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Age Defence

Age Defence

Complete protection against accelerated skin ageing in a beautifully formulated, deeply nourishing single step morning routine. 

  • Clinically Proven: Protects against collagen degradation and inflammation.
  • Supports Natural Recovery: Aids the skin's natural biological repair mechanisms.
  • Protects Your Progress: Stops the daily damage that undoes your repair work, allowing your treatments to truly deliver.
  • Invisible Finish: Lightweight, all-day hydration that layers perfectly with makeup.


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Age Defence

£92.00 GBP

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KEY BENEFITS

Preserves Collagen & Firmness

Clinically proven to defend against UV-induced collagen degradation, maintaining your skin's natural bounce and preventing future loss of elasticity.[1]

Supports Cellular Recovery

The unique combination of two DNA repair enzymes support the skin’s natural repair mechanisms, to prevent visible damage and ageing.[2]

Non-Absorbing UV-Protection

Powerful SPF 50 PA++++ protection against the damaging effects of UVA (ageing) & UVB (burning). The encapsulation technology ensures the filters don't pass the skin barrier for improved feel, increased performance, and less irritation.[3]

Shields Against Pollution

Protects the skin from the ageing effects of daily environmental damage, and pollution.[4]

Invisible, All Day Hydration

Deeply nourishing, all day hydration that absorbs instantly with a velvet-matte feel. A completely weightless formula that layers perfectly under makeup without pilling.[5]
View Citations
[1] In skin exposed to solar-simulated UV radiation, Age Defence significantly reduced MMP1 expression, a key enzyme involved in collagen breakdown, compared to untreated UV-exposed controls.[2] Emanuele, E., Spencer, J. M., & Braun, M. (2014). Topical Application of Preparations Containing DNA Repair Enzymes Prevents Ultraviolet-Induced Telomere Shortening and c-FOS Proto-Oncogene Hyperexpression in Human Skin: An Experimental Pilot Study. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (JDD), 13(3), 304-309.[3] Proven in independent clinical and laboratory testing, including in-vivo SPF 50 and PA++++ validation , structural analysis confirming a 1-micron capsule size that prevents skin absorption , and a 52-subject dermatological patch test demonstrating no adverse reactions.[4] Supported by peer-reviewed clinical research demonstrating that topical application of Vaccinium myrtillus (Bilberry) provides significant antioxidant defence against oxidative stress and environmental skin aging. (Reference: Tasić-Kostov et al., 'Old Plant, New Possibilities: Wild Bilberry in Topical Skin Preparation,' PubMed Central, PMC8002374).[5] Proven in an independent clincial study to provide 24 hour hydration
Simulation of H&E histology staining of aged skin. MMP-1 enzymes act like pacman eating collagen.

What Causes Collagen to Breakdown?

Every time the skin is exposed to daylight and environmental stress, it triggers the overproduction of an enzyme called MMP-1 (Matrix Metalloproteinase-1). Think of MMP-1 as a biological wrecking ball; its primary function is to actively break down and dismantle collagen, the vital structural protein that gives the skin its firmness and bounce.


As we mature, the natural ability to replenish this lost collagen slows down. Mitigating the daily spike of MMP-1 enzymes is essential to stopping this degradation before it begins. By suppressing these enzymes, the skin's existing collagen network is protected, helping to maintain its natural elasticity and structural health over the long term.

How DNA Repair Enzymes Work

In nature, specific enzymes help cells respond to environmental stress. Certain enzymes have been extensively studied for their role in DNA repair, including photolyase—part of the foundational research recognised by the 2015 Nobel Prize in Chemistry.


Photolyase uses light energy to support the reversal of UV-induced damage. While not naturally present in human skin, it has been researched extensively in skincare for its ability to complement the skin’s own repair processes.


Similarly, endonuclease enzymes are involved in recognising and helping remove damaged DNA components, supporting the skin’s natural recovery mechanisms following UV damage.

Image showing the structure of our UV filter encapsulation

What is Encapsulation?

Encapsulation is an advanced formulation technology used to surround active ingredients within protective microscopic structures. Depending on how the system is engineered, encapsulation can either help keep an ingredient stable on the skin’s surface or protect it until it is released in a controlled way.


The Non-Absorbing UV Shield
The Non-Absorbing UV Shield Our broad-spectrum UV filters are encapsulated within a highly sophisticated water-oil-water (W/O/W) system. This ensures the filters remain entirely on the skin’s surface, preventing them from passing the skin barrier. The result is uncompromising, high-performance sun protection that eliminates the risk of systemic absorption, without the heavy, congesting feel of a traditional sunscreen. Furthermore, these microscopic spheres are negatively charged. Rather than clumping together (a common issue in standard formulas known as flocculation), they naturally repel one another. This electrostatic action forms a flawless, uniform grid of invisible protection across your skin.


Furthermore, these microscopic spheres are negatively charged. Rather than clumping together (a common issue in standard formulas known as flocculation), they naturally repel one another. This electrostatic action forms a flawless, uniform grid of invisible protection across your skin.


The pH-Triggered Enzymes


While our UV filters are engineered to stay on the surface, our DNA repair enzymes are designed for deeper structural support. We utilise a specialised lipid encapsulation to protect these delicate enzymes as they travel through the upper layers of the epidermis. Once they reach the precise cellular depth required, your skin’s natural pH levels trigger the breakdown of the capsule, releasing the active enzymes exactly where they are needed to support biological recovery.

Free Radicals and Skin

Urban pollution and UV exposure constantly bombard the skin with free radicals—highly unstable molecules missing an electron. To stabilise themselves, they aggressively steal electrons from healthy skin cells. This destructive process, known as oxidative stress, depletes vital lipids, weakens the skin barrier, and triggers the invisible inflammation that causes a dull, exhausted complexion.

To combat this, the cellular ecosystem relies on antioxidants. Antioxidants act as a protective biological shield, generously donating their own electrons to neutralise free radicals before they can steal from healthy cells. This daily mitigation is crucial for stopping environmental damage in its tracks and preserving a vibrant, calm, and highly functioning skin barrier.

As Featured In

PURE SCIENCE. PROVEN RESULTS

Proven Results

Rigorously tested across all three dimensions of our Cell-to-Surface™ standard

Tested at the Cell

BIOLOGICAL EFFICACY


3.7x Reduction in Collagen Damage
3.8x Reduction in Inflammation
2x Reduction in Zombie Cells

In skin exposed to solar-simulated UV radiation, Age Defence reduced the expression of key biomarkers associated with collagen degradation (MMP1), inflammation (PTGES), and cellular senescence (P21), compared to untreated UV-exposed controls.

Measured on the Surface

CLINICAL STUDY


24hr All Day Hydration
SPF50 | PA++++
Perceived in the Mirror

Consumer Validated


91% Said their skin was nourished
88% Noticed a healthy glow

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FORMULATION SCIENCE

A Note from Dr. Clare Kiely

"As a dermatologist specialising in skin cancer, I see the cumulative effects of UV exposure and environmental damage every day in my clinic. I always tell my patients that the single most powerful tool for maintaining skin health is consistent daily protection, starting with sunscreen.

However, I also understand the reality: many people dislike wearing traditional high-SPF products. They can feel heavy, congesting, and disrupt makeup. If a product isn’t a pleasure to use, it won’t be used consistently and inconsistent protection leaves the skin vulnerable.

Age Defence was created to bridge the gap between rigorous dermatological science and elegant skincare. My goal was to develop a formula that delivers high-level, broad-spectrum UV protection while feeling like a lightweight, luxurious day cream.

By combining advanced encapsulated filters with ingredients inspired by DNA repair mechanisms, this formula helps defend against daily environmental damage while supporting the skin’s natural recovery processes. It acts as an invisible shield against future damage, designed to protect your progress without compromising your routine.

INGREDIENTS

By precisely pairing encapsulated, non-absorbing UV filters with targeted DNA repair enzymes and pollution-neutralising antioxidants, we have created a daily formula where surface protection and deep environmental defence actively work in tandem.


Protect

Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Octocrylene encaplsulated in oil water oil lipids

Advanced Encapsulated UV Filters: High performance UV-filters that are encapsulated to ensure they provide all the benefits of chemical sunscreen filters without absorption. This makes them sensitive skin friendly and non-greasy.

Antioxidant Complex: A unique combination of bilberry extract and raspberry seed oil shield against pollution and environmental stressors that lead to dullness.


Renew

Micrococcus Lysate, Plankton Extract

Phytoshield DNA Repair: Photolyase and Endoneuclease act as a biological 'search and support' team that aids the skin's natural recovery from UV exposure.


Restore

Squalane, Lecithin, Maleated Soybean Oil Glyceryl/Octyldodecanol Esters, Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Vitamin E)

Barrier-Identical Lipids & Humectants: A synergy of Squalane, Lecithin, and Glycerin that mimics the skin’s natural composition to deeply hydrate, restore suppleness, and lock in moisture all day.

View full INCI

Aqua, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Squalane, Glyceryl Citrate/Lactate/Linoleate/Oleate, Octocrylene, Butylene Glycol, Rubus Idaeus Seed Oil, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Glycerin, Maleated Soybean Oil Glyceryl/Octyldodecanol Esters, Plankton Extract, Micrococcus Lysate, Vaccinium Myrtillus Fruit Extract, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil, Lecithin, Tocopherol, Polysorbate 60, Sodium Acrylates Copolymer, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sorbitan Isostearate, Citric Acid, Sodium Benzoate, Phenethyl Alcohol, Hydroxyacetophenone, Potassium Sorbate, Parfum, Geraniol, Limonene, Linalool, Sodium Hydroxide, Phenoxyethanol

HOW TO USE

How to apply Age Defence

How to Apply Your Age Defence

For best results, we recommend the multi-dot technique to ensure even, full coverage across the face and neck.

How to apply:

  • Dispense 3–4 pumps of Age Defence
  • Dot the product evenly across your face and neck (forehead, cheeks, chin, nose, and neck)
  • Gently smooth into the skin until fully absorbed

When to use:

  • Apply every morning as the final step in your skincare routine
  • Always apply to clean skin
  • Designed to protect and hydrate throughout the day with SPF 50

DNA repair enzymes

Nobel Prize Inspired Science

Our skin is constantly exposed to environmental stressors such as UV radiation, which can damage cellular DNA.

In 2015, the Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for discoveries explaining how cells repair this damage. This research included repair mechanisms, including photoreactivation (a light-driven process involving the enzyme photolyase) and nucleotide excision repair.

In human skin, DNA damage is primarily repaired through nucleotide excision repair, as photolyase is not naturally present.

Modern skincare technologies are inspired by these biological systems, aiming to support the skin’s natural recovery processes. Research continues to evolve and these innovations remain an exciting area of skin science.

HOW THE ENZYMES WORK

Photolyase (The Daylight Defender): A brilliant light-activated enzyme. It actually uses the energy from daylight to help support the skin's natural biological mechanisms against UV-induced stress.

Endonuclease (The Deep Support): Works in tandem to help the skin's ecosystem identify and recover from the invisible, microscopic environmental damage that standard SPFs leave behind.

DEEP RESULTS TAKE TIME TO BUILD

What to Expect

1 Week

THE DAILY EXPERIENCE

Immediate, weightless hydration. The velvet-matte formula absorbs instantly with zero white cast, creating a flawless, non-greasy base for makeup.

1 Month

The Calmed barrier

As the formula mitigates daily invisible inflammation, your skin barrier becomes more resilient. You will notice a more comfortable, settled complexion with less environmental redness.

3 Months

Protected Progress

Because Age Defence actively defends your collagen from daily degradation, your nighttime treatments can finally work without interruption. Your skin retains its natural bounce and vitality.

6 Months

Long-term resilience

The true reward of prevention. Your skin’s biological environment remains structurally supported, healthy, and consistently protected against accelerated environmental ageing year-round.

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FAQs

Does it pair well with Night Repair Therapy?

Absolutely! Night Repair Therapy and Age Defence are our hardworking duo that keeps your skin in a state of protection and repair day or night.

Does it work well under makeup?

Yes, it sits beautifully under makeup offering all-day hydration. Can be worn alone or under makeup.

Can I use another antioxidant alongside Age Defence?

If you want to, you can use a separate antioxidant product before applying the day cream. However, it’s been designed to offer antioxidant protection as your one-step daytime cream.

What is flocculation?

When you apply sunscreen, many experience flocculation issues (probably without realising it). This means that, despite your best efforts, your application isn’t always even and can clump together. Using encapsulated technology means the sunscreen applies like a protective film over the skin, reducing any gaps and forming a better UVA and UVB protection layer.

Why have you chosen a mildly scented formulation?

The base ingredients, especially the repair enzymes have a distinctive smell. We added a very small amount of fragrance to boost the experience of using this daily.

Is it safe for sensitive skin?

Our day cream has been shown in independent clinical testing to be suitable for sensitive skin. Our encapsulated filter technology means the sunscreen filters themselves are not in contact with the skin making it suitable for those who are sometimes sensitised by sunscreen filters. 

The formulation is mildly fragranced so if you are concerned about any specific allergies or irritation we recommend trialing a small amount first.

Will the DNA repair enzymes get rid of all my sun damage?

As much as we’d love to say yes, unfortunately not all of it. DNA Repair Enzymes can’t erase all past DNA repair, but it can mitigate some DNA damage, helping to  correct UV-induced errors before they cause permanent cellular changes. In turn, this also helps reduce the risk of precancerous skin changes.

Is Age Defence a sunscreen?

Age Defence is a day cream that contains broad spectrum sunscreen filters meaning you can wear it as a sunscreen. We just recommend applying a 2 finger length amount to ensure adequate protection and it’s important to reapply throughout the day.

Does Age Defence provide blue light protection?

Blue light (HEVL, 400–500 nm) is part of the visible light spectrum and cannot be effectively blocked by transparent skincare formulations. Only products containing visible light–reflective ingredients, such as iron oxides, provide real HEVL protection. This means true blue light protection requires ingredients that physically reflect visible light.

Antioxidants can help mitigate the damage caused by blue light. Age Defence contains carotenoids, polyphenols and vitamin E to help mitigate oxidative stress caused by blue light and support the skin’s natural defence and repair mechanisms This means our formulation helps skin recover from blue light exposure, but it does not block blue light itself.

That’s why we’ve chosen not to make a “blue light protection” claim, even though we could have.

Does Age Defence protect against infrared (IR) radiation?

Infrared (IR) radiation (especially IR-A) penetrates deeper into the skin than UV or blue light, contributing to heat stress, oxidative damage and accelerated skin ageing.

Infrared radiation cannot be blocked by traditional sunscreen filters, physical or chemical. There are currently no approved cosmetic ingredients that reflect or absorb infrared light in the way sunscreen filters protect against UV. Skincare products support the skin’s resilience to infrared-induced stress through actives. Age Defence contains a powerful antioxidant complex including: tocopherol (vitamin E), carotenoids, polyphenols and DNA repair enzymes. These ingredients don’t block IR but help defend against oxidative stress, inflammation and mitochondrial damage that IR exposure can trigger.


We’ve chosen not to make the “infrared protection” claim because no skincare product can truly block infrared.

  • 5 stars: 67 (82%)
  • 4 stars: 9 (11%)
  • 3 stars: 5 (6%)
  • 2 stars: 0 (0%)
  • 1 star: 1 (1%)
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Liz Dwyer
I'm a former beauty editor so have tested and

I'm a former beauty editor so have tested and used literally thousands of products. As I've aged my skin has become highly intolerant to many creams especially those with built in SPF. I've only been able to use sticky and heavy mineral filter protection which are greasy and rubbish under make up. This is the first product in over a decade I've been able to not just tolerate, but enjoy applying daily! It's such a light formula but keeps my skin feeling hydrated and spongy all day long and because the spf 50 in it is encapsulated there is none of the usual spots and red hive like bumps I usually get from chemical SPF. Thank you to the formulators for finally producing an all round solution I can use. 🙏🏼

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Anonymous
Since starting the daily defence my skin feels

Since starting the daily defence my skin feels and looks amazing, I’m always getting compliments about it . I’ve also been on holiday and this was the only product i wore for my face in the sun it protected it amazingly, I have been using this product for over a year now and it definitely has made a difference.

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CMc
On my first bottles

I’m only on my first bottle of night repair and the day cream. I’m enjoying using the products so far and before I invested I was going by the reviews so I hope it’s not just another skin care brand making promises, the main thing for me is the words ‘over time’ & I understand that as no cream is going to deliver instant miraculous results.
It’s an expensive investment but so far I’m cautiously optimistic.
Nicest products I’ve used so far & I will be re purchasing so……..

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Katie
Very happy with the Age Defence Day cream

Very happy with the Age Defence Day cream. Absorbs into my skin nicely. Love the fact it is SPF 50 and has certainly protected my skin during this hot weather as I am outside a lot. Some SPF creams irritate my sensitive skin but this doesn’t at all.
It is quite expensive and I would like it to come in a larger size too but I will continue to use both the day cream and the Night Repair cream as my skin feels so much better.

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Jo Garland
I am happy to totally recommend the day cream

I am happy to totally recommend the day cream. Firstly it is really easy to apply and gets absorbed immediately. Secondly it’s wonderful to have a cream that not only is a SPF factor of 50 but has anti aging effects. I have been in strong sun most of the summer and feel totally protected; my face has also been well hydrated and I have not had to use moisturiser at all. It’s simple and really effective. It’s important to me that there are respected dermatologists and clinical trials behind the product.

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Jane Stewart-Smith
Absolutely love this brand

Absolutely love this brand. Ive been using both products for over a year. So easy and my skin has never looked and felt better. Wish the Age Defence came in a slightly bigger tube!!

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Esmefaulkner
I love this cream

I love this cream. It feels lovely on my skin, smells delicious and my skin is looking so good after finishing a tube - which lasts for ages as a small amount goes far.

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Bart
Love the Night Repair. I use it every night and love it.

Love the Night Repair. I use it every night and love it. I was a Le Mer soft creme guy for many years. I also use the Age Defence every day. Love it as well. The only downside is that I cannot use it around my eyes as it burns if you sweat at all (in the eyes). I love that it is not greasy and lasts the day. The eye piece is the only issue. Your new pump is also great. That was an amazing change for the better.

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Juliepercival
Love the cream but not the new packaging!

Love the day cream but I'm not a fan of the new pump action packaging!
The cream glides over the skin smoothly, leaves no residue; it provides a satisfying firming effect as it sinks into the skin and it is a perfect base for makeup. I believe the addition of the day cream, on top of the Skin Diary night cream, is also making a noticeable difference to the stubborn lines on my forehead.
Sadly though, I feel I have to take issue with the new tube design. It appears smaller next to the original tube, yet it still contains 50mls??.. The tube is meant to be stored standing up to allow the contents to fall to the delivery end and yet the new, much slimmer design constantly topples over. Could your packaging designers have a rethink please?

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Lynn G
Truly a fabulous one & done product

Amazing product! Not only does it save me both time and money by being truly one-and-done, I’ve also received so many compliments since I started using it. I’m absolutely delighted with the results and couldn’t be happier. Highly recommended!

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Claire Waugh
Favourite night cream ever.

At the age of 72 I have tried a lot of skin cream! And now I no longer look at all the ads for the latest and best one as I’m fully confident I already have it! I’ve just started with the day cream too and absolutely loving it! Wonderful under make up.

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Sue S
Converted after the first pot

I found skin diary after a press article and the night cream became an immediate favourite. Beautifully presented and gorgeous to use. I then bought the day cream and although I was initially a bit sceptical about the texture and dispensing tube I was quickly won over and now these two products are my simple regime. Not expecting miracles as I approach my 70th birthday but my skin feels wonderful

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sandra lord
Amazing moisturiser

I have been using the skin diary daily moisturiser for maybe a year now, it is brilliant ! goes on smoothly and allows makeup to stay in place. There is absolutely no pilling of makeup after a few hours unlike other moisturisers I have tried in the past and of course they is the added bonus of the SPF 50. Anyone thinking about purchasing this product don't hesitate and you will not regret it.

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I.R.

Great products. Have used both for the past few years and am very happy with the results. The after sales service of the company is faultless.

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Marjorie

Like the product, but in love with it

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Sarah Hall
Effective day cream

I was curious after viewing the social media posts. Having tried retinol and vitamin C serums, both of which irritated my skin, the lure of the same results using a simplified system was exciting. The day cream feels great on the skin, two pumps of the product seems to be the right amount for my face. Used it regularly throughout the day on holiday in Spain, my face felt well protected and perfectly moisturised. It is expensive and I am concerned that the tube won’t last long making it a costly purchase every 6 or so weeks. Every 2 months would be better. Overall, very happy with the Day Cream.

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Molly Kavanagh
Magical duet

Been using the Night Repair Therapy & the daily moisturiser for a few months now, absolutely incredible products. My mature skin much more hydrated & I feel protected during the day. Highly recommend.

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Ursula

I love LOVE this product!
Thank you so so much for reaching out too!
No more serums, no more sun factor creams, all the extras are gone!
I have ben using The noght cream for over a year now and my skin is loving it! No irritation no retinol extras!!
Its a WIN WIN
Thank you to each of you and I look forward to the added EXTRAS like eye cream etc !!💪❤️

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Dawn wilson
Visibly different to other day creams

I am now using my third order of this product and love the thickness of it when I put it on , it feels so much more protective than other products I have used before , yet is quickly absorbed into the skin . I use it together with the night cream and my skin feels supple and I feel confident in my skin care regime

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Ashleen

Love love love this product along with the night cream its the best system ive ever used and it’s simplicity is another great part. On my second box of the duo and will be buying again

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Katherine Orr
Best Moisturiser + SPF I've tried

I've been using the Age Defence for nearly two months and I absolutely love it. It's by far the best daily cream with spf that I've tried (and I've tried a lot). Lovely texture and fragrance. Beautiful packaging - just make sure to keep it upright to ensure you get every last drop out of it!

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Chelsey
Love this simple routine

I absolutely love that this is a one and done routine, no more 10 step routines or guessing which products to use.

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Aimee F
perfect

perfect in every way, sinks in well, skin feels and looks hydrated, no irritation

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Allyson Daho
Age Defence and Night Repair

I’ve been using both the day and night cream for the past year - now just about to order my 4th supply. I no longer need a complicated regime - the Age Defence is my sole product after cleansing in the morning and it’s great not to have to apply a sunscreen. The Night Repair cream is effective and pleasant to use. At 68 my skin looks great!

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UO
It's in the name

Skin Diary - Scientifically Kind Ingeniously Different, Drenched In Antioxidants, Retinyl - Youthful

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Deb
Best day and night cream

I am 62 and I have tried numerous creams over the years. My skin feels/looks nourished, protected and overall younger (I have been using consistently for the past 9 months). I also love that I don’t need to use a serum!

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Rand A.T
Best product i've ever used- a near instant improvement!

As a man i ignored 'skin care' until much more recently in life, and have since used a myriad of expensive hyped up products that do nothing except hurt my back pocket (i'm looking at you, skinceutical!) not to mention they take up half of the morning just to apply. Then a friend recommended the The Skin Diary, and honestly it's been a game changer!

Quick and easy to apply, and although I didn't really expect to see results quickly I started to notice changes within a week. My skin looked more vibrant, and just all around healthier. After a few weeks some of the lines began disappearing, and for the first time in my life i've even had people comment and compliment me on it, telling me I look younger 'for some reason!'

I ended up purchasing their night repair cream as well, and now the two are the staples of my care routine. It's so nice to find a product that actually does what it says it will- highly recommend!!

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Linda
Fantastic

Love the product, one product that covers all my daily skin needs . Love new look and feel of product with pump . I have sensitive skin and this suits perfectly and glides on under makeup