There are few things in beauty that I'm as devoted to as retinol (related to sunscreen, obviously). Not only does the ingredient have the dermatologist seal of approval (and there's plenty of research to back up those claims), but it's helped with a range of my own skin issues. First, eliminating painful acne in my 20s and now in my early 30s to combat fine lines and texture. I tried many formulas and textures; every over-the-counter lotion, potion, oil and serum I could get my hands on.
When Josie Maran spoke about their new launch, I was intrigued and excited. I have been in a committed relationship with their Body butter with argan oil whipped with sweet citrus for 10 years now. The latest launch is an anti-aging facial moisturizer called Pro-Retinol MegaMoisture Face Cream. The product officially becomes available tomorrow, Thursday, December 29. However, Byrdie readers get exclusive early access starting today using the links in this story.
Josie Maran Pro-Retinol MegaMoisture Face Cream
Josie Maran
Buy now: 54 $, josiemaran.com
MegaMoisture relies on the power of botanicals in the form of pink algae to deliver results, which are rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A aka retinol). "It addresses fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin texture like a traditional retinol does, but it does so with fewer side effects, such as redness or irritation," explains brand founder Josie Maran. He then blends this softer retinol with argan oilThe cream is formulated with shea butter and fruit pulp extracts to provide the skin with supreme hydration and that juicy plumpness. The cream is also vegan, cruelty-free and fragrance-free.
While the beauty market has many retinol options, Josie Maran knew they were putting their own spin on it. "When I was in my 30s, all my friends started to use retinol to target fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness. I was all for it... until I did some research and found that the ingredients in these retinols did not meet my skin care standardsI don't like the way it looks or the way my skin feels," says Maran. "I gave myself mission to create something better, cleaner, safer and a product that my dry skin would love; one that offers the power of traditional retinol without any irritation and after much research and development, the Pro-Retinol MegaMoisture was born.
The texture reminds me of a foamy latte. It seems quite thick at first, but has an airy quality to it. It absolutely glides on and melts into the skin, leaving it hydrated but never greasy. Unscrewing the top and being greeted with the cheerful pink color is an added bonus, and occurs naturally thanks to the pink algae in the formula. My first impressions are positive: I love the consistency and moisture level of the cream, and I really appreciate that it's unscented. The retinol in a moisturizer also means that my skin care routine is more effective. post-cleaning night care is unique and complete - perfect for the nights when I just can't do too many steps.
This launch follows rave reviews for the rest of the Pro-Retinol collection. The brand has taken its expert knowledge of supreme textures - indeed, its body butter formula is a jar of oil spun into a luxurious cream - and combined it with plant-based retinol to create an anti-aging formula that will become a nightly routine, but not a chore. According to loyal fans, they found the perfect formula: the Whipped Argan Pro-Retinol Body Butter was the brand's #1 seller in 2022. As Maran says, "Our customers can slather this creamy whip from their neck to their toes, see their beautiful glow and trust that we've carefully selected every ingredient."
Other Josie Maran Pro-Retinol products
The latest product will be officially launched tomorrow, but you can store around Pro-Retinol MegaMoisture Face Cream now to see what all the hype is about.
