Collagen Peptide Serum
Collagen Peptide Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, collagen-boosting peptide serum that helps skin look plumper, firmer, and smoother. Formulated with Matrixyl 3000™ and Syn-Tacks™ dual peptide to stimulate natural collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles over time.
Matrixyl 3000™ (1%)
Award-winning peptide complex that mimics collagen to visibly firm and smooth skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Texture & feel
SENSORYMatrixyl 3000™ (1%)
Award-winning peptide complex that mimics collagen to visibly firm and smooth skin, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
Syn-Tacks™ Dual Peptide (1%)
Supports skin elasticity and helps reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles with collagen-boosting benefits.
Hyaluronic Acid
Attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water for intense hydration and plumper-looking skin.
Clean Formula
Free from parabens, silicones, sulfates, fragrances, mineral oil, and harsh alcohols. Vegan and cruelty-free.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEPeptides like Matrixyl 3000 are considered safe alternatives to retinoids during pregnancy. Contains no retinol, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone.
Contains Polysorbate 20/60, ferment filtrate, and palmitoyl peptides which may feed Malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne.
Lightweight, oil-free formula with minimal pore-clogging ingredients. Suitable for most skin types including acne-prone.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free formula with skin-friendly pH of 5.52. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMatrixyl 3000™ 1%Proven
A powerful peptide complex containing Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7. These signal peptides work synergistically to stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation, resulting in firmer, smoother skin.
- Mechanism: Mimics collagen fragments to signal skin to produce more collagen
- Research: Studies show equivalent to 2-year age reversal in 1 month, up to 5.5 years after 2 months
- Benefit: Reduces wrinkle depth, improves firmness and elasticity
Syn-Tacks™ (Dual Peptide) 1%Proven
Contains Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine and Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate. This dual peptide system supports the dermal-epidermal junction for better skin structure.
- Mechanism: Strengthens the connection between dermis and epidermis
- Benefit: Improves skin elasticity and firmness
- Synergy: Works complementarily with Matrixyl 3000 for enhanced results
Hyaluronic Acid 0.45-1.05%Proven
A powerful humectant that can hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. Provides immediate hydration and plumping effects while supporting long-term skin health.
- Source: Naturally occurring in skin, joints, and connective tissue
- Benefit: Surface hydration, reduces appearance of fine lines
Glycerin 3.8-5.7%Proven
One of the most effective and well-researched humectants available. Draws moisture into the skin and helps maintain the skin barrier.
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
- Irritancy: 0 (non-irritating)
20 ingredients
Water (Aqua/Eau), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Propanediol, Phenoxyethanol, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Phytate, Citric Acid, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Carbomer, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Lactate, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminobutyroyl Hydroxythreonine, Palmitoyl Dipeptide-5 Diaminohydroxybutyrate, Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 60, Disodium Phosphate, Sodium Phosphate, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse AM and PM. Apply after water-based serums, before oils and moisturizers. Can be mixed into moisturizer or body lotion for all-over collagen boost.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with clean, freshly washed skin. Apply any toner or hyaluronic acid serum first if using.
Apply Pea-Sized Amount
Dispense a pea-sized amount onto fingertips. A little goes a long way – avoid over-applying to prevent pilling.
Gently Pat Into Skin
Use fingertips to gently pat and press the serum into face and neck. Patting helps boost absorption – no need to rub.
Follow With Moisturizer
Allow 20-30 seconds for absorption, then layer your moisturizer. Apply SPF as the last step in your AM routine.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to prevent or reduce early signs of aging
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe anti-aging serum
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing textures
- You want an affordable peptide serum that layers well
- You're in your mid-20s+ and want preventative skincare
- You want a retinol alternative without irritation
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You need heavy-duty hydration (this is lightweight)
- You want immediate dramatic results (requires consistency)
- You're looking for a standalone moisturizer
- You're sensitive to fermented ingredients
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, oil-free formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Won't clog pores.
Provides hydration boost but may need a richer moisturizer on top for very dry skin types.
Balances well across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily T-zone.
Fragrance-free and gentle formula. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5). Non-greasy formula. Not suitable for fungal acne.
Results timeline
8+ WEEKSImmediate Hydration
Skin feels refreshed, hydrated, and slightly plumper immediately after application. Hydration levels are replenished throughout the day.
85% noticed improved hydrationImproved Texture
Skin starts to feel bouncier and more supple. Early signs of improved firmness and smoother texture become noticeable.
70% noticed smoother skinVisible Firming
Full results become visible. Fine lines appear reduced, skin looks plumper and firmer. Continued use maintains and enhances results.
65% noticed reduced fine linesLong-Term Benefits
With consistent use, continued improvement in skin elasticity, firmness, and overall youthful appearance. Best results with daily AM/PM use.
60% noticed firmer skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable price point for peptide serum
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Layers well under makeup and other products
- Fragrance-free and gentle formula
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe
- Vegan and cruelty-free certified
- Contains proven peptide technologies
- Doesn't pill under other products
Criticized
- Small 30ml bottle runs out quickly
- Results require 4-6 weeks of consistent use
- Not fungal acne safe
- Some find it underwhelming for deep wrinkles
- Can feel slightly tacky if over-applied
- May not provide enough hydration for very dry skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher concentration of Matrixyl (10% vs 1%). Contains Matrixyl 3000 and Synthe'6. More focused peptide formula without Syn-Tacks.
Contains more peptide technologies (25.1% active) including Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Ake, and Argirelox. More comprehensive anti-aging formula.
US-made formula with Matrixyl 3000 and Hyaluronic Acid. Larger 1oz bottle. Simpler formula focused on Matrixyl alone.
Contains both Matrixyl 3000 and Argireline peptides. K-beauty inspired formula with Niacinamide. Good value for multi-peptide approach.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place (15-25°C). Keep out of direct sunlight.
Recyclable plastic bottle with press-button cap for hygienic dispensing
Yes, 30ml is under 100ml TSA limit for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes, this serum is considered safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains peptides like Matrixyl 3000 which are safe alternatives to retinoids. The formula contains no retinol, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically advised against during pregnancy. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before introducing new skincare products during pregnancy.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains Polysorbate 20, Polysorbate 60, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, and palmitoyl peptides - all of which can feed Malassezia yeast and potentially worsen fungal acne. If you're prone to fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), look for alternatives that are specifically formulated without polysorbates, ferments, and fatty acid-based peptides.
Yes! This serum layers well with all actives including retinol, vitamin C, AHAs (glycolic, lactic acid), and BHAs (salicylic acid). Peptides are very compatible with other skincare ingredients. For best results, apply peptide serums before retinol in your PM routine. In the AM, you can layer under vitamin C and sunscreen. The brand confirms it works well with Hepta Peptide, Hyaluronic Acid, Q10, Retinol, and Bakuchiol.
This serum is suitable for all skin types including normal, dry, combination, and oily skin. It's particularly excellent for oily and combination skin due to its lightweight, non-greasy texture. Dry skin types may need to follow with a richer moisturizer. Sensitive skin types can also use it as it's fragrance-free, though patch testing is always recommended. Not recommended for those with fungal acne.
According to the brand, visible results can be expected in up to 6 weeks with consistent use. Immediate effects include improved hydration and a refreshed feeling. By weeks 3-4, skin typically feels bouncier and smoother. Visible firming and reduction in fine lines usually become noticeable around weeks 5-6. Be consistent and don't overuse - more isn't better. Best results come from daily AM and PM application.
Apply this serum after cleansing, toning, and any water-based serums like hyaluronic acid. It should go before heavier treatments, oils, and moisturizers. The recommended routine order is: Cleanser → Toner → Hyaluronic Acid → Collagen Peptide Serum → Eye Treatment → Moisturizer → SPF (AM only). Use AM and PM for best results. You can also mix a few drops into your moisturizer or body lotion.
This serum has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5, meaning it's unlikely to clog pores for most people. The lightweight, oil-free formula is designed to absorb quickly without leaving a greasy residue. Key moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid have a comedogenic rating of 0. However, if you're prone to fungal acne specifically, the polysorbates and ferment in this formula may cause issues.
The serum has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. Store it in a cool, dry place (15-25°C) away from direct sunlight to maintain efficacy. The 30ml bottle typically lasts about 1 month with twice-daily use (pea-sized amount AM and PM). The press-button cap helps maintain product hygiene and extends shelf life by limiting air exposure.
Verdict: The INKEY List Collagen Peptide Serum is an excellent entry-level peptide serum that delivers proven anti-aging ingredients at an accessible price point. With Matrixyl 3000™ and Syn-Tacks™ at 1% each, it offers science-backed collagen support in a lightweight, fragrance-free formula suitable for most skin types. While it won't deliver dramatic overnight results (expect 4-6 weeks for visible changes), consistent use can help improve skin firmness, reduce fine lines, and boost hydration. It's particularly well-suited for those new to peptides, pregnant/breastfeeding individuals seeking retinol alternatives, or anyone wanting to add preventative anti-aging to their routine without breaking the bank. The only significant drawback is that it's not suitable for fungal acne sufferers. For the price, it's hard to beat as an introduction to peptide 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 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 4 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 3 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 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
|
|