Ultimate A
Our Ultimate A Night Cream harnesses the power of retinal- the most powerful yet gentle form of Vitamin A in skincare. Retinal is as effective as retinoic acid in fighting skin aging, but without the irritation. Ultimate A’s 0.06% retinal concentration, paired with niacinamide, delivers a potent anti-aging boost. This night cream promotes skin cell turnover, supports collagen and elastin production, and helps prevent UV damage. It also reduces pigmentation, improves hydration, and even soothes acne and rosacea. With Ultimate A, expect fewer fine lines, firmer, more elastic skin, and a beautifully refreshed complexion, all with a gentle, irritation-free formula ideal for nightly use.
Featuring
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The ultimate skincare tool to rebuild collagen and improve skin elasticity
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Powerful formulations but extreme gentleness.
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Suitability for daily use
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Formulated to reduce hyperpigmentation
Retinal is not suitable for use in pregnancy.
Ships from our Sydney warehouse
Description
A night cream with a blend of Vitamin A (Retinal – 0.06%), B3 (Niacinamide – 4%).
Vitamin A is the ingredient with the strongest anti-ageing evidence and Retinal is the most effective and least irritating form of Vitamin A. It promotes collagen growth, increases skin elasticity and in combination with hydroxy acids, clears acne effectively and without irritation. Vitamin B3 improves the skin barrier function and promotes an even skin tone, reducing sun spots and uneven pigmentation.*
For repair and rejuvenating normal and dry skin. Also appropriate for sensitive skin.
*Suspend use of Vitamin A products if pregnant of breastfeeding.
Full Size - 50ml (Lasts 3 - 4 months)
Travel Size - 15ml (Lasts 3 - 4 weeks)
Evidence
Niacinamide
Manages Acne, Rosacea and eczema, reduces pigmentation and improves skin barrier function. An Anti-Oxidant, assists in repair of cell DNA, improves skin barrier function and manages the skin’s natural oil production increases skin elasticity and reduces pigmentation.
Retinal
Retinal is the number 1 “must have ingredient” in any skin care regime. “Rewinds the clock on skin aging” and results in increased skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles, fine lines and pigmentation. Also effective in managing acne.
Usage
Apply 1 – 2 pumps to the fingertips and apply to the face after cleansing as the final step in your night-time routine night. Also, for use on décolletage, back of hands and forearms.
Do not use if pregnant, breastfeeding or trying to conceive.
Ingredients
Water (Aqua) , Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Niacinamide, Sucrose Distearate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Sucrose Stearate, Ethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Retinal, Glycolic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Hyaluronate
FAQs
Ultimate A is our Vitamin A night cream with 0.06% Retinal (Retinaldehyde) to target aging, and pigmentation while improving skin texture and tone. It’s ideal for all skin types (unless pregnant or breastfeeding).
Everyone (unless pregnant or breastfeeding). It's made for all skin types, especially if you're dealing with aging skin, pigmentation, or sensitivity.
It’s not just gentle, it’s effective. Evidence shows it helps support skin prone to rosacea and eczema, making it a smart choice for calming while improving skin.
At night, apply after cleansing. To achieve even better results, apply Gentle Glow or Smooth Serum before Ultimate A to enhance effectiveness.
Retinal (Retinaldehyde) is a more advanced and effective form of Vitamin A than Retinol. While Retinol must convert twice in the skin before it becomes active, Retinal only needs one conversion, making it significantly more efficient. It delivers visible results faster, with less irritation. Retinal can be up to 20 times more effective than Retinol. That’s why it’s the form we use in Ultimate A, evidence-based, and well tolerated.
Ultimate A delivers 0.06% Retinal, a form of Vitamin A that’s up to 20x more effective than Retinol. It’s powerful enough to target aging, pigmentation, and rosacea but gentle enough for daily use (even on sensitive skin). Real results, no irritation.
Does Retinol Help with Acne?
Vitamin A (retinoids) are among the best topicals for treating acne. Retinoids work by helping to increase skin cell turnover, reducing the risk of dead skin cells blocking pores which is the first step in a process which ends in breakouts. Retinoids are also comedolytic (pimple busting) and anti-inflammatory. Of the over the counter retinoids, retinal (AKA retinaldehyde) is the most effective and the least irritating form of Vitamin A. In order for Retinoids to work they need to convert into Retinoic Acid. Retinal requires a one step conversion to become Retinoic Acid. And while it is as effective as Retinoic Acid, it is very well tolerated. Retinol, requires a two step conversion. The first step, a conversion into Retinal, is very inefficient, requiring an estimated 10 units of Retinol to convert into 1 unit of Retinal. That inefficiency requires a higher, often irritating concentration, of Retinol and a less effective outcome. Retinoids are available in various concentrations over the counter and by prescription, but stronger retinoids increase the chances of dryness, irritation and peeling.
Do Moisturisers Help with Acne?
Evidence suggests that maintaining a healthy skin barrier and avoiding trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), where moisture evaporates too quickly from the surface of the skin, is an important factor in keeping acne at bay. In fact, while acne is usually associated with oily skin, people with acne usually have dry skin (ie. it is lacking in water). If acne prone skin sees excess oil production dry up too quickly, the dryness of the underlying skin can become a problem, increasing irritation and inflammation. Using a gentle cleanser followed by a non occlusive moisturiser can reduce the risk of dryness and irritation. Which is why most experts recommend non comedogenic (non pore clogging) moisturisers as part of your anti-acne regime.
Can Drinking Water Cure Acne?
Staying hydrated is great for overall health and wellbeing, including for your skin. However, there isn’t anyevidence to suggest that drinking more water than needed will lead to dramatic improvements in your skin.
Does Niacinamide Help Acne?
Niacinamide (AKA Vitamin B3) has a large body of evidence backing its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, as well as its potential to reduce sebum or oil production. It can also improve important skin barrier function by preventing water loss through the epidermis (the outer skin layer). With all of those abilities, Niacinamide has been tested successfully in the management of acne. It is usually used in combination with more effective acne treating ingredients like retinoids.
What Is the Best Sunscreen for Acne?
Using sunscreen every day is important for anyone with acne (and anyone in general), as sunburn and sun damage can increase skin inflammation, exacerbating acne. e. For people with acne, using a sunscreen that is non-comedogenic (non pore clogging) is highly recommended, it can just be difficult to find one that suits you. Most dermatologists recommend using an inorganic Zinc based sunscreen.
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Vicky G
"I've been using ESK for one month to help with pigmentation and wow!
I feel like I have a brand new face. My skin is smoother and softer, dark spots have faded. It's taken years off in a really short time.
Everyone needs to know about ESK!"
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Kelly K
"Hi, my name is Kelly and I have suffered with problematic skin for most of my life. I had terrible acne and chicken pocks as a child that resulted in scarring. Then along came the fine lines and wrinkles. In just under two weeks, I have seen a massive change! The regime is incredibly easy to follow, you don’t need much of it and it is an Australian product! I am finally proud of my skin and cannot wait to see what my face looks like in a month! I am so grateful! Thank you Esk!"
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Leslie E
Rosacea Skincare Kit - Anti Redness
"I am so pleased with the progress my skin has made. Due to health reasons I have never been able to treat my rosacea with medication and in the past all the topical treatments I tried didn't seem to work for me. I just found good makeup and didn't go outside without wearing it.
(Side point - I love the blog tips about rosacea since they are really good information for people who are still struggling with it)
Now I feel much better about myself now my skin is improving, thank you so much for this. Because my skin is improving I finally convinced my husband to buy ESK too!
Thanks, Leslie"
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Kim C
"I've been using the pigmentation products for a month now, I'm very happy with the results, my brown spots have certainly faded, my overall skin is looking much better, and I'm looking forward to even greater results as I continue on using this fabulous skin care regime. I love the way my skin feels after each use and my makeup glides on to give a nice dewy effect which I haven't been able to achieve for some time. I'm feeling more confident in being able to reduce my makeup usage overall."
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Jacqui V
"I would just like to say how impressed I am with ESK skin care.
I turn the big 60 this year and have be looking for a skin care for mature skin. I was watching Sunrise and Ginni came on talking about ESK. So I thought I would give it ago and I loved the fact that it was made in Australia. I love the way the cleanser made my skin feel so clean and light and the way the products sunk straight into my skin. Which I have been looking for forever. Most products just sit on top of my skin which is frustrating and can be very expensive.
My skin looks smoother and plumper. Finally something that works 😊 Thanks ESK"
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Gillian O
"I have noticed an overall difference in the feel of my skin, it feels more plump and the colour has evened out. Wrinkles appear to have less depth. I have just started to use eye serum which I am excited about.
Extremely impressed with results so far, only regret is I wish I had started using it sooner."
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Sharon Y
"The products were great, I am very impressed with my results and the care given to me by the team changing a product because of my chemotherapy. Outstanding... I believe in your products so much!
As a user of cosmeceuticals and active skincare for over 13 years and an ex user of prescription retinol, I can wholeheartedly say that ESK has made the biggest difference in the shortest timeframe of everything I've ever used.
I cannot recommend it enough."
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Helen G
Hydroxy Overnight Mask, Rosacea Skincare Kit - Anti Redness
"Well what a remarkable change my face has had, I have now been using your skin now for 6mths and what a difference I have experienced, my skin not only looks heaps better but also feels amazing. The softness of the skin is unbelievable. Very, very happy and I have actually weaned myself off my medication for my skin. I have tried coming off it before and within a month my face would be a mess and would have to go back on to control the acne rosacea again.
I will attach photos of before treatment and now. Once again, thank you again for your amazing products."
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Emma N
"I can’t believe how much my pigmentation has settled down after 1 month. Also breakouts have disappeared. I’m so impressed. The products are divine! Thank you!!"
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Gemma C
Hydroxy Cleanser, C Serum Lite, Enlighten, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A
"My tailored ESK skincare set has exceeded all my expectations. I actually didn’t realise how dull and badly pigmented my skin was until seeing my own 4 weeks progress and honestly being in complete shock of the difference it has made!
I feel so much more confident now to let my natural skin be on show and not having to hide it behind a face full of makeup. I will 100% continue to use this regime as if it can make this difference in just one month imagine what the long term results can be.
Would highly recommend them to anyone that is facing their own skincare issues."
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Sarah I
Calming Cleanse, B Quenched, Zinc Shade, Ultimate A, Rosacea Skincare Kit - Anti Redness, Anti-Aging Sensitive Skincare Kit
"I have sensitive, dry, rosacea skin but also prone to break outs especially around my chin and lips. Generally most skin care makes my skin flare up, resulting in redness and sensitivity.
ESK was recommended to me by the make up artist doing my make up for my sister in laws wedding, so I decided to give it a go. I chose the rosacea kit.
One month in and I’m really happy. Whilst I still have a minor breakout around my chin, the redness on my cheeks and break outs around my lips have disappeared. The tone of my skin has dramatically improved, to the point where I’ve had so many comments on how much better my skin looks. I feel that I could use a little extra hydration, but have not had the usual flakiness."
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Virginia J
Hydroxy Cleanser, C Serum Lite, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A, Normal Skin Anti-Aging Kit,
"I’ve been using the pigmented skin kit for a month and have noticed that my skin is now smooth and soft, whereas before it was rough and patchy. Areas of pigmentation are lighter and less apparent. I’ve found the product to be pleasant to use and I love the smell of the cleanser. My travel kit is also lasting a lot longer than I expected!"
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Renee M
Hydroxy Cleanser, C Serum Lite, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A, Pigmentation Kit, Normal Skin Anti-Aging Kit
"I have been using E.S.K now for 4 months and the difference I have seen and felt is beyond amazing. Being from the health care industry myself I know the importance of evidence based and scientifically tested products. I have searched for years to find a skin care range that is both gentle and safe but also effective, my skin has never been clearer. My pigmentation and skin tone are now even and I feel like I have a healthy glow. I am now happy to go without makeup and I can’t recommend E.S.K products more highly. Thank you."
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Jacinta S
Hydroxy Cleanser, C Serum Lite, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Pigmentation Kit,
"I’ve struggle with pigmentation problems since my pregnancy and maybe age...so I started using esk skincare and I am already noticing a huge change in my skin (the very first photo I took was so bad that I didn’t even post it and I actually wanted to cry) they have been so great with helping me and I highly recommend their products!"
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Paula E
Calming Cleanse, Reverse C Serum, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A, Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit, Normal Skin Anti-Aging Kit
"I’m very impressed with my new skincare regime.ESK recommended a skincare pack for me after I answered a few questions. 1 week after receiving my skincare I had a friendly phone call to make sure l was happy with everything. I have skin pigmentation and feel that my skin now has more of an even tone and a healthy glow. My skin feels soft and smooth. There are more days now l can go without makeup. Thankyou for your recommendation."
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Renee M
B Calm, Ultimate A+, Zinc Shade, Calming Cleanse, Enlighten
I have been a client of yours for many years now… Last year I strayed off ESK and tried another product - I wasn’t happy with it and I’m back! I was originally using the normal kit with some lightening cream. After having new skin outbreaks and not sure where to go I contacted ESK who provided me with a personalized consultant Casey who talked through my current regime and how my skin was feeling. She gave me brilliant advice and we tried a new regime which has been a miracle. My skin is now glowing again and the breakouts have near disappeared. It was great as Casey checked in on me on a weekly basis just to see how it was all going. Can not recommend ESK higher!! Thankyou
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Nadine Bidner
Mature Skin Anti-Aging Kit, Calming Cleanse, C Forte, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A
"My name is Nadine and I'm 64 years old. I did all the wrong things when I was younger and my skin has been damaged by the sun over the years. I've been using the E.S.K anti aging products for a month now and have already noticed a difference in how my skin looks. My skin tone has improved, wrinkles around my eyes and upper lip seem reduced and the overall feel of my skin is softer. I love the products and one pump of each product is enough for great coverage. I would definitely recommend E.S.K to others. I'm really happy with the results so far. Thank you E.S.K"
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Deidre Mackechnie
Calming Cleanse, C Serum Lite, Enlighten, Zinc Shade, Smooth Serum, Ultimate A+, Hydroxy Overnight Mask
"Absolutely love the effect of ESK on my skin. I have mature but blemish prone skin with some redness. I have been using ESK for just over a month. My skin is now feeling much more hydrated and there are no breakouts at all. The redness is reduced and I find I am using less makeup. Love it!!"
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Anika S
Really enjoyed these acne microneedle patches! I always have random breakouts so I will definitely will be carrying these around for those emergency breakouts...
