Retinol

A third-generation synthetic retinoid available OTC (0.1%) and by prescription. More stable and less irritating than tretinoin while maintaining efficacy for acne.

Copper peptides, most commonly represented by the tripeptide-copper complex GHK-Cu, are small protein fragments bound to copper ions that occur naturally in human plasma, saliva, and urine. GHK-Cu plays a fundamental role in tissue remodeling by stimulating the synthesis of collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and other components of the extracellular matrix. In dermatology, copper peptides have attracted significant attention for their dual capacity to promote wound healing while simultaneously reducing the appearance of aging skin. The copper ion serves as a cofactor for lysyl oxidase, the enzyme responsible for cross-linking collagen and elastin fibers, while the GHK peptide sequence itself modulates gene expression related to tissue repair and anti-inflammatory pathways.

Pomegranate extract is derived from the fruit, peel, and seeds of Punica granatum, a plant with a long history of medicinal use across multiple traditional medicine systems. The extract is exceptionally rich in ellagitannins (particularly punicalagin), ellagic acid, anthocyanins, flavonoids, and punicic acid, a conjugated linolenic acid with potent anti-inflammatory properties. In skincare, pomegranate extract provides multi-pathway antioxidant protection that addresses both lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation. Its polyphenols have been shown to inhibit UVB-induced MMP-1 expression, protecting dermal collagen from photodegradation. Punicalagin, the predominant ellagitannin in pomegranate, is one of the highest molecular weight polyphenols found in nature and is hydrolyzed in the skin to release ellagic acid, which further contributes to tyrosinase inhibition and anti-melanogenic activity.

A naturally occurring antioxidant in the body that decreases with age. Helps energize skin cells and protect against oxidative damage.

An anti-inflammatory peptide that reduces IL-6 secretion, helping to prevent chronic inflammation-driven skin aging (inflammaging).