If your skincare routine feels like it’s stopped working, you’re not alone. Many of us reach a point where the products that once delivered glow and bounce suddenly seem to plateau. Skin can look tired, dull, and less firm — even when you’re doing “all the right things”.
Here’s the shift worth knowing: visible ageing isn’t only about what’s happening on the surface. It can also be linked to what’s happening deeper down — specifically, the way skin cells manage energy. When skin cells have less energy to work with, the signs often show up as uneven tone, rough texture, dehydration, and lines.
The new anti-ageing conversation: cellular energy
Inside every skin cell are mitochondria — the cell’s “energy engines”. Their job is to convert nutrients into usable energy so the cell can renew, repair, and defend itself.
As mitochondrial function slows over time, skin can start to behave like it’s running on a low battery. That’s why a new generation of science-first skincare focuses on supporting cellular energy—not just surface-level symptoms.
Introducing IDEO Skincare: the “Skin Memory” idea
IDEO is a luxury, science-led skincare brand built around a simple concept: skin memory. In plain terms, skin can be “reminded” to function in a more youthful way — through formulas designed to support the skin’s natural energy processes and resilience over time.
IDEO’s scientific foundation is rooted in the work of biochemist and neuroscientist Dr. John P. Blass, whose research on ageing and cellular metabolism helped inspire IDEO’s proprietary technology.
What makes it different: R•M•A Complex™
At the heart of IDEO’s approach is the brand’s patented, proprietary R•M•A Complex™ — developed from research into cellular metabolism and ageing. This complex is designed to be small enough to penetrate the cell and support mitochondrial metabolism and the skin’s energy processes, helping skin look more energized, smoother, and more resilient with consistent use.
The hero duo: high performance, low effort
IDEO’s two-step system is designed for real life — and consistent, visible improvement.
Step 1: Skin Memory Serum (AM + PM)
This is the daily “power step”. Apply after cleansing (and toning, if you use a toner). The serum is a multi-concern formula that targets eight visible signs of ageing: dullness, fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, elasticity, enlarged pores, redness, and uneven tone.
The texture is designed to absorb easily and layer well under moisturiser, sunscreen, and makeup — so it fits into a routine you’ll actually stick to.
Step 2: Skin Memory Daily Moisturizer (AM + PM)
Follow with the Daily Moisturizer to seal in hydration and support a smoother, more comfortable finish. The texture is designed to feel elegant and makeup-friendly, making consistency easier.
To support absorption and keep skin looking bright, consider gentle exfoliation around twice a week (no harsh scrubs needed).
What to expect
Skin is personal, so results can vary — but IDEO reports measurable improvements in as little as five days in clinical studies, with continued visible improvements over weeks of consistent use.
- Around 5 days: skin may look more even in tone, with a visible reduction in the appearance of redness.
- Around 2 weeks: improvements may be seen in the look of fine lines, elasticity, and radiance.
- Around 4 weeks: continued use can help improve the appearance of pore size, hyperpigmentation (dark spots), and wrinkles.
In consumer feedback, 90% reported their skin appeared smoother, 97% noticed an overall improvement in skin appearance, and 86% reported a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles after using fewer than one bottle.
Where to shop IDEO in South Africa
IDEO Skincare is available in South Africa exclusively at ALARASI — a luxury clean beauty destination curating high-performance, ingredient-conscious brands from around the world. At ALARASI, curation comes first: premium formulas, credible science, and ingredient transparency — making it easier to shop a streamlined routine that fits real life. Discover IDEO and other luxury clean beauty brands at ALARASI.
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Featured Image: Supplied
