March 29, 2023

INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT | Matrixyl Synthe’6

It’s no secret that we’re peptide-crazy at Fountain. Matrixyl Synthe’6 is the newest peptide in the Matrixyl family and one of our favourites for treating wrinkles from the inside. Read on for facts, stats and how to incorporate this regenerating peptide into your routine.

What is Matrixyl Synthe’6?

Peptides signal to the skin that it’s time to produce collagen and hyaluronic acid. Matrixyl Synthe’6 is a peptide that stimulates 6 major parts of the skin:

Collagen I: the main part of the deeper skin layers
Collagen III & Collagen IV: collagens produced for wound-healing
Fibronectin: assists in tissue repair
Hyaluronic acid: improves skin elasticity
Laminin-5: anchors the skin’s layers

Matrixyl Synthe’6 studies

Fantastic news for skincare geeks: independent research shows that Matrixyl can nearly double the amount of collagen that our bodies produce. As for manufacturers’ studies, Sederma found that 2% Matrixyl Synthe’6 applied twice daily for five days increased type I collagen by 105%, type III collagen by 104% and type IV collagen by 42%.

Should I use Matrixyl 3000 or Matrixyl Synthe’6?

Since both Matrixyl 3000 and Matrixyl Synthe'6 come from the same compound, there are overlapping benefits — but they don't do the same thing. Matrixyl 3000 was developed in 2003. This double peptide combines two peptides: palmitoyl ogliopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7. Matrixyl 3000 encourages the skin to produce elastin and collagen, leading to:

Reduced wrinkles
Decreased sagging
Better moisture retention

Matrixyl Synthe’6 is taken to the next level, stimulating more parts of the skin. This means that skin is rebuilt from the inside. You'll see similar effects from both Matrixyl products — they just take different paths to get there. (Personally, we at the Fountain office use as many peptides as we can get our hands on!)

Is Matrixyl Synthe’6 worth using if I use retinol?

The results of Matrixyl in clinical trials are on par, if not ahead, of retinol. Unlike retinol, however, Matrixyl is less likely to cause irritation and negative skin side effects like increased risk of sun damage. If you’ve comfortably incorporated a retinol or retinoid product into your routine, there's no need to throw out your retinol! Matrixyl and retinols work well together. Boost your retinol’s hard work by looking for a Matriyxl Synthe’6 product that treats other skin concerns. The Envy: Anti-Aging Eye Serum treats the eye area with Matrixyl Synthe’6, which is sometimes too sensitive for hard-hitting retinols.

Where do peptide serums fit in my routine?

Unlike vitamin serums, retinoids or chemical exfoliants, peptides are easy to incorporate into your routine. You can expect results after several weeks of regular use. Your peptide serum should be applied after cleansing and before moisturising to make sure the serum penetrates the skin. We’ve combined Matrixyl Synthe’6 with vitamins B, C and E in Timeless X — Brightening to boost your skin’s texture. You can also add a few drops of serum to your moisturiser to shield against dryness or keep things simple by using a moisturiser with Matrixyl Synthe’6 built in, like our Ideal Moisturiser — perfect for keeping your skin healthy and hydrated.