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Time and time again, dermatologists have told us how essential retinoids (like retinol) are to a well-rounded skin care routine, specifically one that’s geared toward premature skin aging prevention. This is because, according to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Rebecca Marcus, retinol increases cell turnover, thus helping to stimulate collagen production.
When it comes to this powerful “active” ingredient, there’s an ongoing debate about prescription-only compositions. Marcus explained that they’re already in an active form that can be utilized by the skin, making their effect stronger and faster than OTC products. The other side of the argument insists that stronger doesn’t always mean better. Retinol, particularly prescription-strength, has a notorious reputation for causing irritation, especially for more mature skin, which Marcus said is more delicate. OTC retinol, on the other hand, can be less sensitizing and better tolerated, though potentially less effective.
But, the Pharma Development A313 retinol cream from France, which features a distinctive texture and three different types of effective retinol, may be able to provide a happy medium between the two. Today, the larger 50-gram size of this cream is on sale at 20% off although we suspect it won’t be marked down for very long.
″[A313] contains minimal ingredients in its vehicle, which is helpful for those who are sensitive to fragrances or other ingredients that are commonly found in OTC retinol products,” Marcus said.
And while she acknowledged the fact that the actives in A313 are not the same potency as the retinoid acid present in prescription-strength formulas like Tretinoin, “the three types of retinol in A313 are effective over-the-counter-strength retinol ingredients.”
In fact, some users who had been using prescription-strength Tretinoin then made the switch to this alternative, say they prefer A313 and have maintained the same results that they had with the prescription-strength formula.
Its distinctive occlusive texture is closer to a balm, which according to reviewers, can be more hydrating compared to other pricier formulations that you might find on the OTC market. The brand claims that the 2% retinol concentration can help unclog pores, minimize fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin texture.
Reviewers agree that this lower strength hasn’t impacted A313’s efficacy and suggested adhering to a gradual and minimal application process in order to avoid redness or skin flaking, similar to the “tolerance building” period required for prescription retinoids. This period typically involves just applying a pea-sized amount one or two times a week for a few months before increasing to a more frequent application. (It’s always a good idea to check with your dermatologist to know if retinol is a good option for you.)
Put A313 to the test and potentially target multiple skin concerns with this one product, or take a peek at some promising reviews just in case you need a bit more convincing.
“This works great!! Just give it a month. A few things you should know about this before trying and quitting using it. You have to use this on a completely dry face. It can sting otherwise. I wash, moisturize, then get ready for bed and about 5 min later put it on. I will be honest, it’s sticky like Vaseline and the smell is slightly off putting. Start slow. At first use it once a week for a few weeks, then two for a few more, then work your way up to more. No more than once every 2/3 days. I have decently sensitive skin and doing it that way caused no pain or tingles. I noticed a small change after one use, but after a few months I feel I’m aging backwards. I’m 47 and have been starting to notice old face skin things, but this has made me look and feel like I’m aging backwards. My skin has turned soooo soft and it’s only been 2 months! It’s expensive now but it lasts for months, so really it’s only about $10/month to make such a difference. We spend that much on a coffee or a cocktail and they do nothing for us! I’m not one who freaks out or does much for anti aging but decided to try this. It’s effective and way cheaper than Botox or surgery. Not that i would ever consider those. Just eat good for you foods, get outside, exercise a bit, smile some, and use this cream! You’ll be young “forever”!” — Amazon Customer
“This stuff is Ahhh-mazing but has went up a lil over $25 since purchasing last time May of 2024 when it was only $18.99. That’s crazy!!! And ridiculous!!! But I have been using this about 2 or 3 ties a wk since then. I combine it with the Amazon basics moisturizer that looks like the dupe for Neutrogena that way it’s not so harsh & doesn’t feel like complete Vaseline on my face. But It has helped so much. I make sure my face is completely dry before putting the mixture on to avoid redness & itching. It has definitely been like a magic potion because it has helped alot with my fine lines, few wrinkles I have, & even zits. I’m 43 & definitely do not look it. And sometimes I jus use it as a spot treatment for zits & it makes them better by like the next day. And my skin isn’t greasy the next day & so smooth, soft feeling. This stuff is jus Ahhh-mazing!!!! If u haven’t tried it you definitely should. It’s great but unfortunately is $44 now instead of only $18.99. And yes, the $18.99 was the original the same as this not any of the fake ones out there. It was by Pharma development jus like this with French writing on it jus like this. But definitely try this! 👌👌👌👌⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐😊”— Bfe Bound
“I have only used this a couple times, but already noticing a difference. There is definitely a learning curve in your face will itch when using it. A little bit of this product goes a long way. I am already noticing a difference in my wrinkles. Just be very careful not to overdo it and do not do this every night when you are starting off. Also do not do this during the day nighttime only.” — Sarah Fetrow
“I ordered else where and it was like lotion not the real stuff. So I decided to try here and it’s the actual stuff. It is like ointment so a little goes a LONG way. Just like any retinol product there is a retinization period so I do have minor itching. If you understand skin care you’ll know this is normal and should go away in a few weeks. It has a minimal smell but my face feels so soft and slowly gaining “youth”. I use it AFTER my regena light session.” — Angelique Armijo