Sequels are rarely better than the originals but when it comes to the reformulation of Epi.logic Skincare’s best-selling serum, the Master Plan, prepare for the opposite to be true. After two years of researching everything including encapsulation technologies, retinoid blends, and messenger peptides, “I knew there was an opportunity for the Master Plan to deliver even more robust benefits,” says Dr. Chaneve Jeanniton, oculofacial plastic surgeon and founder of Epi.logic Skincare. The brand itself was inspired by Dr. Jeanniton’s patients. They made her aware of the paradox between the degree of treatment they received in the office vs. the “uninspiring and formulaic products” they went home with, Dr. Jeanninton says. “Epi.Logic looks to “bridge the gap between data-vetted, industry-leading clinical skincare with the beauty we seek in our self-care practices,” she adds. Additionally, it centers the needs of skin of color, “an anomaly in clinical skincare.”
Thanks to growth factors and peptides in the new formula, The Master Plan Serum works to improve skin’s firmness and elasticity while also boosting hydration levels. I was excited to test it out; as someone with very sensitive skin—I’m acne-, eczema-, and hyperpigmentation-prone—Epi.logic is one of the few brands I truly trust.
In addition to the reformulation, Dr. Jeanninton has also launched the Master Plan Microinfusions Facial, provided by in-house esthetician, Samantha Mims. “The facial supports, repairs, and protects the skin’s surface, shape, and structure,” Mims says. With the way my skin is looking now compared to five months ago, it’s safe to say that the new serum and facial will both be long-term staples in my ever-evolving skincare routine. Below, take a peek inside of my journey to achieving smoother and more even-toned skin.
About the Formula
The name of this serum says it all—it does it all. According to Dr. Jeanniton, it’s now even more hydrating and strengthening, thanks to new ingredients like snow mushroom. “This fungi acts as a powerhouse hydrator by pulling moisture to the skin while repairing the barrier,” she says. There’s also hyaluronic acid, which helps skin retain moisture, and sea kelp bioferment algae, which protects skin from free radical damage and works to increase collagen density. And the star of the show? The brand’s patented cell service, a complex filled with growth factors and peptides. “They’ve been optimized to holistically nourish the skin to stimulate firmness, even tone, and [boost] elasticity,” she adds. This strategic blend is a direct result of Dr. Jeanniton’s love of microneedling procedures, “and the natural boost in growth factors that they [initiate],” she says. “I wanted to replicate those regenerative benefits as much as possible without needing a doctor’s appointment.”
Because of its soothing and hydrating formula, Master Plan is safe to use twice a day. “There’s no need to worry about sensitization or reactivity.” The consistency is considered to be medium weight, so it’s best to apply it after cleansing and toning and before any moisturizers or sunscreens.
First day using the Master Cleanse Serum.
Photo: Akili King
Photo: Akili King
My Review
I’m always hesitant when I first start using a new product because sometimes skin can break out while adjusting to it. But with the Master Plan, there were no downsides to using it, only improvements. I started using this serum twice a day, in early June, and since then, I’ve noticed less hyperpigmentation and more plump skin. My skin feels and looks a lot more hydrated than it typically does, plus, I’m not breaking out as often. In tandem with the serum, I also tried out the Master Plan facial, a treatment that infuses the serum into the skin before finishing the session off with LED light therapy.
My skin using the Master Plan serum for two months.
Photo: Akili King
My skin using the Master Plan serum for two months.
Photo: Akili King
My skin using the Master Plan serum for four months.
Photo: Akili King
My skin using the Master Plan serum for four months.
Photo: Akili King
After consistent sessions, you’ll start to notice less fine lines and dark spots and increased collagen production. After just one session, the treatment left me with a more even-toned glow and dewier skin. (I’ve already booked my next session.) The Master Plan Facial, which microinfuses the Master Plan serum into the skin and is finished with LED light therapy. After just one session, I noticed increased hydration and glow of my skin. After consistent sessions (Mims recommends getting this done up to every 2 months), you will notice reduction of fine lines, scarring, and increased collagen production. I’ve already booked my next session. Overall, given its ingredient quality, the research behind the formulation, and its efficacy, the new Master Plan serum is definitely worth the money. I’m excited to keep using the product and see how my skin continues to evolve.