One of the most common questions when starting Environ is:
“Which AVST level should I be using?”
Environ’s Skin EssentiA®️ range uses a progressive system of five Vita-Antioxidant AVST Moisturisers. Rather than starting with the highest level of Vitamin A, the system is designed to gradually increase Vitamin A as your skin becomes accustomed to it.
Here’s a simple breakdown of AVST 1 through AVST 5 and how the progression works.
What Is AVST?
AVST stands for Advanced Vitamin Skin Therapy.
The AVST Moisturisers are part of Environ’s Skin EssentiA®️ range and combine Vitamin A with antioxidants and other skin-supporting ingredients.
There are five progressive levels:
AVST 1 → AVST 2 → AVST 3 → AVST 4 → AVST 5
As you move through the system, the concentration and forms of Vitamin A progressively increase.
The goal isn’t to reach AVST 5 as quickly as possible. It’s to allow your skin to gradually become comfortable with Vitamin A and progress appropriately.
AVST 1 — Your Introduction to Environ Vitamin A
Best for: New Environ users and those beginning their Vitamin A journey.
AVST 1 is the introductory moisturizer in the system and contains a lower level of Vitamin A compared with the later AVST steps.
This is commonly where someone new to Environ begins, particularly if they haven’t already established significant Vitamin A tolerance.
Think of AVST 1 as: Building your foundation.
AVST 2 — The Next Step
Best for: Skin that has become comfortable and consistent with AVST 1.
AVST 2 increases the Vitamin A level as you continue through the STEP-UP SYSTEM™️.
You aren’t necessarily changing your entire routine when you move to AVST 2. You’re progressing the Vitamin A component while maintaining the foundation you’ve already established.
Think of AVST 2 as: Building on your Vitamin A tolerance.
AVST 3 — Intermediate Vitamin A
Best for: Established Environ users who have successfully progressed through the earlier AVST levels.
By AVST 3, you’re moving into the middle of the Skin EssentiA®️ progression.
Your skin has had time to become accustomed to the earlier levels, allowing your Vitamin A journey to continue gradually.
Think of AVST 3 as: The intermediate stage of your Environ journey.
AVST 4 — Advanced Progression
Best for: Experienced AVST users who have comfortably progressed through AVST 1–3.
AVST 4 represents a more advanced stage of the STEP-UP SYSTEM™️ and contains a higher level of Vitamin A than the earlier moisturizers.
It generally isn’t intended to be the starting point for someone completely new to Vitamin A.
Think of AVST 4 as: Advanced Vitamin A support.
AVST 5 — The Highest AVST Step
Best for: Experienced Environ users whose skin has successfully progressed through the previous AVST levels.
AVST 5 is the final and highest Vitamin A level within the Skin EssentiA®️ AVST Moisturiser progression.
Reaching AVST 5 isn’t something that needs to be rushed. The purpose of the system is the gradual journey through Vitamin A, not simply reaching the highest number.
Think of AVST 5 as the most advanced stage of the AVST progression.
AVST 1–5 at a Glance
Instead of a chart, I would format this section like this so it copies cleanly into your Shopify blog:
AVST 1
Level: Introductory
Best for: New Environ or Vitamin A users
Goal: Begin building Vitamin A tolerance
AVST 2
Level: Early Progression
Best for: Skin that is comfortable with AVST 1
Goal: Gradually increase Vitamin A exposure
AVST 3
Level: Intermediate
Best for: Established AVST users
Goal: Continue progressing through the Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™️
AVST 4
Level: Advanced
Best for: Experienced AVST users comfortable with levels 1–3
Goal: Progress to a higher level of Vitamin A
AVST 5
Level: Most Advanced AVST Level
Best for: Experienced users who have progressed through the previous AVST levels
Goal: Maintain the highest step within the AVST progression
How Long Should You Stay on Each AVST Level?
This is where patience matters.
Environ recommends using at least 2–3 bottles of AVST 1 before progressing to AVST 2. Your progression through later levels should also take your individual skin response and professional guidance into consideration.
You shouldn’t move up simply because you want stronger Vitamin A.
Before stepping up, ask yourself:
* Is my skin comfortable at my current level?
* Have I been using it consistently?
* Am I experiencing persistent dryness, sensitivity, or irritation?
* Have I given my skin enough time at this level?
If your skin isn’t comfortable, there’s no reason to rush ahead.
Can You Skip AVST Levels?
The AVST system was intentionally designed around gradual progression.
Someone who already uses Vitamin A or retinoids may have different needs from someone completely new to Vitamin A, but that doesn’t mean you should automatically select a higher AVST number.
Your previous skincare routine, sensitivity, current skin condition, and goals should all be considered when choosing your starting point.
When in doubt, seek professional guidance before skipping levels. Schedule a consultation with our esthetician Jacqueline.
Is AVST 5 “Better” Than AVST 1?
No.
AVST 5 contains a more advanced level of Vitamin A, but that doesn’t make it the best product for every person.
The best AVST moisturizer is the level that’s appropriate for your skin right now.
Someone beginning with AVST 1 isn’t using an inferior product—they’re starting where their skin needs to start.
That’s the philosophy behind Environ’s Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™️.
What Happens After AVST 5?
Reaching AVST 5 doesn’t mean your Environ journey is finished.
Your routine can continue evolving with targeted products based on your individual concerns, including:
Fine Lines & Aging
Pigmentation & Uneven Tone
Dryness & Dehydration
Acne & Congestion
Sensitivity & Barrier Support
Some clients may also explore Environ’s Youth EssentiA®️ system or additional targeted products depending on their skin and goals.
AVST or Youth EssentiA®️?
AVST isn’t Environ’s only Vitamin A progression.
Skin EssentiA®️ uses the AVST 1–5 Moisturisers.
Youth EssentiA®️ uses the Vita-Peptide C-Quence Serum progression alongside Antioxidant Defence Crème and places additional emphasis on advanced age-management ingredients, including peptides.
Neither system is automatically right for everyone.
We break down the differences in our dedicated guide:
→ Skin EssentiA®️ vs. Youth EssentiA®️: Which Environ Range Should You Choose?
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Not Sure Which AVST Level You Need?
Choosing your Vitamin A level shouldn’t be a guessing game.
Your ideal starting point depends on your previous Vitamin A use, current skincare routine, sensitivity, skin concerns, and goals.
For more personalized help selecting your Environ regimen, schedule a consultation with our licensed esthetician, Jacqueline.
