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Winter presents a mixed bag for trying new skincare products, since sunlight exposure is decreased (a plus!) but moisture is difficult to retain. Even so, I wanted to test Ole Henriksen’s Double Rewind Retinol Serum when it launched in January, hoping my complexion could be like that rare flower that blooms in the tundra. Why? Because incorporating retinol into your routine is one of the best things you can do for your skin.
A topical form of vitamin A, retinol is clinically proven to spur cell turnover, which tackles just about every skin ailment from acne and dark spots to rough texture and sagging. It’s a proven powerhouse considered the gold standard in anti-aging. But just like committing to an exercise regime, starting a new retinol comes with growing pains. While your skin cells acclimate to more frequent turnover, dry patches, tightness, and irritation can occur.
I’m no stranger to the retinol uglies, and I was intrigued that this formula comes from Ole Henriksen. The Scandinavian company is known to eschew harsher ingredients for botanical-based ones, like retinol-alternative bakuchiol. The odd couple pairing is the exact premise of Double Rewind, which balances two different types of retinol with nourishing antioxidants—and claims to reduce fine lines and wrinkles in just two weeks.
I’m skeptical of anything that promises fast results on structural signs of aging, and you should be, too. Read on for my review of the formula with commentary from Riva Barak, VP of Product & Technical Development at KENDO Brands. We break down who should use it and how it long it actually takes to see results.
How Does It Compare To Other Retinols?
Double Rewind is elegantly formulated with not one, but two forms of retinol. “It’s packed with 0.3% vegan, encapsulated retinol, as well as beta-carotene, a retinol precursor and larger retinoid that breaks down over time,” explains Barak. The two varietals of retinol work synergistically, spurring immediate and long-term benefits like smoother, bouncier skin.
Laced with soothing ingredients like aloe juice, glycerin, and plant extracts, it’s also less likely to irritate than traditional retinols. The natural scent and slip texture also don’t yield medicinal vibes, they provide a sensorial experience intended to spark joy.
“With a silky texture and absorption that doesn’t leave skin feeling sticky, and the subtle, invigorating scent, the Double Rewind Retinol Serum delivers what we call the ‘Ole Henriksen 360° experience’, results-driven formulas that are a joy to use,” says Barak.
Who Should Use It?
Skincare enthusiasts span many demographics, but they should invest in products that align with their particular needs. Retinols are not for rookies or school-age children, as they are potent and usually involve an adjustment period. I started using retinol a few times a week in my mid-20s and loved how it faded my acne scars and provided a more even, glowy complexion. Now in my mid-30s, it’s a non-negotiable.
“This formula combats signs of aging—including the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, dull and uneven skin, enlarged pores, and loss of elasticity and bounce,” says Barak. “Retinol is a highly active ingredient, and best suited for those 30 to 50 and over looking to overhaul and improve the overall look of their skin.”
How Long Does It Take See Results?
Retinols are notoriously easy to give up on, since initial use often invokes flaking and sensitivity, obscuring the smoother, brighter baby skin coming to the surface. Double Rewind is clinically proven to yield results in two weeks, much faster than typical six or 12-week claims.
“We conducted a 12-week clinical study on 40 people and found that after just 2-weeks, Double Rewind visibly improved the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, skin texture and skin brightness/radiance, says Barak. “After 8 weeks, additional improvements in skin tone evening, hydration, and skin barrier were measured.”
I’ve been testing Double Rewind/indulging in Scandinavian skincare hygge for over a month now. My nasolabial folds (the lines between my nose and my mouth) and marionnette lines (around my mouth and chin) appear softer. I’ve noticed an improvement in my skin’s texture and overall glow. Even though the formula contains calming ingredients, I never skip an occlusive moisturizer on top. The combination has yielded the dewy skin, tight pores, and overall sheen you see below—in the dead of New York winter.
Why Trust Me/StyleCaster?
An erstwhile beauty editor turned Editor-in-Chief, I’ve tested several thousand products in my 12-year career—much to my skin barrier’s chagrin. With the world’s top dermatologists on speed dial (hi, Dr. Henry and Dr. Zeichner), I balance my pundit user-level input with actual clinical experts.
At StyleCaster, our mission is to provide readers with the best product recommendations across beauty, fashion, lifestyle and entertainment. We’ll always report on the latest TikTok-viral finds, share our favorite inclusive fashion pieces, and tell you how to stream the buzziest shows on the Internet. You can also count on us to tap dermatologists, professional stylists and additional experts to share their insights—we do the work so you don’t have to ever second guess a purchase.
