Vitamin A is at the heart of the Environ skincare philosophy—but when it comes to Vitamin A, more isn’t always better, especially when you’re just getting started.
Instead of introducing the skin to high levels of Vitamin A all at once, Environ created its Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™️, a progressive approach designed to gradually increase Vitamin A as the skin becomes accustomed to it.
If you’ve ever wondered why Environ has different Vitamin A levels or when you should move up, here’s what you need to know.
What Is Environ’s Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™️?
The Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™️ is Environ’s method of introducing Vitamin A in progressively increasing levels.
Think of it as:
START → ADJUST → STEP UP → MAINTAIN
You begin at an appropriate introductory level. As your skin becomes comfortable with that level, you can gradually progress to the next step.
Rather than immediately choosing the strongest formula, the goal is to build your skin’s familiarity with Vitamin A over time.
Why Does Environ Use a Step-Up Approach?
Vitamin A is a powerful skincare ingredient, but different skin types have different levels of tolerance.
Starting gradually allows you to establish a consistent Vitamin A routine before progressing to more advanced levels.
Your starting point can depend on factors such as:
* Previous Vitamin A or retinoid use
* Skin sensitivity
* Current skincare routine
* Skin condition
* Products currently being used
* Individual skincare goals
This is why the highest Vitamin A level isn’t automatically the best choice.
The best level is the one that is appropriate for your skin right now.
How Does the STEP-UP SYSTEM™️ Work?
Environ offers progressive Vitamin A systems within its primary skincare ranges.
Skin EssentiA®️ — AVST Moisturisers
The Skin EssentiA®️ range progresses through five AVST levels:
AVST 1 → AVST 2 → AVST 3 → AVST 4 → AVST 5
Each step progressively increases the concentration and forms of Vitamin A as you move through the system.
For someone new to Environ, AVST 1 is commonly the introductory starting point, but individual recommendations may vary depending on your skin and previous Vitamin A exposure.
We’ll break down the differences between all five levels in our next guide:
→ Environ AVST 1–5: Which Level Is Right for You?
What About Youth EssentiA®️?
Youth EssentiA®️ follows the same progressive Vitamin A philosophy but uses a different system.
Instead of AVST Moisturisers, the Youth EssentiA®️ system centers around Vita-Peptide C-Quence Serums paired with Antioxidant Defence Crème.
The C-Quence system also progresses through increasing levels as the skin becomes accustomed to Vitamin A.
Youth EssentiA®️ is Environ’s premium age-management range and incorporates additional ingredients such as peptides alongside vitamins and antioxidants.
If you’re unsure which system is right for you, we’ll cover that separately in:
→ Skin EssentiA®️ vs. Youth EssentiA®️: Which Environ Range Should You Choose?
When Should You Step Up?
This is one of the most common questions about Environ.
Don’t rush the process.
You should become comfortable and consistent with your current Vitamin A level before considering progression.
Environ’s guidance for AVST 1, for example, recommends using at least 2–3 bottles before progressing to AVST 2. However, your individual skin response matters.
Before moving up, consider:
Is my skin comfortable with my current level?
Am I using it consistently?
Am I experiencing persistent sensitivity or irritation?
Have I used the recommended amount of my current level?
If you’re unsure, professional guidance is preferable to simply moving up because you’ve finished a bottle.
What If My Skin Feels Sensitive?
If your skin becomes uncomfortable after introducing Vitamin A or moving to a new level, don’t automatically continue increasing your Vitamin A.
Your skin may need more time at its current level, a simplified routine, or adjustments to other active products you’re using.
Introducing several strong products simultaneously can also make it difficult to determine what’s causing sensitivity.
This is another reason we recommend building an Environ routine progressively.
Can I Skip Levels?
For most users, the purpose of the STEP-UP SYSTEM™️ is to progress gradually rather than jump ahead simply to reach a stronger formula faster.
Someone with extensive previous Vitamin A use may have different needs than someone who has never used a retinoid, which is why product selection should be individualized.
The goal isn’t to reach AVST 5 as quickly as possible.
The goal is to use the appropriate level for your skin and progress when your skin is ready.
Does Everyone Eventually Need the Highest Level?
Not necessarily.
Skincare isn’t a race through the numbers.
Your ideal Environ regimen depends on your skin, goals, tolerance, and the other products incorporated into your routine.
Some people may eventually progress through the entire system, while others may spend significantly longer at a particular level.
Consistency at an appropriate level is more important than simply reaching the highest number.
Where Do Retinol Serums Fit In?
Environ also offers targeted retinol products, but these are not necessarily where a beginner should start.
Retinol can be incorporated strategically once the skin has developed sufficient familiarity with Vitamin A and when it makes sense for the individual’s concerns and routine.
Think of Environ’s foundational Vitamin A system as your base, while more advanced targeted products can be layered into your regimen as appropriate.
We’ll cover retinol and advanced Environ routines separately in our educational guides.
The Most Important Thing to Remember
Environ’s Vitamin STEP-UP SYSTEM™️ is built around progression, not intensity.
Start at the appropriate level.
Give your skin time.
Stay consistent.
Progress when appropriate.
And don’t assume a higher number automatically means a better routine.
Not Sure What Vitamin A Level You Should Be Using?
Your starting point can depend on your skin type, sensitivity, previous Vitamin A use, current products, and skincare goals.
For more individualized help selecting your Environ products and Vitamin A level:
Take our skin quiz and/or schedule a consult with our licensed esthetician Jacqueline!
