The entry point to Environ's premium vitamin A ladder, and the lowest concentration of vitamin A and vitamin C in the Youth EssentiA range.

Starting low is the whole point. Vitamin A receptors need to be built up before the skin can use a higher dose comfortably, which is why Environ asks for a minimum of two bottles at every level before moving on.

Where this sits in the step-up

Level 1 of 5. Vita-Peptide C-Quence Serum 1 is the first rung of the Youth EssentiA ladder. Use a minimum of two bottles before moving up. Each bottle lasts 10 to 12 weeks once opened, so a level runs roughly five to six months.

Why we love it

• Contains the signature Environ complex of vitamins A, C, E and antioxidants
• Vitamin E as both Tocopheryl Acetate and Tocopherol helps quench free radicals and enhances the effects of the skin's natural sun protectors
• Lycopene, a carotenoid the brand describes as more than 100 times more effective than vitamin E, aids in protecting the skin against high energy blue light
• Matrixyl 3000, a combination of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, acts as effectively as retinol without inducing skin irritations or reactions

• Contains the signature Environ complex of vitamins A, C, E and antioxidants
• Vitamin E as both Tocopheryl Acetate and Tocopherol helps quench free radicals and enhances the effects of the skin's natural sun protectors
• Lycopene, a carotenoid the brand describes as more than 100 times more effective than vitamin E, aids in protecting the skin against high energy blue light
• Matrixyl 3000, a combination of Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, acts as effectively as retinol without inducing skin irritations or reactions

Pre-cleanse, cleanse and tone. Apply the serum, then follow with Antioxidant Defence Creme. The two may also be mixed in the palm of the hand before applying to face and neck. Use morning and evening. Use a minimum of two bottles before progressing to the next level.

CAUTION: This product does not contain a sunscreen. Use a broad spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using this product. Not recommended for problematic skin.

KEY INGREDIENTS
Vitamin A and vitamin C - At the lowest concentration in the Youth EssentiA range, to begin building tolerance
Vitamin E (Tocopheryl Acetate and Tocopherol) - Helps quench free radicals and protect the skin's firm appearance
Lycopene - A powerful antioxidant that aids in protecting the skin against high energy blue light
Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Oligopeptide) - Five natural amino acids that act as effectively as retinol without inducing irritation

SHELF LIFE
18 months unopened. Use within 10 to 12 weeks of opening.

Environ does not publish a full ingredient list for this product. The complete INCI list is printed on the carton.

Environ was founded in South Africa by Dr Des Fernandes, a plastic surgeon who concluded that most visible skin aging is sun-induced vitamin A deficiency. His answer was the Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM, a graduated ladder that starts at a low concentration of vitamin A and raises it only once the skin is comfortable, which is how Environ delivers retinoid-level renewal without the peeling and downtime associated with prescription retinoids. Every formula is built on that philosophy and sold only through trained skin care professionals.