It goes without saying that skincare preferences are incredibly personal. We all have different skin types, textures, concerns and goals – so a product has to be something rather special if it wants to be deemed a universal crowd pleaser that really delivers on its promises.
According to a recent round of Good Housekeeping Institute testing, one brand that has achieved this rare feat – across multiple products in its range – is Olay.
A panel of readers put Olay’s Regenerist Niacinamide SPF 30 day cream and Retinol MAX night cream through their paces, applying them daily in place of their usual morning and evening moisturisers for a two-month period, and the results were overwhelmingly positive. If you’re thinking of updating your skincare regimen – or looking for a gift for a beauty-savvy loved one – these are certainly products to have on your radar.
Both jars have been formulated with high potency ingredients to deliver targeted results from the very first use. The day cream deploys niacinamide at 99% purity for instant hydration that lasts throughout the day, while antioxidant vitamin E works to keep skin looking youthful, and Olay SolaSheer SPF30 technology shields it from the sun’s rays.
This first product received high praise from testers, who not only loved its delicate scent, but applauded its lightweight texture, quick absorption and ability to minimise the appearance of large pores over time. ‘My skin felt smooth and glowing even from the very first application,’ said one, while another noted that it made a beautiful base for foundation.
‘I think I’ve found my newly daily moisturiser!’ exclaimed a third. ‘I’m impressed with this product (and surprised, as I have used a lot of high-end premium products). I loved everything about it, especially the texture and feel on my skin.’
The second step in the routine, the Retinol MAX night cream, uses retinyl propionate to penetrate deep into the skin’s surface and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles from the first application, with greater cumulative improvements over time.
However, the thing that really sets the formula apart is the inclusion of a hefty dose of glycerin. This helps to prevent the tightness and dryness often associated with the exfoliant’s resurfacing properties, keeping skin nourished while still delivering youth-enhancing benefits – a combination which readers dubbed ‘a revelation’.
‘My skin felt so hydrated from the first use,’ said one. ‘Lines and wrinkles appeared softer after a couple of weeks application. I would highly recommend.’
Individually, the pots are undeniably impressive, but it seems that the real magic lies in using them in harmony. ‘I was amazed at the difference these two products – used together – made to my face,’ one tester declared.
‘The products have transformed my skin. I am thrilled with them,’ agreed a second. ‘The day cream has a lovely texture and absorbs very well. The SPF is a bonus. I did not need makeup (and I am 54!) – my skin glowed, was firmer and more even in appearance.
‘The night cream made me realise I need retinol in my life. I woke up looking less haggard. My skin was plump, lines were less pronounced. Waking up to a fresh-looking face was wonderful.’
The best news of all? Both the Regenerist Niacinamide SPF 30 day cream and Retinol MAX night cream are half price* at Boots until 30th December, making them even more appealing investments. In fact, at those prices, we’d be tempted to pick up jars as gifts for others and gifts to self simultaneously.
Olay’s Regenerist Niacinamide SPF 30 day cream and Retinol MAX night cream have been awarded the Good Housekeeping Reader Recommended logo. Discover the full Olay skincare range now at boots.com/olay
*All decisions on pricing, promotion and distribution are at the sole discretion of the retailer
