Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin.

Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin.

      If there are two celebrities whose fashion and beauty advice I would gladly follow, they are Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung. It's undeniable that both women embody effortless style, and I constantly strive to replicate their relaxed hair and makeup looks. We all know that the foundation of a great makeup look is effective skincare products, so when I heard from insiders that both Sienna and Alexa endorse this £17 French pharmacy retinol (with rumors suggesting Sienna was introduced to it by Alexa), I knew I had to try it. Which product am I referring to, you might ask? Let me introduce A313 Retinol.

      I can guess your initial thoughts: this product doesn’t exactly scream luxury. In fact, it wouldn’t be out of place on the shelves of my local pharmacy. However, it’s this modest appearance that makes it even more appealing, in my view. There’s no need for extravagant packaging or an exorbitant price tag, as the formula truly delivers results. Below, I’ve outlined what sets this retinol apart from others, and I’ve also tried it myself to see if this French skincare gem could help me achieve a touch of that Parisian radiance.

      A313 Retinol Review

      The Formula: This is a pharmaceutical-grade retinol cream containing 0.12% retinol esters, a gentle form of vitamin A. It promotes faster cell turnover, which can assist with skincare issues like fine lines, pigmentation, and blackheads. I appreciate that it's gentle on the skin, and as someone who has experimented with numerous retinol products over the years, I adore how hydrating this formula is. It has a balmy, almost ointment-like consistency (which reminded me somewhat of Vaseline), which worried me initially as I feared it would be overly greasy. However, it absorbs quickly and, unlike other retinol products, doesn’t leave the skin feeling dry or stripped.

      The Application: I used this product in the evening like any other retinol, applying a small amount to gauge my skin’s reaction. As mentioned, I was initially surprised by the formula, but I ended up liking how it blended into my skin. Interestingly, some claim that this retinol doesn’t require a moisturizer due to its richer texture. I opted to apply my usual serum and night cream afterward, considering my past experiences with retinols often left me with dry, flaky skin. Fortunately, after using this, my skin felt incredibly soft, which was a delightful relief.

      The Verdict: Honestly, I can understand why people rave about this product. It’s unlike any other retinol I’ve tried. It feels gentle and hydrating, and while it may take some time to notice changes, I already feel my complexion appears more luminous. One of the best aspects of this French skincare staple is definitely the price. At just £17, it’s a steal. And don’t worry if you’re not planning a trip to Paris soon; you can find this celebrity-approved face cream on Amazon. You can thank me later.

      Shop A313 Retinol

      A313

      Vitamin A Lightweight Face Cream

      Get this insider skincare favorite now.

      Shop More French Skincare Favorites:

      Bioderma

      Sensibio H2O Cleansing Micellar Water

      This is the best micellar water I’ve ever used. It effectively removes makeup without irritating my sensitive skin.

      Avène

      Cicalfate+ Restorative Protective Cream

      Another favorite for sensitive skin is this incredibly nourishing and soothing cream from Avène.

      Caudalie

      Vinoperfect Serum

      Caudalie’s alternative to vitamin C, this serum brightens and enhances the skin's glow.

      La Roche-Posay

      Effaclar Duo+M Anti-Blemish Corrective Gel Moisturiser

      This gel moisturizer is perfect for oily or blemish-prone skin.

      Mimétique

      Skin Cloud Baume Demaquillant

      I’m a fan of balm cleansers, and I’m currently using this one from the French brand Mimétique.

Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin. Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin.

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More Stylish Than Burgundy, This Trendy Nail Color Is One to Keep an Eye On Right Now More Stylish Than Burgundy, This Trendy Nail Color Is One to Keep an Eye On Right Now I have the photographs to confirm it. The powertrain may be derived from the Porsche 992.2 GTS in an effort to reduce development expenses. Porsche is developing combustion variants of its upcoming 718 series, which could feature the hybrid flat-six engine from the 911 GTS in its highest trims. The electric and hybrid 718 lineup is set to launch in stages starting in 2026. Recently, Porsche has been altering its strategy, shifting away from battery-electric vehicles and back to combustion engines for the next-generation 718 Cayman and Boxster, which were initially intended to be fully electric. This change may resonate with traditionalists, although it's important to note that the internal combustion options will only be available in the top-tier models. For enthusiasts who prefer gas-powered Porsches, this development is a positive sign. New reports suggest that these mid-engine models might receive a hybrid flat-six engine sourced from the 911. CEO Oliver Blume indicated that this shift was a response to a noticeable decline in demand for exclusive battery-electric vehicles. To keep development costs manageable, the combustion variations of the next 718 series will rely on components shared with the 911, which will also assist in meeting Europe's stringent emissions regulations. According to Autocar, the anticipated setup for the next Cayman GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS is the T-Hybrid powertrain from the 992.2 GTS. This system combines a twin-turbo 3.6-liter flat-six engine with a single electric motor, delivering a total output of 532 hp (397 kW / 540 PS) and 449 lb-ft (609 Nm) of torque. This configuration presents a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six in the current Cayman GT4 RS, which produces 495 hp (368 kW / 500 PS) and 331 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. The T-Hybrid unit was selected for its compact design, measuring 110 mm (4.3 inches) shorter than the non-electrified flat-six engine in the standard 911 Carrera. While retaining their signature mid-engine layout for optimal handling balance, the 718 models will face a challenge. The hybrid powertrain is presently available only with the eight-speed PDK transmission. Unless Porsche engineers can modify the system for a manual gearbox—something that seems improbable due to size and hybrid integration concerns—this could signify the unofficial end of manual transmissions for the 718 lineup. For a brand known for driver engagement, this could disappoint purists, despite the availability of combustion engine options in the upper trims. Although the hybrid sports cars will boast ample power, they are expected to be slower than the fully electric 718 models in straight-line performance. On the track, however, the ICE variants may regain their advantage due to lighter weight, a more responsive chassis, and focused aerodynamics. Spy photographers have caught numerous camouflaged prototypes of the next 718 series during testing, although all were equipped with electric powertrains. Fortunately, independent CGI artist Antonie Brigot has produced renderings of a new ICE-powered Cayman GT4, showcasing Porsche’s latest design language and providing visuals for this report. The new generation of the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman is expected to launch in 2026, following delays from R&D challenges. The fully electric versions will debut first, while the hybrid successors to the GT4 RS and Spyder RS will follow later in the model cycle. This staggered rollout should provide Porsche engineers ample time to adapt the EV platform for the flat-six hybrid, ensuring it meets the brand’s high standards. The powertrain may be derived from the Porsche 992.2 GTS in an effort to reduce development expenses. Porsche is developing combustion variants of its upcoming 718 series, which could feature the hybrid flat-six engine from the 911 GTS in its highest trims. The electric and hybrid 718 lineup is set to launch in stages starting in 2026. Recently, Porsche has been altering its strategy, shifting away from battery-electric vehicles and back to combustion engines for the next-generation 718 Cayman and Boxster, which were initially intended to be fully electric. This change may resonate with traditionalists, although it's important to note that the internal combustion options will only be available in the top-tier models. For enthusiasts who prefer gas-powered Porsches, this development is a positive sign. New reports suggest that these mid-engine models might receive a hybrid flat-six engine sourced from the 911. CEO Oliver Blume indicated that this shift was a response to a noticeable decline in demand for exclusive battery-electric vehicles. To keep development costs manageable, the combustion variations of the next 718 series will rely on components shared with the 911, which will also assist in meeting Europe's stringent emissions regulations. According to Autocar, the anticipated setup for the next Cayman GT4 RS and Boxster Spyder RS is the T-Hybrid powertrain from the 992.2 GTS. This system combines a twin-turbo 3.6-liter flat-six engine with a single electric motor, delivering a total output of 532 hp (397 kW / 540 PS) and 449 lb-ft (609 Nm) of torque. This configuration presents a significant upgrade over the naturally aspirated 4.0-liter flat-six in the current Cayman GT4 RS, which produces 495 hp (368 kW / 500 PS) and 331 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. The T-Hybrid unit was selected for its compact design, measuring 110 mm (4.3 inches) shorter than the non-electrified flat-six engine in the standard 911 Carrera. While retaining their signature mid-engine layout for optimal handling balance, the 718 models will face a challenge. The hybrid powertrain is presently available only with the eight-speed PDK transmission. Unless Porsche engineers can modify the system for a manual gearbox—something that seems improbable due to size and hybrid integration concerns—this could signify the unofficial end of manual transmissions for the 718 lineup. For a brand known for driver engagement, this could disappoint purists, despite the availability of combustion engine options in the upper trims. Although the hybrid sports cars will boast ample power, they are expected to be slower than the fully electric 718 models in straight-line performance. On the track, however, the ICE variants may regain their advantage due to lighter weight, a more responsive chassis, and focused aerodynamics. Spy photographers have caught numerous camouflaged prototypes of the next 718 series during testing, although all were equipped with electric powertrains. Fortunately, independent CGI artist Antonie Brigot has produced renderings of a new ICE-powered Cayman GT4, showcasing Porsche’s latest design language and providing visuals for this report. The new generation of the Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman is expected to launch in 2026, following delays from R&D challenges. The fully electric versions will debut first, while the hybrid successors to the GT4 RS and Spyder RS will follow later in the model cycle. This staggered rollout should provide Porsche engineers ample time to adapt the EV platform for the flat-six hybrid, ensuring it meets the brand’s high standards. 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Sienna Miller and Alexa Chung Rely on This £17 French Skincare Item for Radiant Skin.

I tested it.