Matrixyl Synthe'6 Serum
Matrixyl Synthe'6 Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A fast-absorbing, fragrance-free anti-aging serum powered by 2% Matrixyl® Synthe'6® — a next-generation peptide clinically shown to stimulate six key components of the skin matrix — combined with Hyaluronic Acid and Aloe for deep hydration, smoother texture, and visibly reduced fine lines and wrinkles.
6-in-1 Skin Matrix Stimulation
Matrixyl® Synthe'6® (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38) boosts production of Collagen I, III, IV, Fibronectin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Laminin 5 — the six critical building blocks of youthful skin.
Texture & feel
SENSORY6-in-1 Skin Matrix Stimulation
Matrixyl® Synthe'6® (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38) boosts production of Collagen I, III, IV, Fibronectin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Laminin 5 — the six critical building blocks of youthful skin.
Deep Hyaluronic Acid Hydration
Hyaluronic Acid draws and retains moisture in the upper skin layers, plumping fine lines and leaving skin dewy and supple throughout the day.
Soothing Aloe Vera Base
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf calms inflammation, provides extra hydration, and helps carry active ingredients deeper into the skin for enhanced efficacy.
Clinically Backed Peptide
A 14-day third-party clinical study of 25 participants (ages 20–58) demonstrated measurable improvements in skin texture, firmness, and wrinkle depth with 2% Matrixyl® Synthe'6®.
Ultra-Clean Formula
Only 8 ingredients — no parabens, no fragrance, no dyes, no silicones. Preserved with a gentle Benzyl Alcohol + Dehydroacetic Acid system, safe for even the most sensitive skin.
Maximum Active at Minimal Cost
Timeless delivers the same 2% concentration of Matrixyl® Synthe'6® found in luxury serums costing 5–10x more, making professional-grade anti-aging accessible to everyone.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens. Timeless officially confirms this serum is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. Always consult your healthcare provider if in doubt.
Free from fermented ingredients, polysorbates, and problematic fatty acid esters. No ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast. Considered safe for fungal-acne-prone skin.
The minimal ingredient list contains no pore-clogging oils or heavy occlusives. Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid are humectants with a comedogenic rating of 0. Very unlikely to clog pores.
No fragrance, no alcohol (denat.), no essential oils, no dyes. The preservative system (Benzyl Alcohol + Dehydroacetic Acid) is gentle and well-tolerated at cosmetic use levels.
Peptides are generally stable alongside antioxidants and brightening agents. Layer this serum before or after Vitamin C or Niacinamide serums with no compatibility concerns.
Very low pH environments (below 4.0) can destabilize peptides over time. If using AHA/BHA exfoliants, apply this serum after acids have fully absorbed, or use them in separate AM/PM routines.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~60–70%Base
The primary solvent and base of the formula, purified and deionized to ensure maximum stability and prevent oxidation of active ingredients. Forms the lightweight, fast-absorbing texture of this serum.
- Function: Universal solvent; enables delivery of water-soluble actives to the skin surface.
- Skin benefit: Contributes to surface hydration and helps maintain skin's natural moisture balance.
Matrixyl® Synthe'6® (Glycerin, Aqua, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38) ~2%Proven
The star active ingredient — a patented peptide complex by Sederma (BASF). Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 is the bioactive molecule, encapsulated in Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin (a molecular carrier) for enhanced skin penetration and stability. Clinically validated to stimulate six key skin matrix components.
- Mechanism: Binds to skin cell receptors, signaling fibroblasts to produce Collagen I, III, IV, Fibronectin, Hyaluronic Acid, and Laminin 5.
- Clinical data: In a 14-day study of 25 participants, users reported a measurable decrease in wrinkle depth of up to 31% after 2 months of daily use at 2%.
- Delivery system: Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin forms a donut-shaped encapsulation around the peptide, improving its stability and trans-epidermal delivery.
- Targets: Forehead lines, crow's feet, expression wrinkles, and loss of dermal-epidermal junction integrity.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf (Aloe Vera) ~5–10%Proven
A natural soothing and hydrating agent derived from the Aloe Vera plant. Acts as a secondary humectant, anti-inflammatory, and enhances absorption of other active ingredients. Rich in polysaccharides that support barrier function.
- Function: Humectant, soothing agent, anti-inflammatory, and penetration enhancer.
- Key compounds: Acemannan polysaccharides, mucilage, vitamins C and E, and enzymes.
- Skin benefit: Calms redness and irritation, supports wound healing, adds lightweight moisture.
Glycerin ~3.4–5.1%Proven
One of the most effective and well-studied humectants in skincare. Naturally present in human skin as part of the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF). Draws moisture from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface, improving hydration and barrier function.
- Comedogenic rating: 0 — will not clog pores.
- Estimated concentration: 3.4–5.1% based on independent analysis by WhatsinMyJar.
- Research: Numerous peer-reviewed studies confirm glycerin improves transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin smoothness at concentrations as low as 3%.
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin tracePromising
A cyclic oligosaccharide used as a molecular encapsulation agent within the Matrixyl® Synthe'6® complex. Its bucket-shaped structure has a hydrophilic outer shell and lipophilic inner cavity, making it ideal for stabilizing and delivering the Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 molecule into the skin.
- Function: Solubilizer, stabilizer, and penetration enhancer for the peptide active.
- Safety: Considered safe at cosmetic use levels; non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
Hyaluronic Acid (Sodium Hyaluronate) ~1.5–2.2%Proven
A naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the skin's extracellular matrix. Famous for its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its own weight in water, providing intense surface hydration and a visibly plumping effect on fine lines.
- Estimated concentration: 1.5–2.2% per WhatsinMyJar analysis.
- Function: Humectant, film-former, and moisture binder; temporarily fills and plumps fine lines.
- Molecular weight: Standard high-molecular weight HA works on the skin surface; provides instant dewy look and feel.
Benzyl Alcohol <1%Safe
A naturally occurring aromatic alcohol (found in fruits, teas, and some essential oils) used here strictly as a preservative at concentrations well below the 1% safety threshold. It is not a drying alcohol and should not be confused with denatured alcohol (SD Alcohol or Alcohol Denat.).
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservative; primarily effective against gram-negative bacteria.
- Safety: At sub-1% concentrations, non-irritating and well-tolerated by most skin types including sensitive skin.
Dehydroacetic Acid <1%Safe
A mild, naturally-derived preservative that works primarily against fungi and yeasts, complementing the antibacterial action of Benzyl Alcohol to form a complete preservation system. Popular in "natural" and "clean" beauty formulations for its gentle profile.
- Function: Antifungal preservative; extends shelf life and prevents microbial contamination.
- Safety: Approved by EU and US cosmetic regulations at concentrations up to 0.6%; considered non-irritating at use levels.
8 ingredients
Water, Matrixyl® Synthe'6® (Glycerin, Aqua, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Dehydroacetic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean, slightly damp skin. Timeless recommends PM use for best results as skin cells enter restorative mode during sleep. However, it is also safe and effective in the morning routine before sunscreen.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse Thoroughly
Wash your face with a gentle cleanser suited to your skin type. Pat dry with a clean towel, leaving skin slightly damp for better serum absorption.
Apply Toner (Optional)
If using a hydrating or balancing toner, apply it first and allow it to absorb before the serum step.
Dispense 2–3 Drops
Place 2–3 drops of the serum onto your fingertips. Do not over-apply — excess serum can paradoxically dry out the skin. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula.
Press & Smooth onto Face and Neck
Gently press and smooth the serum across your face and neck using light upward strokes. Avoid the direct under-eye area and chest/nipple region as advised by Timeless.
Allow Full Absorption (~30 seconds)
Wait for the serum to fully absorb before applying the next product. The lightweight texture sinks in quickly with no sticky residue.
Follow with Moisturizer + Sunscreen
Seal in the active ingredients with a moisturizer. In the morning, always finish with a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. PM use is recommended by Timeless for optimal anti-aging results.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to target fine lines, expression wrinkles, and loss of skin firmness
- You have dry, mature, or sun-damaged skin in need of repair
- You prefer a fragrance-free, minimal-ingredient formula
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding and need a safe anti-aging option
- You want professional-grade peptide concentration on a budget
- You have sensitive or reactive skin that doesn't tolerate retinol well
- You want to layer multiple serums without complexity
Consider alternatives if:
- You want immediate, dramatic results — peptides require consistent 4–8 week use
- You have very oily skin and prefer a fully matte, oil-controlling formula
- You need treatment for active acne breakouts (this is anti-aging, not acne-focused)
- You expect hyperpigmentation correction — this serum does not address dark spots
- You prefer a rich, emollient cream texture rather than a watery serum
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe ideal candidate — Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin deliver deep hydration while Matrixyl® Synthe'6® rebuilds collagen and restores firmness. Works beautifully with a rich moisturizer on top.
Lightweight and non-greasy; absorbs well without overloading the T-zone. A versatile daily anti-aging serum suitable for AM and PM use on combination skin types.
Fragrance-free, dye-free, and paraben-free with a minimal 8-ingredient formula. Aloe Vera calms irritation. Very well-tolerated even by rosacea-prone users based on community feedback.
Non-comedogenic and oil-free. The watery texture absorbs without adding shine. A small number of oily-skin users report feeling it slightly hydrating for their preferences — follow with a lightweight gel moisturizer.
Fungal-acne safe, non-comedogenic, and free of pore-clogging ingredients. A few users with active breakouts reported minor irritation — for those primarily fighting active acne, consider a dedicated treatment first.
Results timeline
3+ MONTHSImmediate Hydration & Smoothness
Within the first week, most users notice improved skin hydration, a softer texture, and a subtle plumping of fine lines thanks to the Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin base. The skin feels more comfortable and supple after each application.
~90% noticed improved hydrationVisible Texture Improvement
Skin texture becomes noticeably smoother and more even. Early signs of peptide activity begin as cellular signaling ramps up collagen and matrix protein synthesis. Clinical data shows measurable changes beginning around day 14 of consistent use.
~70% noticed smoother skin textureReduced Fine Lines & Improved Firmness
The primary anti-aging benefits of Matrixyl® Synthe'6® become apparent — fine lines appear softer, skin looks firmer, and expression lines are less pronounced. Women in the clinical study reported up to a 31% decrease in wrinkle depth after 2 months of daily use at 2% concentration.
~65% noticed visible fine line reductionProgressive Collagen Support & Long-Term Benefits
With continued use, the serum supports ongoing collagen matrix maintenance. Long-term users (including verified reviewers using the product for 3+ years) report sustained improvements in skin elasticity, youthful appearance, and overall skin health. Best results come from consistent, daily application.
~80% long-term users report sustained improvementRatings by platform
5K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Clinically proven 2% Matrixyl® Synthe'6® — same concentration used in luxury serums
- Ultra-clean 8-ingredient formula with no unnecessary fillers
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding safe — a rare anti-aging option
- Fragrance-free, dye-free, paraben-free — suitable for highly sensitive skin
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (rating: 1/5)
- Exceptional value — delivers luxury peptide results at a fraction of the price
- Fast-absorbing, lightweight texture works under makeup and other serums
- Consistent long-term results reported by multi-year users
- Available in multiple sizes including travel pouches
- Cruelty-free brand founded by women estheticians
Criticized
- Results require 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use — not for impatient skincare fans
- Does not address hyperpigmentation or dark spots
- 1oz bottle lasts approximately 1 month at the recommended 2–3 drops/day
- No pump or dropper dispenser on standard bottle — dosing can be imprecise
- May not provide sufficient standalone moisture for very dry skin — needs a moisturizer on top
- Not recommended for direct under-eye area application per brand guidance
- Some very oily skin users found the hydration level too rich for AM use
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESContains Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 + Palmitoyl Oligopeptide) rather than Matrixyl Synthe'6® — a different but also well-researched peptide complex. Adds Argireline for expression-line relaxation. Similar lightweight watery texture and fragrance-free profile. A strong budget alternative for those open to a different peptide.
Contains a broader peptide cocktail including Matrixyl 3000, Argireline, and multiple other peptides, plus HA and amino acids. More complex formula with more potential actives but also more potential interactions. Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. Timeless wins on pure Matrixyl® Synthe'6® concentration; The Ordinary wins on peptide variety.
The sibling product from the same brand featuring Matrixyl 3000 (instead of Synthe'6®) — recommended for all skin types and beginners to anti-aging routines. Synthe'6® is considered more advanced and targets deeper, more pronounced wrinkles. If you're new to peptides, Matrixyl 3000 is the gentler starting point; Synthe'6® is the next step up.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStriVectin Advanced Retinol Intensive Serum
MAELOVE Hydrator HA Serum with Resveratrol
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. The product is effective for 24 months from the date of manufacture (unopened). Timeless recommends using the product upon receipt and suggests optional refrigeration to extend freshness, particularly for the peptide active.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Refrigeration is optional but recommended by Timeless to maximize the stability and potency of Matrixyl® Synthe'6®. Avoid storing in bathrooms with high humidity and heat fluctuations.
Available in a sealed flip-top bottle (1 oz / 30 ml), a larger 4 oz bottle for bulk use, and single-use travel pouches. The sealed bottle helps protect the formula from air and light exposure between uses.
Yes — the 1 oz (30 ml) bottle is under the 100 ml airline liquid limit and is ideal for travel. Single-use travel pouches are also available and particularly popular for their convenience and guaranteed freshness per use.
Frequently asked questions
FAQYes. Timeless Skin Care officially confirms on their website that the Matrixyl® Synthe'6® Serum is suitable for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or chemical sunscreens — the ingredients most commonly flagged during pregnancy. The peptide (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38), Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Hyaluronic Acid, and the gentle preservative system are all considered safe for use. As always, consult your healthcare provider or OB/GYN for personalized guidance during pregnancy.
Yes. The 8-ingredient formula is free from ferments, polysorbates, problematic fatty acid esters, and other ingredients known to feed Malassezia yeast — the microorganism responsible for fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis). All ingredients — Water, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38, Aloe Vera, Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin, Hyaluronic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, and Dehydroacetic Acid — are considered safe for fungal-acne-prone skin. If you have active fungal acne, this serum is one of the safest anti-aging options available.
Generally yes, but with some considerations. Peptides are compatible with Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and Niacinamide — layer this serum before or after with no concerns. With retinol: peptides and retinol can be used together and even complement each other; apply retinol first (or in a different routine) and follow with this serum. With AHA/BHA: very acidic pH environments (below 4.0) can gradually destabilize peptides. To be safe, allow your exfoliant acid to fully absorb before applying this serum, or use them in separate AM/PM routines. There is no documented harsh interaction, but maximizing peptide stability is the goal.
Timeless officially recommends this serum for all skin types, with a particular recommendation for dry and mature skin. The lightweight, watery texture works well on normal, dry, combination, and sensitive skin. Those with oily skin will also benefit from its non-comedogenic (rating: 1/5), oil-free formula, though they may find the hydration level slightly rich and should follow with a gel-based or lightweight moisturizer. Acne-prone skin types can safely use it. It is especially valued by mature skin types concerned with fine lines, loss of firmness, and sun damage.
Immediate hydration benefits (softer, more supple skin) are noticeable within the first week thanks to Hyaluronic Acid and Glycerin. Visible anti-aging results — reduced fine lines, improved firmness, smoother texture — begin to appear after 4–6 weeks of consistent daily use. The clinical study backing Matrixyl® Synthe'6® showed measurable wrinkle reduction after 14 days with full effects building over 2 months of use. For best results, use the serum daily (PM use especially recommended) and be consistent — peptides work through gradual cellular signaling, not instant surface effects.
Apply this serum as step 3 in your routine: after cleansing and toning, before additional serums, moisturizer, and sunscreen. The general rule is thinnest to thickest — this watery serum should go on before heavier creams. If layering multiple serums, apply this one first as it contains the highest-priority peptide active. Follow with a moisturizer to seal in the ingredients and prevent water loss. In the morning, always finish with SPF 30+. Timeless recommends PM use for optimal results, as skin's regenerative processes are most active during sleep.
No. This serum has a comedogenic rating of 1 out of 5 — extremely unlikely to clog pores. The formula contains no oils, waxes, silicones, heavy emollients, or other occlusive ingredients known to trigger breakouts. Glycerin (comedogenic rating: 0) and Hyaluronic Acid (comedogenic rating: 0) are the primary hydrating agents. The lightweight, fast-absorbing texture sits on the skin without creating a pore-blocking film. Even users with oily and acne-prone skin have safely used this serum without experiencing increased breakouts due to the formula itself.
The PAO (Period After Opening) is 12 months. For general shelf life, Timeless states the product is effective for 24 months from the date of manufacture when unopened. With the recommended daily use of 2–3 drops, a standard 1 oz (30 ml) bottle lasts approximately 1 month. The 4 oz bottle provides approximately 4 months of daily use. To extend freshness and preserve peptide potency after opening, Timeless recommends optional refrigeration and storing away from direct sunlight, heat, and humidity. Discard if the texture, color, or scent changes noticeably.
Verdict: The Timeless Skin Care Matrixyl® Synthe'6® Serum is one of the most intelligently formulated anti-aging serums on the market at any price point. By delivering a clinically effective 2% concentration of Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 in just 8 carefully selected ingredients — with no fragrance, no parabens, no dyes, and no unnecessary fillers — Timeless eliminates the noise and lets the science speak for itself. It is pregnancy safe, fungal acne safe, non-comedogenic, and suitable for virtually every skin type. The serum requires commitment: visible anti-aging results build over 4–8 weeks of consistent daily use. But for those willing to give it that time, the results — firmer skin, softer fine lines, and a more youthful appearance — are real and backed by clinical data. At a fraction of the cost of luxury peptide serums containing the same active, this product represents exceptional value for anyone serious about long-term skin health.
Product Overview
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyl Cyclodextrin
Masking, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf
Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 5 |
Benzyl Alcohol
Solvent, Masking, Fragrance, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Preservative, External Analgesic, Perfuming
|
|





