Shoppers Are Skipping Makeup Thanks to This $15 "Plumping" Retinol

Most skincare ingredients go through cycles of extreme popularity and ubiquitousness before falling off. There is one that is immune to the whims of virality and fleeting fads, and that is retinol. The FDA-approved ingredient has proven anti-aging properties that have kept it at the top of the metaphorical charts for decades now. You can get really fancy with it and spend hundreds of dollars, or you could opt for Tree of Life’s top-rated, now-$15 Retinol Serum. 

Tree of Life is one of those niche skincare brands that excels on Amazon, the type you could find on the aisles of a health food store but that has little to no name recognition. But once you discover it, you’ll be a fan — at least according to the thousands of five-star ratings on many of its products. The Renew and Firm Retinol Serum has a staggering 15,000 five-star ratings. 

Obviously, retinol plays the starring role here. As a refresh, the vitamin A-derived ingredient “triggers several cellular responses that lead to skin rejuvenation and improvement in various skin concerns,” cosmetic chemist Yashi Shrestha previously told InStyle. This, in turn, means deep penetration that improves collagen production, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and prevents the development of new ones. The expedited cell turnover also results in a more even tone with reduced hyperpigmentation and a more even texture with smoother, less congested skin. 

The formula also includes hyaluronic acid in a very important supporting role. It provides plumpness and hydration, the latter of which is especially important to counteract retinol’s drying effects. Lastly, the brand claims its Firm and Renew Retinol Serum is hypoallergenic and sensitive skin-safe, which hopefully means avoiding retinol burns. 

A 59-year-old shopper said they started using this because their complexion was “ruddy and they were “looking older than they felt.” After using Tree of Life Retinol Serum they look “10 years younger.” Another shopper said they have had “amazing makeup-free days” since using this serum. “My face looks a lot fresher and my skin tone looks even… my fine lines and wrinkles seem to look rejuvenated and more plump” the shopper added. 

Head to Amazon to shop the “game-changing” Tree of Life Renew and Firm Retinol Serum, and check out other Tree of Life products while you’re at it.  

Tree of Life Vitamin C, Retinol and Hyaluronic Acid Serum Set 

Tree of Life Renew and Firm Retinol Facial Moisturizer