Genaura’s Smart Face Serum is being claimed as revolutionary, and it’s certainly creating a lot of buzz in the industry. The hero ingredient, Levagen+ is a palmitoylethanolamide (PEA); a naturally occurring fatty acid used to successfully treat inflammation and relieve pain. Independent testing further demonstrates its ability to protect nerve cells against injury and degeneration. It has been used to calm eczema flare-ups and is also sold as a supplement to alleviate neuropathic and inflammatory pain, so the idea that it is going to be effective at treating stressed skin makes intuitive sense. Indeed after clinical trials, participants reported that dryness and uneven skin tone were much improved and online reviews from users are equally encouraging about its capacity to tackle a range of skin concerns.
When it comes to packaging and price, it’s firmly in the luxury category, but in addition to the Levagen+ it also contains an impressive combination of other active ingredients and natural botanicals, all of which have been proven to impact positively on the skin. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine work together to boost luminosity and brilliance, and a blend of hydration-supporting botanicals all combine to make skin feel nicely dewy after application. The subtle scent is suggestive of posh spas, so using it feels gratifyingly indulgent. Directions suggest one pump in the morning and another at night, but I have found I need two, pressed into my face and neck just after cleansing. I’ve been using my test sample for just over a week, so perhaps it’s too soon to expect miracles but my skin certainly feels better equipped for the oncoming season. The slight tingling – a brief fizz – as the milky lotion makes contact with my face signifies activity, and I’m looking forward to reaping the results.
Genaura Levagen+ Smart Face Serum £294, genaura.com
