Navigating through the most current buzzwords in the world of skincare can be a) exhausting, b) challenging, c) confusing… It’s a rhetorical question really, because it’s the tricky d) all of the above. Over a decade into my skincare obsession, I have learned that certain ingredients deliver more than others and while marketing claims trigger a scary number of impulse purchases, it is a handful of tried and true staples that never fail when my routine needs a boost. My most recent discovery of ABOTANIQ, a New York City based range, gave me all sorts of anti-aging feelings. Taking a realistic approach, this tightly edited collection just happens to highlight some of my all time favorite complexion perfectors: enzymes, peptides, and Vitamin C.
Focused on bringing the best nature has to offer via cutting edge technology and most recent in beauty innovation, ABOTANIQ aims to hydrate, firm, and brighten for a smooth, even and glowing appearance. Toxin and hype free, the ambitious formulas prove themselves at every use. A month in, I am comfortable raving about some new additions to my grooming arsenal. Clean and modern packaging aside, the products look great, feel even better, and perform amazingly well.
Papaya Enzyme Cleanser
Gentle and effective, this daily face wash showcases a feather light texture and a heavenly tropical aroma. Infused with skin resurfacing Papaya Enzyme, the liquid to foam cleanser removes makeup, dirt, and excess oil while digesting dead cells from the skin’s surface. A superb option for every complexion type, this ultra soft lather is loaded with Geranium and Cucumber Extracts to revive and nourish. If you double cleanse, use the ABOTANIQ Papaya Enzyme Cleanser as your second step. Personally, I adore it in the mornings as it leaves my combination skin perfectly clean, conditioned and comfortable. Think treatment cleanser with no chance of irritation. $44 – 7.5 oz.
Exfoliating Enzyme Scrub
Probably my favorite three words in skincare. This ABOTANIQ perfection in a tube is a dual action force that works better than many enzyme driven scrubs I have experienced. First of all, the creamy consistency spreads like a dream and while Papaya Enzyme does its job, added Microbeads (the good kind!) provide manual exfoliation that results in noticeably smoother skin after the first use. Studded with botanicals such as Jojoba Oil, Aloe, Lemongrass, Arnica, and Horse Chestnut Extracts, this rejuvenating scrub also soothes, hydrates, and comforts dull, ruddy skin. Apply it after cleansing on a wet or damp face and massage it in gently. Leave on for a minute or two before rinsing. Sometimes, I indulge by wearing it in the shower while the steam opens my pores for a maximum benefit. I rinse with cool water just before stepping out. $49 – 4oz.
Peptide Serum & Peptide Eye Cream
Without a doubt the ABOTANIQ Power Couple, these peptide laced formulas are possibly my favorite anti-agers of late. If you’re not familiar with the role of peptides in skincare, they are parts of proteins that make up the cells in our bodies. Think of them as the crucial element in looking younger longer. When formulated correctly, peptide treatments are able to reach cells before they break down, which technically extend longevity. Will they give you Botox like effects? The results will not be as dramatic as the medical procedure but mature, aging skin will see tremendous improvement in wrinkle depth, overall tone, and levels of hydration when used consistently.
Both ABOTANIQ Peptide Serum and Peptide Eye Cream utilize Matrixyl® Synthe6™, one of the most revolutionary innovations in skincare. Since my technical vocabulary is limited, I’ll quote the brand to describe the achievements by this genius compound:
Mimetic peptide works to improve the underlying skin structure while performing the “chaperone” molecule function. Similar to constructing a building in which a project manager coordinates various jobs, this molecule is involved in the orderly, rapid maturation of collagen.
It’s safe to say that if you’re over the age of thirty, you shouldn’t be considering but absolutely committing to a peptide formula as part of your daily skincare routine. Incredibly advanced, this face serum masterpiece also features cross-linked Hyaluronic Acid to increase volume, a second generation Alpha Hydroxy that speeds up cell regeneration and rich in fatty acids Squalene. Countless plant extracts provide continuous hydration while Silica and Marine Filling Micro-Spheres serve immediate and subtle light reflecting realness. It’s phenomenal. No joke. $79 – 1 oz.
Formulated accordingly, the Peptide Eye Cream is similar to the face version with Matrixyl® Synthe6™ as the key player, however, its unsung hero is actually Tetrapeptide 5. Responsible for getting the blood going (literally), this patented medley prevents accumulation of water from poor circulation, which results in puffiness and dark circles under the eyes. Top it off with CoQ10, Soy Proteins, and Yeast Polysaccharides to check off the anti-irritant and antioxidant boxes, package it in an uber travel friendly tube, and you have a perfect eye cream. Did I mention it absorbs flawlessly and wears great day and night? Also, it really does work. $79 – .5 oz.
Vitamin C Serum
Known as the mighty giant on my vanity, this small bottle delivers a massive punch of skin brightening Vitamin C with every drop. The 10% L-Ascorbic Acid (the best and stable form of Vitamin C) formula also includes skin protective Vitamin E, soothing White Tea, and stimulating Ginkgo Biloba Extracts. Potent and well-rounded, this oil-free treatment will feel a tad slippery in texture but absorbs within seconds and layers great under sunscreen (Vitamin C boosts the efficacy of SPF so definitely use it during the day) as well as when applied beneath your night cream. A must for anyone struggling with the aftermath of sun damage, hyperpigmentation, stubborn brown spots, or simply lackluster skin, the ABOTANIQ Vitamin C Serum delivers on every promise. $69 – .66 oz.
Anyone interested in natural ingredients boosted by modern science will find the ABOTANIQ range effective and extremely user friendly. The straightforward formulas utilize the latest in anti-aging technology and cater to a wide range of skincare concerns, ranging from loss of firmness to fine lines and discoloration. The full line up consists of 14 products. Available at abotqaniq.com.
