After 20 years of research, Lancome's scientists have discovered that the number of stem cells and daughter cells in our bodies do not decrease over time. Instead, it is their functionality, or the ability to fully express their regenerative potential, that is weakened.
So it was when Lancome introduced the Absolue range with Absolue Premium Bx with Pro-Xylane in 2007, it was a breakthrough in terms of the development of anti-ageing creams. Pro-Xylane, which is the company's name for xylose, a type of sugar molecule, was found to help retain more moisture in skin, stimulate collagen production and generate the production of new GAGs, or glycoaminoglycans, which are primarily found in the dermis and help to defend against water loss in skin.
Then, in 2010, it introduced the range of Absolue Precious Cells, beginning with the mascara - the Lancome Hypnose Precious Cells Mascara, followed with Precious Cells Day Cream, Night Cream and Eye Cream.
The hero ingredient was an extract derived from a certain variety of Swiss apple, which showed an ability to resist decomposition and retain moisture for longer than other apple varieties even after it was plucked. Coupled with Pro-Xylane, the new Precious Cells range worked to further enhance skin's potential to self-regenerate by stimulating components of our stem cells' environment - consisting of collagen, perlecan, intergrin and laminin 5.
Last year, Lancome announced yet another improvement to its Precious Cells range, with a potent linum extract to stimulate the synthesis of collagen up to three times. Collagen is the key component of the superficial dermis and affects skin's elasticity. The result is Absolue Precious Cells Advanced Regenerating and Replenishing Concentrate, which completes the Absolue Precious Cells range.
The serum is designed to reinforce the environment of our adult stem cells and relaunch skin's regenerative power.
A test on 51 subjects revealed that more than 92 per cent reported smoother, softer skin with a visible improvement in the overall quality of skin after one week of use, while 98 per cent of them experienced a positive effect on skin density after four weeks of use.
Diva's review: Infused with a subtle, soothing fragrance that we were told was Lancome's signature scent, there is no doubt that this concentrate is a winner. Comfortable to use and melting easily into skin, it has a smooth texture that absorbs beautifully and leaves skin hydrated, and feeling firm. Dry spots on skin were addressed, yet did not cause unsightly breakouts because of its light texture.
As it does not feel overly rich, it was perfect for use under make-up too.
An easy-to-use and luxuriously made product.
Lancome Absolue Precious Cells Advanced Regenerating and Replenishing Concentrate retails from January 2011 at S$340 for 25ml. The rest of the range comprises of Day Cream (S$280 for 50ml), Night Cream (S$360 for 75ml) and Eye Cream ($170 for 15ml).
