A Bestselling French Retinol Cream Is On Sale For Its Lowest Price In Months

One thing about HuffPost readers — they love French skincare. Whether we’re writing about Bioderma micellar water or Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, our readers give a big, “Oui!” to anything en Français because of the consistent efficacy of the formulas. We weren’t super shocked when y’all took to the A313, high-retinol face cream, but we’ve been pleasantly surprised to see it become a consistent best-seller. It’s French, of course, but it also features a dreamy texture and three different types of effective retinol.

We’ve covered this magic potion going on sale before, but today the 50-gram size is 25% off, a bigger discount than we’ve seen in months — if not ever. As part of Amazon’s Big Spring Sale, you can snag a tube of this beloved lotion for just $33, a great deal from its usual $44.

A313′s distinctive thick texture is closer to a balm, which according to reviewers, feels more hydrating than the pricier formulations. The brand claims that the 2% retinol concentration can help unclog pores, minimize fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin texture.

According to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Rebecca Marcus, retinol increases cell turnover, helping stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of skin aging.

Dermatologists have consistently expressed how essential retinoids, like retinol, are to a well-rounded skincare routine. This is especially true for routines geared toward age prevention. A powerful “active” ingredient, there’s an ongoing debate about the value of prescription-only retinoid compositions versus their over-the-counter counterparts. Marcus explained that prescription retinoids are already in active form, often making their effect stronger and faster than OTC products.

Yet, she continues that stronger doesn’t always mean better, especially if your skin doesn’t need the extra power.

″[A313] contains minimal ingredients in its vehicle,” Marcus said. “Which is helpful for those who are sensitive to fragrances or other ingredients that are commonly found in OTC retinol products.”

And while she acknowledged the fact that the actives in A313 are not the same potency as the retinoid acid present in prescription-strength formulas like Tretinoin, “the three types of retinol in A313 are effective over-the-counter-strength retinol ingredients.”

In fact, some users who had been using prescription-strength Tretinoin then made the switch to this alternative, say they prefer A313 and have maintained the same results that they had with the prescription-strength formula.

Reviewers suggest adhering to a gradual and minimal application process in order to avoid redness or skin flaking — similar to the “tolerance building” period required for prescription retinoids. This period typically involves just applying a pea-sized amount one or two times a week for a few months before increasing to a more frequent application. Also, you want to make sure you’re rocking face sunscreen when using anything retinoid, as you’ll be more sensitive to the sun. When in doubt, it’s always a good idea to check with your dermatologist to know if retinol is a good option for you.

If you’re ready to upgrade your routine, grab this très bien French cream for $33.

Ready to put the A313 retinol face cream to the test? Take a peek at some promising reviews, if you need more convincing.

“This works great!! Just give it a month. A few things you should know about this before trying and quitting using it. You have to use this on a completely dry face. It can sting otherwise. I wash, moisturize, then get ready for bed and about 5 min later put it on. I will be honest, it’s sticky like Vaseline and the smell is slightly off putting. Start slow. At first use it once a week for a few weeks, then two for a few more, then work your way up to more. No more than once every 2/3 days. I have decently sensitive skin and doing it that way caused no pain or tingles. I noticed a small change after one use, but after a few months I feel I’m aging backwards. I’m 47 and have been starting to notice old face skin things, but this has made me look and feel like I’m aging backwards. My skin has turned soooo soft and it’s only been 2 months! It’s expensive now but it lasts for months, so really it’s only about $10/month to make such a difference. We spend that much on a coffee or a cocktail and they do nothing for us! I’m not one who freaks out or does much for anti aging but decided to try this. It’s effective and way cheaper than Botox or surgery. Not that i would ever consider those. Just eat good for you foods, get outside, exercise a bit, smile some, and use this cream! You’ll be young “forever”!” — Amazon Customer

“This stuff is Ahhh-mazing but has went up a lil over $25 since purchasing last time May of 2024 when it was only $18.99. That’s crazy!!! And ridiculous!!! But I have been using this about 2 or 3 ties a wk since then. I combine it with the Amazon basics moisturizer that looks like the dupe for Neutrogena that way it’s not so harsh & doesn’t feel like complete Vaseline on my face. But It has helped so much. I make sure my face is completely dry before putting the mixture on to avoid redness & itching. It has definitely been like a magic potion because it has helped alot with my fine lines, few wrinkles I have, & even zits. I’m 43 & definitely do not look it. And sometimes I jus use it as a spot treatment for zits & it makes them better by like the next day. And my skin isn’t greasy the next day & so smooth, soft feeling. This stuff is jus Ahhh-mazing!!!! If u haven’t tried it you definitely should. It’s great but unfortunately is $44 now instead of only $18.99. And yes, the $18.99 was the original the same as this not any of the fake ones out there. It was by Pharma development jus like this with French writing on it jus like this. But definitely try this! 👌👌👌👌⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐😊”— Bfe Bound

“I have only used this a couple times, but already noticing a difference. There is definitely a learning curve in your face will itch when using it. A little bit of this product goes a long way. I am already noticing a difference in my wrinkles. Just be very careful not to overdo it and do not do this every night when you are starting off. Also do not do this during the day nighttime only.” — Sarah Fetrow

“I ordered else where and it was like lotion not the real stuff. So I decided to try here and it’s the actual stuff. It is like ointment so a little goes a LONG way. Just like any retinol product there is a retinization period so I do have minor itching. If you understand skin care you’ll know this is normal and should go away in a few weeks. It has a minimal smell but my face feels so soft and slowly gaining “youth”. I use it AFTER my regena light session.” — Angelique Armijo

The Real Deal: We use deal trackers and commerce experience to sift through “fake” hike-and-drop deals and other deceptive sales tactics. Products will usually be rated at least 4 stars with a minimum 15% discount. (And when there’s an exception, we’ll tell you why.)