SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream on a warm cream Curatory studio background
SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream official manufacturer product image
SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream packaging information

Eye treatment

SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream

An AlphaRet eye cream for experienced users seeking a retinoid-led approach to fine lines around the eyes.

£123.00
15ml
Best suited to
You want an evening retinoid specifically formulated for the eye area.
Another option may be better if
The eye area is reactive or irritated, or you are pregnant, trying to conceive or breastfeeding.
Explore the routines

Dr Max’s view

Why I chose it

What I like about EyeMax is that it gives experienced retinoid users a dedicated option for the eye area without pretending that everyone needs a separate eye treatment.

Its value depends on the problem you are trying to solve. Fine lines and texture may justify a retinoid-led product; structural hollowing, pronounced bags or many forms of dark circle will not be corrected by a cream.

Because this contains a retinoid and is used close to the eyes, careful placement and gradual introduction matter. A simpler barrier-focused eye cream is the better starting point if the area is irritated, eczema-prone or very reactive.

Dr Max GreenfieldMBBS, BSc, MRCS(Eng)

Routine placement

Where this fits

A broad guide to where this sits, without assuming how many steps your routine has.

Evening
Comes afterCleansing
This product SkinBetter Science EyeMax AlphaRet Overnight Cream
Comes beforeOther leave-on products and moisturiser
Curate your full skincare routine
How to introduce it

Apply a very small amount around the orbital bone in the evening, avoiding the lash line and direct eye contact. Begin two evenings weekly and increase only if comfortable. Do not use during pregnancy, while trying to conceive or while breastfeeding.

Guidance continues after purchase. We can help you introduce, simplify or adjust this product.

Inside the formula

The ingredients that make this special

A closer look at the ingredients doing the most meaningful work in this formula—and what the evidence can reasonably tell us.

AlphaRet®

A patented retinoid blend designed to improve skin texture and reduce visible signs of ageing with less irritation.

Read the clinical context

AlphaRet® is a proprietary ingredient that combines a retinoid with an alpha hydroxy acid in a single molecule. Small clinical studies, largely manufacturer-sponsored, suggest it can improve the appearance of fine lines, uneven texture and pigmentation while being better tolerated than traditional retinoids. As with other vitamin A–based ingredients, results are gradual and depend on consistent use. Independent large-scale trials are limited, so while early data is promising, it should be viewed as an advanced cosmetic retinoid rather than a prescription-strength treatment.

Niacinamide

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that helps to improve skin barrier and reduce pigmentation and redness.

Read the clinical context

Niacinamide is a jack of all trades ingredient. Most of its evidence base is for improving pigmentation but also acts as an anti-oxidant ingredient helping to reduce redness and inflammation as well as supporting skin barrier function.

Hyaluronic Acid

A potent hydrating ingredient that draws water towards it.

Read the clinical context

Hyaluronic Acid is a moisturising ingredient that helps boost hydration in the skin when combined with other moisturising agents. It falls into the category of humectant moisturisers that draw water into the upper layers of the skin. Works best when combined with emollient and occlusive moisturisers.

Glycerin

A well-established humectant that supports hydration and the skin barrier.

Read the clinical context

Glycerin has strong evidence for its ability to attract and retain water within the skin, improving hydration and supporting the barrier. Its benefits are well documented in dermatology, and regular use helps reduce dryness, improve skin comfort and maintain a healthy, resilient skin barrier across all skin types.

View the complete ingredients list

Aqua/Water, Propanediol, Isocetyl Stearoyl Stearate, Glyceryl Stearate, Glycerin, C10-18 Triglycerides, Jojoba Esters, Niacinamide, Ethylhexyl Olivate, Polyglyceryl-6 Palmitate/Succinate, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Hydroxypropyl Starch Phosphate, Cetearyl Alcohol, Triheptanoin, Butylene Glycol, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-37, Sodium Hyaluronate, Glyceryl Glucoside, Leontopodium Alpinum Flower/Leaf Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Astaxanthin, Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Flower Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters, Tremella Fuciformis (Mushroom) Extract, Tocopherol, Ascorbic Acid, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Sucrose Stearate, C9-12 Alkane, Gluconolactone, Calcium Gluconate, Polyurethane-100, Cyclodextrin, Sodium Starch Octenylsuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ammonium Polyacryloyldimethyl Taurate, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid, Phenoxyethanol, Silica, Sodium Benzoate.

The thinking behind the formula

More about SkinBetter Science

SkinBetter Science was established in 2016 by a team with backgrounds in dermatologic and aesthetic medicine. The brand develops clinician-dispensed skincare around proprietary technologies, formulation work and brand-sponsored clinical testing; it is now part of L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty.

Its range includes AlphaRet products, which combine a retinoid with an alpha hydroxy acid, alongside peptide-led InterFuse products and supportive skincare. These are different product families with different roles, rather than one formula being representative of the whole brand.