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FAQ

Why are there two Step-Up Systems?

Environ offers two ranges that introduce vitamin A gradually. Skin EssentiA AVST Moisturisers restore essential vitamins and antioxidants, and are ideal for all ages and skin types. Youth EssentiA C-Quence Serums contain peptides from the first level and help improve the appearance of sun damage, uneven tone and wrinkles.

What is the Vitamin A Step-Up System?

It helps your skin get used to increasing levels of vitamin A. You start with a low concentration and gradually move up. The goal is to reach the highest level your skin tolerates, which differs for each person.

Which level should I start with?

If you're new to vitamin A, start at number 1, which has the lowest concentration. Experienced users may start at number 2 or 3. If you're unsure, ask our team.

When do I step up?

Once you finish a bottle and your skin is comfortable at that level, move to the next number. If your skin is sensitive, stay at your current level until it's ready.

What is a retinoid reaction?

A retinoid reaction can happen when too much vitamin A is introduced at once, causing flaking, redness, inflammation or mild breakouts. Everyone's tolerance is different, which is why Environ created the Step-Up System.

What do I use with C-Quence Serums?

C-Quence Serums are designed to work with Environ's Defence Crèmes. If your skin is dry, you can add Vita-Complex Super Moisturiser for extra barrier support.

Is this retinol?

No. The Step-Up System uses vitamin A esters such as retinyl palmitate. Environ's Tri-Retinoid Complex Retinol Serums are separate products. The Retinol Serum is introduced once your skin is used to C-Quence Serum 1–3, and the Retinol Serum Forte once it's used to C-Quence 4 or 4 Plus.

Do I need sunscreen?

Yes. AVST Moisturisers are designed to be used morning and night, so your vitamin A routine continues during the day. Exposure to light depletes vitamin A in the skin every day, which is why daily replenishment matters. Sun exposure is also the number one cause of visible skin aging. Finish your morning routine with a broad-spectrum SPF to help protect your skin and the results you're working toward.

Choose Your System

Skin EssentiA: AVST Moisturisers 1–5

Helps repair, protect and maintain healthy-looking skin by restoring essential vitamins and antioxidants. Contains vitamins A, C and E, beta-carotene and botanical antioxidants. Ideal for all ages and skin types. Massage into face and neck, morning and night.

Youth EssentiA: C-Quence Serums 1–4 and Intensive Serum 4 Plus

Helps improve the appearance of sun-damaged skin, uneven tone and wrinkles. Contains vitamins A and C, antioxidants, peptides and ceramides from the first level. Apply after cleansing and toning, then follow with an Environ Defence Crème. Intensive Serum 4 Plus is the fifth and highest level.

How to Step Up

  1. Choose your system.
  2. New to vitamin A? Start at number 1. Experienced users may start at number 2 or 3.
  3. Once you finish a bottle and your skin is comfortable, move to the next number.
  4. If your skin is sensitive, stay at your current level until it feels ready.

Not sure where to start? Take our Skin Quiz, book a virtual consultation, or visit our Greenwich or NYC clinic. Learn more about Environ's Vitamin A Step-Up System.