This Clinically Tested Peptide-Retinol Serum Addresses Multiple Signs of Aging Without Irritation

When it comes to addressing signs of aging with skin-care products, retinol and peptides are two mission-critical ingredients. Yes, you can apply a retinol serum and peptide serum separately as two steps, but why not make your life easier and use one potent formula that contains both? That’s what I love about Nu Skin ageLOC Tru Face Peptide Retinol Complex ($80). Here’s the scoop on this well-balanced retinol serum, which is a wonder worker for mature skin.

The Benefits of This Serum

If your skin isn’t aging the way you’d hoped and all that sun bathing from your youth is coming to the surface, serums like this one can help. Two of my favorite ingredients, retinol and peptides, are the stars in this science-backed formula, which works with your skin’s natural renewal processes to help visibly reverse signs of skin damage. In fact, this serum contains “the first clinically tested, nature-identical anti-aging peptide discovered by AI that targets key signs of aging.” The brand explains that “as humans, we are inherently limited in the amount of time we can spend researching ingredients. But using AI, we can identify the ideal ingredients to help maximize the benefits of our products quickly, and more effectively.” And, this peptide technology is proven to work synergistically with retinol, boosting its benefits.

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Plus, there’s not just one form of retinol in the mix; you get two: stabilized pure retinol and retinoic acid ester (HPR). Together, and especially when paired with peptides, they help promote cell turnover to improve the look of fine lines, wrinkles, skin tone (aka dark spots and hyperpigmentation), skin texture (including large pores) and elasticity. To keep these powerful ingredients from causing irritation, Nu Skin added calming jojoba esters and a soothing molecule called 4TB, which also hydrate.

BUY NOW – $80

In an eight-week clinical study, 97 percent of participants (using the serum once a day at night) agreed the serum was gentle enough for daily use. Additionally, 100 percent of participants agreed the product delivered results without unwanted side effects like dryness, redness, flakiness and irritation. I can tolerate retinol and have tried my fair share of products over the past 15 years as a beauty editor, but my skin does usually get a little red or out of whack when I try a retinol serum for the first time. However, this one did not cause any issues, and I’d go as far as to say it’s safe for sensitive skin. (Always patch-test if you’re sensitive, especially with retinol.) I also love that it’s fragrance-free and refillable, and at a discount ($75).

How to Use It

Apply the serum on clean skin (face, neck, décolleté, and even the backs of your hands) each night and then follow with moisturizer. The creamy serum blends into skin easily and isn’t greasy. You may experience increased sun sensitivity, especially during the first few weeks of use, so the brand recommends limiting your sun exposure. Also, make sure to wear sunscreen daily (this is true with any retinol product). Sun damage will also undo the results you’ve worked so hard to achieve with a consistent skin-care routine.