A slightly thickened water texture that glides between the palms and does not feel sticky once applied. The 150 ml bottle is used without counting: this peptide serum goes on straight after cleansing, in one or several layers, to prepare the skin for the following steps.
A large-size peptide serum, to use as a booster
The name announces six peptides, and they are all found in the list: acetyl hexapeptide-8, copper tripeptide-1, sh-polypeptide-121, oligopeptide-68, palmitoyl tripeptide-8 and dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate. Each sends a different signal to the skin. Peptides are among the best-documented actives in cosmetics, but their effects remain modest and build over several weeks: skin that looks smoother, feels firmer to the touch, and a more even complexion.
Around them, the formula brings together niacinamide, sodium hyaluronate, allantoin, adenosine and a set of amino acids that help the skin hold water. The Korean idea of a "booster" lies in this format: a light care, applied generously every day, rather than a concentrate to be dosed drop by drop.
How to use
After cleansing, pour a small amount into the palm of your hand and press it over the whole face. Repeat two or three times if the skin is thirsty. Continue with your serum or ampoule, then your cream.
It is used morning and evening. Copper tripeptide-1 does not get on well with a pure vitamin C or an exfoliating acid applied at the same time: keep those actives for the other part of the day. Niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and ceramides pair with it without trouble.
Which skin is it for?
It is for normal, combination or oily skin that wants to discover peptides in a light texture, as well as for skin that reacts to retinol. Its ingredient list contains no fragrance. Very dry skin will complement it with a more nourishing cream. To compare with other firming skincare, see our anti-ageing and firmness selection.
If your skin is irritated or has just had a salon facial, wait until it has calmed down before introducing a new serum.
Product details
- Size: 150 ml
- Brand: COSRX
- Product type: peptide booster serum
- Ingredients: Water, Dipropylene Glycol, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Niacinamide, Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Butylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Ethylhexylglycerin, Adenosine, Polyquaternium-51, Disodium EDTA, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Betaine, t-Butyl Alcohol, Sodium PCA, Sodium Lactate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Copper Tripeptide-1, PCA, sh-Polypeptide-121, Serine, Alanine, Allantoin, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acetyl Glucosamine, Glycine, Glutamic Acid, Lysine HCl, Threonine, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate, Arginine, Tocopherol, Oligopeptide-68, Proline, Dextran, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-8, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil, Hydrogenated Lecithin, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Oleate
- Country of manufacture: South Korea
- Precautions for use: external use only. Avoid contact with the eyes. Stop using if irritation occurs. Do not layer with a pure vitamin C or an exfoliating acid in the same application.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a serum or a lotion?
Its texture is reminiscent of a lotion, but it is formulated as a serum. It goes on as the first step after cleansing and can replace your usual toner.
Can I use it with a retinol?
Yes. In the evening, apply the booster, leave it to dry for a minute, then the retinol and cream. The peptides do not interfere with it.
When will I see a result?
The quenched-skin feeling is immediate. A smoother texture and a firmer look take several weeks of regular use, morning and evening.
Does it replace a cream?
No. Its watery texture is not enough to keep hydration in: always finish with a cream, and with sun protection in the morning.
How long does the 150 ml bottle last?
Even applied in several layers, it covers several months of routine. It is one of the most generous sizes in the range.
A simple first step that makes the rest of the routine more pleasant: discover more skincare in our Korean skincare range.
