, especially around the delicate eye area.
Well, I’m happy to report that skincare has come a long way. A game-changing new release from Elizabeth Arden is proving that rules are made to be broken. And in major news for those of us struggling with puffiness, crow’s feet and fine lines, this one is for us: The new Elizabeth Arden Rapid Skin Renewing Eye Cream (RRP $135).
But wait. Can retinol be used around the eyes? Can it be layered with other retinol products?
Happily, the answer is a resounding yes. This new release works in synergy with the other products in the Elizabeth Arden Retinol + HPR collection – the Elizabeth Arden Rapid Skin Renewing Capsules and Elizabeth Arden Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream – to deliver transformation rather than irritation.
So, how does it work?
Through a clever dual-retinoid blend of pure retinol and next-gen HPR. HPR (Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate) is a next-generation, highly stable ester of retinoic acid that offers up to 10 times the potency of traditional retinol, without the irritation that may have plagued many of us after dipping our toes into the retinol waters.
The Rapid Skin Renewing Eye Cream brings that same wrinkle-softening prowess to the delicate eye area in a gentler formula, designed to brighten, smooth and de-puff. Used together, the trio creates a results-driven retinol routine that leaves skin looking fresher, firmer and more radiant.
If you’re a skincare sceptic, I understand. But the data on this one stacks up. In recent studies, 98% of consumers agreed that the eye area looked brighter in seven days. After a 14-day trial, 100% of consumers said the eye area looked smoother.
The new release is the final piece of the puzzle in the Retinol + HPR Ceramide Collection, of which I’m a long-time fan. This is because retinol works best when paired with ingredients that support the skin’s barrier and nourish it deeply, such as moisture-barrier-strengthening ceramides, skin-firming peptides and skin-soothing botanicals.
The other products in the range, the Rapid Skin Renewing Capsules and Water Cream, work to smooth fine lines, refine texture and boost firmness, while supporting the skin barrier.
We’ve got your new retinol-supercharged three-step skincare routine to help transform the skin, leaving it smoother and more luminous.
Step 1: Apply the Rapid Skin Renewing Eye Cream
First, treat eyes to smooth, brighten and de-puff
This high-performance (yet gentle) under-eye cream visibly reduces crow’s feet and wrinkles and de-puffs and brightens the eye area. Packed with next-generation retinoid HPR, it’s up to 10 times more potent than traditional retinol while remaining gentle enough for sensitive skin. Ceramides reinforce the barrier, peptides support collagen, and niacinamide brightens. Soothing botanicals help calm the skin so we look rested and renewed, even if we’re… not.
Step 2: Retinol + HPR Ceramide Rapid Skin Renewing Capsules
Twist and squeeze the capsule and apply to the face and neck for smoother skin
Up to 10 times more potent than traditional retinol, this encapsulated gel serum delivers effective retinol action with less chance of triggering a reaction.
We’re long-time fans of the Elizabeth Arden capsule delivery system: here, the retinol is encapsulated for optimal freshness with every application. Each dose is precisely measured, meaning no wastage and no guesswork. In a study of more than 50 participants, after the very first use, skin looked more radiant and revitalised. In one week, wrinkles and pores were visibly reduced, skin felt firmer, and tone and texture were improved.
Step 3: Retinol + HPR Ceramide Rapid Skin Renewing Water Cream
Lock all that retinol goodness all in with a hydrating, nourishing moisturiser
Finish your new three-step routine with a nourishing moisturiser that leaves skin looking radiant and revitalised. Proving that, in the correct dosage, you can layer your retinol products, this cream is formulated with pure retinol plus HPR to help visibly reduce fine lines and pigmentation.
It’s also packed with ceramides, plumping hyaluronic acid and skin-soothing botanicals. This light-as-air cream is gentle enough for both day and night use, and suitable for first-time retinol users.
Working together, these three products optimise cell turnover, support collagen, and strengthen barrier health, leaving you glowing.
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