20% Argireline + Matrixyl 3000 + Hyaluronic Acid Serum
20% Argireline + Matrixyl 3000 + Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Product Description
A powerful anti-aging peptide serum combining 20% Argireline (the "Botox alternative") with Matrixyl 3000 and Hyaluronic Acid to visibly reduce expression lines, boost collagen production, and deeply hydrate skin for a smoother, firmer, more youthful complexion.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Botox Alternative
20% Argireline relaxes facial muscles to reduce dynamic wrinkles and expression lines without injections.
Collagen Boosting
Matrixyl 3000 stimulates collagen synthesis by up to 258%, improving skin firmness and elasticity.
Deep Hydration
Hyaluronic Acid attracts and retains moisture, plumping fine lines and keeping skin supple all day.
Clean Formula
Free from parabens, sulfates, fragrance, dyes, and gluten. Suitable for sensitive skin types.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
Limited safety data on topical peptides during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Contains Polysorbate 20 in Matrixyl 3000 complex which may feed malassezia. Patch test recommended.
Fragrance-free, paraben-free formula with minimal ingredients. Generally well-tolerated by sensitive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Water-based formula unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Can be used with retinol products. Apply peptide serum first, wait 5 minutes, then apply retinol.
Safe to layer with Vitamin C serums. Apply Vitamin C first in AM routine for best antioxidant protection.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) 20% Proven
Known as "Botox in a jar," this peptide inhibits neurotransmitter release that causes muscle contractions, helping to relax expression lines and prevent new wrinkles from forming.
- Clinical Study: 10% Argireline reduced wrinkle depth by 17% after 15 days of use around the eyes.
- Mechanism: Inhibits SNARE complex formation, reducing muscle tension that causes dynamic wrinkles.
- Best For: Forehead lines, crow's feet, frown lines ("eleven" lines), and smile lines.
π¬ Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) Proven
A patented peptide complex that signals skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and other matrix proteins. One of the most studied and effective anti-aging peptides available.
- Clinical Study: Boosts collagen synthesis by up to 258% according to manufacturer studies by Sederma.
- Mechanism: Matrikines mimic collagen fragment signals, triggering the skin's natural repair response.
- Benefits: Reduces wrinkle depth and volume, improves skin firmness and elasticity.
π§ Hyaluronic Acid Proven
A powerful humectant naturally found in skin that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water, providing intense hydration and plumping effects.
- Function: Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to hydrate the surface.
- Benefits: Plumps fine lines, improves skin texture, and enhances the penetration of other actives.
- Safety: Naturally occurring in the body; extremely well-tolerated by all skin types.
π± Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Supporting
A soothing botanical extract known for its anti-inflammatory and hydrating properties. Helps calm irritated skin and enhance product absorption.
- Benefits: Soothes skin, provides additional hydration, and has mild antioxidant properties.
- Function: Acts as a vehicle ingredient to help deliver active peptides into the skin.
8 ingredients
Water, Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8), Matrixyl 3000 (Glycerin, Water, Butylene Glycol, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7), Aloe Barbadensis, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning on damp skin. If using multiple serums, apply thinnest to thickest. Can be used morning and night.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Prep
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat dry. Apply toner if part of your routine.
Dispense
Apply 3-5 drops of serum onto your fingertips or directly onto face.
Target Application
Focus on areas prone to expression lines: forehead, between brows, around eyes, and smile lines.
Gentle Massage
Using circular motions, gently massage serum into skin until fully absorbed (30-60 seconds).
Follow Up
Wait 1-2 minutes, then apply moisturizer to seal in hydration. Use sunscreen in AM routine.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want to reduce expression lines without injections
- You're looking for a non-invasive Botox alternative
- You have early signs of aging (fine lines, loss of firmness)
- You prefer fragrance-free, clean formulas
- You want to prevent new wrinkles from forming
- You need a hydrating anti-aging serum
- You have normal, dry, or combination skin
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have active fungal acne (malassezia)
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding (consult doctor first)
- You expect Botox-level results (peptides are milder)
- You have deep, established wrinkles (may need professional treatments)
- You're allergic to peptides or any listed ingredients
- You prefer oil-based serums for very dry skin
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Water-based, lightweight formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Non-comedogenic.
Hyaluronic acid provides hydration, but very dry skin may need a richer moisturizer on top for adequate moisture.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Fragrance-free with minimal ingredients. Patch test recommended; most users report no irritation.
Non-comedogenic water-based formula. However, those with fungal acne should use caution due to Polysorbate 20.
Ideal for targeting signs of aging. Dual peptide action addresses both expression lines and collagen loss.
π Results Timeline
Improved Hydration
Skin feels more hydrated and supple. Fine dehydration lines appear less prominent. Texture begins to smooth.
70% noticed hydration improvementSoftening of Fine Lines
Expression lines around eyes and forehead start to appear softer. Skin looks more relaxed and refreshed.
65% noticed visible differenceVisible Wrinkle Reduction
Noticeable reduction in wrinkle depth. Skin appears firmer with improved elasticity. Continued plumping effect.
55% reported significant improvementCumulative Benefits
Collagen-boosting effects become more apparent. Overall skin texture, firmness, and youthfulness significantly improved.
80% would continue usingβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- High 20% Argireline concentration (double standard testing amount)
- Contains both Argireline AND Matrixyl 3000 in one product
- Truly fragrance-free and odorless formula
- Lightweight, non-greasy texture that layers well
- Clean formula free from parabens, sulfates, dyes
- Absorbs quickly without pilling under makeup
- Visible results reported within 2-4 weeks
- Suitable for sensitive skin types
β Criticized
- Results take consistent use over weeks/months
- 30ml bottle may run out quickly with twice-daily use
- Not suitable for those with fungal acne
- Higher price point than some competitors
- Won't match professional Botox results
- Limited availability outside of online stores
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Lower Argireline concentration (10% vs 20%). Does NOT contain Matrixyl 3000. Simpler formula focused solely on expression lines. Need to buy separately and layer with Matrixyl product.
Contains Matrixyl 3000 + Matrixyl Synthe'6 but NO Argireline. Excellent for collagen support. Pair with TO Argireline for similar effect (~$28 total for both).
Very similar formula with both peptides. Argireline concentration not specified. Available in larger sizes (4oz). Slightly different preservative system.
Contains Matrixyl 3000 + Hyaluronic Acid but NO Argireline. Well-formulated with similar simple ingredient philosophy. 24-month shelf life.
π Comparison with Competitors
Skin Deva 20% Argireline + Matrixyl
$34.99The Ordinary Argireline 10%
$10.80Asterwood Triple Repair Serum
$26.99Timeless Matrixyl 3000
$26.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Use within one year for best efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration not required but can extend freshness.
Dark amber glass bottle with dropper for precise application and protection from light degradation.
Yes, TSA compliant at 30ml/1 fl oz. Pack in clear liquids bag for carry-on.
β Frequently Asked Questions
There is limited safety data on topical peptides during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While peptides are generally considered low-risk compared to retinoids, we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider or dermatologist before use. The formula does NOT contain any known harmful ingredients like retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
This serum may NOT be ideal for those with fungal acne. The Matrixyl 3000 complex contains Polysorbate 20, which can potentially feed malassezia yeast. If you have active fungal acne, consider The Ordinary's Argireline Solution 10% instead, which has a simpler formula. Always patch test and consult a dermatologist if unsure.
Yes! Peptides are generally compatible with most active ingredients. With Vitamin C: Apply Vitamin C first, wait 5 minutes, then apply this serum. With Retinol: Apply this serum first, wait 5 minutes, then apply retinol. With AHA/BHA: Use acids in a separate routine (e.g., acids in PM, peptides in AM) or apply acids first and wait 20 minutes before this serum.
This serum is excellent for all skin types, particularly oily, combination, and mature skin. The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly without greasiness. Very dry skin types may need to layer a richer moisturizer on top. Sensitive skin typically tolerates it well due to the fragrance-free, minimal ingredient formula.
Most users notice improved hydration within 1-2 weeks. Visible softening of fine lines typically occurs around weeks 2-4 with consistent twice-daily use. Significant wrinkle reduction and firming effects are usually seen after 4-8 weeks. Clinical studies show Argireline can reduce wrinkle depth by 17% after 15 days and Matrixyl 3000 shows continued improvement over 2 months.
Apply after cleansing and toning, but before heavier treatments and moisturizers. The order should be: Cleanser β Toner β This Serum β Other Serums (thicker ones) β Eye Cream β Moisturizer β Sunscreen (AM only). Can be used both morning and evening for best results.
No, this serum has a very low comedogenic rating of 1/5. The water-based formula contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy emollients. The main ingredients (peptides, hyaluronic acid, aloe, glycerin) are all non-comedogenic. It's suitable for acne-prone skin, though those with fungal acne should be cautious due to Polysorbate 20.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The serum contains Benzyl Alcohol and Dehydroacetic Acid as preservatives to maintain stability. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use on the face.
Verdict: Skin Deva's 20% Argireline + Matrixyl 3000 + Hyaluronic Acid Serum is a well-formulated, high-concentration peptide serum that delivers on its anti-aging promises. The combination of 20% Argireline (double the standard clinical concentration) with Matrixyl 3000 in one product offers excellent value for targeting both expression lines and collagen loss. The clean, fragrance-free formula is suitable for most skin types. While results require patience and consistency (typically 2-4 weeks for visible improvement), users report smoother, firmer, more hydrated skin with reduced fine lines. Not ideal for fungal acne sufferers, but overall an excellent choice for those seeking a non-invasive, evidence-based approach to anti-aging skincare.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skinβs own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging Β«promisesΒ» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 3 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Anti-Aging
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Sprout
Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|