Editor's Pick: SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator Review

You would never expect a skin care product to exfoliate your skin AND hydrate it at the same time, right? Well, my friends, never say never. Meet: SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator. Believe it or not, this incredibly unique formula makes these two opposite benefits attract. Harnessing two polar mechanisms—hydration and exfoliation—Retexturing Activator can help promote a complexion that looks healthier and more youthful. While that all sounds lovely, does the formula actually live up to its hype? There’s only one way to find out. Ahead, we share our review of SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator, its benefits, how to use it, and more!

Why You Should Exfoliate Regularly

Before we deep-dive into the benefits of SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator, it’s worth mentioning why exfoliation is a must—for everyone. It’s not for nothing that exfoliation is considered one of the most important rituals that you can perform on your skin. By removing dead skin cells off the surface of skin, exfoliation allows for fresh, healthy-looking skin to peep through. It’s the easiest way to achieve radiant-looking and glowing skin! By neglecting to exfoliate, you’re only setting your skin up to look dull and lifeless. What’s more, the rate of cellular turnover decreases over time, making exfoliation even more of a priority as we age. Now, give us a good reason why it’s worth it to NOT exfoliate. We’ll wait.

Exfoliating regularly is a no-brainer, but just how often is ‘regularly,’ you ask? That’s the much-debated question. The answer largely depends on your skin’s sensitivity levels. Some people can handle exfoliating every day, while others can only do it once per week. If you’re unsure, start small—think: once or twice a week—and slowly build frequency, as tolerated. Your skin will let you know once you’ve gone too far.

The Benefits of SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator 

And now, let’s discuss the formula of the hour, SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator. This revolutionary serum can help visibly diminish surface lines and wrinkles. Plus, experience skin that’s smoother, softer, and more radiant-looking. What’s more, the formula—with urea, kombucha, and hyaluronic acid—boasts an efficient oil-free delivery system that is suitable for all skin types.

How to Use SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator

Twice daily, apply 4-6 drops of SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator to face, neck, and chest, or as directed by a skin care professional. If any irritation occurs, consult a licensed skin care professional. If your skin is sensitive, start with Retexturing Activator once daily to test skin compatibility.

Note: This product may increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun and the possibility of sunburn. To help protect your skin, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen—broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher—when using this product. Do your best to limit sun exposure, if possible.

Who Should Use SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator is ideal for all skin types. It’s a great pick for sensitive skin that gets irritated by retinols or other strong exfoliators. 

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator Review

To breathe new life into my skin, I try my best to exfoliate my combination skin about 2-3 times per week. I often use a gentle scrub, though I’m also a big fan of chemical exfoliation with AHAs. When I found out that I could simultaneously exfoliate and hydrate my skin with ONE product—aka SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator—I knew I had to get my hands on it. As of late, I’ve been noticing more expression lines on my forehead so I hoped this face serum could help diminish their appearance a bit as well.

After a few months of using SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator, here’s what I found:

• The formula worked wonderfully to help soften the appearance of the expression lines on my forehead. They’re still there, but much less visible. Woot!
• After just one application, my skin felt smooth and soft to the touch! I’ve also noticed a brighter, more radiant appearance to my complexion.
• The formula really truly is hydrating. I was skeptical at first and thought any hydration benefits would be miniscule. Boy was I wrong! My skin stayed hydrated all day without getting that tight feeling it gets sometimes.
• The formula has a really strong smell. It’s not super pleasant, so heed with caution if you’re sensitive to scent.
• The texture of the formula is a bit slimy, and it’s a bit runnier than I had imagined. Luckily, the formula melts into the skin quickly and dries without any residue. 

Overall, I’m incredibly pleased with SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator! Not only does my skin look bright and healthy, I experienced zero irritation when using this serum. I love how smooth the texture of my skin is now. Unlike other retexturing products, this serum did not leave my skin dry and uncomfortable but rather supple and soft. For such reasons, I’ll continue to use SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator and restock once my supply is depleted!

SkinCeuticals Retexturing Activator, $78

*at the time of publication