A firming serum for skin that's lost a little bounce. When skin starts to look less bouncy, it is tempting to reach straight for the strongest actives. HPT6 takes a different route: 10% HPT and a well-known peptide, with no retinoid. epii HPT6 Ultra Drop 10% is a Korean firming serum for skin that is losing a little of its bounce. It is built around 10% hydroxypropyl tetrahydropyrantriol (HPT), a sugar-derived ingredient made from beechwood, with 2% Matrixyl Synthe'6 peptide, panthenol and ectoin. Perfect for: skin losing its bounce, the look of fine lines, mature or dehydrated-feeling skinWhen: after toner, before moisturiser, morning and/or eveningKey ingredients: 10% HPT, 2% Matrixyl Synthe'6, panthenol, ectoinWhy we chose itHPT is a well-established firming ingredient, and 10% is a generous amount. epii pair it with a well-known peptide and comfort ingredients, with no essential oils listed and no retinoid, so it slots easily into a routine that already includes a retinoid or vitamin C. What it doesHPT is used in skincare for the look of firmer, denser, more supple skin. Matrixyl Synthe'6 (palmitoyl tripeptide-38) is a peptide for the look of fine lines and firmness, and it is where the "6" in the name comes from. Panthenol and ectoin keep skin comfortable, and adenosine is there for the look of fine lines. Best forSkin that has lost a bit of its bounceThe look of fine linesMature or dehydrated-feeling skinA firming serum without essential oilsNot ideal ifYou want a retinoid: there isn't one, so pair it with one if you likeYou avoid silicones: it contains vinyl dimethiconeWhere it goes in your routineAfter cleansing and toner, morning, evening or both, before moisturiser. Apply a small amount to face and neck, press it in gently and let it absorb before your next step. In the morning, finish with sunscreen. Pro tip: for an evening routine with no retinoid, use HPT6 after toner, then epii Double Up Cream Ectoin & Panthenol on top. On retinoid evenings, apply HPT6 first and let it absorb before your retinoid. What to expectSkin should feel moisturised after applying. The look of firmness changes gradually with steady use, so give it at least four weeks. Good to knowNo essential oils are listed and there is no retinoid. Stop using it if irritation occurs. epii is a Korean brand from Seoul; the name blends 'epidermis' and 'individual'. Quick facts: 30 ml · 10% HPT + 2% Matrixyl Synthe'6 · After toner, AM and/or PM · No essential oils listed · No retinoid · epii, Korean brand
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