£20 moisturiser that targets high quality traces leaves pores and skin ‘clearer’ and ‘extra radiant’
‘This product is amazing. I’ve really noticed a change in my skin already, I wish I’d taken before and after shots’
Shoppers say they’ve noticed smoother, more radiant skin with a new moisturiser (Image: Getty Images)
Finding the right skincare to target fine lines and loss of firmness can feel like a bit of a minefield. But shoppers think they may have found a standout: a £20 moisturiser that’s quietly racking up glowing reviews on Amazon.
Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Firming Moisturiser (now £20.40, down from £24) has already earned an impressive 4.7-star rating from customers, despite only launching this year. The K-beauty cream is described as a ‘gentle, beginner-friendly retinol’ designed to smooth the appearance of fine lines while supporting skin elasticity, without the irritation that retinol is often known for.
Its formula includes ginseng ceramides, an ingredient exclusive to the brand, that help strengthen the skin’s moisture barrier and keep hydration locked in. This makes it particularly appealing to those who want the benefits of retinol without the dryness or sensitivity that can sometimes accompany it.
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That said, as with any retinol-based product, it’s best to proceed with caution. Experts recommend carrying out a 24-hour patch test before use and gradually introducing it into skincare routines to minimise the risk of irritation.
For a plant-based alternative, INNISFREE incorporates green tea into its Retinol PDRN Firming Serum (£31, LookFantastic). Particularly suitable for delicate or spot-prone complexions, the formula penetrates rapidly to deliver a more taut appearance.
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This gentle beginner-friendly retinol helps smooth fine lines and support skin elasticity without irritation.
Otherwise, Medik8’s Bakuchiol Peptides (£55, Space NK) is a retinol-alternative serum that targets multiple signs of ageing. Ideal for those who can’t use retinol, it is formulated with 1.25% bakuchiol to help support collagen and elastin production while smoothing fine lines and wrinkles.
As mentioned, though, the Beauty of Joseon’s Revive Firming Moisturiser has had some great reviews. This shopper shared: “This is the perfect anti-ageing cream for sensitive skin. The K-Beauty hype is real.
“The fermented retinol is much gentler than standard versions, so it doesn’t cause the typical redness or peeling that often comes with these types of creams. It has a rich, premium texture that sinks in well without feeling greasy.”
Meanwhile, another said: “This moisturiser is amazing (I use it with the Beauty of Joseon revive eye cream). I’ve already noticed a change in my skin. I wish I’d taken before and after shots.”
However, as with all beauty products, it hasn’t worked for everyone. This person remarked: “Seems like a nice moisturiser, but it has a drying effect on my skin. I like the texture, it goes on well, but I prefer to have a more hydrated result.”
On a brighter note, this Beauty of Joseon fan piped up: “This is great for dry, more sensitive skin. The texture is like a light gel‑cream that sinks in really quickly without feeling greasy or heavy, but it still gives my skin a noticeable boost of hydration.
“The formula feels gentle enough to use more than once a week, and I haven’t experienced that flakiness I have had with other retinol products. It has helped smooth the look of my skin and made it look a bit clearer and more radiant.”
