Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream
Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream
Product Description
An ultra-comforting anti-aging night cream with patented antioxidant recovery complex and vitamin E that works overnight to repair the skin barrier up to 1.5x faster, smooth wrinkles, firm skin, and reveal a more radiant complexion by morning.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Barrier Repair Technology
Patented wrapping texture creates optimal environment for skin barrier recovery up to 1.5x faster than untreated skin.
Patented Antioxidant Complex
L'OrΓ©al-patented antioxidant derived from bitter orange (Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone) combined with vitamin E to protect and repair.
Black Tea Ferment
Kombucha-derived ingredient (Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment) helps boost radiance and smoothness.
Cell Renewal Support
Adenosine and Pro-Xylane work to support natural cell turnover for smoother, firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, no high-concentration salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, no chemical sunscreens. Contains only gentle LHA (Capryloyl Salicylic Acid) which is considered safe during pregnancy.
Free from ingredients typically avoided during breastfeeding. No retinoids or harsh actives that could transfer through skin.
Contains multiple Malassezia triggers: fermented ingredients (Black Tea Ferment), fatty alcohols (Stearyl Alcohol), esters (Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-20 Stearate), and oils (Shea Butter, Meadowfoam Seed Oil).
Contains parfum and fragrance allergens (Limonene, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol). A fragrance-free version is available for sensitive skin.
Clinically tested for safety with minimum 400 applications under dermatologist guidance. Suitable for sensitive skin.
Rated 2/5 for comedogenicity. Contains shea butter and meadowfoam oil which may cause issues for very acne-prone skin.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone Patented Proven
L'OrΓ©al's patented antioxidant derived from bitter orange. This powerful flavonoid helps protect skin from oxidative stress and supports the skin's natural barrier repair process overnight.
- Function: Potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals
- Clinical Evidence: L'OrΓ©al proprietary research shows enhanced barrier recovery
- Synergy: Works with Vitamin E to provide comprehensive antioxidant protection
𧬠Adenosine <1% Proven
A naturally occurring molecule in the body that acts as a powerful anti-aging ingredient. Helps smooth the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin firmness without irritation.
- Study: Clinical studies show visible wrinkle reduction with regular use
- Mechanism: Stimulates collagen synthesis and cellular energy
- Safety: Gentle enough for sensitive skin, non-irritating
πΏ Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol (Pro-Xylane) Undisclosed Proven
L'OrΓ©al's patented anti-aging ingredient derived from beechwood. Helps restore the skin matrix and improve firmness by supporting glycosaminoglycan production.
- Research: Clinically shown to improve skin density and firmness
- Target: Addresses loss of volume and elasticity in mature skin
- Source: Derived from xylose, a natural sugar from beechwood
π΅ Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment Undisclosed Promising
Kombucha-derived fermented ingredient rich in polyphenols and vitamins. Helps boost radiance and improve skin texture while providing antioxidant benefits.
- Benefits: Rich in B vitamins, amino acids, and organic acids
- Antioxidant: Contains polyphenols that help protect against environmental stress
- Texture: Helps improve skin smoothness and radiance
π§ Tocopherol (Vitamin E) <1% Proven
A powerful antioxidant that helps protect skin from environmental damage and supports the skin's natural barrier function. Works synergistically with the patented antioxidant complex.
- Protection: Neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution
- Barrier Support: Helps maintain healthy skin barrier function
- Synergy: Enhances effectiveness of other antioxidants
β¨ Capryloyl Salicylic Acid (LHA) <0.5% Proven
A gentler, lipophilic derivative of salicylic acid that provides mild exfoliation without irritation. Helps improve skin texture and supports cell renewal.
- Exfoliation: Gentle surface exfoliation for smoother texture
- Penetration: Lipophilic structure allows better skin penetration
- Tolerance: Much gentler than regular salicylic acid
49 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Glycerin, Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, Dimethicone, Butylene Glycol, Bis-Behenyl/Isostearyl/Phytosteryl Dimer Dilinoleyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Limnanthes Alba Seed Oil/Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Stearyl Alcohol, C30-45 Alkyl Dimethicone, PEG-20 Stearate, Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment, Panthenol, Silica, Adenosine, Capryloyl Salicylic Acid, Hydroxyacetophenone, Hydroxypropyl Tetrahydropyrantriol, Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Potassium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Tocopherol, Octyldodecanol, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Citric Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate, Propylene Glycol, Trideceth-6, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Salicylate, Citronellol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Linalool, CI 14700/Red 4, CI 19140/Yellow 5, Parfum/Fragrance
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply as the last step of your PM routine. Pairs perfectly with Age Perfect Midnight Serum for enhanced antioxidant benefits.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Start with clean, dry skin. Apply any toners or serums first and allow them to absorb fully.
Apply Midnight Cream
Take a pearl-sized amount and warm between fingertips. Gently smooth over face and neck using upward motions.
Let It Work Overnight
Allow the wrapping texture to create an optimal environment for overnight skin barrier repair. Wake up to hydrated, smoother skin.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You're 50+ and looking for anti-aging benefits
- Your skin barrier feels compromised or damaged
- You want visible wrinkle reduction without retinol
- You prefer a rich, nourishing night cream
- You have normal to dry mature skin
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need safe anti-aging
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You prefer fragrance-free products (try the FF version)
- You have very oily or acne-prone skin
- You're looking for lightweight gel textures
- You're sensitive to fermented ingredients
- You're under 40 and don't need intensive anti-aging
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Rich, nourishing formula with shea butter and meadowfoam oil provides deep hydration and comfort for dry, parched skin.
Ideal balance of hydration and anti-aging benefits without feeling too heavy. Perfect for maintaining healthy mature skin.
May feel rich for T-zone but works well for drier cheeks. Consider using a lighter amount on oilier areas.
Rich texture may feel too heavy for oily skin types. Consider a lighter night cream or use sparingly.
Dermatologist tested and suitable for sensitive skin. Choose the fragrance-free version if fragrance is a concern.
Contains some potentially comedogenic ingredients. Not suitable for fungal acne. Patch test first if acne-prone.
π Results Timeline
Improved Barrier Function
Skin barrier recovery begins immediately. Wake up to deeply moisturized, comforted skin with reduced tightness and dryness.
Based on clinical testing vs. untreated skinEnhanced Hydration & Smoothness
Skin feels nourished and comfortable throughout the day. Surface texture begins to improve with gentle exfoliation from LHA.
Noticeable improvement in skin comfortVisible Firming & Radiance
Skin looks firmer, more radiant, and revitalized. Wrinkles appear visibly reduced. Skin feels exceptionally comforted.
Results from 8-week clinical study (Jan 2022)Continued Improvement
Ongoing use maintains and enhances results. Skin barrier stays strong, wrinkles continue to diminish, and overall skin health improves.
Cumulative anti-aging benefitsβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Deeply hydrating without feeling greasy
- Noticeable improvement in skin firmness and radiance
- Suitable for sensitive skin (dermatologist tested)
- No retinol - safe for pregnancy/breastfeeding
- Luxurious texture that melts into skin
- Paraben-free and mineral oil-free formula
- Visible wrinkle reduction over time
- Affordable compared to luxury alternatives
β Criticized
- Fragrance may be too strong for some (FF version available)
- Jar packaging less hygienic than pump
- May be too rich for oily skin types
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Results take 4-8 weeks to become visible
- Small jar size for the price point
- Contains alcohol denat. (in low amounts)
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains peptides and ceramides for anti-aging and barrier repair. Lighter texture, fragrance-free, and more affordable. Lacks the patented antioxidant complex.
Features niacinamide and peptides for anti-aging. Similar price point with different active complex. Good for those who prefer niacinamide benefits.
Contains accelerated retinol SA for wrinkle reduction. More potent but NOT pregnancy-safe. Better for those who can use retinol.
π Comparison with Competitors
L'OrΓ©al Age Perfect Midnight Cream
$28-34EstΓ©e Lauder Advanced Night Repair
$80+Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream
$28-32CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream
$17-20π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required.
Glass jar with screw-top lid. FSC-certified paperboard outer packaging.
Yes, 1.7 oz is under the 3.4 oz TSA limit for carry-on liquids.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this cream is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, no high-concentration salicylic acid, no hydroquinone, and no chemical sunscreens. The LHA (Capryloyl Salicylic Acid) present is a gentle derivative used in small amounts and is not considered a concern. However, always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
No, this cream is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains several ingredients that can feed Malassezia yeast, including Saccharomyces/Xylinum/Black Tea Ferment (fermented ingredient), Shea Butter, Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Stearyl Alcohol (fatty alcohol), Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-20 Stearate, and other esters. If you have fungal acne, look for a different moisturizer without these triggers.
Yes, you can layer this cream with other actives. For retinol: Apply retinol first, wait 10-15 minutes, then apply Midnight Cream. For vitamin C: Use vitamin C in the morning, Midnight Cream at night. For AHA/BHA: Apply exfoliating acids first, let absorb fully, then apply this cream. The gentle LHA in the formula works well alongside other actives without causing excessive irritation.
This cream is best for normal to dry mature skin (50+). It's excellent for dry skin due to its rich, nourishing formula with shea butter and meadowfoam oil. It works well for normal and combination skin too. Those with oily skin may find it too rich, and it's not recommended for fungal acne-prone skin. A fragrance-free version is available for those sensitive to fragrance.
Results vary by individual, but clinical testing shows: Overnight - improved skin barrier and hydration; Week 1 - enhanced smoothness and comfort; Week 4 - visible improvement in firmness and radiance, reduced appearance of wrinkles; Week 8+ - continued improvement with consistent use. For best results, use nightly as directed.
Apply as the last step of your PM skincare routine. The recommended order is: Cleanser β Toner β Eye Cream β Serum (like Midnight Serum) β Midnight Cream. If using a facial oil, apply it after the cream. This cream is designed for nighttime use only - use a separate day cream with SPF for morning.
This cream has a comedogenic rating of 2/5, which is considered low to moderate. It contains shea butter and meadowfoam seed oil which have some pore-clogging potential for sensitive individuals. Most users with normal skin won't experience issues, but those with very acne-prone skin should patch test first. It is NOT suitable for fungal acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal effectiveness and safety. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The jar packaging means you should use clean fingers or a spatula to maintain hygiene and preserve the formula's integrity.
Verdict: L'OrΓ©al Age Perfect Cell Renewal Midnight Cream is an excellent drugstore anti-aging option for mature skin, offering clinically-tested barrier repair and wrinkle-reducing benefits at a fraction of luxury prices. Its patented antioxidant complex, combined with proven ingredients like adenosine and Pro-Xylane, delivers visible results for those 50+ seeking firmer, more radiant skin. The rich, nourishing texture is ideal for dry to normal skin types, though those with oily or fungal acne-prone skin should look elsewhere. A solid choice for pregnancy-safe anti-aging that won't break the bank.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 5 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Hydrogenated Polyisobutene
Emollient, Skin Conditioning, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Increasing Agent
|
|
|
| 3 |
Dimethicone
Skin Conditioning, Emollient, Antifoaming Agent, Skin Protecting
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|