*Disclaimer: This is not a paid review. The product was provided by Dermaquest South Africa, 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*
For many people of advanced age, like myself, it seems as if a strive towards excellence is a thing of the past – especially in South Africa, speaking generally. There is a drop in standards, in the pass rate, in the quality of goods, in the care of arts and culture or even public property, for that matter. So, it’s just like a breath of fresh air when I can come across a brand in the field of aesthetics that is all for the betterment of excellence – an improvement on something already brilliant. And that is what Dermaquest is all about.
Having recently attended the launch of their Advanced Formulas – a revamp of all their expertly targeted serums, I am imbued with the hope that perhaps the strive towards excellence is still around – well, at least in skincare! Each serum is specifically crafted for a particular skin concern, be it hyperpigmentation, dullness, dehydration or lax skin tone, amongst others.
These are the Dermaquest Advanced Formulas:
- Advanced Essential B5 Hydrating serum (for hydrating)
- Advanced Stem Cell Rebuilding Complex (strengthening and firming)
- Advanced Peptide Line Corrector (wrinkle corrector). See my review of this here https://www.aestheticappointment.co.za/2021/12/aesthetic-appointment-review-putting-the-pep-back-in-your-skin-with-dermaquest-peptide-vitality.html
- Advanced C Infusion Serum (for photoaging and damage)
- Advanced Dermaclear Serum (oil balancing)
- Advanced SkinBrite Serum (discolouration and pigmentation)
- Advanced Stem Cell 3D HydraFirm Serum (loss of volume)
- NEW Advanced Stem Cell 3D Active Retinol Repair Serum 1 % (lines, wrinkles UV damage, tone, texture)
I was gifted the Dermaquest C Infusion Serum (R1995.00) and the new Dermaquest Active Retinol Repair Serum and have been using them for just over 3 weeks. What Dermaquest claims to have improved on is the delivery systems of these formulas, which allow better penetration of the stable, active ingredients and therefore the results are achieved in a shorter amount of time.
The C Infusion Serum is specifically for uneven skin tone, dark spots and sun damage – perfect for more mature skin. I used it only in the morning (although it can also be used in the evening) and followed it with my moisturizer and sunscreen. It’s a formula that is beautifully absorbed by the skin and contains orange plant cells which fortify and support skin structure – there is an initial gorgeous citrusy smell which doesn’t linger but is so very pleasant. To be honest, I don’t have too many dark spots on my face, so hyperpigmentation is not an issue, but my skin looks brighter, and the tone feels good – this could be because of the increase in collagen synthesis, which definitely redensifies the skin.
I am quite used to using retinol, but I was excited to try the newest formula – Active Retinol Repair Serum, used in the evenings. It also has a pleasant texture which spreads easily and is instantly absorbed. Again, it’s a collagen booster – and having skipped a Dermapen (microneedling) treatment or two due to being too busy, I have noticed that my skin has benefitted in texture from this serum. It’s a very active formula, available in different strengths, so one needn’t worry about peeling and redness – just look forward to beautiful skin.
Tying in with my previous thoughts, I love this slogan from Dermaquest:
“Life isn’t perfect, but your skin can be”
The last word must go to the exquisite packaging which is positively James Bond 007-ish. Matte finish, slim tubes of smart technology – great for travel. All in all, excellence achieved.
For more information, visit www.evolutioncosmetic.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