Formulation Analysis: Anti-Aging Serum/Gel

Asked by: sikharee On: March 23, 2019 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

Could you please analyze the following formulation and explain the function of each ingredient?

  • Matrixyl 3000: 8%
  • Pep®-Coll: 3%
  • Argireline: 8%
  • Mild Preserved Eco™: 1%
  • Xanthan Gum: 1%
  • Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI): 3%
  • Double Hyaluron Liquid: 2%
  • Quick-Coll®: 2%
  • Ectoine (Ectoin): 2%
  • Adenosine Liposome: 3%
  • Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide): 3%
  • Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu): 2%
  • Marine Plankton (Lifting, Tightening): 2%
  • Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5): 3%
  • Purified Water: 57%

Answer

Understanding Your Formulation

Based on the ingredients and percentages you provided, this appears to be a water-based serum or gel formulation focused on anti-aging, hydration, and skin barrier support. The total percentage of ingredients listed is slightly over 100%, which may be a minor calculation or measurement variation.

Here's a breakdown of the key ingredients and their functions in this type of formulation:

  • Matrixyl 3000 (8%): A peptide complex known for its anti-aging properties, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin tone and elasticity.
  • Pep®-Coll (Palmitoyl tripeptide-5) (3%): A peptide that helps stimulate collagen synthesis, contributing to firmer, more youthful-looking skin.
  • Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) (8%): A peptide often referred to as "Botox in a jar," it works by targeting the nerve-to-muscle communication to help reduce the appearance of expression lines, particularly around the eyes and forehead.
  • Mild Preserved Eco™ (1%): This is a preservative blend designed to protect the formulation from microbial growth, ensuring product safety and longevity.
  • Xanthan Gum (1%): A common natural thickener and stabilizer used to create the gel-like texture of the serum and prevent ingredients from separating.
  • Dimethyl Isosorbide (DMI) (3%): A penetration enhancer that helps other active ingredients, such as peptides and vitamins, absorb more effectively into the skin.
  • Double Hyaluron Liquid (2%): Likely a form of Hyaluronic Acid, a powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, providing hydration and plumping effects.
  • Quick-Coll® (Copper Lysinate Prolinate) (2%): A copper peptide complex that supports collagen and elastin production, aiding in skin repair and regeneration.
  • Ectoine (2%): A natural stress-protection molecule that helps shield skin cells from environmental damage (like UV radiation and pollution) and provides hydration.
  • Adenosine Liposome (3%): Adenosine is known for its anti-wrinkle and skin-soothing properties. When delivered in a liposome, it can enhance penetration and stability.
  • Safe-B3™ (Vitamin B3, Niacinamide) (3%): Vitamin B3 is a versatile ingredient that helps improve skin barrier function, reduce redness and inflammation, regulate oil production, and minimize the appearance of pores and fine lines.
  • Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu) (2%): Another beneficial copper peptide that promotes wound healing, collagen synthesis, and has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Marine Plankton (Lifting, Tightening) (2%): Ingredients derived from marine plankton can offer skin-tightening effects and protection against environmental stressors.
  • Panthenol (Pro Vitamin B5) (3%): Also known as Pro-Vitamin B5, Panthenol is a humectant and emollient that helps hydrate, soothe, and repair the skin barrier.
  • Purified Water (57%): The base of the formulation, acting as a solvent for water-soluble ingredients.

This combination of ingredients targets multiple signs of aging and aims to improve overall skin health and appearance.