Dr Lens, founder of Zelens, HATES Glycolic Acid. I don’t. I’m a HUGE fan.
But, I must admit he has a point. GA is awesome at exfoliating skin and pumping up collagen production, but it can be irritating (it’s why I NEVER recommend it to sensitive skin).
So, what does he uses instead? Lactobionic Acid. It’s the key ingredient in Zelens Transformer Instant Renewal Mask. Here’s how it fares:
What’s In Zelens Transformer Instant Renewal Mask?
LACTOBIONIC ACID TO EXFOLIATE SKIN
Lactiobionic Acid belongs to the Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) family, a branch of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) family. So, yep, it’s related to Glycolic Acid (if you’re behind on the gossip, GA is a AHAs – do you have a headache, yet?).
Alphabet aside, science has shown that 6% Lactobionic Acid gets rid of dead skin cells as well as GA, but without irritating skin. Plus, just like GA, Lactobionic Acid hydrates skin, leaving it softer and smoother.
The best thing about it? It can be used by everyone. It’s compatible with clinically sensitive skin, including rosacea and atopic dermatitis, as well as African American, Caucasian, and Hispanic/Asian skin.
Related: Chemical VS Physical Exfoliation: Which One Is Better?
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SODIUM HYALURONATE TO HYDRATE SKIN
Sodium hyaluronate its a form of hyaluronic acid that attracts and binds to the skin up to 1000 times its weight in water. Plus, it works well both in high and low humidity conditions.
When skin has that much moisture, it plumps up. This alone is enough to make your fine lines look smaller – temporarily. Hydration also makes skin soft and gives the complexion a dewy glow (think Korean skin).
P.S. Glycerin is here too. It does the same thing, but on a smaller scale.
Related: Why You Need Hyaluronic Acid In Your Skincare Routine, No Matter Your Skin Type
Texture
Thick, with a slightly sticky consistency.
Fragrance
Clean and subtle.
How To Use It
Apply a generous amount to your face (avoid the eye area!), wait 15 minutes, then rinse it off.
Use no more than 3 times a week.
Performance & Personal Opinion
I use Zelens Transformer Instant Renewal Mask only once a week… because I’m lazy.
I’m not a big mask person. Sure, there are days when I fancy a pampering treat. But, most days, I want to apply a serum and forget it – no wait around 15 minutes for a mask.
But if you’re a mask geek, you’ll love this. I slather a generous amount on my skin and leave it on for 15 minutes.
When I rinse it off, my skin looks smoother and brighter than before and is much softer to the touch, too. In other words, it does everything Glycolic Acid does, but without the tingling feeling or irritation.
Related: The Complete Guide To Glycolic Acid: What It Is, What It Does, And How To Use It
Who Is This For?
Dry/sensitive skin that can’t tolerate Glycolic Acid.
Who Is This NOT For?
Oily and/or acne-prone skin (you need salicylic acid).
Related: The Best Salicylic Acid Exfoliants For Oily Skin
Packaging
An unassuming jar with a grey cap. Not the most hygienic, but a good choice for this quick texture.
Does Zelens Transformer Instant Renewal Mask Live Up To Its Claims?
| CLAIM | TRUE? |
|---|---|
| Encourages skin renewal with immediately visible results. | A fancy way to say it exfoliates skin. True. |
| Intensely moisturises the skin and enhances its youthful elasticity. | True. |
| Helps to achieve a healthy, glowing and younger-looking complexion. | True. |
Price & Availability
£100.00 at Cult Beauty, Feel Unique, Look Fantastic, and Revolve
Do You Need It?
If you’re looking for an alternative to Glycolic Acid, this is a good option to consider.
[penci_review]
Dupes & Alternatives
- Benton PHA Peeling Toner (£21.02)
Ingredients
Aqua (Water), Lactobionic Acid, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/ VP Copolymer, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polysilicone-11, Sodium Lactate, Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Phenoxyethanol, Mannitol, Laminaria Digitata Extract, Yeast Extract, Acrylates Copolymer, Behenyl Alcohol, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Magnesium Aspartate, Mica, Parfum (Fragrance), Sodium Hyaluronate, Disodium Adenosine Triphosphate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Disodium EDTA, Stearyl Alcohol, Alaria Esculenta Extract, Protease, Subtilisin, Glycogen, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Pearl, Hydrolyzed Sesame Protein PG-Propyl Methylsilanediol, VP/Polycarbamyl Polyglycol Ester, Silanetriol, Dehydroacetic Acid, Sodium Benzoate, CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide).
