Are you looking for clean, natural skincare products that actually deliver results? Look no further than REN Clean Skincare. This UK-based brand has been creating non-toxic, planet-friendly products for over two decades. Their formulas harness the power of natural ingredients to address a variety of skin concerns, from dryness and aging to dullness and dark spots.
In this comprehensive REN Skincare review, we‘ll take a deep dive into the brand‘s origins, bestselling products, key ingredients, customer reviews, and more. By the end, you‘ll have all the information you need to decide if REN‘s clean skincare line is right for you. Let‘s get started!
About REN Clean Skincare
REN Clean Skincare was founded in 2000 by Antony Buck and Rob Calcraft, two British entrepreneurs with a shared passion for clean, natural beauty. The idea for the brand came about when Buck‘s wife started experiencing negative reactions to her skincare products during pregnancy.
Frustrated by the lack of clean options on the market, Buck and Calcraft set out to create their own line of products using only safe, non-toxic ingredients. Twenty years later, REN is now a global brand beloved by skincare enthusiasts and beauty editors alike.
One of the things that sets REN apart from other skincare brands is their commitment to sustainability. In 2018, they made a Zero Waste Pledge, promising that all of their packaging would be recycled, recyclable, or reusable by 2021.
They‘ve made good on that promise, with current packaging made from recycled ocean plastic and post-consumer recycled plastic. The brand has also partnered with environmental organizations like Surfers Against Sewage and Plastic Patrol to further their eco-friendly mission.
REN Skincare Ingredients
So what exactly goes into REN‘s clean skincare products? The brand uses a range of natural, sustainable ingredients that have been clinically proven to benefit the skin. Here are some of the key ingredients you‘ll find in REN‘s formulas:
Rosehip Oil
Rosehip oil is a nourishing oil that‘s rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids. According to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, rosehip oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated skin.
Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is an alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) that gently exfoliates the skin, promoting cell turnover and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. A review of studies published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology found that lactic acid can significantly improve skin texture, tone, and hydration.
Shea Butter
Shea butter is a rich, moisturizing ingredient that‘s derived from the nuts of the African shea tree. A study published in the Journal of Oleo Science found that shea butter can improve skin hydration and strengthen the skin‘s natural barrier function.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that can brighten the skin, even out skin tone, and protect against environmental stressors like pollution and UV radiation. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, topical vitamin C can significantly improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help balance the skin‘s microbiome and strengthen its natural defenses. A review of studies published in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that probiotics can improve skin hydration, reduce inflammation, and protect against environmental stressors.
REN Skincare Pros and Cons
Now that we‘ve covered some of the key ingredients in REN‘s formulas, let‘s take a look at the overall pros and cons of the brand.
Pros
- Natural, sustainable ingredients that are clinically proven to benefit the skin
- Free from harsh chemicals like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances
- Cruelty-free and vegan formulas
- Wide range of products for different skin types and concerns
- Commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact
Cons
- Higher price point compared to some other skincare brands
- Some products contain essential oils, which can be irritating for sensitive skin
- May not be as widely available as other brands, depending on your location
How to Use REN Skincare Products
If you‘re new to REN Skincare, you might be wondering how to incorporate their products into your daily routine. Here‘s a basic guide to using REN products for maximum results:
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Cleanse: Start by washing your face with a REN cleanser that‘s appropriate for your skin type. Massage the product onto damp skin and rinse with lukewarm water.
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Tone: After cleansing, follow up with a REN toner to balance your skin‘s pH and prepare it for the next steps in your routine. Soak a cotton pad with toner and swipe it over your face and neck.
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Treat: If you have any specific skin concerns like acne, fine lines, or dark spots, now‘s the time to apply a targeted treatment product. REN offers a range of serums and oils that can help address these issues.
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Moisturize: Finish your routine with a REN moisturizer to hydrate and nourish your skin. Choose a formula that‘s appropriate for your skin type, whether it‘s oily, dry, or combination.
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Protect: In the morning, always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. REN offers a few different sunscreen options, depending on your preferences.
REN Skincare Bestsellers
With so many products to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start with REN Skincare. Here‘s a rundown of some of the brand‘s bestselling products, along with customer reviews and ratings.
Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic
This exfoliating toner contains lactic acid and salicin to smooth and brighten the skin. It has an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars on Sephora, with one reviewer calling it "the best toner I‘ve ever used."
Evercalm Global Protection Day Cream
This rich, nourishing day cream is designed to soothe and protect sensitive skin. It has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with one customer saying it "brought the moisture back" to their dry, rosacea-prone skin.
Glycol Lactic Radiance Renewal Mask
This exfoliating mask contains a blend of glycolic, lactic, citric, and tartaric acids to promote cell turnover and reveal brighter, smoother skin. It has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on the REN website, with one reviewer noting that their "serums absorb so well after using this product."
Bio Retinoid Anti-Wrinkle Concentrate Oil
This lightweight oil contains a plant-based retinol alternative to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on the REN website, with customers praising its effectiveness and gentle formula.
Overnight Glow Dark Spot Sleeping Cream
This brightening night cream contains a blend of exfoliating acids and vitamin C to even out skin tone and reduce the appearance of dark spots. It has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Sephora, with one reviewer calling it "a game-changer for my dull, uneven skin."
REN Skincare Reviews
In addition to the product-specific reviews above, let‘s take a look at what customers are saying about REN Skincare in general. The brand has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot, with over 1,000 reviews.
Many customers praise REN‘s clean, effective formulas and appreciate the brand‘s commitment to sustainability. One reviewer writes, "I love that REN uses natural, non-toxic ingredients and sustainable packaging. Their products have made a noticeable difference in my skin‘s texture and overall health."
However, some customers with sensitive skin have reported irritation or breakouts from certain products, particularly those containing essential oils or exfoliating acids. If you have reactive skin, it‘s always a good idea to patch test new products before applying them to your entire face.
REN Skincare Promotions and Discounts
If you‘re looking to save on REN Skincare products, there are a few ways to score a discount. The brand offers free shipping on orders over $50 in the US, as well as free samples with every purchase.
You can also sign up for the REN Rewards program to earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for discounts and free products. Students and military personnel can also receive a 15% discount on their orders.
Additionally, REN occasionally offers promotions and sales throughout the year, such as during Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Be sure to sign up for the brand‘s email newsletter to stay in the loop on upcoming deals.
Is REN Skincare Worth It?
So, is REN Skincare worth the investment? Based on the brand‘s clean ingredients, commitment to sustainability, and positive customer reviews, we think the answer is yes.
While REN‘s products may be pricier than some other skincare brands, they offer a range of formulas that cater to different skin types and concerns. The brand‘s use of clinically proven, natural ingredients sets them apart from other clean beauty brands on the market.
Of course, as with any skincare brand, what works for one person may not work for another. If you have sensitive or reactive skin, it‘s always a good idea to patch test new products and consult with a dermatologist before making any major changes to your routine.
But if you‘re looking for clean, effective skincare products that are good for your skin and the planet, REN is definitely a brand worth considering. With their wide range of products and commitment to sustainability, they offer something for everyone.
Where to Buy REN Skincare
REN Skincare products are available for purchase on the brand‘s website, as well as at select retailers like Sephora, Ulta, and Dermstore. You can also find REN products on Amazon, although it‘s always a good idea to check that you‘re purchasing from an authorized seller to ensure you‘re getting authentic products.
If you‘re unsure where to start with REN, the brand offers a skincare quiz on their website to help you find the best products for your specific skin type and concerns. They also offer free virtual consultations with skincare experts who can provide personalized recommendations.
Final Thoughts on REN Skincare
After conducting this in-depth REN Skincare review, we can confidently say that this brand is a leader in the clean beauty space. With their commitment to natural, sustainable ingredients and their wide range of effective formulas, REN offers something for every skin type and concern.
Whether you‘re dealing with aging, acne, dryness, or dullness, REN has a product that can help. And with their focus on sustainability and reducing environmental impact, you can feel good about supporting a brand that‘s doing its part to make the world a little bit greener.
Of course, no skincare brand is one-size-fits-all, and what works for one person may not work for another. But if you‘re looking to clean up your beauty routine and invest in high-quality, natural skincare products, REN is definitely a brand worth checking out.
So go ahead and browse their bestsellers, read some reviews, and maybe even treat yourself to a new product or two. Your skin (and the planet) will thank you.