TGF-B Booster
TGF-B Booster
Product Description
Award-winning, hyaluronic acid-based serum supercharged with transforming growth factors (TGF-Ξ²), 4 potent peptides including SNAP-8, and powerful antioxidants. Dubbed "Collagen Kickstart," this silky serum deeply hydrates, promotes firmness, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and restores a radiant glow while boosting the effectiveness of your entire skincare routine.
β¨ Texture & Feel
Proprietary TGF-Ξ² Complex
Bio-identical, lab-synthesized peptide that mimics transforming growth factor to improve firmness and promote collagen synthesis.
Hya10+ Complex (10 Forms of HA)
Revolutionary hyaluronic acid base with 10 different molecular weights for multi-layer hydration instead of plain water.
SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3)
Neuropeptide that relaxes expression lines on forehead and around eyes, often called "Botox in a bottle."
Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)
Powerful antioxidant enzyme that protects against oxidative stress, supports cell repair, and promotes new cell growth.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, or hydroquinone. Contains peptides and ferments. Consult your healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or nursing.
Contains Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate and Saccharomyces ferments which may trigger fungal acne. Also contains phospholipids. Not recommended for malassezia-prone skin.
Formulated for sensitive skin. Free from parabens, sulfates, and harsh irritants. Patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Can be used around the eye area (avoid direct contact with lash line). Works great under the TGF-B Eye Firming Mask.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Multi-Weight Hyaluronic Acid Base Proven
Unlike water-based serums, Le Mieux uses 10 forms of hyaluronic acid as the serum base. Different molecular weights target different skin layers for comprehensive hydration from surface to deeper dermis.
- Forms Include: Sodium Hyaluronate, Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate
- Function: Attracts and holds up to 1000x its weight in water, plumps skin, improves barrier function
𧬠Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 (TGF-β) Proprietary Proven
Bio-identical peptide that mimics Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-Ξ²) to stimulate collagen production and improve skin firmness. This is the star ingredient that gives the serum its name.
- Clinical: Studies show significant improvement in skin firmness and reduction in deep wrinkles
- Function: Signals fibroblasts to produce more collagen, improves skin matrix structure
π Acetyl Octapeptide-3 (SNAP-8) Active Proven
A neuropeptide that works similarly to Botox by reducing muscle contractions that cause expression lines. Targets dynamic wrinkles around forehead, eyes (crow's feet), and mouth.
- Clinical: Studies show up to 48% reduction in crow's feet depth with consistent use
- Mechanism: Blocks neurotransmitter release at neuromuscular junctions
π‘οΈ Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) Active Proven
One of the body's most powerful natural antioxidant enzymes. Protects skin from free radical damage, supports barrier function, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Research: Used in topical medications for eczema and psoriasis
- Benefits: Reduces oxidative stress, promotes cell repair, supports wound healing
πΆ Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate Base Promising
Fermented yeast extract rich in amino acids, vitamins, and enzymes. Activates AhR receptors to improve skin barrier and hydration. Famous ingredient from sake brewing traditions.
- Research: Upregulates filaggrin expression for better natural moisturizing factors
- Benefits: Brightening, smoothing, pore-minimizing, oil control
π¬ Additional Peptides Complex Promising
Contains Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 (Matrixyl 3000 components) plus Oligopeptide-225 for comprehensive anti-aging targeting.
- Matrixyl Components: Work synergistically to stimulate collagen I, III, and IV production
- Oligopeptide-225: EGF-like growth factor for cell renewal and repair
40 ingredients
Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Bran Water, Hyaluronic Acid, Zinc Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hyaluronate Dimethylsilanol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, C12-13 Alkyl Glyceryl Hydrolyzed Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Acetylated Hyaluronate, Ascorbyl Propyl Hyaluronate, Superoxide Dismutase, Saccharomyces Polypeptides, Oligopeptide-225, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Ceramide NS, Saccharomyces/Copper Ferment, Saccharomyces/Zinc Ferment, Saccharomyces/Manganese Ferment, Riboflavin, Phospholipids, Folic Acid, Enteromorpha Compressa Extract, Glycoproteins, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Serine, Proline, Alanine, Glutamic Acid, Niacinamide, Sphingomonas Ferment Extract, Sodium Phytate, Fragrance, Caprylyl Glycol, Undecylenoyl Glycine, Ethylhexylglycerin, Capryloyl Glycine
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
Apply after cleansing and toning, before other serums. This serum boosts the penetration and effectiveness of products applied on top.
π How to Use
Cleanse & Tone
Start with clean skin. Use your regular cleanser and toner to prep the skin for optimal absorption.
Apply 3-5 Drops
Dispense 3-5 drops (or 1-2 pumps) onto fingertips. Gently press and smooth onto face and neck in upward motions.
Extend to Chest Area
Don't forget your dΓ©colletage! Extend application to chest area for comprehensive anti-aging benefits.
Layer Additional Products
Follow with treatment serums (like Vita-C for brightening or EGF-DNA for firming) and finish with moisturizer. Use SPF in the morning.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want to address fine lines and wrinkles
- You're looking for a collagen-boosting treatment
- You want professional-grade skincare at home
- Your skin lacks firmness and elasticity
- You want to boost your existing skincare routine
- You have dry, normal, or combination skin
- You want a hydrating anti-aging serum
- You prefer products with multiple peptides
β Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You react negatively to fermented ingredients
- You're sensitive to fragrances
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You're on a very tight budget
- You need a single-ingredient focused treatment
π― Skin Type Compatibility
The HA-based formula provides intense hydration. Multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid deeply hydrate all skin layers.
Perfect for maintaining healthy, youthful skin. Provides balanced hydration and anti-aging benefits without being heavy.
Lightweight serum absorbs quickly without adding shine. Galactomyces helps balance oil production across different zones.
Silky texture absorbs without residue. May feel slightly rich for very oily skin. Use smaller amount (2-3 drops).
Formulated for sensitive skin with calming ingredients. Contains fragrance - patch test recommended for very reactive skin.
Low comedogenic rating (1/5), but contains ferments. NOT suitable for fungal acne. Patch test if prone to breakouts.
π Results Timeline
Immediate Hydration & Plumping
Skin feels immediately hydrated and plump after application. Users notice a dewy glow and improved skin texture. Fine lines appear temporarily softened from hydration.
85% noticed immediate hydrationImproved Texture & Firmness
Skin texture becomes smoother and more refined. Early signs of improved firmness as peptides begin working. Complexion appears brighter and more even.
70% noticed firmer skinVisible Wrinkle Reduction
Fine lines and expression wrinkles appear visibly reduced. Skin elasticity improves noticeably. Collagen-boosting effects become apparent.
65% noticed wrinkle improvementLong-Term Transformation
Cumulative anti-aging benefits fully manifest. Skin appears more youthful, firm, and resilient. Best results with continued daily use.
80% saw significant improvementβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Exceptional hydration from HA-based formula
- Multiple peptides for comprehensive anti-aging
- Silky, fast-absorbing texture
- Boosts effectiveness of other products
- Safe for sensitive skin and eye area
- Professional-grade (85%) ingredients
- Cruelty-free and paraben-free
- Can be mixed with other serums
- Immediate plumping effect visible
β Criticized
- Not suitable for fungal acne prone skin
- Contains fragrance (not fragrance-free)
- Price point higher than drugstore options
- Small 1oz bottle runs out quickly
- Peptide results take time (8+ weeks)
- Contains ferments that some may react to
- Not widely available in retail stores
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
Contains similar peptides including Matrixyl and Argireline with hyaluronic acid base. Missing the proprietary TGF-Ξ² formula and galactomyces ferment. Excellent value for peptide beginners.
Focused formula with Matrixyl 3000 and Matrixyl Synthe'6 in HA base. Lacks the growth factors and SNAP-8. Great for targeting firmness specifically at a fraction of the cost.
Contains Matrixyl with hydrating ingredients. Simpler formula without growth factors or multiple peptide complexes. Good entry-level option for those new to peptide serums.
Contains 5 bio-engineered peptides and ceramides. Clinically tested against TNS Advanced+. Missing the ferments and specific TGF-Ξ² formula but offers strong peptide technology.
π Comparison with Competitors
Le Mieux TGF-B Booster (This Product)
~$70SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
$295Neocutis BIO SERUM FIRM
$275Osmosis StemFactor Growth Factor Serum
$180π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening. Mark the date you open it for reference.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration optional but may enhance the cooling effect during application.
Glass bottle with dropper (consumer) or airless pump (professional). Protects active ingredients from oxidation.
Yes, TSA-compliant at 1 oz/30ml. Fits easily in carry-on liquids bag.
β Frequently Asked Questions
This serum does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone, or other commonly flagged pregnancy ingredients. However, it contains peptides, ferments, and fragrance. While peptides are generally considered safe, the research on topical growth factors during pregnancy is limited. We recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before using any new skincare products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
No, this product is NOT recommended for fungal acne prone skin. It contains Galactomyces Ferment Filtrate and multiple Saccharomyces ferments, which are yeast-derived ingredients that may exacerbate malassezia folliculitis. It also contains phospholipids. If you're prone to fungal acne, consider ferment-free alternatives.
Yes, but with some considerations. The TGF-B Booster can be layered with other actives. For best results: Apply TGF-B first, let it absorb, then apply other serums. Le Mieux recommends mixing with their Vita-C Serum in AM for brightening, or with EGF-DNA Serum in PM for enhanced firming. Avoid using with strong acids in the same routine as peptides work best in non-acidic environments. Use acids in a separate routine (AM vs PM) or on alternate days.
This serum is excellent for dry, normal, combination, and sensitive skin types. The HA-based formula provides intense hydration suitable for dry skin, while the silky texture absorbs quickly enough for combination skin. It's formulated to be gentle on sensitive skin. Oily skin types can use it in smaller amounts (2-3 drops). Not recommended for fungal acne prone skin due to ferment content.
Hydration benefits are immediate - you'll notice plumper, more hydrated skin right after application. Improved texture and firmness typically become noticeable within 3-4 weeks of consistent use. Visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles usually appears around 6-8 weeks. Maximum anti-aging benefits develop with continued use over 3+ months. Results vary by individual and depend on consistent twice-daily application.
Apply after cleansing and toning, before other serums and moisturizer. The TGF-B Booster is designed as a "booster" that enhances the penetration and effectiveness of products applied on top. Routine order: Cleanser β Toner β TGF-B Booster β Treatment Serums β Moisturizer β Sunscreen (AM). Use 3-5 drops and can be applied to face, neck, and chest both morning and evening.
The TGF-B Booster has a low comedogenic rating of approximately 1 out of 5. It's primarily based on hyaluronic acid and peptides, which are not pore-clogging. The formula is free from heavy oils and contains no binders, thickeners, or fillers that commonly cause congestion. However, individual reactions vary, and those prone to breakouts should always patch test first. Note: It's not suitable for fungal acne despite being non-comedogenic.
The product has a PAO (Period After Opening) of 12 months. For best results, use within one year of opening. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The glass dropper bottle or airless pump packaging helps protect the active ingredients from oxidation. If you notice any changes in color, smell, or texture, discontinue use.
Verdict: Le Mieux TGF-B Booster is an impressive professional-grade serum that delivers on its anti-aging promises at a price point significantly lower than luxury competitors like SkinMedica TNS ($295) or Neocutis ($275). The innovative HA-based formula with proprietary TGF-Ξ² peptide technology, SNAP-8, and multiple growth factors provides comprehensive anti-aging benefits. Users consistently report improved hydration, firmness, and reduced fine lines with regular use. The main limitations are its unsuitability for fungal acne-prone skin due to ferment content and the inclusion of fragrance. For those seeking professional peptide technology without the luxury price tag, this is an excellent choice that punches well above its weight class.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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 8 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 4 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 1 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 |
Hyaluronic Acid
Humectant, Moisturising, Skin Conditioning
|
Brightening
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 0 |
Hydrolyzed Sodium Hyaluronate
|
Promotes Wound Healing
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer
Skin Conditioning, Humectant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Hydroxypropyltrimonium Hyaluronate
|
|