The Ultimate Guide to French Skincare - Biafine & A313

French Skincare earns its glowing reputation thanks to a blend of timeless traditions, high quality ingredients, and a philosophy centered on simplicity and effectiveness. Passed down through generations and highly coveted among makeup artists from all over the world, what sets it apart is a “less-is-more” approach; it's not about overwhelming ingredient lists but rather a focus on a few exceptional ingredients.

Beyond fixing issues, French Skincare focuses on prevention, foreseeing skin concerns before they even surface. And because the French are known for their style and flair, you won’t expect anything less than a luxurious experience from using their products. We are going to break down the secrets to French Girl Beauty with beloved cult favorites like A313, and Biafine—formulations that combine care, affordability, and deliver real results.

Biafine: The Soothing Saviour

Initially designed as a cream to treat burns, wounds, and scars, skincare enthusiasts discovered this wonder product isn’t just for emergencies. It’s a must-have for anyone dealing with irritated or sensitive skin. Formulated in a creamy, soothing texture, Biafine is like a comforting hug for skin woes, from sunburns to post-procedure care. Plus, it doubles as an incredible hydrating mask for instant radiance.

HOW DO I USE BIAFINE?

Typically known for its healing properties for burns and scars, can be used as a skincare product to boost hydration and nourishment. After cleansing your face, take a small amount of Biafine and gently massage it into your skin, avoiding the eye area and focusing on areas that need extra moisture. You can incorporate it into your routine as a daily moisturizer or use it a few times a week, depending on your skin's needs. If you prefer a more intensive treatment, apply a thicker layer before bedtime and leave it on as an overnight mask to deeply hydrate your skin. Remember to avoid the eye area and, if using during the day, follow up with sunscreen to protect your skin. Incorporating Biafine into your skincare routine can provide an extra layer of hydration, leaving your skin feeling nourished and moisturized.

IS BIAFINE SAFE FOR SENSITIVE SKIN?

Biafine is generally considered safe for sensitive skin due to its gentle formulation. Its primary purpose is to soothe and aid in the healing of irritated or damaged skin. Many individuals with sensitive skin find Biafine helpful in providing relief from redness, dryness, and discomfort.

Twentyseven Tip: We LOVE Biafine on vacation, after a day of soaking in the sun, Biafine rehydrates and soothes your skin. Trust us. Don't leave this behind when you go on vacation. 

A313: The Game Changing Retinoid Cream

Picture this: a magical potion that can do it all! A313 is often hailed as the French secret to youthful skin - the key to that Benjamin Button lifestyle. Formulated as a vitamin A pomade, it's essentially a retinoid cream that works wonders on fine lines, wrinkles, and even acne. But here's the real shocker—it's gentle enough for sensitive skin too! Containing retinyl acetate, a less potent but still effective form of retinoid, making it a perfect introduction for those new to the retinol game.

HOW DO YOU USE A313?

Start with a pea-sized amount for your entire face. Begin by using it sparingly, maybe once or twice a week, to allow your skin to acclimate to the retinoid. Gradually increase the frequency as your skin adjusts. Apply a thin layer in the evening, after cleansing and toning, and before moisturizing.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RETINOL AND RETINOIDS?

Retinol and Retinoid are often used interchangeably, but mean different things. For one, Retinoids are a broader class of compounds that include both prescription-strength and over-the-counter forms. They contain a higher concentration of the product, are more potent and encompass various vitamin A derivatives like tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene. Retinoids allow for faster skin cell turnover. Retinol is a milder form of retinoid commonly found in over-the-counter skincare products containing a lower concentration of the product. It works similarly to its more potent relatives by aiding in skin renewal, boosting collagen production, and diminishing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While it's gentler, it still offers skin-renewing benefits, although it might take more steps to work and see results.

Is A313 Retinol or Retinoid?

A313 is a product that contains a form of vitamin A called retinyl acetate, which is a type of retinoid. Therefore, A313 is a retinoid-based skincare product, not just retinol. Retinoids, including retinyl acetate, are known for their fast acting skin-renewing properties and their ability to address various skin concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles, and acne.

GENERAL QUESTIONS ABOUT A313

HOW LONG DOES A313 TAKE TO WORK?

All retinoids, including A313, will start working right away. But most people will probably go through an initial adjustment period involving dryness, itching and/or irritation. This is called “retinization,” and it typically lasts about four to six weeks.

Short-term effects: Some might notice changes in skin texture or a slight improvement in acne within a few weeks of using A313. Skin might feel smoother or look more radiant initially.

Long-term effects: More significant changes, like reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and improvements in skin tone and texture, typically become noticeable after consistent use over several months. Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover, which takes time to manifest visible changes in the skin.

Adjustment period: When starting A313, there might be an adjustment period where the skin experiences dryness, flakiness, or mild irritation. This can happen in the initial weeks of usage as the skin adapts to the retinoid. Gradually introducing the product and using it every few days before increasing frequency can help mitigate these effects.

Consistency is key with retinoid-based products like A313. It’s essential to use it regularly as recommended and follow a skincare routine that includes sun protection during the day to maximize its benefits and minimize potential irritation.

IS IT NORMAL FOR MY SKIN TO ITCH/GET IRRITATED AFTER USING A313?

Experiencing skin irritation when using products containing retinoids, like A313, is common, especially when starting with a new retinoid or using it more frequently. Your skin might need time to adjust to the potent ingredients.

Using A313 too frequently or applying too much product initially can lead to increased irritation. It's recommended to start with a small amount and gradually increase usage as your skin gets accustomed to it. Retinoids can cause dryness as they increase skin cell turnover. Ensuring adequate hydration by using a gentle moisturizer alongside A313 can help mitigate this.

CAN YOU MIX A313 WITH MOISTURIZER?

Yes, you can mix A313 with moisturizer to dilute its potency and potentially reduce the risk of irritation, especially if you're new to using retinoids or experiencing sensitivity.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Start with a small amount: Take a pea-sized amount of your moisturizer on your palm.
2. Add a small dab of A313: Mix in a tiny amount (around a pea-sized or less) of A313 into the moisturizer.
3. Blend thoroughly: Mix the two products together thoroughly in your palm before applying it to your face.

This method can help distribute the retinoid more evenly across your skin, making it easier for your skin to adjust to the retinoid while also providing hydration. It can be particularly helpful if you're experiencing dryness or irritation from using A313 alone.

SHOULD I USE SUNSCREEN ON TOP OF A313?

Yes, we definitely recommend using sunscreen during the day after using A313 or any other retinoid product. Retinoids can increase skin sensitivity to the sun, making your skin more prone to damage from UV rays. Using sunscreen helps protect your skin from harmful effects such as sunburn, premature aging, and potential long-term damage, especially when using retinoids that can make your skin more photosensitive. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 or higher and apply it as the last step of your morning skincare routine. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're spending extended periods outdoors or engaging in activities that might cause sweating or swimming.

DOES A313 CAUSE PURGING?

If you are acne-prone and new to retinoids, then your skin may purge when you first start A313. Purging is an initial acne breakout that can occur when using a new treatment that increases skin cell turnover. If you can suffer through it—it usually lasts about a month—purging is actually a good thing because it’s bringing up the clogged sebum that was trapped under your skin surface.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN BIAFINE AND A313?

A313 and Biafine might sound like similar skincare products, but they serve different purposes and contain distinct ingredients.

A313:

1. Purpose: A313 is a vitamin A-based skincare product that contains retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A or retinoid.
2. Usage: It's commonly used for its potential anti-aging properties, aiding in skin renewal, reducing fine lines, and improving skin texture.
3. Ingredients:

Biafine:

1. Purpose: Biafine is a soothing and healing cream often used for wound healing, burns, and skin irritations.
2. Usage: It's used to soothe and aid in the healing of damaged or irritated skin, providing relief from redness, dryness, and discomfort.
3. Ingredients: Biafine contains a mix of ingredients like liquid paraffin, squalane, and glycols, focused on providing a soothing effect and supporting skin healing.

Each product serves a different skincare purpose, with A313 focusing on retinoid-based anti-aging, Ialuset on hydration through hyaluronic acid, and Biafine on healing and soothing skin irritations. Choosing among these products depends on your skincare needs and concerns.

Why French Skincare?

French skincare isn’t just about products—it’s a lifestyle. It’s that effortless chic, belief in simplicity, and the emphasis on quality ingredients. Focusing on prevention, these products are beloved among those looking to maintain youthful, glowing skin for years to come. Adding A313 and Biafine to your skincare arsenal might be the missing pieces to your skincare routine and voilà—say bonjour to that radiant, Parisian-esque complexion!