CAROLINE HIRONS SAYS

I created The Routine to be an ideal, no-nonsense lineup for anyone who wants to target specific skin concerns with a simplified, results-driven routine. The Cleansing Balm delivers a deep, sensorial cleanse before The Gentle Acid helps to brighten and smooth without irritation. Retinoid 2 works to boost cell turnover and target signs of ageing, and The Moisturiser deeply hydrates to keep your skin nourished and balanced.

Skin Rocks' Founder, Caroline Hirons holding Retinoid 2 against a rich blue background

Clinicals

The Cleansing Balm
Clinically proven to...
Be suitable for sensitive skin*
Be gentle enough for use around the eye area**
Remove 100% of make-up after each cleanse***
Clear pores with regular use***
Deeply cleanse the pores***

The Gentle Acid
Clinically proven to…
Improve skin radiance*
Increase skin brightness*
Reduce redness*

Retinoid 2
Clinically proven to...
Increase skin firmness by 25%.*
Reduce visible pigmentation by 23%.**
Reduce visible texture reduced by 17%.**

The Moisturiser
Clinically proven to...
Increase skin elasticity by 42% after 1 week.*
Increase skin firmness by 31% after 4 weeks.*
Increase skin moisturisation by up to 42% at 4 weeks.*
Improve skin texture by up to 32% at 4 weeks.*

Save 10%

The Intermediate Routine

$272.00
$272.00
Worth £245 and yours for just £220, The Intermediate Routine upgrades experienced retinoid users’ skincare game with more concentrated vitamin A. This routine refines texture, evens tone, and boosts vitality for a balanced, next-level approach to radiant skin.

Free Shipping on orders over £50

About the product

Seeking a routine that delivers a healthier-looking, more radiant complexion? Look no further – The Routine combines four Skin Rocks products to bring you a tailored skincare regimen that targets hyperpigmentation, breakouts, fine lines and wrinkles, and more.

If you’re new to retinoids or have sensitive skin, then we recommend The Intermediate Routine. If you are already a regular retinoid user, then The Beginner Routine is perfect for you.

Our most indulgent cleansing experience yet, The Cleansing Balm transforms from a solid balm to a rich, replenishing oil for an exceptional, sensorial cleanse. Melting under the warmth of your hands, this barrier-nourishing balm decimates heavy make-up, sun protection and daily impurities in one swift step, leaving skin soft, smooth, and beautifully comforted.

Powered by a blend of alpha-hydroxy and polyhydroxy acids (AHAs and PHA) and skin-conditioning ingredients, The Gentle Acid is a next-generation exfoliating toner that provides a comfortable exfoliation experience without compromising on results. This sophisticated formula visibly evens skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, minimises the appearance of visible pores and refines skin texture, all whilst respecting your skin barrier.

Our intermediate level serum, Retinoid 2, has all the greatness of Retinoid 1, but with an active level of 0.5% hydroxypinacolone retinoate (HPR) and 0.05% retinal added. This has been developed for those accustomed to using vitamin A products who want to level up their routine, to maintain an even, radiant complexion.

Suitable for all skin types, The Moisturiser combines skin-conditioning and hydration-boosting actives such as pro-vitamin D3 and ceramides alongside antioxidants to bolster your skin to be the best it can be. It has a super smooth, whipped texture that absorbs perfectly into the skin, making it ideal for both your AM and PM routines.

The Cleansing Balm

*Based on an independent clinical patch test, under dermatological supervision.

**Based on an independent ophthalmological study.

***Based on an independent clinical cleansing evaluation against a range of typical makeup products, on 55 participants

The Gentle Acid

*Based on a clinical study of 50 participants with dull/lacklustre skin, using the product regularly for 4 weeks.

Retinoid 2

*Based on an Independent Clinical Study, involving 30 participants over 8 weeks.

**Based on an Independent Clinical Study, involving 30 participants over 12 weeks.

The Moisturiser 

*Based on 49 participants using the product daily for 4 weeks. Independent Clinical Study 2022.


Key ingredients

The Cleansing Balm

Lipid-Advanced Complex – A luxurious blend of botanically sourced actives, phytosterols, jojoba oil, macadamia seed oil, squalene and vitamin E, this Lipid-Advanced Complex supports the skin barrier and mimics the lipid profile of youthful skin to help improve hydration, firmness and elasticity.

Carrot Root Extract and Carrot Seed Oil – Both rich in nutrients that offer a variety of skincare benefits, carrot root extract and carrot seed oil are a rich source of carotenoids, flavonoids, isoflavonoids and vitamin B6: helping to nourish the skin and enhance natural radiance.

Beta-Carotene – Giving this balm its intense yellow hue, beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that helps to improve hydration, neutralise free radicals and absorb blue light to help maintain a youthful, even-toned complexion.

The Gentle Acid

Mandelic Acid – An AHA that specifically targets hyperpigmentation, helping to achieve even, glowing and more radiant skin.

Lactic Acid – A skin-conditioning AHA that visibly smooths the skin, minimising the appearance of fine lines and visible pores whilst boosting hydration.

Gluconolactone – Known to be a gentle alternative to AHAs, this PHA helps to delicately exfoliate the skin whilst increasing hydration and offering antioxidant protection.

Caja, Mango and Banana Extracts – A combination of extracts naturally rich in AHAs that work together to gently buff away old skin cells on the outermost layer of the skin.

Panthenol and Glycerin – Skin-soothing ingredients that complement the acid’s exfoliating action and help to prevent irritation.

Retinoid 2

Retinal – A fast-acting, powerful retinoid that targets fine lines, wrinkles, breakouts, skin texture and hyperpigmentation.

Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) – A gentle yet effective retinoid that works in harmony with retinal to give you better results.

Bakuchiol and Soybean Extract – Retinoid boosters that help to bolster results whilst soothing and protecting the skin.

Squalane and Vitamin E – Conditioning agents that support the skin barrier whilst soothing and nourishing the skin.

The Moisturiser

Pro-Vitamin D3 – A skin-conditioning vitamin vital for promoting long-term skin health and supporting barrier function.

Ceramides and 100% Plant-Derived Olive Squalane – Barrier-supporting lipids that help to maximise water retention and condition the skin.

Australian Super Fruit Blend – Rich in antioxidants, this unique and powerful blend protects, nourishes and hydrates the skin.

Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid and Phytosterols – Hydrating and conditioning ingredients that help to increase water retention and instantly plump the skin.

All ingredients

The Cleansing Balm
Cetearyl Ethylhexanoate, Peg-20 Glyceryl Triisostearate, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Jojoba Esters, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (sweet Almond) Oil, Sucrose Tetrastearate Triacetate, Sorbeth-30 Tetraoleate, Helianthus Annuus (sunflower) Seed Wax, Parfum (fragrance), Simmondsia Chinensis (jojoba) Seed Oil, Squalane, Canola Oil (huile De Colza), Tocopherol, Jojoba Oil/macadamia Seed Oil Esters, Acacia Decurrens Flower Wax, Polyglycerin-3, Squalene, Helianthus Annuus (sunflower) Seed Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (carrot) Seed Oil, Daucus Carota Sativa (carrot) Root Extract, Phytosteryl Macadamiate, Beta-carotene, Tocopheryl Acetate, Phytosterols, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Beta-caryophyllene, Citral, Citrus Aurantium Peel Oil, Citrus Limon (lemon) Peel Oil, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Limonene, Linalool, Pinene, Tetramethyl Acetyloctahydronaphthalenes.

The Gentle Acid
Aqua (Water/Eau), Sodium Hydroxide, Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Ethoxydiglycol, Gluconolactone, Spondias Mombin Pulp Extract, Mangifera Indica (Mango) Pulp Extract, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Pulp Extract, Microcitrus Australasica Fruit Extract, Panthenol, Benzyl Alcohol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Trisodium Ethylenediamene Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate.

Retinoid 2
Aqua (Water, Eau), Isononyl Isononanoate, Diisopropyl Dimer Dilinoleate, Glycerin, Squalane, Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Ethylhexyl Isononanoate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Bakuchiol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Extract, Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Astrocaryum Murumuru Seed Butter, Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Oil, Polymethylsilsesquioxane, Glyceryl Stearate, Polysilicone-11, HDI/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Bidens Pilosa Extract, Polyisobutene, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Withania Somnifera Root Extract, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Hordeum Vulgare Extract (Extrait d'orge), Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Linum Usitatissimum (Linseed) Seed Oil, Bisabolol, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Xanthan Gum, Phytosterols, Citric Acid, PEG-7 Trimethylolpropane Coconut Ether, Sorbitan Isostearate, Phenethyl Alcohol.

The Moisturiser
Aqua (Water, Eau), Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-3 Cetearyl Ether Olivate, Glycerin, Canola Oil (Huile De Colza), Cetearyl Alcohol, Squalane, Jojoba Oil/Macadamia Seed Oil Esters, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone, Octyldodecanol, Fructooligosaccharides, Octyldodecyl PCA, Beta Vulgaris (Beet) Root Extract (Extrait De Racine De Betterave), Terminalia Ferdinandiana Fruit Extract, Podocarpus Elatus Fruit Extract, Pleiogynium Timoriense Fruit Extract, Phenoxyethanol, Carbomer, Squalene, Hydroxyacetophenone, 7-Dehydrocholesterol, Parfum (Fragrance), Potassium Lactate, Sodium Gluconate, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Sodium Hydroxide, Butylene Glycol, Lactic Acid, Phytosteryl Macadamiate, Tocopherol, Sodium Hyaluronate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Ceramide NP, Phytosterols, Limonene.

The Flannel
100% Organic Flannel.

How it works

The Cleansing Balm is ultra-rich, nourishing and effortlessly dissolves make-up (even heavy eye make-up), sun protection, impurities and daily grime to deliver a deep, sensorial cleanse. Its lipid-rich complex of botanically sourced phytosterols, nourishing oils, squalene and vitamin E help improve barrier support, hydration, firmness and elasticity.

The Gentle Acid is formulated with mandelic acid to help inhibit the expression of tyrosinase – the enzyme that contributes to hyperpigmentation – working with lactic acid and gluconolactone to gently buff away old cells at the surface of the skin. Skin-soothing and hydration-boosting actives ensure skin is simultaneously conditioned and well-hydrated to achieve gentle exfoliation.

Retinoid 2 encourages the skin to renew itself and helps promote collagen and elastin production, whilst simultaneously conditioning to reveal a smooth, even complexion.

The Moisturiser reinforces and strengthens the skin barrier to help reduce water loss and promote long-term skin health.

How to use

Note: Use The Gentle Acid and Retinoid 2 on alternate days. If you are entirely new to using retinoids or acids, incorporate the duo into your routine gradually. Start by using one product for four weeks, before introducing the second.Use The Cleansing Balm in the AM or PM as a rich, indulgent first cleanse. Apply to dry skin and massage into the face, taking care over the eye areas. The balm will instantly melt into a sensorial oil upon application. Massage onto face and remove with a damp flannel. Use The Gentle Acid AM or PM, up to 3 times a week. After cleansing, dampen a cotton pad with the toner and sweep over a clean, dry face. Avoid the eye area. Follow with the rest of your routine and use sun protection during the day.Use Retinoid 2 twice weekly after cleansing until you are acclimatised. You can then increase your usage to up to 3 times per week if desired. Apply a few pumps of the serum across your face and lightly massage into the skin, avoiding the eye area. Allow to absorb and follow with your moisturiser, if preferred. Use sun protection during the day. Use The Moisturiser in the AM and PM, applying after treatment steps. When using in the AM, follow with sun protection.

View full details

CAROLINE HIRONS SAYS

I created The Routine to be an ideal, no-nonsense lineup for anyone who wants to target specific skin concerns with a simplified, results-driven routine. The Cleansing Balm delivers a deep, sensorial cleanse before The Gentle Acid helps to brighten and smooth without irritation. Retinoid 2 works to boost cell turnover and target signs of ageing, and The Moisturiser deeply hydrates to keep your skin nourished and balanced.

Skin Rocks' Founder, Caroline Hirons holding Retinoid 2 against a rich blue background

Clinicals

The Cleansing Balm
Clinically proven to...
Be suitable for sensitive skin*
Be gentle enough for use around the eye area**
Remove 100% of make-up after each cleanse***
Clear pores with regular use***
Deeply cleanse the pores***

The Gentle Acid
Clinically proven to…
Improve skin radiance*
Increase skin brightness*
Reduce redness*

Retinoid 2
Clinically proven to...
Increase skin firmness by 25%.*
Reduce visible pigmentation by 23%.**
Reduce visible texture reduced by 17%.**

The Moisturiser
Clinically proven to...
Increase skin elasticity by 42% after 1 week.*
Increase skin firmness by 31% after 4 weeks.*
Increase skin moisturisation by up to 42% at 4 weeks.*
Improve skin texture by up to 32% at 4 weeks.*

FAQs

Can I use The Routine daily?

The Cleansing Balm and The Moisturiser can be used as part of your daily routine, both morning and evening. 

Use The Gentle Acid AM or PM, up to 3 times a week.

If you’ve chosen The Routine – Beginner, use Retinoid 1 in the evening after cleansing twice a week, building up to 3-4 times per week depending on your skin’s need. If you’re an experienced retinoid user and are using The Routine – Intermediate, apply Retinoid 2 twice weekly after cleansing until you are acclimatised. You can then increase your usage to up to 3 times per week if desired. 

Use The Gentle Acid and Retinoid 1 or 2 on alternate days. If you are entirely new to using retinoids or acids, incorporate the duo into your routine gradually. Start by using one product for four weeks, before introducing the second.

Is The Routine suitable for sensitive skin?

The Cleansing Balm and The Moisturiser are both suitable for sensitive skin.

The Gentle Acid has been formulated to use variants of AHAs/PHA shown to have good compatibility with a wide range of skin types and tones. Whilst The Gentle Acid should be okay to use if you are prone to sensitivity, we would always recommend to patch test before first use and to discontinue use if there are any signs of irritation. You should not be using acid products on any areas of skin that are actively sensitised or if you have a known allergy to any of the ingredients used.

If you have sensitive skin, we would recommend choosing The Routine – Beginner, as Retinoid 1 is clinically proven to be suitable for sensitive skin. Retinoid 2 is not suitable for sensitive skin, as it is formulated for intermediate retinoid users who have had no previous issues with sensitivity. 

*Based on an independent clinical patch test, under dermatological supervision.

Is The Routine suitable for vegans?

The Cleansing Balm and The Gentle Acid are both vegan-friendly.

Retinoids 1 and 2 do not contain any ingredients of animal origin or direct animal by-products (such as honey, milk or beeswax). However, they do contain ‘xanthan gum’ - a viscosity controlling (thickening) ingredient, from fermented sugar molecules. 

The ingredient itself is not of animal origin and is classed as vegan by industry standards. However, the fermentation process may have involved enzymes derived from the albumen portion of eggs in the past. Therefore, we feel it could potentially be misleading to say that these products are 100% vegan. 

The Moisturiser contains '7-dehydrocholesterol' (pro-vitamin D3), derived from the wool grease of healthy, living animals. 

We are constantly reviewing the information provided by our material suppliers and looking to source suitable alternatives for this material for future developments. However, we will only switch once we can ensure that this will not compromise the product's performance.

Is The Routine cruelty-free?

At Skin Rocks, we do not and never will test our products or ingredients on animals. Neither will we ask or allow any third parties to do so on our behalf. Skin Rocks products are developed to fully comply with relevant cosmetic legislation, including the EU Cosmetic Regulation (Ec. No. 1223/2009), the equivalent UK law (Schedule 34, The Product Safety and Metrology etc. (Amendment etc.) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019)), both of which have made cosmetic animal testing illegal. It is also our company policy not to sell Skin Rocks cosmetic products in any countries that require animal testing in order to enter the market.

Is the packaging for The Routine recyclable?

The Cleansing Balm

Jar and Carton are readily recyclable. Cap please check local capabilities.

Jar:Glass

Cap: Plastic (ABS + PE liner)

Carton + Leaflet: All paper and card are from a certified FSC source.

The Gentle Acid

All individual components are recyclable. Separate, rinse and dry all components before recycling. Please check all materials against local requirements.

Bottle: Glass

Cap: Plastic (PP)

Reducer Plug: Plastic (PE)

Carton + Leaflet: All paper & card is from a certified FSC source.

Retinoid 1 and 2:

The pumps for our Retinoid products are not currently recyclable unless dismantled. We encourage you to keep your pump and glass bottle and purchase a refill instead. Once you have finished and would like to recycle your product, rinse and dry out all componentry and please check materials against local requirements. 

Outer Bottle: Glass Cap: Plastic (PETG) 

Refill bottle + Cap: Plastic (PP) 

Pump: Mixed plastic - Not readily recyclable 

Carton + Leaflet: All paper & card is from a certified FSC source.

The Moisturiser

Our packaging is completely recyclable. Once finished with your product, please rinse and recycle. Please check materials against local requirements.

Jar: Glass

Cap: Plastic (PP)

Shive: Plastic (PP)

Carton + Leaflet: All paper & card are from a certified FSC source.

Customer reviews

Hear it direct from our community.

The Intermediate Routine

$272.00
$272.00