*Disclaimer: The product was provided by DERMEXCEL™, though, the review therein is based on the author’s experience and opinion. Aesthetic Appointment reviews are intended for information purposes only, nor should they be regarded as a replacement for sound medical advice. Always speak to your doctor or skincare therapist if you have any concerns*
I was so excited to receive some products to test from Dermal Health Science™, a local South African company which supplies advanced medical-grade skincare products to the medical aesthetic market, which includes dermatologists, plastic surgeons and aesthetic medical practitioners.
That fact alone is good enough for me, as these products are formulated according to strict pharmaceutical standards and product development is science-based.
That being said, which products would be relevant to the ageing, mature skin?
I was sent four products:
The travel pack they came in is ideal to take on holiday as it’s roomy enough for all the products.
Four weeks into using these products exclusively, here’s what I think…
Collagen Serum
R940.00
This is a lovely, light-textured serum for morning use, a powerful antioxidant and rehydration serum which stimulates collagen production – as it’s packed with Vitamin C – and it brightens the skin very effectively. Other ingredients are Vitamin F essential fatty acids, Vitamin B3, and low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid. Skin feels really hydrated after use.
Retinol Serum
R990.00
I found the formula to be quite thick at first (for a serum) but once I got used to the texture I started enjoying this serum. Indicated for ageing and sun-damaged skin, hyperpigmentation, dry and dehydrated skin, rosacea and acne, it contains active ingredients which work hard to restore the skin’s radiance by speeding up skin cell production. I experienced no irritation whatsoever, due to the presence of Abyssine – a soothing ingredient that reduces the irritation that is sometimes associated with retinol use.
Glycolic Gel
R665.00
Formerly known as Radiance Gel, this serum is quite high in Glycolic acid so it acts as a chemical exfoliator which is marvellous for dull skin- which we all experience from time to time, especially after winter. So, the issues that come with dull skin- pigmentation, lines and dryness- are targeted, giving you a brighter complexion. You can alternate this product with the retinol, if you have hardier skin, but start by using it once a week and slowly increase its use.
Dermatint
R650.00
I was also sent Dermatint – a stellar product, as it’s a multi-tasker, which I absolutely love.
It’s a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50) with hydrating antioxidants as well as a lightweight foundation.
The texture is sublime and very spreadable, giving amazing coverage with a subtle glow, so start with a little as it goes a long way. It’s not overly shiny (some tinted sunscreens can have that effect) and it lasts very well. I used the shade Medium, which was perfect for me. Generous size – 50mls! Also comes in light and dark shades.
The packaging
The packaging of this line deserves special mention. Sleek, unisex, matt black bottles with pumps (hooray) will look good on any bathroom shelf, besides having an excellent delivery system. One pump is enough product for the face and neck.
Other than that, it’s a simple, effective skincare range, anti-cruelty, no fragrance, sulphate-free and reasonably priced for a medical-grade skincare range with active ingredients. Lekker because it’s local as well.
Visit their website, www.dermexcel.co.za
Paola Chellew is a freelance journalist and regularly writes for a number of publications. A former professional contemporary dancer, she has always loved the arts in all their forms. She has been a freelance writer for many years and has been published in various magazines including Live Out Loud, Private Life and Do It now magazines. Her passion for beauty and skincare started in her teens, when she would read every beauty editor’s picks and reviews. Serious about skincare, she has researched medical-grade products for over ten years, as well as aesthetic treatments to restore and repair skin to look its best. Having turned 60 last year, she has dedicated her blog to the “over 50s and beyond Club”, shining a spotlight on a generation that is seemingly side-lined by the beauty industry. “There is no age limit for when you stop being beautiful – a gorgeous lipstick, a sexy fragrance, radiant skin- these are not synonymous with youth- they are just things that add an extra sparkle to my day”.
📸 Profile photo credited to Lerissa Kemp Photography