*Disclaimer: The product was provided by root4, though, the review therein is based on the author’s experience and opinion. Aesthetic Appointment reviews are intended to be 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*
One of the things I strive for as I go through life is to listen to another point of view. It’s really a challenge not to get set in your ways, as we are naturally creatures of habit. When it comes to skin health though, I am quite adamant in terms of active ingredients – simply put, they work. And mostly, they are chemically made.
When I was kindly invited to try some of the products from root4 – a brand new skin range developed by South African dermatologist Dr Vanessa Lapiner, I was rather intrigued, as according to the press release, the doctor’s philosophy is grounded on an intention: to use safe, natural ingredients, not to harm the environment and to uplift local communities. But my question was: are the products going to be as efficient as I want them to be? Is this range scientifically driven?
According to the beautiful brochure printed on sustainable paper, Dr Lapiner affirms her belief in science and as a dermatologist, she wants results-driven products for her patients. But as a mother of four, she also wants to raise awareness around the preservation of our planet.
The packaging – as mentioned – is all recyclable and biodegradable, as well as being absolutely, fabulously elegant. The combinations within are meticulously prepared with a passion for science: Chlorophyll, Malachite, Curcumin and Spirulina – powerful plant and mineral-based ingredients, to name a few. In fact, my gold standard skin ingredient, Vitamin A, has a starring role in its pure and natural form.
I tried 3 products:
root4 Cleansing Elixir
R745.00
Aptly named, this emerald green potion is packed with prebiotics and hyaluronic acid cleanses gently but efficiently and is not at all drying. I use half a pump in the morning and a full pump at night. I have enjoyed the ritual of cleaning with this verdant gel, finding my skin soft and soothed thereafter.
root4 cleansing elixir
root4 Complete Serum
R1795.00
Described as “Everything you need and nothing that you don’t…”
With actives like Resveratol and Niacinamide, this preparation doesn’t disappoint. For my mature skin, applying this serum was bliss, the hyaluronic acid and peptides plumping and smoothing fine lines. It’s an antioxidant serum, so it soothes inflammation as well as boosts collagen production.
root4 complete serum
root4 SupernovA oil (clue is in the A)
R995.00
This product is possibly the star of the show with its powerful plant-based retinol alternative extracts – users reap the benefits of a prescription retinoid without the irritation thanks to the botanical oils which replenish and nourish.
root4 supernovA oil
The scent of these products is delicate and ingredient-based – you are literally smelling the plant extracts within.
I am converted.
For more information, visit www.root4.skin
Dr Vanessa Lapiner says: “As a doctor, I am committed to making a difference. As a brand, social responsibility is in our DNA. Every root4 product you purchase will contribute towards our root4good foundation supporting local non-profit initiatives. Thank you for caring”
Dr Vanessa Lapiner
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
- Paola Chellewhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/paola-chellew
- Paola Chellewhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/paola-chellew
- Paola Chellewhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/paola-chellew
- Paola Chellewhttps://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/author/paola-chellew
