Retinol Alternative for Sensitive Skin

At fresh, we’re committed to treating you and your skin like family. Every product is created in collaboration with our team of skin chemists, biologists, and scientists at the fresh Research Lab in France to ensure we deliver safe, effective, and sensorial experiences that everyone can enjoy. Our new Black Tea Anti-Aging Ceramide Moisturizer is no exception. This face moisturizer corrects signs of aging with a retinol-like performance* but is uniquely gentle on all skin types**, including sensitive skin. It’s care you can feel and results you can see.

What is retinol?

Retinol, a vitamin A derivative, is one of the most recognizable active ingredients for anti-aging. When incorporated into a skincare regimen, retinol can correct fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven texture. However, we also know that for some people retinol can be harsh on the skin, leading to dryness, flakiness, and overall sensitivity. First-time users and those with sensitive skin may encounter irritation.

What is BT Matrix™?

At the fresh Research Lab, we wanted to find a way to replicate the benefits of retinol without the known discomfort. A fresh first, our scientists developed an exclusive blend of naturally derived ingredients with retinol-like strength to correct signs of aging on all skin types—BT Matrix™. BT Matrix™ is a blend of black tea and rambutan leaf extracts proven to smooth the appearance of deep set wrinkles while improving firmness and radiance.

Who should use this moisturizer?

If you have sensitive skin, Black Tea Anti-Aging Ceramide Moisturizer is a product you can use twice a day, every day. It's dermatologist-tested and proven effective on all ages and skin types, even sensitive skin.

When should you use this cream?

While some retinols can only be used in the evening or 2 to 3 times a week, this retinol alternative face cream is gentle enough for twice daily use without the known discomfort typical of many retinol products.

How did fresh prove that BT Matrix™ has retinol-like strength?

Our scientists analyzed the impact of BT Matrix™ on the same biomarkers as the known benefits of retinol—smoothing wrinkles and skin firmness—as well as skin discomfort. The study was conducted using the Perfex vivo model, and participants were monitored for 6 days. At the end of the study period, the analysis proved*** that BT Matrix™ was highly effective in all the key biomarkers while still gentle on skin.

Complete your anti-aging regimen

Looking to uplevel your routine? Our iconic Black Tea collection targets fine lines and a loss of firmness and definition. Discover the collection:

Black Tea Firming Peptides Serum is a fast-absorbing serum that provides antioxidant protection while firming and visibly lifting skin. It is rich in peptides that improve skin elasticity and support skin density.

Black Tea Age-Delay Eye Cream is a lightweight eye cream that reduces the look of dark circles, puffiness, and fine lines while visibly increasing luminosity. Apply it under makeup as a hydrating de-puffer with lasting nourishment to help visibly reduce wrinkles under the eyes.

Black Tea Peptide Firming Overnight Mask is a smoothing overnight treatment that firms and reduces signs of tiredness. This high-performance sleeping mask intensely moisturizes with firming ingredients for a tighter, lifted look by morning.

*ex vivo studies on BT Matrix™ ingredients; this product does not contain retinol

**normal, dry, oily, combination

***ex vivo tests on ingredients