FAQ

About Reversa Products

Do I need to use a sunscreen while using Reversa?
A number of Reversa formulations already offer broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sun protection; they display a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or 30. However, we do recommend you apply sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher over any other Reversa product without sun protection. Putting on the sunscreen a few minutes after applying your Reversa product will protect your skin from the sun’s skin-damaging ultraviolet rays.


What are the best Reversa products for reducing brown spots?
All Reversa products containing glycolic acid will reduce brown pigmentation spots, thanks to its exfoliating properties. But Reversa anti-spot lightening cream and Reversa anti-spot night care were specifically developed to reduce hyperpigmentation problems. In addition to glycolic acid, they contain rare botanical extracts like Rumex occidentalis that reduce the action of the tyrosinase enzyme responsible for the production of melanin, which is what gives the spots their brown colour.

Other formulations based on vitamin C and plant extracts are also very effective against brown spots: Reversa radiance cream SPF 30, Reversa anti-spot brightening serum and Reversa radiance-C concentrate will provide excellent results.


Can I apply Reversa anti-wrinkle eye contour cream SPF 15 to my eyelids?
No. Reversa products with glycolic acid have an acidic pH between 3.5 and 4, which could cause irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes. As indicated on the packaging, the cream should be applied well away from the eyes, above the eyelids and beyond the corners of the eye.


How is Reversa different from other glycolic acid products on the market?
Reversa products are made in Canada. They are unique and developed in Dermtek Pharma’s laboratory by specialized chemists and pharmacists. Reversa uses glycolic acid as one of its principal active ingredients. Other products on the market also use glycolic acid, but what makes each formula unique is the other ingredients that contribute to the product’s cosmetic qualities and anti-aging efficacy. Reversa, for instance, uses the unique Time-release Glyco-comfort system™ in all glycolic acid formulas. This improves skin tolerance to irritation.


Are Reversa products oil-free?
Absolutely. All Reversa products contain non-comedogenic, oil-free ingredients, making them perfectly suited—and highly effective—for all skin types, even sensitive ones.


Is glycolic acid safe to use during pregnancy?
To date, no research has indicated that glycolic acid is contraindicated during pregnancy. Most physicians consider it safe to use skin care products containing glycolic acid in concentrations of 10% or less. If you’re still concerned about the potential harm to your baby, we suggest you consult your doctor.


At what age should I start using Reversa products?
The first signs of skin aging usually appear in our mid-twenties when the turnover of new skin cells, production of collagen and elastin—the substance that enables the skin to snap back—and the ability of the skin to repair itself begin to decrease.

Although Reversa products are specially formulated to reverse the signs of skin aging, they are first and foremost skin care products. As such, they are designed to help restore and maintain your skin’s health. It’s best to start taking care of your skin as early as possible. Get in the habit of limiting your exposure to direct sunlight and use sunscreen with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB sun filters to limit skin damage whenever you go out.


Do Reversa products contain animal-derived ingredients and, are the finished products and/or the ingredients tested on animals?
Reversa announced in June 2018 that the brand is entirely vegan and cruelty-free. Vegan means that, in addition to never being tested on animals, all products do not include any animal-derived ingredients. All the ingredients stem from either vegetal or synthetic sources.

In addition, the brand has long been cruelty-free. This claim means the following for Reversa:,

  • we do not conduct animal testing on our finished products,
  • we do not commission third parties to conduct animal testing on our behalf,
  • we require our suppliers to certify that the raw materials used in the manufacturing of our products are not tested on animals,
  • we do not sell our products in countries that require animal testing.

To ensure product safety, our formulations are tested by contract laboratories that use paid human volunteers or according to in vitro testing methods.


Are Reversa products gluten-free?
The vast majority of our products are gluten-free, however; one of our Reversa formulations contain chemically modified corn starch:  the anti-wrinkle cream SPF 30. Corn starch contains low levels of corn gluten, with its protein called zein. Corn starch products are not known to be associated with abnormal immune reactions such as coeliac disease, contrary to products containing ingredients derived from wheat, barley or rye. Consequently, we assume that all Reversa dermocosmetic formulations can be used safely.


About glycolic acid

What is glycolic acid?
Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) derived from sugar cane. It is the smallest of all AHAs and easily penetrates the skin to help shed the uppermost layer of dead cells. It also promotes cell turnover, allowing healthier cells to move closer to the skin’s surface, leaving it smoother, younger and healthier looking.

Glycolic acid is very beneficial to the skin:

  • It improves skin texture and colour
  • It improves the appearance of dry, thickened, sun-damaged skin
  • It moisturizes more efficiently
  • It gives a fresher, rejuvenated complexion
  • It reduces the appearance of wrinkles and age spots
  • It unclogs skin pores
  • It normalizes the skin's surface layers

Because it penetrates the skin so rapidly, glycolic acid may occasionally irritate sensitive skin. This occurs as a stinging, burning or itching sensation that may cause those who experience it to discontinue use and miss out on the rejuvenating benefits of the product.

But there’s good news. All Reversa products with glycolic acid feature the Time-release Glyco-comfort system™, a technological breakthrough that greatly reduces the risk of adverse reactions. Learn more about the Time-release Glyco-comfort system™ in the Star Ingredients section.


Which Reversa product is best if I’ve never used a glycolic acid cosmetic?
We recommend starting with products that have the lowest glycolic acid concentration, say 4%, especially if you have sensitive skin.

These products are:

When you’ve noticed all the benefits glycolic acid brings to your skin, you’ll want to use products containing higher concentrations for even better results.


Are there any other precautions to follow when using glycolic acid cosmetics?
A cutaneous sensitivity test performed on a small skin surface—behind the ear or on the inner surface of the forearm—is a good precaution to take whenever you use a new cosmetic. A gradual increase in the frequency of use is recommended for all first-time users. Begin by applying the product every other day. Once your skin has become accustomed to glycolic acid, you can begin applying your new product on a daily basis. A slight tingling sensation that quickly subsides is quite normal and does not constitute a contraindication to the use of glycolic acid.

In the event of irritation (persistent redness, burning sensation, etc.), stop using the product and consult your doctor.