Isdin Melatonik is a nighttime serum that combines the antioxidant benefits of melatonin with stabilizing vitamin C derivatives. This Spanish skincare brand aims to neutralize free radical damage, providing regenerative and anti-aging skin benefits.
As we dive deeper, we’ll explore what sets this product apart, how to incorporate it into your routine, and whether the $165 price tag is justified.
An Overview of Isdin Melatonik
Released in 2022, the Isdin Melatonik overnight serum combines science and nature to rejuvenate the skin overnight. Powerful antioxidants work to minimize damage from daily stressors like sun exposure and pollution. Meanwhile, emollients and botanicals aim to deeply nourish.
The result? Brighter, smoother, more youthful-looking skin by morning.
The Key Ingredients
Isdin Melatonik features two hero ingredients: the namesake melatonin and vitamin C.
Melatonin is likely familiar as the “sleep hormone” that regulates circadian rhythms. But when applied topically, this powerful antioxidant protects against UV radiation and infrared damage. It also stimulates the body’s own antioxidant defenses for round-the-clock free radical protection.
Vitamin C is the gold standard for supporting collagen production and fading dark spots. Isdin utilizes three derivatives - ascorbic acid, ascorbyl tetra-isopalmitate, and ascorbyl palmitate. This combination offers enhanced stability and absorption compared to ascorbic acid alone.
Supporting players include:
- Vitamin E to further stabilize the vitamin C
- Bakuchiol to shield against blue light pollution
- Squalane to deeply hydrate without clogging pores
The textures blend effortlessly while providing comprehensive defense against the elements.
The Promise
Isdin designed Melatonik specifically for nightly use when skin recovery accelerates. The science-backed ingredients work together to:
- Neutralize free radical damage
- Boost natural antioxidant defenses
- Hydrate, nourish, and strengthen the moisture barrier
- Replenish vital nutrients to rejuvenate skin overnight
With consistent use, Isdin claims users can expect improvements in texture, tone, firmness, and vibrancy. Plus fewer visible signs of aging down the line.
Who Is Melatonik Best Suited For?
Those with normal, dry, combination, and sensitive skin can see excellent results from incorporating Isdin Melatonik into their PM routines.
Its lightweight yet nourishing texture balances most skin types. Although those prone to congestion or milia may want to proceed cautiously due to the richer emollients.
Committed ingredient-conscious consumers will appreciate the combination of proven antioxidants and botanicals. Isdin spares no expense with premium Swiss melatonin and cutting-edge tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate (vitamin C).
Anyone looking to preventatively stave off aging can consider adding Melatonik in their late 20s-30s. But those already noticing fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness stand to benefit immediately after incorporating it.
Those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema or rosacea should patch test first, as the fragrance poses a potential irritant for some.
With its $165 price tag, Isdin Melatonik sits at the higher end for serums. Budget-conscious shoppers may find more affordable options with similar ingredients. But devotees swear the sleek packaging and sensorial experience justify the splurge.
Overall, Melatonik targets just about anyone seeking to enhance their anti-aging routine. Particularly night owls looking to take advantage of skin’s revitalization period.
How To Use Isdin Melatonik For Best Results
Using Melatonik effectively is simple but requires some habit adjustment for optimal results. Here are application tips and common questions about incorporating it into your routine:
When To Apply
True to its name, Melatonik delivers the most considerable benefits when applied before bedtime. Nocturnal skin renewal makes this the ideal opportunity for antioxidants like melatonin to penetrate deeper layers.
But you certainly don’t need to be in bed to see results. Apply anytime after cleansing in the evening for a brightness boost. Those with busy mornings can even mix in a few drops with their night cream. Just expect somewhat muted effects from daytime application.
With What Other Products
One of Isdin’s primary suggestions is layering Melatonin under their matching Age Contour Cream. But it also plays well under heavier moisturizers or facial oils.
You can apply it directly after cleansing or mix with your preferred antioxidant serum if you have one. Just be wary of potential irritation from doubling up on potent actives. Introduce additional products slowly and watch closely for reactions.
Unless directed by a dermatologist, avoid mixing with prescription topicals like tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide. The combination could prove too harsh and sensitizing.
How Much to Use
A little Melatonik goes a long way thanks to its lightweight yet concentrated texture. Isdin recommends using only 2-5 drops to cover the entire face and neck area.
Dispense the golden elixir onto freshly cleansed skin and smooth gently over the face, neck and décolleté. Take care to avoid the delicate eye area. Let soak in for several minutes before applying additional skincare products.
Using more than directed likely won’t improve efficacy. But it does raise the risk of contact irritation and sensitivity. Stick with a pea-sized amount (or a few drops) to keep your skin happy.
How Long Until You See Results
As with most antioxidant treatments, allow about 4 weeks of consistent use before expecting to notice significant changes. Skin cell turnover takes time, even when using advanced ingredients.
That said, many experience an instant “glow” effect after the first few applications. This temporary luminosity results from light reflection and hydration rather than true repair. But it speaks to the humectant capabilities of components like squalane.
When used for an extended period (3-6 months), melatonin and vitamin C can help minimize visible sun damage, strengthen skin’s protective barrier, and stave off signs of aging. But developing a long-term regimen remains vital for fighting free radical damage.
Isdin Melatonik Reviews: Does This Serum Really Work?
Skincare enthusiasts and beauty editors alike praise Melatonik for its sensorial application paired with serious skin-saving ingredients. Reviewers across forums like Reddit and MakeupAlley describe visible improvements in texture, firmness, and brightness in as little as two weeks.
But not all experiences are glowing (pun intended). Those with highly reactive or easily congested skin report issues with the richer formula. Main complaints include breakouts along the jawline and cheek area and temporary redness or flush after application.
However, negative reactions seem to occur in the minority. Some also found relief from irritation by using less product or switching to intermittent application.
Overall, Melatonik earns an impressive 4.1 out of 5 stars. Happy users love the ingredients list and lush application experience. Many call the $165 price point steep yet justified for the resulting “youthful radiance.”
First-time antioxidant serum users see significant changes in skin clarity and tone. Plus minimized appearance of fine lines and damage over time. Devotees continue repurchasing for the glow, while switching up other steps.
But a small contingent doesn’t see dramatic enough changes to warrant the cost long-term. These reviewers report turning to more affordable vitamin C serums after finishing the bottle. Yet they still tout the hydration and scent sensory.
Melatonik vs Other Antioxidant Serums: How Does It Compare?
The antioxidant serum market grows more crowded by the day. So where does Melatonik stand out from the rest?
Its hero ingredient melatonin gives it a leg up compared to ubiquitous options like vitamin C and alpha lipoic acid. Melatonin is an emerging anti-aging antioxidant with clinical research supporting its efficacy and tolerability. Isdin harnesses cutting edge chronobiology to maximize its potential too.
The smart combination of both oil and water-soluble antioxidants also helps. Most comparable serums use ascorbic acid only, meaning you miss out on key perks from peptides and fatty acids.
Speaking of ascorbic acid, Melatonik sidesteps its instability issues by using derivatives. Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and ascorbyl palmitate enhance penetration and absorption.
Let’s review a few key competitors:
Drunk Elephant C-Firma Vitamin C Serum remains a cult favorite for its potent 15% L-absorbic. But some report oxidation issues degrading the efficacy. At $80 for 1 oz, Melatonik delivers more diverse antioxidants for nearly double DE’s price.
SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic matches Isdin for inclusion of both C and E. Its cult status and clinical backing speak for themselves. But the $166 price tag for 0.5 oz exceeds Melatonik’s cost per use. And some dislike the tacky, temporary heat sensation upon application.
Glow Recipe Guava Vitamin C Serum comes with a lower $45 price point for 1 oz. It swaps vitamin C for a more stable derivative dubbed Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate. Users love the hydration but sometimes need extra anti-aging oomph.
Olehenriksen Banana Bright Vitamin C Serum. This $54 budget buy packs 15% pure ascorbic acid. But lacks the antioxidants diversity and penetration enhancers that Melatonik includes.
Medik8 Crystal Retinal 6 offers next-gen stabilization via encapsulation technology. At around $59 for 1oz, it’s far more affordable than Melatonik. But some dislike its “cosmetically inelegant” texture.
So while not the most cost-effective, Isdin Melatonik holds its own among luxury antioxidant serums. Those seeking a user-friendly combo of researched ingredients could find it a worthy splurge. But budget seekers might better spend their money elsewhere.
Is Melatonik Worth the Investment?
For some beauty consumers, skincare is non-negotiable. And Melatonik sits comfortably alongside other luxury treatments like lasers and injectables.
Its sensorial application experience with stunning botanical scents immerses users in self-care. And the clinically-proven ingredients deliver noticeable improvements over time. Devotees happily replenish their supply every few months.
But $165 barely buys a month’s supply for the budget-conscious. And the outrageous price tag is beyond what some can or want to spend on a single product. Those consumers have every right to seek out more affordable options. Even if it means sacrificing certain perks or technology.
Truthfully, Melatonik costs more than it reasonably should. But its advanced chronobiology approach to skin repair attracts ingredient enthusiasts. And offers them value beyond the price tag when it meets their needs.
Everyone’s skin priorities differ too. For some, melatonin checks the box over the latest vitamin C derivative. Others want every possible anti-aging booster combining peptides, antioxidants, retinoids, etc.
FAQs About Isdin Melatonik
Before giving this overnight serum a go, you likely have some lingering questions. Below I’ve compiled the most frequently asked to help you make an informed choice:
Does Melatonik have side effects? What if my skin reacts poorly?
Most users incorporate Melatonik without adverse reactions. But due to its richer texture and fragrance, some temporarily experience:
- Mild redness
- Warm or flushed skin post-application
- Clogged pores, whiteheads or breakouts - especially along the jaw and chin
- Itchy skin or rash - potentially signaling an allergy
Luckily these subside quickly after discontinuing use. Try applying less product, mixing with moisturizer, or using every other night if any crop up. And contact your doctor if symptoms concern you.
A patch test on your arm for 24-48 hours before facial application minimizes risk as well. Simply mix a pea sized amount with moisturizer, apply to your inner arm and monitor for irritation. If all’s well, you can safely start incorporating on your face.
How does Melatonik enhance or work with prescription retinoids/differin/tretinoin?
Short answer - it doesn’t. At least not directly. Melatonik and most antioxidant serums should NOT be combined with prescription vitamin A derivatives like tretinoin or retinols.
Layering these potent ingredients could create a “perfect storm” of irritation, inflammation and sensitivity. Not to mention potentially degrade the integrity of each product.
That said, applying Melatonik in the mornings offersindirect supportto nighttime retinoid use. The added antioxidants help combat inflammation. And reinforce the skin barrier disrupted by strong actives.
If using every other evening, coordinate application on your “off” nights from the retinoid. Just take care not to go overboard with too many intensive actives at once.
Can you use Melatonik while pregnant or breastfeeding?
Topical application of most ingredients in tiny amounts appears low-risk during pregnancy. Nanoparticles like melatonin demonstrate low systemic absorption as well.
But due to lack of direct research, it’s impossible for skincare companies to deem any product 100% safe for those expecting. Discontinue use if signs of skin irritation emerge. And check with your OBGYN before incorporating new products if pregnancy concerns you.
Does Melatonik protect against blue light or infrared damage?
Blue light protection is lackluster. Melatonin demonstrates some capability to absorb high energy visible (HEV) light. And the mineral bakuchiol may offer secondary environmental protection.
But unlike IR defense, most evidence around melatonin guarding from blue light remainsin vitro. So while free radical scavenging couldprovide some shielding, don’t expect dramatically reduced eye strain. You’ll need dedicated blue light filters for that level of defense.
As for infrared (IR) radiation, multiple studies showcase melatonin offsetting cellular damage from IR exposure. So there is more sound proof of protection from this invisible threat.
Can you use Melatonik in the morning or daytime instead of night?
To maximize chronobiological processes, nighttime application remains ideal. But you can certainly mix Melatonik with your AM routine should you prefer.
Just keep expectations realistic - some visible “glow” benefits will continue from daytime antioxidant protection. But long term anti-aging will prove less significant without coordinated circadian support.
Swap morning application to PM when possible. Or consider relegating Melatonik to 2-3 times weekly instead of daily. Just be sure to store it properly and watch for oxidization if using intermittently.
What is the best way to store Melatonik to maintain integrity? How long does it last?
Like most premium serums packing vitamin C, light and air degrade Melatonik’s effectiveness over time. Shelve it in a cool, dark place like the fridge to get the full 12 month lifespan after opening.
If using daily, keeping it in your bathroom cabinet works just fine. Just be diligent about replacing the cap tightlyand watching closely for any change in texture or color. Oxidization presenting as yellowing or browning likely means depleted C - and benefits.
Unopened, the product lasts a full 18 months before risking potency issues. Again, store in a cool dark space until ready to incorporate into your routine for best longevity.
Putting Your Best Skin Forward At Night With Melatonik
Beauty sleep takes on a whole new meaning with the rejuvenating power of overnight serums like Isdin Melatonik. Multiple antioxidants team up to repair daily damage while you rest. Allowing you to wake up radiant and refreshed.
But like most upscale skincare splurges, Melatonik appeals most to ingredient-conscious devotees. The average consumer need not drain their bank account for brighter skin. Many affordable vitamin C serums also deliver fantastic results with some formula tweaking.
Whichever route you choose, a long-term anti-aging regimen counts most. Consistency with proven ingredients makes all the difference in accumulating visible transformations over time. So invest wisely in products you can realistically stick with for the long haul - whether high end or budget-buys.
Here’s to nourishing your skin on its own circadian schedule. Dreamy slumber and glowing skin combine to help you put your best face forward every morning.
