Collagen Booster
Collagen Booster
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, firming peptide serum that uses Matrixyl 3000™ and Syn-Tacks™ dual peptide technology to mimic natural collagen, helping skin appear plumper, smoother, and more youthful while reducing the look of fine lines and wrinkles.
Matrixyl 3000™ Technology
Award-winning peptide complex that signals skin to produce more collagen, reducing visible signs of aging.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMatrixyl 3000™ Technology
Award-winning peptide complex that signals skin to produce more collagen, reducing visible signs of aging.
Syn-Tacks™ Dual Peptide
Provides additional collagen-boosting benefits for enhanced firmness and elasticity support.
Hyaluronic Acid
Delivers instant hydration while helping plump skin and smooth fine lines.
Clean Formula
Free from parabens, sulfates, silicones, fragrances, and harsh alcohols. Only 15 purposeful ingredients.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients to avoid during pregnancy. Peptides and hyaluronic acid are considered safe.
Contains Polysorbate 20 and palmitoyl peptides which may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Lightweight, oil-free formula unlikely to clog pores. Suitable for acne-prone skin.
Fragrance-free, no harsh alcohols or common irritants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Layers well with retinol, vitamin C, AHAs, BHAs, and niacinamide. Avoid mixing with direct acids in the same routine for best peptide efficacy.
Formulated at pH 5.52, close to skin's natural pH for optimal absorption and minimal irritation.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMatrixyl 3000™ 1%Proven
A trademarked peptide complex combining Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. Works by mimicking collagen breakdown signals, triggering skin to produce new collagen for firmer, smoother skin.
- Mechanism: Acts as a signal peptide (matrikine) that tells skin to boost collagen production
- Research: Manufacturer studies show up to 39.4% reduction in deep wrinkles after 2 months of twice-daily use
- Synergy: The two peptides work together - one stimulates collagen, the other reduces inflammation
Syn-Tacks™ Dual Peptide ~0.5%Promising
Contains Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine and Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate. Provides additional collagen-boosting benefits and supports skin matrix proteins.
- Function: Helps stimulate production of collagen, fibronectin, elastin, and laminin
- Benefit: Supports skin's structural integrity for improved firmness and bounce
- Complementary: Works synergistically with Matrixyl 3000 for enhanced results
Hyaluronic Acid ~1%Proven
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. Provides immediate hydration and plumping while helping other actives penetrate more effectively.
- Hydration: Attracts and binds water to the skin's surface for instant plumping
- Delivery System: Helps carry peptides deeper into the skin
- Skin Barrier: Supports moisture retention and skin barrier function
Glycerin ~4-5%Proven
A classic humectant and skin-identical ingredient that helps maintain skin's natural moisture balance. Non-comedogenic and well-tolerated by all skin types.
- Moisturization: Draws water into the skin, keeping it hydrated throughout the day
- Skin Barrier: Helps maintain the lipid barrier in a healthy state
- Safety: Comedogenic rating of 0, safe for acne-prone skin
Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment FiltrateSupporting
A natural preservative alternative derived from fermented radish root. Provides antimicrobial properties while being gentle on skin.
- Function: Natural preservation system to maintain product freshness
- Benefit: Gentler alternative to traditional preservatives
15 ingredients
Water (Aqua/Eau), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Disodium EDTA, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Carbomer, Hyaluronic Acid, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after water-based serums (like Hyaluronic Acid) and before heavier treatments or moisturizers. Can be used AM and PM.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with clean skin. Use your preferred cleanser to remove makeup, sunscreen, and impurities.
Apply to Damp Skin
For best absorption, apply to slightly damp skin after toner or hydrating essence. This helps lock in moisture.
Use a Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto fingertips. A little goes a long way - too much may cause pilling.
Gently Tap Into Skin
Use fingertips to gently tap and press the serum into face and neck. Avoid rubbing to maximize absorption.
Follow with Moisturizer
Wait 30-60 seconds for absorption, then seal with your moisturizer. Always finish with SPF in the morning.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You're in your mid-20s+ and want to prevent early signs of aging
- You have fine lines or loss of skin firmness
- You want a gentle alternative to retinol
- You're pregnant or breastfeeding and need pregnancy-safe anti-aging
- You prefer lightweight, non-greasy serums
- You want an affordable entry into peptide skincare
- You have sensitive skin that reacts to stronger actives
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia) - contains triggering ingredients
- You expect dramatic overnight results - peptides work gradually
- You want higher peptide concentrations (try The Ordinary Matrixyl 10%)
- You need more comprehensive anti-aging (consider adding retinol)
- You prefer richer, more nourishing textures
- You're looking for deep wrinkle treatment (may need stronger actives)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, watery texture absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free formula won't clog pores.
Provides hydration boost but will need a richer moisturizer on top. Best when layered with HA serum first.
Balances perfectly across different face zones. Light enough for T-zone, hydrating enough for dry areas.
Fragrance-free, no harsh ingredients. Peptides are gentle and non-irritating. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (rating 1/5), oil-free. However, NOT suitable for fungal acne due to Polysorbate 20 content.
Good for early aging concerns. For deeper wrinkles, consider combining with retinol or vitamin C for enhanced results.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Instant Hydration Boost
Skin feels refreshed, hydrated, and slightly plumper thanks to hyaluronic acid and glycerin. Lightweight texture absorbs quickly.
95% feel immediate hydrationImproved Skin Texture
Skin begins to feel smoother and softer. Hydration levels remain more consistent throughout the day.
70% notice smoother textureEarly Firmness Improvements
Some users begin noticing subtle improvements in skin bounce and firmness. Fine lines may appear slightly softer.
55% see early firmness resultsVisible Anti-Aging Benefits
Brand states results visible up to 6 weeks. Continued use shows improvement in fine lines, firmness, and overall skin plumpness.
65% report visible wrinkle reductionCumulative Collagen Benefits
Peptides work on accumulation. With consistent use, collagen-boosting effects become more pronounced. Best results with long-term use.
75% see significant improvementRatings by platform
2K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Extremely affordable for a peptide serum ($10.99)
- Lightweight texture absorbs quickly without stickiness
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin
- Layers well with other products without pilling
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and B Corp certified
- Clean formula with only 15 ingredients
- Provides noticeable hydration boost
Criticized
- Small bottle size (30ml) runs out quickly
- Watery texture may feel insubstantial to some
- Lower peptide concentration than competitors (1%)
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Results require patience (6+ weeks)
- May need to combine with other anti-aging actives for deeper wrinkles
- Can pill if over-applied or not absorbed properly
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains 10x higher Matrixyl concentration (10% vs 1%). Includes Matrixyl Synthe'6 for additional benefits. Slightly thicker gel texture. Better value for peptide potency.
Similar 10% Matrixyl concentration to The Ordinary. Slightly less hydrating base but comparable anti-aging benefits. Good alternative when TO is out of stock.
Contains Matrixyl 3000 PLUS Argireline, SYN-AKE, and multiple other peptides. More comprehensive anti-aging formula but higher price point.
Contains copper peptides, Argireline, and collagen. Richer texture with shea butter. More nourishing but may not suit oily/acne-prone skin.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Hylamide SubQ Skin
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. No refrigeration required but can extend freshness.
Press-button cap plastic bottle. 100% recyclable packaging. Tight closure ensures product stability.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Compact size fits easily in travel bags.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, The INKEY List Collagen Booster is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically avoided during pregnancy. The formula relies on peptides (Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Tacks) and hyaluronic acid, all of which are considered safe for topical use during pregnancy. Space NK specifically lists this product as "safe for use when pregnant or breastfeeding."
No, this product is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20 and palmitoyl peptides (which contain palmitic acid), both of which can potentially feed malassezia yeast. Additionally, it contains Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, which may be a concern for those with fungal acne sensitivities. If you have fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider fungal acne-safe alternatives.
Yes, peptides generally play well with most other actives. The INKEY List states this product "layers well with all actives, AM or PM" and specifically works well with Retinol, Bakuchiol, Hyaluronic Acid, Q10, and their Hepta Peptide. However, for optimal peptide efficacy, avoid using direct acids (like glycolic or salicylic) in the same routine as low pH can reduce peptide benefits. Use acids in your PM routine and peptides in your AM routine, or alternate days.
This serum is suitable for all skin types including normal, dry, oily, combination, and sensitive skin. Its lightweight, watery texture makes it particularly excellent for oily and combination skin as it absorbs quickly without adding shine. For dry skin, it provides good hydration but should be followed with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types benefit from its fragrance-free, gentle formula. The only exception is fungal acne-prone skin, which should avoid this product.
According to the brand, visible results can be expected in up to 6 weeks with consistent use. You'll notice immediate hydration benefits, with smoother skin texture appearing within 1-2 weeks. Firmness improvements typically begin around weeks 3-4. Peptides work on accumulation, meaning the longer you use them, the better the results. For optimal anti-aging benefits, continue use for 2-3 months. Be consistent and use AM and PM - but don't overuse, as more isn't necessarily better.
Apply this serum after cleansing and toning, following the thinnest-to-thickest rule. The recommended order is: 1) Cleanser, 2) Toner, 3) Hyaluronic Acid Serum (if using), 4) Collagen Booster, 5) Other serums/treatments, 6) Eye cream, 7) Moisturizer, 8) SPF (AM only). Apply to slightly damp skin for best absorption. Wait about 30-60 seconds between products to avoid pilling.
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. The formula is oil-free and contains no heavy pore-clogging ingredients. Key ingredients like glycerin (comedogenic rating 0), hyaluronic acid (rating 0), and the peptide complexes are all considered non-comedogenic. However, if your skin is very acne-prone, always patch test new products and introduce them gradually into your routine.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. The 30ml bottle typically lasts about 1 month with twice-daily use (AM and PM) using the recommended pea-sized amount. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The press-button cap helps maintain product integrity. While refrigeration isn't required, it can help extend freshness, especially in warm climates.
Verdict: The INKEY List Collagen Booster is an excellent entry-level peptide serum that delivers solid hydration and gentle anti-aging benefits at an unbeatable price point. While its 1% Matrixyl concentration is lower than competitors like The Ordinary's 10% formula, the addition of Syn-Tacks dual peptide and its pregnancy-safe, fragrance-free formulation make it a smart choice for skincare beginners, sensitive skin types, and those seeking preventative anti-aging. Just manage expectations - this is a gradual, long-term player rather than a quick-fix solution. For deeper wrinkles or more aggressive anti-aging, consider combining with retinol or upgrading to higher-concentration peptide serums.
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 skin’s 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 «promises» 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
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|