Principia Skincare Products Review: Do They Actually Work?

Packaging:

For today’s roundup/review, I’ve picked out three different products by Principia: Facial Serum Rn-0,3 with Retinol and Vitamin E, Cleansing Gel GL-01 with Salicylic acid and Glycerin, and an Exfoliating Toner AL -7 with Lactic and Salyclic Acids.

The packaging is very simple and convenient: a brown glass bottle with a dropper for the serum, a large plastic bottle with a pump for the cleanser, and a small plastic bottle with a convenient cover for the toner. Everything is simple, with a clear ingredient list. Instead of names, there are a few markers that help to ”tag” active ingredients.

Ingredients, Texture and Scent:

Principia Sérum Rn-0,3

For the past two or three years, I’ve consistently incorporated retinol into my daily skincare routine. Following Dr. Shereene Idriss’s emphasis on consistency over potency, I prioritize the regular use of over-the-counter retinols. Therefore, a smooth, gentle, and non-irritating formula is essential to me.

Facial serum has a smooth, creamy texture; it’s silky and slightly milky, not runny. It possesses a very subtle, almost imperceptible scent. I believe my dermatologist would approve of it! Its active ingredients include 0.3% retinol and 0.5% vitamin E in the form of Tocopheryl Acetate. Tocopheryl Acetate, a common ingredient in cosmetics and skincare, is derived from acetic acid and tocopherol. Additionally, it contains Sodium Gluconate, a humectant that aids in skin moisture retention.

Use Principia retinola serume at nigh, on a clean and sry skin. Ater 30 mins to 1 hour after the retinol serum, it is best to follow with a moisturizer, as it can be quite drying to the skin. The consistent use of retinol is key to good visible results on the skin.

Principia Gel de Limpeza Gl-01

I’ve always wanted to add salicylic acid to my skincare routine. And I don’t just use it to wash my face; I add it to my shampoo and shower gel as an additional, non-mechanical exfoliant. It has a soapy and clear texture with a slightly minty scent to it. Once applied to the skin, it feels very refreshing! 

Cleansing Gel contains 13% tensoactives, which act as mediators between water and the oily grime we accumulate on the skin. By disrupting the natural surface tension, they coax oil and water to mingle, effectively lifting away the day’s buildup of sebum, makeup, and environmental pollutants. In addition, gel has 2% salycilic acid, which effectively penetrates the skin and helps to unclig those pores and remove old sebum. And, finally, 5% glycerin hydrates and softens the skin.

The gel’s texture is quite gentle, but I’d caution against overuse. While the Principia website suggests it can be used twice daily, I personally use it a few times per week, as it feels a bit too drying for my skin. Because it contains salicylic acid, there’s a risk of stripping the skin of its essential sebum. I also incorporate it into my body and hair care routine by mixing it with my regular shower gel and shampoo.

Principia Tônico AL-7

And, for the last product in today’s roundup – the exfoliating toner for the skin. It looks and feels on the skin just like water, clear and runny with a slight acid scent to it. Once applied to the skin, it quickly dries without any burning or stinging sensation.

My Experience

For the past few months, I’ve consistently used three Principia skincare products, and my skin has shown significant improvement. The only drawback I’ve noticed is a slightly dry feeling after using the cleansing gel. Therefore, I recommend using it sparingly and always following up with a moisturizer. Overall, my skin is very satisfied. I particularly appreciate the clear ingredient descriptions and the wide range of products Principia offers to skincare enthusiasts. 

Final Verdict…