Intensive Recovery Oil

The Intensive Recovery Oil is a lightweight, multi-correcting retinol facial oil from African Botanics. It combines time-release encapsulated retinol with Blue Marine Micro-Algae, THD Ascorbate (Vitamin C), CoQ10, and a Distinct Oil Complex rich in Omegas 3, 6, 7 and 9 — to refine texture, even tone, and restore a more youthful, luminous complexion while strengthening the skin barrier.

Both. It's a retinol treatment delivered in a nourishing facial-oil base — pairing the renewing benefits of stabilized Vitamin A with the essential fatty acids of Marula, Rosehip, and Baobab. The result is the corrective power of retinol with the comfort and barrier support of an oil, so it renews without the dryness retinol can cause.

The retinol is encapsulated and stabilized with time-release technology, meaning it's delivered gradually rather than all at once. This keeps the Vitamin A stable and active while making it gentler and more comfortable on the skin — a smoother, more sustained renewal with less risk of irritation.

All skin types — normal, dry, combination, oily, and unbalanced complexions. The lightweight, fast-absorbing formula suits oily and combination skin as readily as dry, while the fatty-acid complex and soothing botanicals make it well-suited to skin that's environmentally stressed or sun-exposed.

Fine lines, wrinkles, uneven tone, dark spots, blemishes, redness, dryness, and loss of firmness. Retinol and Rosehip refine texture and the appearance of lines; Micro-Algae and CoQ10 defend against aging; Vitamin C brightens; and the Omega-rich oils soothe, nourish, and fortify the barrier against pollution and UV exposure.

Apply a few drops to cleansed skin, pressing gently over the face, neck, and décolleté. As a retinol treatment, it's best used in the evening. Follow with a moisturizer if desired. Begin two to three nights per week and build up gradually as your skin adjusts.

Yes — the Oil and the Intensive Recovery Cream are designed to work together. Apply the Oil first, allow it to absorb, then layer the Cream over the top to seal in the actives and deepen overnight nourishment. Together they form a complete recovery ritual for renewal and barrier repair.

It can be, with care. The time-release retinol, soothing Primrose, Calendula, Rose, and Immortelle, and the nourishing oil base make it gentler than many retinol treatments. As with any Vitamin A product, patch-test first and introduce it slowly, especially if your skin is reactive or new to retinol.

No — the oils used are lightweight and chosen to balance rather than congest. Marula, Rosehip, and Primrose are well-tolerated by oily and blemish-prone skin, and the retinol and Calendula actively help refine texture and reduce the appearance of blemishes. Apply a few drops only; a little is enough.

Yes. Retinol increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so daily broad-spectrum SPF is essential. Sun protection also preserves the brightening and smoothing results you build overnight.

Skin often looks more nourished, calmer, and luminous within the first couple of weeks. The deeper retinol benefits — smoother fine lines, more even tone, refined texture — typically become visible with consistent use over 8 to 12 weeks, in line with the skin's renewal cycle.

If you're pregnant, planning to be, or breastfeeding, we recommend checking with your healthcare provider before adding any retinol product to your routine.

The texture is a light, fast-absorbing facial oil. The scent is a natural aromatherapy blend of Jasmine, Immortelle, and Rose — soft, floral, and restorative — chosen for both their sensory and skin-soothing benefits.