0

Your Cart is Empty

How my sensitive skin learned to love A313

by Kanvas Beauty February 20, 2021 5 min read

14 Comments

How my sensitive skin learned to love A313

My review of A313 Vitamin A Pommade and a guide to using this potent little tube of pharmaceutical-grade French retinol

When Kanvas Beauty first started stocking A313 (formerly known as Avibon), I was EXCITED. Like a lot of the skincare obsessives out there, I’d read Gwyneth Paltrow’srave review on Goop, and then started seeing its name appear everywhere – Vogue, Style Edit, Harpers, you name it. It was apparently effortless-French-girl-skin in a tube. I was determined to stock up on A313 and other French pharmacy goodies on my holiday to Paris last year, but then COVID rained on that parade. Once I finally had it in my hot little hands, needless to say there was a LOT of anticipation built up.

The fast facts on A313 Pommade

What it is: A thick pomade containing 0.12% of retinyl palmate. The skin naturally converts A313 to a mild retinoic acid about 10-15 minutes after application.

Texture: It’s basically like Vaseline.

Feel: On application, it feels slightly warm. And because of how thick it is, isn’t the easiest to spread over your face. You’ll probably find you won’t need a moisturizer afterwards either.

How to use: As with any retinol product, introduce it slowly into your routine to avoid the side effects. Try it once a week at the start, then increase to 2-3x once your skin can handle it. A little goes a long way. You won’t need to squeeze out anything bigger than pea-size.

Side effects: Itching, flaking and sun sensitivity (always wear an SPF during the day).

Results: Fewer fine lines and acne, as well as tighter pores and a more even skin tone. It also makes your skin feel a whole lot softer. I love it! The side effects also disappear with time.

Tips:

  • When you’re using it for the first few times, avoid combining A313 with other active ingredients and serums.
  • Switch to a calming serum/moisturizer the next morning, and always follow with SPF.
  • Apply it on dry skin – it lessens the itching (this really works).
  • Wear it as a mask for 30 mins to 2 hours if you have sensitive skin. Wash it off and follow with a soothing moisturizer.
  • Use it at night when you’re not going out, because it leaves your face pretty greasy!

 

My relationship status with retinol: it’s complicated

In the past, I’ve struggled to get my rosacea-prone, sensitive, combination skin (which occasionally threatens to break out) to love retinol (aka vitamin A). It’s a Jekyll and Hyde type of ingredient: on one hand, it carries the promise of erasing fine lines, brightening hyperpigmentation and treating acne with an almost unrivalled level of efficacy. On the other hand, retinol can sensitize and irritate skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage. Sigh.

To keep my skin happy, I’ve usually stuck to low concentrations of vitamin A in skincare. I also blend it with moisturizers and only applying it a maximum of 3x a week. Now, A313 contains a 0.12% concentration of synthetic vitamin A, which is a relatively low percentage. Therefore, my skin should be able to handle it right? WRONG. 

What happened the first time I applied A313 – expect itching

After double cleansing and applying a 10% niacinamide serum (the first mistake), I happily rubbed the thick, Vaseline-like paste over a damp face (the second mistake) and went to bed. About half an hour later, the itchiness began. It felt like my face was being tickled with a million feathers, and it was not cute. I waited for it to subside but another hour later, there I was, wide awake and struggling not to claw off my face. I conceded defeat, went to the bathroom and washed it off. Luckily, there was no redness or visible irritation, but my skin clearly was taking exception to it. Once I washed it off and put on my go-to soothing moisturizer (SVR Laboratories’ Sensifine AR Cream – check it outhere), my skin was back to normal and I fell asleep. 

It’s true what they all say – the results are visible

The next morning, I washed my face as usual. To my very pleasant surprise, my skin felt baby soft and smooth. I also noticed a tiny zit that was making itself known on my chin the night before had all but disappeared! Even though I’d only left A313 on my face for only a couple of hours, it had clearly left its mark. I was highly encouraged by this, and decided to persist with this little tube of volatile magic.

A week later, I said a prayer and smoothed on a pea size shape of A313 over my face, without the niacinamide serum. In fact, I applied it straight after cleansing, on dry (instead of damp) skin. This made a world of difference.Without a doubt, niacinamide is an excellent ingredient – and it generally makes a great pair with vitamin A. However, a high percentage of niacinamide (i.e. above 2-4%) in concentrated serum form can cause irritation when combined with other active ingredients. As I learned, the best thing to do when introducing retinol to sensitive skin is to match it with a routine that’s as minimal as possible. Instead of a myriad of toners and serums, I stuck to my good old double cleansing routine, and that was about it. This time around, my skin was no longer itchy, although it did tingle here and there. Nonetheless, I still washed it off after two hours to avoid tempting fate. Again, the next day my skin felt softer and looked noticeably refined.

Results after using A313 for several weeks

In conclusion, A313 is worth the hard work. I can see a difference in my skin’s texture, feel and appearance. The pores on my nose seem tighter and less visible as well. I was initially worried that the thick, petroleum-like goo (probably the best way to describe it) would case my fussy skin to breakout. However, it’s had the opposite effect of clearing of any zits that appear quicker than would be the case if I left them alone.

I’m glad I didn’t give up on A313, but I still don’t use it as a leave-on cream. If you have sensitive skin, I would recommend using it as a mask. You’ll be able to see results even if you use it occasionally like me (twice weekly).

 

Shop A313 online in Australia at Kanvas Beauty

You can shop A313 and other skincare wonders found in a French pharmacy right here on Kanvas Beauty.

We ship Australia-wide, including all the major cities (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Darwin, Adelaide and Canberra). Enjoy free standard shipping with any purchase over $50, and free express shipping with any order over $99. If you’re new to Kanvas Beauty, take an additional $20 off your first order with us (use code WELCOME20 at checkout).

Happy shopping! If you have further questions on A313 or any of our other brands, drop us a line on chat or on email: hello@kanvasbeauty.com.au.

Have you tried A313? What do you think? Leave a review and tell us all the gory details!

14 Responses

Kanvas Beauty
Kanvas Beauty

September 25, 2024

@VIDYA – The texture definitely isn’t for everyone – it is super thick and vaseline-y. However, you only need a tiny amount – try melting it within your hands first, and applying a thin layer across your face, avoiding the hairline. You can even apply it on particular areas rather than the whole face, like acne-prone areas or directly on your fine lines. Half a pea-size will do! You don’t need much for results.

It’s hard to avoid putting up with the texture when you’re using A313, so the only tips we could really give are to use a bonnet to protect your hairstyle (helps with frizziness too), and use a satin pillow case so that your pillowcase avoids soaking it in. You can also apply it a few hours before bedtime so it has time to sit on your skin and really adhere. The other alternative is using it like a mask, and washing it off (something that I’ve done).

Vidya
Vidya

September 24, 2024

I used it first time yesterday. Even though I have dry skin I couldn’t get past the texture. It is terribly sticky. Is there a way to make it feel less sticky. I’m also a side sleeper and I felt it was sticking to my pillow case and also wrecked my hair. Any tips would be appreciated.

Kanvas Beauty
Kanvas Beauty

January 06, 2024

Hey @Tracy! One tube lasts for AGES. You only need a tiny amount, so even with regular use, it can last for 3-4 months.

Kanvas Beauty
Kanvas Beauty

January 06, 2024

@Elly Good luck, hope it goes well! Quite a few people have found A313 to be a good follow-on after a course of tretinoin. Niacinamide works perfectly fine with retinol, but we would always gently introduce any new retinol to your skin and pare back the other active ingredients temporarily, just so that we keep the potential irritation to a minimum.

Elly
Elly

January 06, 2024

About to begin using this as a replacement to tretinoin-clindamycin! Would you recommend cutting out the niacinamide entirely, or just on the nights using A313? Thanks!

Tracy
Tracy

October 11, 2023

Around how long will a tube last with regular use?

Pia Hellgren
Pia Hellgren

October 27, 2022

A313 is absolutely amazing for my very oily, rosacea sensitive and slightly lines skin. I use other retinoids too, but this one when my face gets acne which happens when I charge my diet. Yes, it is very think and goopy, like vaseline, but hey, if it works, who cares? I saker up all plump and acne free after a night of this. Just use a soft towel on top of your pillow! Also, the itching was bad, yes, but I dealt with it and after the sixth use or so it disappeared. How hard can it be? Just deal with it for a little while and it will go away. Amazing product!

Gary
Gary

August 23, 2022

Excellent. Viva La France
I have never enjoyed or found a retinol product since they were first released as they made my face sensitive and irritated.
I bought this to find out if the hype and to find out if the way A313 have stabilised the product makes the experience less irritating so I couldn’t help myself and I bought two!
My experience and tips with this product is different to other similar products.
Ensure skin in completely dry before application (allow 15min after cleansing)
Do not use overuse (less really is more) and really avoid the eye area more than normal! Leave at least 3/4 of an inch around your eyes free from A313.
I apply LA ROCHE-POSAY Cicaplast Baume B5 Soothing Repair Balm straight after A313. Not only does this reduce most of not all sensitivity, it’s also incredibly hydrating.

Kellie
Kellie

July 31, 2022

Hello BINKY CHEESEMAN, Yes some don’t like the feel of the A313 – I like to add a moisturiser on top before applying A313, I also sleep on my side and find A313 difficult to keep on my skin during the night, I opt for other Retinol products as this one does not compliment my skin. I also put it on parts rather than slather it on my face, hope this helps. xx

Kanvas Team
Kanvas Team

July 31, 2022

Hello Eve, Our next shipment should arrive mid-late August 💕 fingers crossed 😘

xx

Eve
Eve

July 31, 2022

I’ve signed up for the restock notification, but do you have a rough idea of when the A313 will be back in stock?
Thanks
Eve

Binky Cheeseman
Binky Cheeseman

July 31, 2022

This product may be a miracle-worker for some, but I could not get past the gunky & unpleasant texture so I didnt use it long enough to find out. Wrecks your pillowcases !! Since I am a side-sleeper the product applied to sides of my face just got wiped away. Couldnt a less nasty formulation be developed that feels like a “normal” cream or lotion? I wont buy again.

Kanvas Team
Kanvas Team

June 06, 2022

Hi Catherine, would love to help! please send an email to hello@kanvasbeauty.com.au and speak to the lovely girls in customer service who’d love to assist you.

Catherine
Catherine

June 06, 2022

Is it possible to see a photo of the alternate side of the tube? I just want to make sure that the tube I might purchase is the same as the one I’m running out of from France.
Thank you,
Catherine

Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.


Also in Kanvas Kult Blog

Skin Burns After Skincare? It May Be a Damaged Skin Barrier!
Skin Burns After Skincare? It May Be a Damaged Skin Barrier!

by Kanvas Beauty September 24, 2024 9 min read

Read More
BEAUTY OF JOSEON'S REVIVE EYE SERUM: DOES IT LIVE UP TO THE HYPE?
BEAUTY OF JOSEON'S REVIVE EYE SERUM: DOES IT LIVE UP TO THE HYPE?

by Kanvas Beauty January 31, 2024 5 min read 4 Comments

Read More
The Best Eye Cream? We've tried it
The Best Eye Cream? We've tried it

by Kanvas Beauty January 24, 2024 9 min read

The Best Eye Cream? We've tried it

What does an eye cream do? Well, it pretty much does what a moisturizer would. It can hydrate, soothe, treat fine lines, hyperpigmentation, etc. So do eye creams really make a difference? And is an eye cream really better than moisturizer for your face? The answer is, they can indeed make a difference to your skin AND they can be better. 

Read More