AlphaRet Overnight Cream by SkinBetter

Let’s review how it helps with anti-aging, pigmentation and acne.

What are the benefits of AlphaRet?

AlphaRet is a professionally designed overnight cream for anti-aging. Studies have proven that the active ingredients within AlphaRet are effective in reducing the appearance of lines and wrinkles. This perfect combination of two gold-standard anti-aging ingredients — a retinoid and alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) are research proven to work very well together.

Retinoids are well known for its anti-aging effects by increasing cell turnover and collagen stimulation. This thickens the skin and reduces the appearance of fine lines. However, a prescription dose is usually required for quick visible results and irritation to the skin is a common problem.

AHA on its own is a weak peeling acid that removes the dead skin cells from the outer surface of the skin that helps to exfoliate the skin at the outermost layer, making room for new skin cells to regenerate. Using an AHA as a base moisturiser is more effective than in the form of a facial wash or sunscreen and foundation as they must be absorbed into the skin to work, unlike BHA where the acid is able to penetrate directly into the pore with its lipophilic properties.

Although AlphaRet is designed for anti-ageing, we have also discovered other benefits. Based on our understanding of the chemical properties, we have prescribed this formulation for our patients with different concerns and it worked as we have expected!

It worked exceptionally well for our group of acne patients, who saw better control of breakouts with less oily skin and acne marks clearing out faster.  This is a combined effect of both exfoliation from AHA, as well as increased skin turnover with retinoid.

Patients undergoing laser treatment for pigmentation found AlphaRet useful as retinoids increase cell renewal and minimises the deposit of newly formed melanin. Exfoliation of dead skin cells prepares the skin for better laser light penetration for enhanced results.

What are the active ingredients in AlphaRet?

Apart from Ethyl lactyl retinoate as discussed above, AlphaRet also contains a concoction of research proven moisturizing compounds.

Squalane is a compound that is naturally produced by our sebaceous glands. It is a great emollient as it seals the outer layer to prevent loss of hydration and protects the skin without being too heavy or occlusive.

Ceramides and fatty acids are naturally produced by our body that forms a protective layer.  By replenishing the reduced production in ageing skin, ceramides and fatty acids can intensively moisturise the skin and help reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Experts have also mentioned that ceramides are useful to treat skin irritation caused by higher doses of retinoids in acne patients. Unlike other cosmetic component products, ceramides are so effective in reproducing the protective lipid barrier that they are prescribed in specific concentrations as an alternative to topical steroid treatment in the treatment of eczema.

Niacinamide helps the skin produce more ceramides and reduce sebum production. Together with its anti-inflammatory properties, niacinamide can be beneficial to acne. There are also studies that prove that niacinamide is useful for pigmentation reduction.

AlphaRet versus Retinoids

Ethyl lactyl retinoate is a special blend of lactic acid and retinoid. This special compound binds lactic acid and retinoid together making both active ingredients ‘inactive’. After it is applied to the skin, this bond is broken down and slowly released. This allows a gradual release of active compounds makes it a gentle but effective product, even for people with sensitive skin.

Applying other retinoid and AHA creams with the same concentration separately will result in a lot more irritation and redness to the skin. AlphaRet is designed for people with sensitive skin! Besides, AlphaRet also contains a good mix of moisturisers that helps with skin repair.

Is AlphaRet suitable for all skin types?

There is no fragrance, no alcohol, no unnecessary content in this bottle. Every key ingredient added has its specific functions, which are scientifically proven.

It comes in an airless pump which controls the amount dispensed each time, and that the product is kept fresh and clean. The rich and white cream has a very smooth texture and it does not leave a greasy residue after application. And they do not clog pores! The skin appears brighter and clearer after 1 week of use.

Is AlphaRet safe after laser treatments?

Yes. AlphaRet is safe as a maintenance skin care regime in between laser treatments.

Alpharet is professionally designed and has done research to study its effects comparing its efficacy with retinoids of prescription strength. The technology that binds AHA to retinoid has been proven in this study to have lower incidence of skin irritation.

This is especially important to our population of patients, where their skin might be more sensitive from laser treatments.

Many of our patients claim that they have sensitive skin and have been very careful with their skin regime. They didn’t think that their skin would tolerate a ‘strong’ agent like retinoid until they tried this themselves! Besides this helps to prepare the skin for laser and potentiate effects of anti-ageing treatments. This is why we love it!

Is AlphaRet worth the price?

In my opinion, yes, AlphaRet is worth it! You do not need the 10 step korean skin care regime every night. Imagine the time and money that you save. Besides, trying to find the right product is not easy for someone with sensitive skin, and the most expensive creams may be thrown out almost unused. This all-in-one cream serves multiple functions from controlling acne prone skin to anti-ageing. There aren’t that many creams that are actually capable of producing visible results.