The Boots No7 products are anti-aging creams intended for women of overage, from the 20s to over 60. They contain high-quality ingredients known to diminish the signs of age, like peptides for skin and retinol. They are also rich in antioxidants which boost the skin’s immunity.
Exclusive: No7’s New Firming Booster Serum Comes With a Built-in Facial Roller
Aging is most certainly a privilege, and it should be revered and appreciated in all of its many facets. That said, if I told you there was a face serum that supposedly gives skin Peter Pan-syndrome, would your ears perk up? Mine too, and there’s no shame in that either.
Enter: No7’s latest launch, the Firming Booster Serum, which the British skin-care line claims can tone, tighten, and take years off of your skin.
The new serum is the third product in the brand’s recently launched No7 Laboratories product range, which are potent formulas with science-backed results meant to sort of bridge the gap between professional and over-the-counter. The other two products in the Laboratories line (so far) are the Line Correcting Booster Serum and Dark Spot Corrector Booster Serum, which launched earlier this year.
According to the brand, which, incredibly, sells one product in the U.K. every seven seconds, the new formula contains a proprietary blend of peptide technology called Matrixyl 3000 Plus, which helps smooth fine lines and boost skin elasticity). The formula also contains everyone’s favorite hydrating ingredient hyaluronic acid (both low and high molecular levels) and hibiscus seed extract, which is rich in amino acids.
Because I’m personally not too familiar with hibiscus seed extract as an ingredient, I deferred to cosmetic chemist Ginger King, who is unaffiliated with No7 and says that it does, in fact, work to “tone and moisturize the skin.”
Board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick says that it can also help to restore collagen. “We know with aging we lose collagen, which leads to loose skin and fine lines,” Garshick explains. “So, by stimulating collagen production, hibiscus helps to improve firmness and tightening of the skin.”
Overall though, despite the brand’s claims that in just one week skin will look and feel firmer, board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner emphasizes that to see true results, patience is important with all skin-care products (potent serums, included). “It takes several weeks for skin-care products to exert their effects,” Zeichner says. “The only immediate benefits that a product will give comes from cosmetic ingredients [and] skin plumpers like hyaluronic acid, or polymers that sit on the surface of the skin,” Zeichner says. Therefore, the hyaluronic acid in the formula may give a temporarily plumped-up effect.
Realizing that consistency and time are necessary to produce results, No7 conducted a six-month study on 50 female volunteers, ranging in ages between 35 and 65, wherein they applied the serum twice per day, every day, onto one half of their face. After the six months were up, 80 percent of participants showed a firmer neck, 90 percent a firmer jawline, and 82 percent a firmer upper cheek, according to the brand.
Unfortunately, I didn’t have the luxury of testing the serum for six months (or even a full month, for that matter), so I can’t say the same results came about for me during my week-long trial test. For nearly seven days, I rolled the serum onto my neck and the lower half of my face every night for about a minute.
Here’s how I used it in my routine: I applied it onto clean skin, right after using my go-to toner and before layering on my favorite moisturizer. One of the things I like the most about the serum is its applicator. To use it, you twist the top around to the “ON” setting, then give the tube a little squeeze and begin rolling the rollerball applicator in upward strokes. The tube itself is larger than it looks, and there are five separate rollerballs, which makes it easy to apply the product using broad, upward strokes. It does dispense a good amount of product (or maybe I tend to squeeze a little too hard), but after I rolled it on, I went back over with my hands and massaged it in.
The formula itself feels lightweight and is unscented, both of which I appreciate, and it absorbs into the skin very quickly and easily. Tough to say if I look any younger after just under a week of use, but to be honest, I’m in my mid-twenties, so hydration is the name of the game for me right now. And regarding hydration, this serum delivers, thanks to both the hyaluronic acid and hibiscus.
No7’s head of science research Mike Bell agrees that lockdown isn’t the reason we have more lines. “Lines and wrinkles actually form in the skin over a long period of time due to the reduction of key components in the skin, such as the depletion of collagen and elastic fibrillin.”
Can this £19 No7 serum fix your lockdown lines?
The ripples caused by living in a pandemic have got a lot to answer for, not least how much more we’re noticing fine lines and wrinkles on our faces. Boots report that more than half of women say their skin has aged by up to five years in the 11 months since the first lockdown in March 2020. Of the 2,018 women surveyed by Boots, 31 per cent of us said we’re noticing crow’s feet lines more since lockdown began, while nearly a third of us are noticing forehead lines and a third of us are more aware of under-eye lines.
Boots’ research revealed that people mostly attribute the lines to sleep disturbance (over a third of us cited this as the reason for our lockdown lines) while 38 per cent believe it’s down to seeing our faces on screens more. This is a notion that aesthetician Dija Ayodele supports. “Lots of women are talking about noticing lines during lockdown,” she says. “We’re now more aware of them because we see our own faces more than ever before. While lockdown itself won’t have caused these lines, video conferencing platforms are like mirrors that reflect our faces for hours on end.”
No7’s head of science research Mike Bell agrees that lockdown isn’t the reason we have more lines. “Lines and wrinkles actually form in the skin over a long period of time due to the reduction of key components in the skin, such as the depletion of collagen and elastic fibrillin.”
Whatever is causing our increased awareness of these lockdown lines, as a nation we’ve been investing in skincare. Boots reports than No7 skincare sales increased by 174 per cent in 2020, with one product, in particular, finding its way into our baskets.
That product is No7 Line Correcting Booster Serum, currently half price at £19, which is clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles by up to five years. Since launching in 2018 Boots has sold over four million of the serum worldwide and last year it was the brand’s second best-selling skincare product on Boots.com, second only to No7 Advanced Retinol 1.5% Complex Night Concentrate, £34, which launched in May last year as Boots’ first-ever retinol.
What’s so special about the serum? It’s formulated with seven times more Matrixyl 3000+ than Boots’ other serums including No7 Protect and Perfect Advanced Serum, £34 and No7 Restore and Renew Face and Neck Multi Action Serum, £49. Matrixyl 3000+ is a powerful peptide that tackles wrinkles, elasticity and dwindling collagen stores, stimulating collagen production.
No7’s Line Correcting Booster Serum is in a clinical-looking pen-shaped dropper for precision application which you use to apply directly to the lines themselves: to the forehead, crow’s feet, lip lines, between brows, under eyes and nasolabial folds. The reviews speak for themselves, with one fan writing on the Boots website: “I’ve been using this for just two weeks and I can see an amazing difference in a deep frown line on my forehead,” while another said: “my crow’s feet and under-eye wrinkles are diminished and my skin so soft.”
Dija points out that as well as investing in skincare there are ways to prevent lockdown lines from forming in the first place, including applying sunscreen with five star UVA protection over your moisturiser, even when inside. “80 per cent of skin ageing is due to UV from sunlight and up to 50 per cent of UVA rays can pass through windows,” Dija says. She also advises prioritising sleep to keep lockdown lines at bay. “Acute sleep deprivation contributes to dark circles as well as the appearance of dull skin over time,” she explains. Stress, something we’re all the more familiar with during lockdown life is a culprit for ageing too as Dija says: “Stress, for example from working from home or homeschooling can make skin more likely to fluctuate, so you may be noticing more bad skin days (or fluctuating skin). Make sure you keep up a daily skincare routine to help boost skin’s resilience and protect the delicate skin barrier.”
Stocking up on vitamin D is essential for skin too. “Our main source of vitamin D is sunlight, but we may not be getting enough being inside most of the time, especially as it is winter too. This is especially important for darker skin tones as melanin reduces our ability to make vitamin D from sunlight,” Dija says. Lastly, make sure you’re getting enough antioxidants through your diet. Fruit and veg help your skin fight oxidative stress Dija says. “Citrus fruits and leafy greens like spinach and kale are excellent sources.”
No7’s Line Correcting Booster Serum is normally £38, but you can buy for £19 for a limited time.
Immediate Results
When I first applied No7 Restore & Renew Serum, I was super worried. It stung the dry patches I had on my face around my nose and mouth, and I have used a lot of silicone feeling face serums, most of which I really don’t like. I thought for sure this was going to cause my skin to freak out.
Overall Opinion:
As a very popular and beloved brand, I was excited to try No7 Restore & Renew Serum. Having tried other serums from No7 that I didn’t love, I hoped this one would be different. While the results were absolutely incredible, the actual wear and application of using the face serum proved to be difficult.
With a very overpowering scent, and a formula that stings any dry patches on your face, I was initially worried about what this face serum would do to my skin. While it was easy to incorporate into my skincare routine, it left my skin feeling a bit dirty after wearing it for an extended period of time.
Despite my less-than-positive thoughts on actually using and wearing No7 Restore & Renew Serum, the results you achieve when using this serum are undeniable. From more hydrated, glowing skin, to an extremely clear complexion, free of almost any discoloration, it’s safe to say that this serum performs better than most on the market.
With a fair price tag and results worth every penny, this face serum is one you should be racing out to buy.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Let’s face it: A product that goes wildly viral — to the point that production increases over 70% in just a short time-frame — must have something good going for it. And, for the most part, No7 Serum reviews put credit behind the craze of 2007. Years later, reviewers are still raving about the youthful skin that they get from this product. No7 serum reviews frequently mention gaining firmer skin that feels softer and sags less.
No 7 face serum reviews
Reading No 7 Serum reviews, you may quickly be convinced that it’s a miracle worker. The truth of the matter is that No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Advanced Serum, $29.99, has the research behind it to back up the claims that users make. Read on to learn about this acclaimed product.
What’s It All About?
It’s been a while, yes, but can you remember back to 2007 when Boots stores all across Great Britain were sold out of a miracle product? That suddenly renowned product was No7 serum, made famous by coverage on a BBC documentary program. Overnight, the skincare product became a sensation.
These days, Boots has come out with new and improved versions of its famous serum. The powerhouse among them is the Intense and Advanced Serum, which boasts high levels of Matrixyl 3000, the secret ingredient that gives the formula its age-defying capabilities.
Matrixyl 3000 is a combination of two peptides: palmitoyl tripeptide-7 and palmitoyl oligopeptide. They’re believed to stimulate the skin’s production of collagen, which in turn fills out wrinkles. Keep in mind that the No7 line is not the only set of beauty products on the market that contains Matrixyl 3000, but No7 does use a special, exclusive variety known as Matrixyl 3000 Plus.
How Is It Used?
No7 serum should be applied to the face and neck twice a day. First, cleanse the skin. Next, gently rub on the serum.
For best results, Boots recommends following it up with No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Day Cream, $24.99, or No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Night Cream, $24.99.
What Do Reviewers Say?
Let’s face it: A product that goes wildly viral — to the point that production increases over 70% in just a short time-frame — must have something good going for it. And, for the most part, No7 Serum reviews put credit behind the craze of 2007. Years later, reviewers are still raving about the youthful skin that they get from this product. No7 serum reviews frequently mention gaining firmer skin that feels softer and sags less.
Of course, not every No7 Serum review is positive. Some reviewers complain about having an allergic reaction to the product. Do yourself a favor and test this serum in a small, inconspicuous spot before spreading it all over your face.
What Proof Is There?
It’s not just beauty bloggers that write positive No7 Serum reviews. Actual researchers have backed these claims. For example, a Manchester University study demonstrated No7’s ability to repair the skin of test participants.
In fact, the UK’s Advertising Standards Agency has received sufficient proof of the product’s reliability to allow Boots to advertise it as a proven wrinkle reducer. Its age-defying claims extend only to wrinkles and not to age spots and the like, but that’s still enough benefit to satisfy many happy users.
Combination and oily skin types will love the refreshing, lightweight texture. If you’re on the drier side, layer a hyaluronic acid serum underneath for extra hydration minus the heaviness.
These No7 launches are perfect for summer
You may remember huge queues forming outside your local Boots after No7 first launched its (now famous) Protect and Perfect Serum. And ever since then we’ve been a huge fan of the brand. Any why wouldn’t we? Their products are formulated with good, high quality anti-ageing ingredients and don’t break the bank.
From the handy capsules to take on your next staycation to the must-have SPF, here are our top summer buys from No7.
What’s the fuss about?
A good dermatologist will tell you that vitamin C is a proven ingredient for fading pigmentation, which leads to glowing skin. The ingredient, however, is difficult to stabilise (this is why vitamin C serums often turn darker when not stored properly). These little capsules keep the formula from oxidising and and delivers the perfect amount of product.
Who should use it?
Anyone who’s after an overall brighter complexion.
What’s the fuss about?
This cocktail of vitamin C and willow bark extract works hard to boost radiance and gently minimise sebum production respectively. It is gentle enough for daily use thanks to soothing ingredients such as aloe vera and cucumber juice. As with all exfoliating products, don’t forget to follow with at least SPF 30 in daytime.
Who is it for?
Exfoliating novices will appreciate the gentle formula. Use in the mornings to add extra pep to your skin or before makeup for a smooth, glowing canvas.
What’s the fuss about?
Ceramides and peptides are the essential building blocks to keep your barrier strong and healthy, which creates a radiant glow in the long-term. The combo in these capsules promise a bouncier complexion, one that is more resilient to environmental damage and smoother in texture.
Who is it for?
Regardless of skin type, we could all benefit with ceramides and peptides to minimise fine lines and keep skin in top form.
What’s the fuss about?
This factor 50 checks all the right boxes; non-greasy, plays well under makeup, and contains antioxidants and brightening ingredients to give your skin a natural radiance over time.
Who should use it?
Absolutely everybody. Sunscreen is the most important step in every skincare routine as not only does it decrease the risk of skin cancer, it also protects against skin damage which can worsen fine lines, sun spots and pigmentation.
What’s the fuss about?
Similar to the previous sunscreen, this too is non-greasy and plays well under makeup. Additionally, it contains peptides and antioxidants to keep fine lines and dark spots at bay.
Who is it for?
Again, everybody. With this handy stick format, there’s no excuse to not top-up your sun protection throughout the day.
What’s the fuss?
Rich creams which feel cocooning and comforting in winter are often too heavy for summer’s balmier weather. A gel texture such as this one is a tall drink of cool water for parched complexions. It’s packed with glycerin to attract moisture into skin and maintain that hydration without leaving behind a greasy feel.
Who is it for?
Combination and oily skin types will love the refreshing, lightweight texture. If you’re on the drier side, layer a hyaluronic acid serum underneath for extra hydration minus the heaviness.
What’s the fuss about?
Clay cleansers get a bad rep for being overly drying. But the experts at No7 have infused this cleanser with shea butter and coconut derivatives to effectively remove all grime while maintaining soft, supple skin.
Who should use it?
This works a charm for those with combination to oily complexions as it de-gunks without leaving skin feeling tight or uncomfortable. It’s a great option for a post-workout cleanse too. Leave on for 1-2 minutes for an instant clarifying mask.
What’s the fuss about?
This potent vitamin C treatment is designed to be used everyday for 14 days to restore radiance and even out the complexion. It gives extra antioxidant protection when layered underneath sunscreen too. The absorbent texture and delicate scent makes it a pleasure to use.
Who is it for?
Most complexions would benefit from the glow-giving powers of vitamin C. This will help to leave skin looking bright and well rested.
What’s the fuss about?
A burst of hydration for your skin. It’s brimming with hyaluronic acid (in 3 molecular sizes for long-term hydration), barrier-repairing ceramides and moisturising shea butter. Leave on overnight and let your skin soak up all the goodness.
Who is it for?
If your skin is prone to dry patches and tightness, it’s worth keeping this in your arsenal. It’s also excellent as a pre-makeup treatment to give the complexion extra bounce. However, it does contain petrolatum, which can be too heavy for those with oilier complexions.
What’s the fuss about?
Centella Asiatica – better known as cica – is beauty’s current buzzword, and for good reason. The botanical ingredient does wonders to calm aggravated skin and redness. This Cica Paste is also laced with comforting bisabolol, panthenol and cocoa seed butter to pamper irritated complexions. This leave-on treatment is formulated to be used in the evenings – simply massage in and pat any excess away with a tissue.
Who is it for?
Overdid the acid treatments or skin feeling particularly fragile? Trim down your routine to the basics and add this as a last step. It’s the ultimate skin SOS.
What’s the fuss about?
Tackling the three main concerns around the eye area – fine lines, dark under eye circles and puffiness – this lightweight cream helps to prevent moisture loss and smooth wrinkles. It also contains antioxidants to help protect against daily environmental stresses like pollution and sunlight. What’s not to love?
Who should use it?
As the skin around the eye area is thinner and more fragile a specialist eye cream is essential for everyone.
What’s the fuss about?
Well if you were one of the 37,000 people who joined the waiting list to buy the Line Correcting Booster Serum when it launched in 2018, then you’ll know all about its potent anti-ageing powers. Designed to be applied directly onto fine lines and wrinkles, the targeted nozzle means the peptide packed formula gets straight into areas you want smoothing and firming.
Who should use it?
Anyone with stubborn lines and wrinkles which your existing skincare routine doesn’t seem to be tackling. On the beauty team we’ve seen significant progress on our crow’s feet and vertical lines around the lip area after using this.
What’s the fuss about?
A moisturising day cream is a beauty must-have. And this hardworking hero ticks all the boxes. Added SPF. Super-hydrating ceramides keep moisture locked in. And anti-ageing Retinyl palmitate (a form of retinol). A happy cocktail of ingredients which help keep the skin clear, plump and firm.
Who should use it?
If you want a glowing, radiant complexion that also makes a great base for make up then this cream is for you. Although it has a SPF15, if you’re out and about in the sunshine we would suggest wearing at least a factor 30.
What’s the fuss about?
A big favourite on the GH beauty team this gel cleanser swiftly removes makeup (we suggest using a separate eye makeup remover for waterproof eye makeup) leaving skin sparkling clean. Massage the nourishing sweet-almond oil formula onto dry skin and then emulsify with water to lift off dirt and impurities.
Who should use it?
A good cleanser is the cornerstone of great skin so if you don’t use a cleanser (or even worse wet wipes!) make the switch and start using this today. Your skin will thank you for it!