Peptide Serum with Matrixyl 3000 Argireline
Peptide Serum with Matrixyl 3000 Argireline
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, fast-absorbing peptide serum featuring Matrixyl 3000 and Argireline to target fine lines and wrinkles while boosting hydration. This K-beauty favorite combines proven anti-aging peptides with niacinamide and hyaluronic acid in a gentle, aloe-based formula for firmer, plumper-looking skin.
Triple Peptide Complex
Contains Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Tetrapeptide-7) plus Argireline for comprehensive anti-aging benefits.
Texture & feel
SENSORYTriple Peptide Complex
Contains Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 & Tetrapeptide-7) plus Argireline for comprehensive anti-aging benefits.
Multi-Level Hydration
Hyaluronic acid and Beta-Glucan work together to attract and retain moisture for plump, supple skin.
Aloe-Based Formula
Uses Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract as the base instead of water for added soothing and healing benefits.
Brightening Niacinamide
2% Niacinamide helps even skin tone, minimize pores, and strengthen the skin barrier.
Safety & compatibility
SAFELikely safe. Peptides like Matrixyl and Argireline are not on the avoid list, but limited clinical data exists. Consult your healthcare provider to be safe.
Formula is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, and ferments that feed fungal acne. Verified FA-safe by SkinCarisma.
Oil-free, lightweight formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Won't clog pores or cause breakouts.
Free from fragrances, alcohols, and common irritants. Aloe base provides soothing benefits. Patch test recommended.
Safe to use with retinol. Peptides can help counteract retinol irritation. Apply peptide serum first, then retinol.
Can be layered with Vitamin C serums. Apply Vitamin C first (lower pH), wait 1-2 minutes, then apply peptide serum.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSMatrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) 3-6%Proven
The most sold peptide complex in the world. This duo works synergistically to signal skin cells to produce more collagen and reduce inflammation, resulting in firmer, smoother skin with fewer wrinkles.
- Clinical Study: 3% Matrixyl 3000 applied twice daily for 2 months showed 39.4% reduction in deep wrinkle surface area
- Mechanism: Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 mimics collagen fragments to stimulate new collagen production
- Anti-Inflammatory: Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 reduces IL-6 production to prevent collagen breakdown from UV exposure
Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8) 2-3%Proven
Known as "Botox in a bottle," this peptide helps relax facial micro-movements to reduce the appearance of expression lines, particularly around the eyes and forehead.
- Clinical Study: 10% Argireline solution reduced wrinkle depth by 17% in just 15 days
- 28-Day Study: 5% concentration showed 16.26% decrease in wrinkle depth
- Mechanism: Inhibits neurotransmitter release to reduce muscle contraction intensity
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
A multi-tasking powerhouse that supports skin barrier function, regulates oil production, reduces pore appearance, and evens skin tone.
- Barrier Support: Strengthens skin's natural moisture barrier and reduces transepidermal water loss
- Brightening: Inhibits melanosome transfer to reduce hyperpigmentation and dark spots
- Anti-Inflammatory: Calms redness and irritation, making it suitable for sensitive and acne-prone skin
Sodium Hyaluronate 1-1.5%Proven
The salt form of hyaluronic acid with smaller molecular size for better skin penetration. Holds up to 1000x its weight in water for intense hydration.
- Hydration: Attracts and binds water to the skin surface for plumping effect
- Delivery System: Helps other active ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin
- Fine Lines: Plumps skin to temporarily reduce appearance of fine lines
Beta-Glucan 0.5-1%Promising
A powerful humectant derived from yeast or oats with soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. Helps strengthen the skin barrier and provides long-lasting hydration.
- Studies show: Beta-Glucan has superior water-binding properties compared to hyaluronic acid
- Wound Healing: Promotes skin repair and regeneration
- Antioxidant: Provides protection against environmental stressors
Adenosine 0.5-1%Proven
A naturally occurring compound that helps smooth wrinkles and improve skin elasticity. Popular in K-beauty for its proven anti-aging benefits.
- Clinical Trial: Shown to improve "deep wrinkles" in areas of facial movement (forehead, eye corners)
- Korean Approval: Recognized as a functional anti-wrinkle ingredient by KFDA
- Energy Boost: Supports cellular energy production for healthier skin function
18 ingredients
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Propanediol, Glycerin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Niacinamide, 1,2-Hexanediol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Beta-Glucan, Adenosine, Butylene Glycol, Allantoin, Rosa Damascena Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia Flower Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Melissa Officinalis Leaf Extract, Artemisia Vulgaris Extract.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply after toner on clean skin. Layer thinner serums before thicker ones. Use AM & PM for best results.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Tone
Start with clean, slightly damp skin. Apply your toner and let it absorb for 30 seconds.
Dispense 2-3 Drops
Using the dropper, place 2-3 drops of serum onto your fingertips or directly onto your face.
Gently Pat & Press
Pat and press the serum into your face and neck using upward motions. Focus on areas with fine lines.
Wait & Layer
Allow 30-60 seconds for absorption, then follow with additional serums and moisturizer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want to prevent or reduce fine lines and wrinkles
- You're looking for a gentle, non-irritating anti-aging serum
- You have sensitive or acne-prone skin
- You want a budget-friendly peptide serum
- You prefer clean, minimal ingredient formulas
- You're starting an anti-aging routine in your late 20s-30s
- You have fungal acne and need FA-safe products
Consider alternatives if:
- You need dramatic, immediate wrinkle correction (consider retinol or professional treatments)
- You have very dry skin and need richer formulations
- You prefer products with proven higher concentrations of peptides
- You're looking for a multi-peptide formula with 5+ peptide types
- You want additional active ingredients like Vitamin C in the same product
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly without adding shine or greasiness. Oil-free and non-comedogenic.
Provides hydration via hyaluronic acid, but may need a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top for very dry skin.
Balances well across different face zones. Light enough for T-zone, hydrating enough for dry areas.
Fragrance-free, alcohol-free, and soothing aloe base. Most users report zero irritation even on reactive skin.
Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe, and niacinamide helps regulate oil. Won't clog pores or trigger breakouts.
Good for prevention and mild improvement. For deeper wrinkles, consider combining with retinol or professional treatments.
Results timeline
MONTH 4+Improved Hydration & Texture
Skin feels more hydrated, smoother, and plumper. Some users notice immediate hydration boost due to hyaluronic acid and beta-glucan.
85% noticed improvementSofter Fine Lines
Fine lines around eyes and forehead begin to appear softer. Skin looks more radiant and even-toned thanks to niacinamide.
70% noticed improvementVisible Firmness & Elasticity
Matrixyl 3000 begins to show cumulative effects. Skin appears firmer, bouncier, and wrinkles look reduced. Best results with consistent AM/PM use.
65% noticed improvementLong-Term Anti-Aging Benefits
Continued use supports ongoing collagen production. Users report younger-looking skin and prevention of new wrinkle formation.
60% noticed significant improvementRatings by platform
12K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Excellent value for a peptide serum
- Lightweight, fast-absorbing texture
- Clean ingredient list with no irritants
- Fungal acne and sensitive skin safe
- Noticeable hydration and plumping effect
- Layers well under other products
- Cruelty-free and vegan formula
- KFDA certified production facility
Criticized
- Can feel slightly sticky before absorbing
- Results take 4-8 weeks to become visible
- Plastic dropper bottle feels less premium
- Not as potent as higher-priced peptide serums
- May not be enough for deep, set-in wrinkles
- Some users experience initial breakouts
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Higher concentration of Matrixyl (10%) but lacks Argireline. Contains two generations of Matrixyl peptides in HA delivery system. More gel-like texture.
Higher Argireline concentration (10%) but no Matrixyl. More targeted for expression lines. Can be combined with Matrixyl serum for full coverage.
Contains more peptide types (5+) including Syn-Ake and amino acids. More comprehensive formula but also more complex with potential conflicts.
US-made alternative with same key peptides. Simpler formula without niacinamide or botanical extracts. Water-based instead of aloe-based.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening. Mark the date you opened it on the bottle.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and high temperatures. Keep bottle tightly closed.
Glass dropper bottle with plastic cap. Dark-tinted to protect from light degradation.
Yes, 30ml size is under 100ml TSA limit. Dropper may leak - store upright in a sealed bag.
Frequently asked questions
FAQLikely safe, but with limited clinical data. Peptides like Matrixyl 3000 and Argireline are not on the standard "avoid during pregnancy" lists (unlike retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone). However, comprehensive reproductive toxicity studies haven't been conducted specifically for these ingredients. Most dermatologists consider topical peptide serums to be low-risk, but we recommend consulting your OB-GYN or dermatologist before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding to be safe.
Yes! This serum is verified fungal acne safe by SkinCarisma. The formula is free from fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates, and fermented ingredients that can feed malassezia yeast. The aloe-based, oil-free formula makes it an excellent choice for those struggling with fungal acne who still want anti-aging benefits.
With Retinol: Yes, peptides are retinol-friendly and can help counteract retinol irritation. Apply peptide serum first, wait 1-2 minutes, then apply retinol.With Vitamin C: Yes, apply Vitamin C first (it has a lower pH), wait a few minutes, then apply peptide serum.With AHA/BHA: Use with caution. Apply acids first, wait 20-30 minutes for pH to normalize, then apply peptide serum. Alternatively, use acids in PM and peptides in AM to avoid potential interaction.
This serum works excellently for all skin types, but is particularly well-suited for: oily skin (lightweight, oil-free formula), combination skin (balances well), sensitive skin (fragrance-free, gentle formula), and acne-prone skin (non-comedogenic, FA-safe). Those with very dry skin may want to layer a richer moisturizer or facial oil on top for adequate hydration.
Hydration improvements are often noticeable within the first 1-2 weeks. Fine lines may appear softer after 3-4 weeks of consistent use. For visible firmness and wrinkle reduction, expect to use the product for 8-12 weeks. Clinical studies on Matrixyl 3000 showed significant results after 2 months of twice-daily application. Consistency is key - use morning and night for best results.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before heavier serums and moisturizers. The general rule is thin-to-thick consistency. Routine order: Cleanser → Toner → Essence (optional) → Peptide Serum → Treatment Serums (Vitamin C, Retinol) → Moisturizer → Sunscreen (AM). This serum can be used both morning and evening.
No, this serum has a comedogenic rating of 0/5. It's oil-free, silicone-free, and contains no pore-clogging ingredients. The lightweight, water-based formula absorbs quickly without leaving residue that could trap debris in pores. Users with acne-prone skin consistently report no breakouts from this product.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. A 30ml bottle typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use (2-3 drops per application). The 60ml bottle can last 4-6 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. The dropper helps minimize contamination and oxidation.
Verdict: Cos de Baha Peptide Serum with Matrixyl 3000 & Argireline delivers impressive anti-aging benefits at a fraction of the cost of luxury peptide serums. The clean, gentle formula makes it suitable for virtually all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin. While results take time and won't match injectable treatments, consistent use provides noticeable improvements in hydration, firmness, and fine line reduction. An excellent entry point into peptide skincare and a solid choice for those seeking effective, no-frills anti-aging on a budget.
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 6 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
Emollient, Humectant, Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|
|
| 1 |
Propanediol
Solvent, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
Skin Conditioning
|
Anti-Aging
|