Welcome back to another instalment of our series, where we demystify the formulas behind exciting new arrivals and your regime favourites!
This time, we’re diving into the powerhouse formulation behind the new Retinol Eye Cream. Designed to target fine lines, boost collagen and energise the delicate under-eye area, this low-irritation, high-performance eye cream is the perfect addition to any anti-ageing regime.
So, let’s explore the top 10 ingredients that make this formula a true game-changer for your under-eye concerns...
1. Retinol
Retinol, a form of Vitamin A, is the gold standard in anti-ageing. It is renowned for its ability to boost collagen, enhance skin firmness, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by increasing the renewal of skin cells. This formula uses a low-irritation form of Retinol that is encapsulated using biomimetic technology. This encapsulation stabilises the Retinol, allowing gradual delivery of the active ingredient whilst ensuring maximum efficacy and helping to minimise irritation in the delicate under-eye area. The encapsulation also helps increase the moisturising properties of the ingredient.
Warning: It’s important to note that Retinol or any other form of retinoid should not be used during pregnancy. Also, SPF should be applied daily to protect your skin when using a product with Retinol.
2. Codium Fragile Extract - aka Green Seaweed
Green Seaweed revitalises the skin, promoting a refreshed and radiant under-eye area. Its energising properties help de-puff under-eye bags, target dark circles and smooth fine lines (such as troublesome ‘crow’s feet’ wrinkles), leaving the skin looking youthful and vibrant.
3. Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract - aka Liquorice Root
Liquorice root is packed with antioxidants, which help protect the skin from environmental stressors such as air pollution. Its calming properties also make it ideal for soothing delicate skin.
4. Euphrasia Officinalis Extract - aka Eyebright
True to its name, Eyebright is a herbal extract known for its ability to refresh and revitalise the under-eye area. Like Liquorice Root, it’s also rich in antioxidants to help protect the skin.
5. Simmondsia Chinensis Seed Oil – aka Jojoba Oil
Lightweight yet deeply nourishing, Jojoba Oil mimics the skin’s natural sebum, allowing it to be easily absorbed. Rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids, it provides hydration without feeling greasy and helps to soften, smooth, and protect the delicate under-eye area.
6. Butyrospermum Parkii Butter – aka Shea Butter
Shea Butter is a deeply moisturising ingredient with a high concentration of natural fatty acids. It soothes and softens even the driest skin, making it ideal for the under-eye area where hydration is key or pairing with potentially irritating ingredients.
7. Lonicera Japonica Flower Extract – aka Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle Extract plays two roles in this formula. Firstly, it acts as a skin conditioner, helping to soften and soothe. Secondly, it boosts the preservative system of a formula, ensuring the product remains fresh and effective. Often paired with Lonicera Caprifolium (Honeysuckle) Extract, it’s a multifunctional ingredient.
8. Tocopherol
A natural source of vitamin E, Tocopherol is a preservative booster and antioxidant that helps maintain the product's shelf life and prevents the effects of free radicals.
9. C14-22 Alcohols
C14-22 Alcohols are vegetable-derived emulsifiers, which are used as stabilisers in water and oil formulations (emulsions) to prevent separation. It helps to create an ultra-soft formula for smooth application.
10. Xanthan Gum
Xanthan Gum is a viscosity regulator, meaning it’s responsible for keeping a product at the perfect consistency (thickness). It affects how the different ingredients' molecules flow past each other, as too much friction might mean a formula that’s too thick, or not enough, you could end up with a consistency that’s too thin.
If you’re new to Retinol or have struggled to find a formula that combines efficacy with low irritation, the Retinol Eye Cream could be your perfect match. Its blend of powerhouse ingredients and thoughtful formulation offers targeted benefits for the under-eye area, from reducing fine lines to brightening dark circles.
Stay tuned as we continue to demystify the ingredients that make your favourite products so effective.
Until next time,
Charlee @ Team Q+A
Charlee Grimson
E-commerce & Digital Marketing Coordinator
