GF 15% Solution
GF 15% Solution
Product Description
Product overview
An advanced age-support serum containing a 15% solution of plant-based biomimetic growth factors (EGF, IGF, TGF) to help minimize visible skin damage, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and regenerate the look of aging skin across the face and neck.
Triple Growth Factor Technology
Contains EGF (skin renewal), IGF (skin density), and TGF (collagen support) peptides for comprehensive anti-aging action.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Growth Factor Technology
Contains EGF (skin renewal), IGF (skin density), and TGF (collagen support) peptides for comprehensive anti-aging action.
Plant-Based Biomimetic Peptides
Derived from Nicotiana Benthamiana plants, offering vegan-friendly growth factor alternatives to traditional sources.
Barrier Strengthening
Supports skin hydration and strengthens the skin barrier from the very first application for healthier-looking skin.
Multi-Target Anti-Aging
Addresses fine lines, wrinkles, loss of firmness, rough texture, and dullness in one lightweight formula.
Safety & compatibility
SAFENot specifically tested on pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Contains no retinoids or harmful acids, but consult healthcare provider before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. Safe for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Minimal ingredient list (12 ingredients), no fragrances, alcohols, or common irritants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Avoid using with direct vitamin C and direct acids (AHA/BHA) in the same routine. Can compromise ingredient integrity.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSEGF Complex (SH-Oligopeptide-1) ~5%Promising
Epidermal Growth Factor peptide derived from Nicotiana Benthamiana plants. Signals skin cells to support natural renewal processes and elastin production.
- Function: Stimulates cell regeneration and promotes skin renewal for a smoother, more youthful appearance.
- Research: Studies show EGF can improve skin texture, promote wound healing, and support collagen synthesis.
IGF Complex (SH-Polypeptide-76) ~5%Promising
Insulin-like Growth Factor peptide that helps support skin density and minimize the visible appearance of wrinkles.
- Function: Helps regenerate the appearance of skin by enhancing density and reducing visible signs of aging.
- Research: IGF peptides support dermal matrix integrity and may help improve skin elasticity.
TGF Complex (SH-Oligopeptide-2) ~5%Promising
Transforming Growth Factor peptide that improves skin's integrity by supporting natural collagen production.
- Function: Encourages collagen synthesis for firmer, more resilient skin with improved structural support.
- Research: TGF peptides play a role in wound healing and tissue repair mechanisms.
Glycerin ~2%Proven
A powerful humectant naturally present in skin that attracts and retains moisture for optimal hydration.
- Function: Draws water into the skin and helps maintain the skin barrier's healthy liquid crystal state.
- Research: Studies show glycerin outperforms hyaluronic acid as a humectant at certain concentrations.
12 ingredients
Aqua/Water/Eau, Butylene Glycol, Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40 SH-Oligopeptide-1, Nicotiana Benthamiana Hexapeptide-40 SH-Polypeptide-76, Nicotiana Benthamiana Octapeptide-30 SH-Oligopeptide-2, Sclerotium Gum, Glycerin, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Citric Acid, Sodium Citrate, Phenoxyethanol, Chlorphenesin
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply to clean, dry skin before heavier products. Use AM and PM. Avoid combining with direct vitamin C or direct acids in the same routine.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Your Skin
Start with freshly cleansed, dry skin. Pat your face gently with a clean towel.
Apply a Few Drops
Dispense 3-5 drops onto your fingertips. The watery texture spreads easily across the face and neck.
Gently Press Into Skin
Pat and press the serum into your face and neck until fully absorbed. It absorbs within seconds.
Follow With Moisturizer
Layer your preferred moisturizer on top to seal in the benefits. Use sunscreen during the day.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to address early signs of aging
- Fine lines and wrinkles are a concern
- Your skin lacks firmness or elasticity
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing serums
- You want growth factors at an affordable price
- You have fungal acne or malassezia-prone skin
- You need a vegan, fragrance-free formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You expect immediate, dramatic results
- You want to combine with vitamin C daily
- You prefer richer, cream-like textures
- You're looking for deep wrinkle treatment only
- You're pregnant/nursing (consult doctor first)
- You need a product with clinical penetration studies
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESUltra-lightweight, watery formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or residue. Oil-free and non-comedogenic.
Provides hydration support via glycerin but will require a rich moisturizer on top for adequate moisture retention.
Lightweight enough for oily zones, hydrating enough for dry areas. Balances well across different face zones.
Minimal 12-ingredient formula, fragrance-free and gentle. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin types.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe, oil-free. Won't clog pores or feed malassezia yeast.
Specifically designed for aging concerns. Triple growth factor technology targets wrinkles, firmness, and skin renewal.
Results timeline
WEEK 4+Instant Hydration & Barrier Support
Skin feels more hydrated and the barrier is strengthened from the very first application. Instant improvement in skin radiance.
100% experiencedVisible Wrinkle Repair Begins
Clinical testing showed visible repair of wrinkles after just one week of twice-daily use. Skin texture begins to improve.
Based on clinical studiesVisible Skin Regeneration
Helps repair visible skin damage with noticeable improvement in overall skin appearance and smoothness.
Clinical testing on 42 subjectsFirming & Lifting Effects
Firms the face and neck with a more lifted, defined jawline. Continued improvement in elasticity and fine lines.
Majority of users noticedRatings by platform
1K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Exceptional value - growth factors at drugstore price
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Clean formula with only 12 ingredients
- Vegan, cruelty-free, fungal acne safe
- Noticeable improvement in skin texture and glow
- Layers well under other skincare products
- Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitive skin
- Clinical testing backs up claims
Criticized
- Very watery texture can be messy to apply
- Results are gradual, not immediate
- Cannot use with vitamin C or direct acids
- Limited research on topical growth factor penetration
- 30ml bottle depletes quickly with 2x daily use
- Some find it doesn't provide enough moisture alone
- Not tested specifically on pregnant/nursing women
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Contains EGF plus 15% vitamin C for brightening. Different approach combining growth factors with antioxidants. Slightly gritty texture.
Multi-peptide approach with hyaluronic acid instead of growth factors. Broader anti-aging benefits but different mechanism of action.
Peptide-focused formula without specific growth factors. More affordable entry point but less targeted technology.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperature is fine; refrigeration is optional but not required.
UV-tinted glass bottle with dropper applicator for precise dispensing and product protection.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Glass bottle - pack carefully to prevent breakage.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients typically flagged during pregnancy. However, DECIEM states their products have not been specifically tested on pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. The growth factor peptides are plant-derived and generally considered low-risk, but it's recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Yes! GF 15% Solution is confirmed fungal acne safe. The formula is free from fermented ingredients, fatty acids, oils, esters, and polysorbates that feed malassezia yeast. With only 12 clean ingredients, it's an excellent choice for those prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
The Ordinary advises against using GF 15% Solution with direct vitamin C and direct acids (AHA/BHA) in the same routine as they can compromise the integrity of the growth factors. You can use retinol on alternate nights. If using vitamin C, apply in the morning and GF 15% in the evening, or alternate days.
GF 15% Solution works well for all skin types including normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive, and acne-prone skin. It's particularly excellent for oily and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. Mature skin types will benefit most from the anti-aging growth factor technology.
According to clinical testing: immediately for hydration and barrier support, 1 week for visible wrinkle repair to begin, 2 weeks for visible skin regeneration, and 4+ weeks for noticeable firming and lifting effects. Results are gradual and cumulative with consistent twice-daily use.
Apply after cleansing and toning, on clean dry skin. Use before other serums, oils, or heavier creams. The water-based, lightweight formula should be applied early in your routine before thicker products. Follow with moisturizer and sunscreen (AM).
No, GF 15% Solution has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no pore-clogging ingredients. It's specifically designed to be safe for acne-prone and congestion-prone skin types.
The product has a 12-month Period After Opening (PAO). Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The UV-tinted glass bottle helps protect the formula. With twice-daily use of 3-5 drops, expect the 30ml bottle to last approximately 6-8 weeks.
Verdict: The Ordinary GF 15% Solution delivers premium growth factor technology at an accessible price point, making advanced anti-aging actives available to everyone. The clean, 12-ingredient formula is vegan, fungal acne safe, and suitable for most skin types. While results are gradual rather than dramatic, consistent use shows genuine improvements in skin texture, firmness, and fine lines. The main trade-offs are its watery texture and incompatibility with vitamin C. For those seeking an affordable entry into growth factor skincare without the $100+ luxury price tag, this is an exceptional value that delivers on its promises.
Browse related
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
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.