Matrixyl® 3000 Collagen Boosting Serum
Matrixyl® 3000 Collagen Boosting Serum
Product Description
A supercharged plumping serum formulated with Matrixyl® 3000 peptide complex, clinically proven to improve fine lines by 5.25% and boost hydration by 46.31% within 28 days. This lightweight K-beauty serum targets multiple signs of aging while delivering deep hydration for firmer, younger-looking skin.
✨ Texture & Feel
Matrixyl® 3000 Peptide Complex
Patented dual-peptide formula that signals skin to produce more collagen, reducing wrinkles by up to 45% in clinical studies.
Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid
Sodium Hyaluronate and Hydrolyzed HA penetrate different skin layers for deep, lasting hydration that plumps fine lines.
Botanical Soothing Complex
Aloe Vera, Portulaca Oleracea, and Tremella Mushroom calm inflammation while providing antioxidant protection.
Vegan Collagen Extract
Plant-derived collagen alternative from yeast effectively diminishes aging signs while delivering moisturizing benefits.
🛡️ Safety & Compatibility
Contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, or other ingredients restricted during pregnancy. Matrixyl peptides are considered safe for expectant and nursing mothers.
Contains palmitic acid-based peptides and Moringa oil which may feed malassezia yeast. Avoid if prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis.
Contains Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil which has moderate comedogenic potential. Patch test if you have acne-prone skin.
Free from synthetic fragrances, parabens, sulfates, and common allergens. Low irritation potential confirmed by ingredient analysis.
🔬 Ingredient Breakdown
🧬 Matrixyl® 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) Proven
The star anti-aging peptide complex that works synergistically to boost collagen production and reduce inflammation. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 signals skin to produce new collagen, while Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 reduces IL-6 inflammatory responses.
- Clinical Study: 45% reduction in deep wrinkle surface area in 2 months (Sederma study)
- Mechanism: Mimics natural matrikines to stimulate collagen I, III, and IV synthesis
- Concentration: High concentration formula for maximum efficacy
💧 Sodium Hyaluronate + Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate Proven
Dual-weight hyaluronic acid system that provides both surface hydration and deeper penetration. Can hold up to 1000x its weight in water for intense, lasting moisture.
- Benefit: 46.31% increase in skin hydration within 28 days (clinical study)
- Mechanism: Multiple molecular weights target different skin layers
- Effect: Plumps fine lines and improves skin texture
🍄 Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide Humectant Promising
Also known as Snow Mushroom, this natural polysaccharide holds more water than hyaluronic acid and provides deep hydration with a lightweight feel.
- Source: Derived from Tremella mushroom, a traditional Chinese beauty ingredient
- Benefit: Superior water retention compared to standard HA
- Texture: Creates a smooth, film-forming effect without heaviness
🧬 Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 (Syn-Coll) Promising
An additional collagen-boosting peptide that protects existing collagen from degradation while stimulating new collagen synthesis.
- Clinical Study: 7-12% wrinkle reduction in 84 days at 1-2.5% concentration
- Mechanism: Mimics the mechanism of TGF-beta growth factor
- Synergy: Works alongside Matrixyl 3000 for enhanced anti-aging benefits
🌿 Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Proven
Rich in vitamins A, C, D, and E, plus minerals like zinc and potassium. Provides soothing, anti-inflammatory benefits while creating a protective moisture barrier.
- Benefit: Anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and skin regeneration
- Content: Contains 12 anthraquinones, amino acids, and B12
- Effect: Calms irritation and promotes healing
28 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Butylene Glycol, Glycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Trehalose, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate, Tremella Fuciformis Polysaccharide, Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Allantoin, Ethylhexylglycerin, Carbomer, Polysorbate 20, Collagen Extract, Glyceryl Glucoside, Pullulan, Fructooligosaccharides, Beta-Glucan, Maltodextrin, Pistacia Lentiscus (Mastic) Gum, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Xanthan Gum
🔄 Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after toner on clean skin. Can be layered with other serums. Use morning and night for best results. Pairs well with Depology Peptide Complex 10% Serum for enhanced anti-aging.
📝 How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start with clean, freshly toned skin. Pat dry or apply to slightly damp skin for enhanced absorption.
Apply Serum
Dispense 2-3 drops onto your palm. Gently massage onto face, neck, and décolleté, focusing on areas prone to fine lines.
Target Problem Areas
Pay special attention to forehead lines, crow's feet, and nasolabial folds. Pat gently until fully absorbed.
Seal with Moisturizer
Follow with your favorite moisturizer to lock in the active ingredients. Use SPF in the morning.
👤 Who Is It For?
✅ Perfect for you if:
- You want to address fine lines and wrinkles without retinol
- You're looking for a pregnancy-safe anti-aging option
- Your skin is dry, dehydrated, or showing signs of aging
- You prefer lightweight, fast-absorbing serums
- You want clinically-tested, science-backed ingredients
- You're in your 30s+ and want preventative anti-aging
❌ Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne or malassezia-prone skin
- You're looking for dramatic, fast results (try retinoids)
- You prefer oil-free formulas only
- You want to combine with AHA/BHA in the same routine step
- You have severely acne-prone skin (patch test first)
🎯 Skin Type Compatibility
Multiple hydrating ingredients including hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and tremella mushroom provide deep, lasting moisture.
Specifically formulated for aging concerns with proven peptides that boost collagen and improve elasticity.
Lightweight formula maintains balance while providing anti-aging benefits. Great for prevention.
Fast-absorbing gel texture works well on combination skin. May need lighter moisturizer in T-zone.
Lightweight and non-greasy, but contains Moringa oil. Use sparingly and monitor for congestion.
Fragrance-free with soothing aloe and allantoin. Low irritation potential, but always patch test first.
📈 Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration Boost
Skin feels softer, smoother, and more hydrated. The dewy finish becomes noticeable immediately after application. Fine lines appear temporarily plumped from hydration.
85% noticed improved hydrationVisible Texture Improvement
Clinical studies show 46.31% increase in hydration and 5.25% improvement in fine lines by day 28. Skin appears more plump and radiant with improved texture.
70% noticed smoother textureCollagen Production Effects
Peptides begin stimulating meaningful collagen synthesis. Deeper wrinkles start to soften, and overall skin firmness improves. Studies show up to 45% wrinkle reduction.
65% noticed firmer skinCumulative Anti-Aging Benefits
Continued use builds collagen reserves and maintains youthful appearance. Best results seen with consistent twice-daily application over extended periods.
80% would repurchase⭐ Ratings by Platform
⚖️ Pros & Cons
✅ Praised
- Clinically proven results (5.25% fine line improvement, 46.31% hydration boost)
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe formula
- Fast-absorbing, lightweight gel texture
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free
- Contains multiple proven peptides (Matrixyl 3000 + Syn-Coll)
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Beautiful packaging with dropper applicator
- Can be used morning and night
❌ Criticized
- Not fungal acne (malassezia) safe
- Contains oils that may cause breakouts for some
- Small bottle size (30ml) for the price ($40)
- Results require consistent use over weeks/months
- May foam slightly if applied to damp skin
- Not suitable for use with AHA/BHA in same routine step
💰 Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains 10% Matrixyl (both 3000 and Synthe'6) in a hyaluronic acid base. Simpler formula without botanical extracts, but higher peptide concentration. More affordable at 1/3 the price.
Pure Matrixyl 3000 with hyaluronic acid delivery system. Clean, minimal formula without oils. Better for acne-prone skin but less hydrating overall.
Most affordable option with 10% Matrixyl. Uses propanediol for enhanced penetration. Basic formula without additional hydrating ingredients.
K-beauty alternative combining Matrixyl 3000 with Argireline. Good value with multiple anti-aging peptides but different supporting ingredients.
🔄 Comparison with Competitors
Depology Matrixyl® 3000 Serum
$40.00The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA
$14.90Timeless Matrixyl 3000 Serum
$20.00The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA (Buffet)
$17.90📦 Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Use within one year of first use for optimal efficacy.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration not required but can extend freshness.
Dark blue glass bottle with dropper applicator. Protects light-sensitive ingredients from UV degradation.
Yes, 30ml is under the 100ml TSA liquid limit. Glass bottle – handle with care during travel.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this serum is considered safe for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other ingredients typically restricted during pregnancy. Matrixyl 3000 peptides are synthetic amino acid chains that work topically and are not absorbed systemically. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before adding new products to your routine during pregnancy.
No, this serum is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains palmitic acid-based peptides (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5) and Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, which can feed malassezia yeast. If you're prone to fungal acne or pityrosporum folliculitis, consider alternatives like The Ordinary Argireline Solution or a fungal acne-safe peptide serum instead.
Yes, but with timing considerations. Matrixyl 3000 pairs well with retinol and can help counteract retinol irritation. For Vitamin C, Depology recommends an 8-hour gap between applications. Avoid using this serum in the same routine step as AHA or BHA exfoliants – use acids in the evening and peptides in the morning, or alternate days. Peptides can be destabilized by very low pH environments.
This serum is best for dry, dehydrated, normal, and mature skin types. It excels at providing hydration while delivering anti-aging benefits. It works well for sensitive skin due to its fragrance-free formula and soothing ingredients. Those with oily or acne-prone skin should patch test first, as it contains Moringa oil which may cause congestion in some individuals.
Immediate hydration is noticeable from first use. Clinical studies show measurable improvements in fine lines (5.25%) and hydration (46.31%) within 28 days of consistent twice-daily use. Deeper wrinkle reduction and collagen-building effects become more apparent after 2-3 months. For best results, use consistently morning and night for at least 90 days.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums, eye cream, and moisturizer. The general rule is thinnest to thickest consistency. This serum goes in the "treatment" step of your routine. In the morning, follow with moisturizer and SPF. At night, you can layer it with other treatments before your night cream.
The serum has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5, meaning it has low-to-moderate pore-clogging potential. The main concern is Moringa Oleifera Seed Oil, which can be comedogenic for some individuals. If you have acne-prone skin, perform a patch test before full-face application. Many users with oily skin use it without issues, but results vary by individual.
The serum has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy. The dark glass bottle helps protect the peptides from light degradation. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. With twice-daily use, the 30ml bottle typically lasts 6-8 weeks.
Verdict: Depology Matrixyl® 3000 Collagen Boosting Serum is a well-formulated K-beauty peptide serum backed by clinical studies showing real improvements in fine lines and hydration. The combination of Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Coll, and multiple forms of hyaluronic acid makes it a comprehensive anti-aging treatment that's safe for pregnancy. While it's pricier than budget alternatives like The Ordinary, the added botanical extracts and vegan collagen justify the premium for those seeking a more luxurious experience. The main drawbacks are its incompatibility with fungal acne-prone skin and the relatively small bottle size. Best for: Dry, mature, or normal skin types looking for a gentle yet effective anti-aging serum without retinoids.
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 2 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 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 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|