By Aimee L

I’ve always been wary of anti-ageing products. As someone with sensitive skin, even a hint of retinol used to leave me red and flaky for days. So when I first heard about Cetaphil’s new Healthy Renew range, I was intrigued but skeptical.

Could there really be a way to enjoy the benefits of anti-ageing skincare, without the irritation that so often comes with it? As it turns out, the answer is yes.

A New Era of Pre-Ageing Care

The conversation around ageing has evolved. Instead of waiting for fine lines to appear, Millennials (that would be me), and Gen Z are embracing “pre-ageing”, a proactive approach that focuses on prevention rather than correction. Hashtags like #preaging and #earlyskincare have been trending for good reason: it’s not about turning back the clock, but helping your skin stay resilient for the years ahead.

That’s the philosophy behind Cetaphil® Healthy Renew, a trio of dermatologist-backed products formulated for those just beginning their anti-ageing journey, especially individuals with sensitive skin.

Meet the Healthy Renew Trio

Each product in the range is fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and clinically tested on sensitive skin, making it safe yet effective for daily use.

  • Healthy Renew Eye Serum ($48.90) – This lightweight serum helps reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, and fatigue. I found that within two weeks, my eye area looked noticeably more refreshed, especially after late nights.
  • Healthy Renew Facial Serum ($51.90) – A fast-absorbing formula that improves firmness, texture, and tone. It has that silky, “barely there” feel that layers beautifully under moisturiser and makeup. My skin looked smoother and more even without any dryness or peeling.
  • Healthy Renew Day Cream SPF 30 ($47.90) – My personal favourite. This multitasking day cream delivers 48-hour hydration, antioxidant protection, and broad-spectrum SPF. It’s a single-step shield against everyday stressors like UV rays, pollution, and screen exposure—all of which can accelerate premature ageing.

After two weeks of use, my skin didn’t just look healthier, it actually felt stronger and calmer.

Why Sensitive Skin Needs a Different Kind of Anti-Ageing

We often associate ageing with wrinkles, but dermatologists remind us that the process begins much earlier. Sensitive skin is particularly prone to early signs of ageing due to its heightened reactivity to UV rays, pollution, and stress. Traditional retinol-based products, though effective, can disrupt the delicate barrier that sensitive skin depends on.

That’s where Healthy Renew stands apart. Instead of harsh actives, it uses purified peptides, botanical extracts, and vitamin-enriched care, all working together to renew skin gently yet effectively.

The Science Behind the Soothe

Dr Kong Yan Ling, a certified dermatologist (MBBS Singapore, PG Dip UK, FAMS Dermatology), explains it best:

“Purified peptides are particularly effective for individuals with sensitive skin who are beginning their pre-ageing routine. They stimulate collagen production to improve firmness and elasticity, while remaining gentle and well-tolerated compared to traditional retinol. When combined with soothing botanical extracts such as edelweiss and rice lees, they deliver visible improvements in skin texture, suppleness, and radiance—without compromising the skin barrier.”

Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make it happen:

  • Purified Peptides – These amino acid chains act as messengers, triggering collagen and elastin production for firmer, bouncier skin, without the sting or flaking.
  • Edelweiss Extract – Known as the “flower of eternal youth,” this resilient Alpine bloom protects the skin from free radicals and calms inflammation.
  • Rice Lees Extract – A time-honoured Japanese beauty ingredient that brightens and refines skin texture with amino acids, antioxidants, and vitamins.
  • Vitamins B3 (Niacinamide) & B5 (Panthenol) – These replenish moisture, strengthen the skin barrier, and reduce redness, key for keeping sensitive skin balanced.

Together, they form a formula that’s equal parts science and softness.

My Verdict: Gentle, Effective, and Worth the Hype

After trying countless “gentle” anti-ageing products that either didn’t work or left my skin irritated, the Cetaphil Healthy Renew range genuinely feels like a breakthrough. It bridges the gap between efficacy and tolerance, offering real, visible results without compromising comfort.

My skin feels hydrated all day, and has that subtle, healthy glow that only comes from a well-nourished barrier. For anyone hesitant to start their anti-ageing journey because of sensitivity, this range is a perfect entry point.

The Cetaphil Healthy Renew range is available at Guardian, Watsons, and Unity, as well as online on Shopee and Lazada. To celebrate its launch, it’s currently available at an introductory 25% off—a great time to experience the next chapter in sensitive skincare. Because growing older is inevitable, but how your skin ages? That’s something you can nurture, gently.