Oxy-R Peptides
Oxy-R Peptides
Product Description
Product overview
A professional-strength brightening serum featuring 1% stabilized oxyresveratrol - 33x more effective than kojic acid at inhibiting tyrosinase. This innovative formula combines twin brightening peptides with hyaluronic acid to visibly fade dark spots and even skin tone in as little as 7 days. Patented click-activated packaging ensures maximum potency from first drop to last.
Patented Stabilization System
Click-activated packaging keeps oxyresveratrol stable and potent from first use to last drop - a breakthrough for this notoriously unstable ingredient.
Texture & feel
SENSORYPatented Stabilization System
Click-activated packaging keeps oxyresveratrol stable and potent from first use to last drop - a breakthrough for this notoriously unstable ingredient.
Triple-Threat Brightening
Combines 1% Oxy-R with two brightening peptides (Tetrapeptide-30 & Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine) for comprehensive pigmentation targeting.
All Skin Tones
Clinically tested on diverse panels including Fitzpatrick 5-6 skin types, proving effective and gentle on deeper skin tones.
33x More Effective Than Kojic Acid
Oxyresveratrol is a superior tyrosinase inhibitor according to Journal of Biological Chemistry research.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEMedik8 advises consulting your GP or midwife before use. While formula contains no known harmful ingredients (no retinoids, high-strength acids), always verify with healthcare provider.
Free from oils, fatty acids, ferments, and polysorbates. Verified fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient analysis databases.
92% of participants in clinical studies found it gentle on their skin. Oxyresveratrol is non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
Does not increase photosensitivity. Safe for AM and PM use. Always use SPF during daytime for best results.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSOxyresveratrol (Hydroxyresveratrol) 1%Gold-Standard
Naturally derived from the mulberry family, this is one of the most powerful skin-brightening agents available in skincare. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin production.
- Research: 33x more effective tyrosinase inhibitor than kojic acid (Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2002)
- Mechanism: Blocks overproduction of melanin that causes dark spots and uneven tone
- Stability: Housed in patented preservation serum in lid until click-activated
Tetrapeptide-30 0.15-0.55%Proven
An illuminating four-amino-acid peptide that helps minimize the formation of visible dark spots through dual action on the pigmentation pathway.
- Action 1: Acts as a tyrosinase inhibitor to reduce melanin production
- Action 2: Blocks transfer of melanin to upper skin layers
- Clinical Testing: Tested on Caucasian, Asian, and ethnic skin with positive results
Acetyl Glycyl Beta-AlaninePromising
A brightening peptide that works synergistically with Oxy-R by targeting a different part of the pigmentation process.
- Mechanism: Blocks melanin transport to skin cells, preventing visible pigmentation
- Synergy: Complements Oxy-R for comprehensive "triple-threat" approach
Sodium Hyaluronate 0.55-1.25%Proven
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid that attracts and retains over 1,000 times its weight in water for deep hydration.
- Function: Delivers hydrating base while optimizing delivery of active ingredients
- Benefit: Leaves complexion visibly nourished and supple
Gluconolactone (PHA) 2.1-3.1%Gentle
A gentle polyhydroxy acid that provides mild exfoliation without irritation, suitable for sensitive skin.
- Action: Gentle exfoliation helps shed dead cells for smoother skin
- Benefit: Stimulates skin's own hyaluronic acid production
Lactic Acid (AHA) 0.9-1.4%Gentle
Low concentration alpha hydroxy acid that supports the skin's natural acid mantle and provides humectant benefits.
- Note: Concentration too low for strong exfoliation - works as humectant instead
- pH Optimized: Formula pH designed to minimize degradation of alpha arbutin
15 ingredients
Aqua (Water), Butylene Glycol, Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract, Hydroxyresveratrol, Gluconolactone, Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine, Glycerin, Lactic Acid, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Benzoate, Disodium EDTA, Tetrapeptide-30, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Metabisulfite, Calcium Gluconate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after cleansing, before Vitamin C (AM) or Vitamin A/Retinal (PM). Perfect CSA routine booster.
How to use
HOW TO USEActivate the Serum (First Use Only)
Press down firmly on bottle lid until it clicks. Shake for 30 seconds to blend the Oxy-R into the formula. Recycle lid and replace with dropper.
Cleanse Your Skin
Start with clean, dry skin. Use morning and evening for best results.
Apply 6 Drops
Blend across face, neck, and décolletage. Avoid the eye area. The serum will have a brown color - this is normal and indicates active Oxy-R.
Allow to Absorb
Wait for serum to fully absorb before applying next products. Follow with Vitamin C (AM) or Vitamin A (PM), then moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have dark spots from sun damage or aging
- You struggle with post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- You have uneven skin tone or dullness
- You have melasma concerns
- You want to boost your Vitamin C & A routine
- You have deeper skin tones (Fitzpatrick 4-6)
- You prefer fragrance-free, gentle formulas
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a budget-friendly option (premium price point)
- You prefer all-in-one products (this is a targeted treatment)
- You want immediate overnight results (patience required)
- You cannot commit to consistent daily use
- You need a product with longer shelf life after opening
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, water-based formula absorbs instantly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free and silicone-free.
Contains hyaluronic acid and glycerin for hydration, but pair with a rich moisturizer for optimal comfort.
Balances perfectly across different face zones. Hydrates dry areas without overwhelming oily zones.
92% found it gentle in clinical studies. Fragrance-free, non-irritating formula. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic (0/5 rating), fungal acne safe, oil-free. Ideal for post-acne marks and PIH.
Results timeline
WEEK 8+Visible Brightness
Skin appears visibly brighter with improved radiance. Hydration levels boosted from hyaluronic acid.
Visible brightness in 7 days*Dark Spot Fading
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and recent dark spots begin to visibly fade. Skin tone appears more even.
Dark spots faded after 4 weeks*Significant Improvement
Clinically proven improvement in overall even tone. Stubborn spots continue to fade with consistent use.
Even tone improved in 8 weeks*Maximum Results
Full benefits realized with continued use. Maintenance application recommended for long-term results.
92% found it gentle on skin*Ratings by platform
290+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Unique 1% oxyresveratrol - highest concentration available
- Patented stabilization ensures potency
- Suitable for all skin tones including deep skin
- Fragrance-free and non-irritating
- Can use with Vitamin C and retinoids
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Clinically proven results
- B Corp certified, sustainable brand
Criticized
- Premium price point (~£65/20ml)
- Short 6-week shelf life after opening
- Results require patience (weeks to months)
- Small bottle size for the price
- Click-activation can be confusing
- Brown color after activation unexpected
- Two-bottle system requires remembering to activate second
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Different brightening mechanism (alpha arbutin vs oxyresveratrol) but similar dark spot targeting. Lacks peptides and patented stabilization. Much more affordable for testing brightening serums.
Uses tranexamic acid (3%), niacinamide (5%), and bakuchiol instead of oxyresveratrol. Well-researched alternative approach to hyperpigmentation. Larger 30ml size with longer shelf life.
Uses Viniferine (vine sap extract) claimed to be 62x more effective than Vitamin C. Pregnancy-safe alternative. Different mechanism but similar brightening goals. Larger 30ml bottle.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Paula's Choice Clinical Discoloration Repair
Storage & shelf life
STORAGE6 weeks per bottle after activation. Two bottles provided for 12 weeks total treatment. Activate second bottle only when first is finished.
Store at room temperature away from windows and direct sunlight. Keep both bottles at consistent temperature for optimal efficacy.
Patented click-activated dropper bottles. Oxy-R stored separately in lid until activation to preserve stability.
Yes - each 10ml bottle is under 100ml TSA/airline limit. Glass dropper bottles require careful packing.
Frequently asked questions
FAQMedik8 states they cannot provide medical advice regarding pregnancy. However, the formula contains no retinoids, high-strength acids, or known harmful ingredients. The low-level PHAs and AHAs (under 3%) are generally considered gentle. Always consult your GP, midwife, or obstetrician before using any new skincare during pregnancy or nursing. Peptides are generally considered safe during pregnancy.
Yes! This serum is verified fungal acne safe by multiple ingredient analysis databases. It's free from oils, fatty acids, ferments, polysorbates, and other ingredients that feed malassezia yeast. The water-based, oil-free formula makes it an excellent choice for those with fungal acne concerns.
Absolutely! Oxy-R Peptides is designed to boost Medik8's CSA (Vitamin C, Sunscreen, Vitamin A) philosophy. In the AM, apply Oxy-R Peptides after cleansing, then your Vitamin C serum, then SPF. In the PM, apply after cleansing, then your retinol or Crystal Retinal. It can also be used with AHAs and BHAs, though introduce slowly to avoid over-exfoliation.
Oxy-R Peptides is suitable for all skin types including sensitive skin - 92% of clinical study participants found it gentle. It's particularly excellent for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin due to its lightweight, oil-free, non-comedogenic formula. Dry skin types should pair with a hydrating moisturizer.
Clinical studies show visible brightness in 7 days. Dark spots begin fading after 4 weeks of consistent use. Significant improvement in overall even tone is clinically proven at 8 weeks. Results vary based on the type and age of pigmentation - recent post-inflammatory marks respond faster than older sun damage or hormonal melasma.
Apply Oxy-R Peptides after cleansing (and toning if you use one), before serums, moisturizers, and SPF. Use 6 drops twice daily - morning and evening. In AM: Cleanser → Oxy-R Peptides → Vitamin C → Moisturizer → SPF. In PM: Cleanser → Oxy-R Peptides → Retinol/Retinal → Moisturizer.
No! Oxy-R Peptides has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. The formula is oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no pore-clogging ingredients. It's water-based with lightweight humectants like hyaluronic acid and glycerin. It's ideal for acne-prone skin and won't contribute to breakouts or congestion.
Each 10ml bottle stays potent for 6 weeks after click-activation. The product comes with two bottles for 12 weeks total treatment. Only activate the second bottle when you finish the first. Store at room temperature away from windows. The short shelf life is due to oxyresveratrol's instability - this is why the patented packaging exists.
This is completely normal! Oxyresveratrol is naturally brown when active in water. Once you click-activate the packaging and the Oxy-R plunges into the water-based solution, the serum takes on a deep brown color. This indicates the active ingredient is now working - it's a sign of potency, not a defect.
No, Oxy-R Peptides does not increase photosensitivity. It's safe for use in both morning and evening routines. However, always use SPF during the day when treating hyperpigmentation - sun exposure is the primary cause of dark spots and will counteract your brightening efforts.
Verdict: Medik8 Oxy-R Peptides is a genuinely innovative brightening serum featuring the highest concentration of stabilized oxyresveratrol available. The patented click-activation technology solves a real formulation challenge, and clinical studies support its efficacy across all skin tones. While the premium price and short shelf life may deter some, those serious about targeting stubborn hyperpigmentation will find this a worthwhile investment. Best for users who can commit to consistent use and want a gentle yet powerful alternative to traditional brightening ingredients like hydroquinone or high-strength Vitamin C.
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 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Artocarpus Lakoocha Wood Extract
Antimicrobial, Bleaching, Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Gluconolactone
Solvent, Fragrance, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|
|
| 0 |
Acetyl Glycyl Beta-Alanine
Skin Conditioning
|
|