REN Skincare Review

About REN Clean Skincare 

REN Clean Skincare produces natural, non-toxic beauty products created through a cruelty-free testing process. They are the brainchild of Antony Buck and Rob Calcraft, who were inspired to start a clean skincare brand after Antony’s wife started having negative reactions to every skincare product she tried during her pregnancy.

Established in London, England in 2000, the brand has spent over 20 years perfecting their formulas and maintaining their commitments to clean ingredients and reduced environmental impact. They have made a Zero Waste Pledge to ensure that all their packaging is 100% recycled, recyclable, and reusable by the end of 2021.

Currently, the brand uses bottles made from recycled ocean plastic and post-consumer recycled plastic for product packaging. They have also partnered with organizations like Surfers Against Sewage and Plastic Patrol to further their eco-efforts. 

Keep reading as my REN Skincare review takes a close look at the brand and their bestselling products, ingredients, features, customer ratings, promotions, and deals. Then, you can judge whether these clean care products are as effective as they are ethical. First, let’s look at REN’s pros and cons.

Pros and Cons 

REN Skincare is a popular brand known for using natural and sustainable ingredients in their products. Here are some potential pros and cons of using REN Skincare products:

Pros:

1. Natural and sustainable ingredients: REN Skincare uses natural and sustainable ingredients in their products, which can be beneficial for those with sensitive or easily irritated skin.
2. Free from harsh chemicals: REN Skincare products are free from harsh chemicals such as parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, making them a good choice for those who prefer to avoid these ingredients.
3. Cruelty-free: REN Skincare is a cruelty-free brand, which means they do not test their products on animals.
4. Variety of products: REN Skincare offers a wide range of products for different skin types and concerns, making it easier to find products that suit individual needs.

Cons:

1. Price: REN Skincare products can be expensive compared to other brands, which may not be affordable for everyone.
2. Effectiveness: While some people may see positive results from using REN Skincare products, others may not experience any significant improvement in their skin.
3. Availability: REN Skincare products may not be available in all locations or may have limited availability in some areas.
4. Packaging: REN Skincare uses plastic packaging for their products, which may not be sustainable or environmentally friendly.

Ingredients

Here are some common ingredients used in REN Skincare products, along with links to more information about their potential benefits:

Rosehip Oil

A nourishing oil rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids that can help to hydrate and protect the skin. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that rosehip oil can have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.

Lactic Acid

A review of studies published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that lactic acid can help to improve skin texture, tone, and hydration.

Shea Butter

A study published in the Journal of Oleo Science found that shea butter can improve skin hydration and barrier function.

Vitamin C

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that topical vitamin C can help to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against environmental stressors.

Probiotics

A review of studies published in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that probiotics can help to improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and protect against environmental stressors.

Hyaluronic Acid

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that hyaluronic acid can help to improve skin hydration, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and protect against environmental stressors.

Aloe Vera

A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that aloe vera can have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the skin.

Chamomile Extract

A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that chamomile extract can help to reduce skin inflammation and redness.

Features

REN Skincare products are known for being clean, natural, and effective. Here are some of the features of Ren Skincare products with associated links to studies:

1. Clean ingredients: Ren Skincare products are free from potentially harmful ingredients such as parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology found that these ingredients can cause skin irritation and other adverse effects.
2. Natural ingredients: Ren Skincare products are made with natural ingredients such as plant extracts and essential oils. A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that natural ingredients can have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.
3. Efficacy: Ren Skincare products are formulated to be effective in improving skin health and appearance. A study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that a Ren Skincare product containing lactic acid, citrus extracts, and willow bark extract was effective in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
4. Sustainability: Ren Skincare is committed to sustainability and using environmentally friendly practices. A study published in the Journal of Cleaner Production found that sustainable practices in the beauty industry can reduce environmental impacts and improve economic performance.
5. Probiotic technology: Ren Skincare products use probiotic technology to support the skin’s microbiome and improve skin health. A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that probiotics can help to improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and protect against environmental stressors.
6. Use of Vitamin C: Ren Skincare products often contain Vitamin C, which has been shown to have a number of benefits for the skin, including reducing hyperpigmentation and protecting against environmental stressors. A study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that Vitamin C can help to reduce hyperpigmentation.

Overall, REN products are known for their clean, natural formulations, effectiveness, and commitment to sustainability.

How to Use REN Skincare

Sure, here are some tips on how to use REN Skincare products:

1. Cleanse: Start by cleansing your face with a REN Skincare cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type. Gently massage the product onto your skin and rinse with lukewarm water.
2. Tone: After cleansing, use a REN Skincare toner to balance your skin’s pH levels and prepare it for further treatment. Apply the toner to a cotton pad and swipe it over your face.
3. Treat: If you have any specific skin concerns such as acne, fine lines, or dark spots, use a targeted REN Skincare treatment product. Apply the product to the affected areas and gently massage it into your skin.
4. Moisturize: Finish your routine by applying a REN Skincare moisturizer to hydrate and nourish your skin. Use a dime-sized amount of product and gently massage it into your face and neck.
5. Sun protection: During the day, make sure to use a REN Skincare sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.
6. Eye care: Don’t forget to take care of the delicate skin around your eyes. Use a REN Skincare eye cream or serum to hydrate and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

It’s also important to note that you should always read the instructions on the product label and patch test any new products before using them on your face. And remember, consistency is key for achieving the best results with REN Skincare products.

5 Best-Selling REN Skincare Products

REN beauty products are designed without toxic ingredients that lead to irritation. This clean brand that puts the needs of their customers and the planet at the heart of everything they do. (Their namesake, model Alex Ren skincare routine is similarly based on natural beauty solutions, so even the celebs are on board!)

I’ll walk you through some of the brand’s bestselling products, from glow-inducing tonics to microbiome-repairing serums that rejuvenate skin and bring it back to its original glory, in the next section of my REN Skincare review.

REN Perfect Canvas Serum Primer Review

Makeup? Pollution? Stress? Never fear, Perfect Canvas Serum Primer gets your skin ready for whatever the world can throw at it. This REN serum primer acts as a hydrating shield, with blue agave that helps smooth skin and minimize wrinkles and fine lines. 

The primer is silicone-free, using natural ingredients like lactococcus, blue agave extract, and alpha-glucans that plump the skin for flawless makeup application. The probiotics work to repair your skin’s natural barrier, resulting in a renewed and healthy glow. 

Set your skin up for success with the Perfect Canvas Serum Primer for $49. 

Customers say: “This is now part of my everyday skin regime. I like the texture of the product and am pleased with the results from everyday use.“

REN Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil Review

Wrinkles are a celebration of life lived, but watching them increase can mess with our confidence. Designed for mature skin, Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil works to significantly improve the appearance of wrinkles. 

This plant-based oil hydrates, protects, and strengthens skin with REN Clean Skincare ingredients that include bakuchiol, a retinol-mimicking isolate derived from the bakuchi plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. 

What’s the problem with getting the wisdom of age without the look of it? Reduce wrinkles and even skin tone with this REN moisturizer serum for $72. 

Customers say: “Fantastic! My skin is fairly sensitive so I have stayed away from retinoid products but this is great!! No sensitivity & feels great, can see a difference with my skin. REN products are just great!“

REN Bio Retinoid Youth Cream Review

Retinol is a powerful retinoid made from vitamin A, but it can often cause skin irritation. Bio Retinoid Youth Cream provides the same collagen-boosting effects as retinol without the stinging or enflaming sensations that go with it.

Suitable for all skin types, this anti-aging cream contains microalgae extract to help retain moisture and improve firmness, while babchi seed extract works to plump skin. This cream-based alternative to the Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil goes for $72.

Customers say: “Love this cream l am 61 years old and helps fine lines and so soft is my skin.“ 

REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic Review

The tonic that everyone’s talking about, the Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic is part of REN’s #GlowUp Challenge, which promises brighter skin in one week when using this REN Clean Skincare toner along with the Overnight Glow Dark Spot Sleeping Cream and the Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream. 

Packaged in a 100% recycled bottle, the tonic uses lactic acid, salicin, and azelaic acid to rejuvenate skin. Gentle but powerful, this REN clarifying toning lotion exfoliates and hydrates for a smoother, brighter appearance. Glow up with this REN essential at $40 for 250ml (other size options are also available). 

Customers say: “A really refreshing and cleansing toner, makes a difference to skin texture straight away.“

REN Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask Review 

Natural products are huge right now, but there are so many on the market that just don’t work. It’s not as easy as mixing a papaya with a special leaf and calling it a day: products need the right kind of science under their hoods to deliver on their claims. Luckily, that’s been REN’s mission since day one. 

The Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask uses all-natural acids to remove dead skin cells and give you a healthy-looking glow. Combining glycolic, lactic, citric, and tartaric acid, this REN face mask firms and smoothes skin to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This mask will run you $58 for a 50ml bottle. 

Customers say: “I have built this into my routine, my serum’s absorb so well after using this product and my skin feels more plump since I started using it, I definitely recommend it!“

Who is REN Skincare For?

People who deal with dry skin, excessive wrinkles, or visible signs of aging should find plenty to love with REN.

Who Should Avoid REN Skincare?

In general, people with oily skin should look elsewhere because REN Skincare may be too heavy for them, potentially causing breakouts.

What Do Experts Think?

Skincare experts have praised several aspects of REN Skincare, including its use of high-quality ingredients, commitment to sustainability, effectiveness for various skin concerns, gentle formulations, and transparency.

Alternatives

Here are three brands with similar products to those features in my REN Skincare review.

• DHC Skincare: A Japanese skincare brand that uses olive oil as their primary ingredient.
• Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare: Vegan and cruelty-free skincare products that abstain common fillers like paraben, phthalate, and sulfate.
• Drunk Elephant Skincare: More than just a funny name, this brand crafts creams that protect skin from sun damage and visible signs of aging.

REN Clean Skincare Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

I looked at three different websites to find up-to-date REN skincare reviews; Sephora, Amazon, and usa.renskincare.com. 

Let’s start with some REN skincare Sephora reviews. As of April 2023, The Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic has an average score of 4.1/5 stars based on 1,240 customer ratings. One user praised it for both its concealing and soothing effects.

“It’s hard to find just the right product for my skin — one that can handle the occasional break out or dark spot while addressing redness and texture concerns. I’ve tried a LOT of toners in my years and this one is the best I’ve ever seen,” the reviewer commented. 

Now on to what REN skincare Amazon testimonials say. The Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream ranked 4.6 stars from over 620 global ratings. One customer who suffers from rosacea praised the cream for how it restored moisture without aggravating sensitive skin.

“I started using this in late winter and it brought the moisture back. I’m continuing it in the summer and it is providing a great amount of moisture, but not making me breakout! For all the others out there that suffer from rosacea, it works for me!” wrote the user. 

Let’s bring it all back home to the REN Clean Skincare website, where the Radiance Brightening Dark Circle Eye Cream is rated 4.5/5 stars based on 930 reviews as of April 2023. One commenter who gave the product a full 5 stars offered more proof of the products’ immediate and non-irritating effects.

“I’ve been using this cream once a day for just over a week and I can already see a massive difference! My eye area looks a lot brighter. My eyes are super sensitive usually and I react easily but this cream has been a dream, amazing benefits,” the customer wrote. 

There were a few less-than-amazing stories among the customer reviews, though. Some users with sensitive skin said that the products did cause irritation or breakouts. 

For example, a 1-star review of the Daily AHA tonic read, “Wouldn’t recommend for sensitive dry skin. It caused break out and tiny pimples start appearing the next day.” Another displeased customer said of the day cream, “I’ve got rosacea, and am prone to clogged pores[,] and unfortunately this seemed to do just that.”

REN does caution that some products may have negative effects for those with sensitive skin, but they also offer methods to reduce them. On the product page for the AHA tonic, for example, they recommend diluting the formula with water to gradually get the skin used to the product. 

Is REN Clean Skincare Worth It?

I’ll wrap up my REN skincare review like this; they’re a worthwhile brand based on their effectiveness and ethics. Not only are they clean, but they are also effective, and are rated highly by customers across the web. They have a positive impact in the world by using non-toxic, cruelty-free ingredients and recycled packaging. 

As for their cost, although the skincare collection can get pricey, REN’s prices aren’t out of the realm of the reasonable for a clean, natural product that’s packaged in recycled materials. If come away from my REN skincare review excited to try them out, remember that the company allows returns for up to 60 days.

REN Clean Skincare Promotions & Discounts 

While writing my REN skincare review, I discovered numerous promotions and discounts on the company website: 

• Get a free full size gift when you spend $75 or more
• Free shipping on US order of $30 and up
• Free shipping on Canadian orders of $75 and up
• Collect rewards when you sign up for the REN loyalty program
• Get 2 free samples per order
• 15% off student discount
• 20% off Everyday Heroes discount 
• 15% off your first purchase when you sign up for their newsletter

Where to Buy REN Clean Skincare

To access the brand’s promotions and deals, order from usa.RenSkincare.com. Their products are also available from select retailers, including:

• SkinStore
• Revolve
• Sephora
• Amazon
• eSkinCareStore
• Nordstrom
• Cult Beauty

FAQ

Where does REN skincare come from? 

Every REN Clean Skincare product is made in the brand’s home base, the UK. The one exception is the Vita Mineral Lip Balm, which is made in China. 

Is REN skincare clean? 

REN has a Clean Stamp on their products to show customers what ingredients they do not use, including common toxic ingredients like synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, synthetic sunscreens, nylon, bromate, and aluminium. Head to any individual product page to see a full list. 

Is REN skincare non-toxic? 

REN Clean Skincare products do not contain toxic ingredients such as synthetic fragrances, sulphites, parabens, and other potential irritants, and are therefore non-toxic. That said, if you have allergies or skin conditions be sure to talk to your doctor before using. 

Does REN skincare use palm oil? 

REN Clean Skincare only uses palm oil in one of their products, the Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil. They compensate for this by using RSPO-approved palm oil, and they are looking for an alternative to replace it. 

Is REN safe to use during pregnancy? 

REN says that none of their products contain high levels of ingredients that should be an issue for pregnant women. But as I’ve noted in my REN skincare review, certain products use essential oils, which some women avoid using during pregnancy. 

What is REN Clean Skincare’s Shipping Policy?

REN offers shipping to the US and Canada only. Orders will be shipped out the same day they are placed if ordered on weekdays before 12pm PST. REN Skincare shipping options, rates, and times are as follows:

• Standard (5-7 business days): $8, or free for orders of $50 and above
• 2nd Day (2 business days): $10
• Next Day (1 business day): $22
• Canada (delivery times vary): $12, or free for orders of $100 and above

What is REN Clean Skincare’s Return Policy?

The REN Clean Skincare return policy is normally 30 days, but they have temporarily extended it to 60 days. Kits and bundles must still contain all items that were sent in order to qualify for a return. To start the return process, email [email protected] or call (310) 356-4144. 

Customers are responsible for return postage and the company is not responsible for any lost or stolen return packages. REN Skincare will process your order within 7 business days from when they receive it. 

How to Contact REN Clean Skincare

If you need any other information that this REN skincare review did not provide you with, get in touch with REN Skincare customer service in the following ways:

1. Phone: (310) 356-4144 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm PST) 
2. Send them a message on Facebook Messenger: @RENSkincare
3. Email: [email protected]

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