I get my retinaldehyde from Avene Triacneal (0.1%, same percentage as Medik8 but more affordable, and available in Boots). It is working much better for me than retinol (minimum side effects at the beginning, zero side effects now). The formula also contains a gentle exfoliant. I am a big fan.

Jeff, I agree re retinadehyde. Such a shame it’s so hard to find. I get mine from Medik8 but they’re not easily available everywhere.

Hello Marina, thank you for your comment. I’d love to help you create the perfect skincare routine for your needs. That’s why I’ve created Routine Makeover, a bespoke skincare consultation. You can book your session here: https://www.beautifulwithbrains.com/skincare-consultation/

Jamie, I keep reading you can’t use them together, but funnily enough, no one is citing a study or providing any evidence for this claim. I use copper peptides first and 15 minutes later add vitamin C, just to be on the safe side.

First, I want to say that I love and appreciate all the information you share.
Because of you, I have changed my skincare routine and added many of your suggestions.

I am going to list my current routine below. My questions are, where in my skincare routine should I add:
1) C15 Booster
2) Ordinary Buffett + Copper Peptides 1%
3) Is it safe to use together or do I need to alternate days
4) Is there anything else you suggest I should add to my routine….I am 54 years old with dry skin and occasionally get pimples along my jaw line (I know, hormonal, ugh).

MORNING ROUTINE:
1. Moisturising Cleaner: CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleaner
2. Toner: Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
3. CEF (Vitamin C + Vitamin E + Ferulic Acid) Serum cocktail:
The Ordinary Resveratrol 3% + Ferulic Acid 3%
+ The Ordinary Magnesium Ascorbic Phosphate 10%
4. Hylauronic Acid Serum: Paula’s Choice Resist Hyaluraonic Acid
5. Rich Moisturizer: CeraVe AM Face Moisturiser
6. Sunscreen: EltaMD UV Lotion

NIGHT TIME ROUTINE:
1. Makeup Remover: PURITY
2. Toner: Cosrx Galactomyces 95 Tone Balancing Essence
3. A. Exfoliate: w/The Ordinary Gylocolic Acid 7% Toning Solution
Or (Alternate nights between A & B—NEVER USE TOGETHER)
B. Retinol – PTR Fusion PM
4. Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Paula’s Choice Resist Hyaluraonic Acid Booster
5. Rich Moisturizer/Facial Oil: CeraVe PM Face Moisturiser
6. Dermalogica Age Smart multivitamin Power Firm

I know you’ve said that you don’t believe in eye creams but I really love them and feel like my eye area really needs the extra moisture.
I was using Peter Thomas Roth day/night Retinol & Firm X eye cream, but my eyes were getting to puffy and flaking. I stopped using it two days ago and my eyes have really cleared up……could it be that I should only use these products periodically.

Sorry for the long post.

From one of your biggest fans,
Marina