Formulation Advice for Wrinkles, Dullness, and Acne Scars

Based on your current formulation and the staff's advice, here's a breakdown and some additional suggestions:

Your Current Formulation

Your current list of ingredients is quite comprehensive for addressing wrinkles and dullness:

• Alpha-Arbutin (for brightening)
• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP) (for brightening and collagen)
• Apple Stem Cell Extract (for anti-aging and skin longevity)
• Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide) (for wrinkles, dark spots, moisture, and oil control)
• Sea Kelp Extract (for moisturizing, nourishing, and antioxidant properties)
• DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid (for tightening and reducing wrinkles)
• GlucoBright™ (N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine) (for whitening, dark spots, hydration, and gentle exfoliation)
• Pep®-Leupha (Pentapeptide-18) (for wrinkle reduction)

The staff noted that using many active ingredients can make the texture sticky, which is a common trade-off for highly concentrated formulas. They also highlighted that DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid requires pH adjustment with a base like Triethanolamine, and it might not be suitable for thin, sensitive skin.

TEGO Pep 4-17 vs. SNAP-8

You asked whether to use Tetrapeptide-21 (TEGO Pep 4-17) or Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8). The staff mentioned that there is currently no independent research definitively stating which one is better; both manufacturers claim their product is superior.

• Tetrapeptide-21 is researched for stimulating ECM (Extracellular Matrix) synthesis, helping to reduce wrinkles and improve skin structure.
• Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8) works similarly to Argireline by focusing on reducing muscle contraction to lessen expression lines.

Both target wrinkles through different mechanisms. You could potentially choose based on the specific type of wrinkles you want to target (dynamic wrinkles vs. overall skin structure) or even consider using both, keeping in mind the potential for a stickier texture with more ingredients.

Additional Suggestions for Your Concerns

For enhancing your current formula for wrinkles and brightening:

• Consider adding Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), which helps strengthen the skin barrier, restore skin from photo-aging, and can help reduce acne and inflammation.

Suggestions for Acne Scars and Red/Dark Marks (for your friend)

Based on the staff's reply and effective ingredients for these concerns:

• Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide), DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid, and GlucoBright™ (N-Acetyl-D-Glucosamine), which are already in your list, are beneficial for reducing red/dark marks.
• For acne scars, especially shallow ones, Magnesium Ascorbyl Phosphate (MAP), Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide), and DMAE (SkinTight MD™) Liquid can help. However, for deep scars, medical treatment is recommended.
• Centella Asiatica Extract (specifically Madecassoside) is excellent for helping with scars and redness caused by acne, stimulating collagen production.
• Tranexamic Acid is highly effective for reducing melanin pigment and is suitable for addressing blemishes and dark spots caused by sun exposure.
• Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) can also aid in skin repair and reduce the severity of acne inflammation.

Combining ingredients like Safe-B3™, GlucoBright™, Centella Asiatica Extract, and Tranexamic Acid would create a potent formula for addressing red/dark marks and improving skin texture related to scarring.

Remember to always consider the recommended usage rates and mixing instructions for each ingredient.