SkinLabs

    Skin intelligence, locally grounded

    All reviews

    Esse · Serum

    Refine (Plant 'Retinol' Alternative)

    7.1/ 10

    A gentle plant-based renewal serum for those who can't tolerate true retinoids — modest but comfortable results.

    Efficacy6.5
    Value for money6.5
    Texture8.0
    SA climate fit7.5
    3.3/5 from members

    Where to buy — SA price comparison

    Unlock the full lab breakdown

    Glow Insider unlocks the complete ingredient analysis, long-form verdict and skin-type match notes for every product we've reviewed.

    Get every full breakdown, ingredient deep-dive included

    Glow Insider members read every product's full lab breakdown, not just the score. Try it free for 7 days — no card required.

    Start my 7-day free trial

    Member discussion

    • MeeraK_JHB

      Wasn't expecting much but this one surprised me. Simple, no drama, does the job.

      2026/05/03

    • Mandla_Vereeniging

      The humidity out here in Mbombela means I go through moisturiser fast, but this one actually lasts and still works.

      2026/05/26

    • Anneke_JHB

      Fragrance-sensitive here — checked the ingredient list carefully before trying this and had no issues.

      2026/06/29

    • JustinB

      Switched from a pricier imported brand to this and honestly prefer it — similar results for a lot less money.

      2026/08/20