We Tried HydroPeptide’s Reactivate Rx Serum And Reactivate Rx Moisturiser – Here’s Our Report

HydroPeptide’s medical-grade range is formulated using more than 65 clinically proven peptide complexes (yes, that’s right!), working at a cellular level to boost collagen, firmness and elasticity. Does this next generation product duo signal a new era of regenerative aesthetics? Juliet Herd tests out HydroPeptide’s Reactivate Rx Serum and Reactivate Rx Moisturiser Pro-Collagen Night Complex to find out.

C&TH Beauty Lab: HydroPeptide’s Reactivate Rx Serum & Reactivate Rx Moisturiser Pro-Collagen Night Complex

The Product

There was a lot of buzz surrounding the recent launch of this mighty serum and its night complex companion, both available exclusively through UK clinics. Not least because of HydroPeptide’s reputation among aesthetic professionals for going above and beyond in formulation and testing. Peptides may be considered the magic bullet of modern skincare, but the US-based brand was one of the first to harness the power of these canny cellular messengers to prompt the skin to repair, rejuvenate, and well, act younger. A leader in the regenerative field since 2004, HydroPeptide uses pure, clinically proven peptides designed to ensure deep delivery for targeted, visible results. All its products are backed by extensive peer-reviewed research and user trials. Formulations are cruelty-free and clinically clean, made without parabens, sulphates, phthalates or harmful fragrances, to meet high safety standards.

‘This new line represents the next evolution in clinical skincare, bridging powerful, peptide driven science with the results providers and patients demand,’ says HydroPeptide’s medical director Dr Lauren Jamieson. ‘Every formula is designed to support skin health at the cellular level, delivering real results that patients can see and feel.’

The Reactivate Rx Serum is positively stacked with patented technologies to optimise cellular function. It blends NIMNI™ Technology (a collagen support complex created by world renowned scientist and collagen expert, the late Dr Marcel Nimni), Micellular CellRenew-16 (a supercharged ‘hydro-peptide’ to further boost cellular activity and chaperone NIMNI™ Technology into the cells), and cell-targeted actives, to help reduce inflammation, inhibit melanin production and brighten skin.

The moisturiser is an evening cream that includes NIMNI™ Technology, and is paired with gentle 0.25 percent time-release retinol, potent antioxidants, including vitamin C, and structural integrity peptides, aimed at smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, improving skin tone and texture and reducing the appearance of large pores.

HydroPeptide’s Reactivate Rx Moisturiser Pro-Collagen Night Complex & Reactivate Rx Serum

The Test Drive

There’s no doubt that ‘medical-grade luxury’ skincare is becoming increasingly appealing to savvy consumers who want products that are both indulgent and effective. You know the chances of achieving measurable results (typically, the products contain higher levels of potent actives designed to penetrate deeper into the skin’s layers) are greater than if using anything bought over the counter. You’ve also got the reassurance that they’re sold on prescription through dermatologists or aesthetic doctors after an initial consultation. The handy thing about HydroPeptide’s new medical-grade line is that customers can use the website’s clinic locator here to find their nearest one.

New to the brand, I didn’t know quite what to expect but am happy to report that I am now a bona fide fan. So much so that I actively look forward to applying the serum both morning and night. It glides on like a dream with a consistency that means it absorbs quickly and leaves your skin feeling instantly hydrated and plumper. I can’t tell you how divine the smell is – even though it is unscented, the natural components in the formula seem to shine through. Without wanting to wax too lyrically, it’s like being transported to a pine forest in the early morning, the air crisp and fresh. Three short pumps are all you need. It’s the perfect base for the pro-collagen moisturiser, which you are advised to use twice weekly initially, giving your skin time to adjust to its active ingredients. Apart from some slight tingling at the start, I found I quickly tolerated the cream and was able to use it nightly.

The point of including so many peptides in the formulations (together with advanced delivery systems) means that each of the 65-odd complexes can zero in on specific concerns, ranging from redness and dehydration to visible ageing. In my case, a tired, dull complexion, dehydration and general sagginess. Proof that the products are working came when I booked a recent facial and the therapist asked if I’d had any Botox or filler (no) and complimented me on the firmness of my jawline (never one of my strong points!). When she pinched my cheek, the skin appeared to bounce back. After six weeks, texture and tone are visibly smoother and softer, hyperpigmentation appears diminished and my complexion brighter. I really struggle to identify whether any product ever reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and HydroPeptide is no exception. Frankly, though, I’m at peace with my hard-earned frown lines and crow’s feet and will take improved elasticity and firmness any day.

The Verdict

As a pioneering brand in the field of peptides and one trusted by professionals, it seems only fitting that HydroPeptide should launch its own medical-grade line, making regenerative skincare accessible to a growing base of discerning consumers. I will be looking with interest at what it releases next.

SHOP

HydroPeptide’s Reactivate Rx Serum (30ml) is £166, and the Reactivate Rx Moisturiser Pro-Collagen Night Complex (30ml) is £125. hydropeptide.co.uk