The moment you get a positive pregnancy test, there are a few favorites you have to say “see you later” to, like alcohol, sushi and retinol. As a beauty editor, I knew there were plenty of retinol alternatives I could turn to, but I wanted to make sure whatever I used on my skin was as natural and safe as possible while still maintaining my complexion.
Enter Almora Botanica’s Serum for Fine Lines ($80), an Ayurveda-inspired formula that the brand says is 99.2 percent natural-origin. The formula combines “centella asiatica, which supports the skin’s collagen network, with marrubium vulgare, which helps protect the skin from external aggressors, alongside other carefully selected actives,” says Almora Botanica founder Ravi Prasad.
Beyond the fact that this serum doesn’t have retinol or other non-pregnancy-safe ingredients, I also take comfort in how selective the brand is about what’s included. “Our botanical ingredients are carefully screened for contaminants, including heavy metals and microbial and fungal contaminants, and we also take care to avoid unwanted materials such as microplastics,” says Prasad.
What really sets this formula apart in efficacy is the delivery system. The serum is built on the brand’s SAPTA Complex, a patented oil-in-water emulsion carrying micro-droplets of seven natural oils that the brand says help the actives reach deeper into the skin than a standard water-based serum.
After about six weeks, my skin looked plumper and my forehead lines were noticeably softer, but don’t just take my word for it. Almora Botanica backs the serum with multiple studies. After 12 weeks, a clinical study reported a 50 percent decrease in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. In a consumer study, 100 percent of users reported a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles and an improvement in hydration, texture, plumpness and radiance.
In addition to softening the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, the formula also boosts cellular oxygenation and restores elasticity and firmness. Translation? It kept my skin looking awake even while I was more tired than I’d ever been.
While changes were ultimately a bit subtler than with prescription retinol, there was no peeling, redness or adjustment period, which was a huge win, especially while dealing with a host of other body changes. The results have been impressive enough that I don’t miss my retinol and am happy to continue using this serum through my postpartum journey as well.
