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icon-reward-boutique-desktop One of my most popular posts on here has been my Curology review, so I think it’s only fair that I disclose that it’s no longer the only retinoid product in my routine. Enter the Peter Thomas Roth Pro Strength Retinoid Peptide Serum. Show Why I stopped focusing on CurologySince my 2016 post, I’ve gone through at least another 10 bottles of Curology with the tretinoin + azelaic acid + niacinamide formula. While I haven’t noticed any further fading of my dark spots, it’s helped keep my fine lines at bay. However it also required me to layer on lots of hydration and emollients to prevent drying out my skin. I had to be super careful with introducing any form of exfoliation to my routine, making sure I allowed for days off in between to not damage my barrier. I have no doubts about the efficacy of the Curology formula, but my skin simply can’t tolerate using it every single day. That’s when I discovered a new form of retinol – granactive retinoid, in the Peter Thomas Roth Pro Strength Retinoid Peptide Serum*. What is granactive retinoid?Aka Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, this is a retinoic acid ester that works similarly to retinoic acid/tretinoin in that it can bind directly with the retinoid receptors of our skin cells without conversion! But unlike tretinoid, granactive retinoid doesn’t irritate our skin! It sounds almost too good to be a true, and in a sense, it is. The only studies done on GR are by the manufacturers and brands. The results are extremely promising, but independent research is required to fully prove its effects. So obviously I had my doubts when using the PTR Retinoid Peptide Serum, but after sticking to it for 6 months, I’m now a granactive retinoid convert! What is it How I use it Best suited for Things to note Packaging Scent Texture Finish Where to buy Ingredients Highlight C9-12 Alkane, Dimethicone, Isononyl Isononanoate, Dimethyl Isosorbide, Trisiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, Polysilicone-11, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate,
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-14, Ceramide NP, Sunflower Seed Extract, Barley Extract, Cucumber Extract, Laminaria Ochroleuca
Extract, Ginger Root Extract, Phytosteryl Canola Glycerides, Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium PCA, Squalane, Tocopherol,
Lecithin, Linoleic Acid, Oleic Acid, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Hydroxystearic Acid, Triolein, Bisabolol, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Ethoxydiglycol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Water/Aqua/Eau, Mica,
Phenoxyethanol. First let’s talk about the 10% Granactive Retinoid claim. The 10% refers to the complex, which is granactive retinoid + the solvent dimethyl isosorbide in a 1:9 solution. So 10% really means 1% granactive retinoid. Misleading claim aside, this serum is full emollients like fatty acids and ceramides to strengthen the skin barrier as well as Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-14 for an anti-aging boost. It’s like a comforting bowl of chicken noodle soup for the skin, except this soup has antiaging properties! Usage ExperienceThe best part of the product? I’m able to use this daily without ZERO irritations. I’ve tried other retinol serums such as the Paula’s Choice 0.3% retinol + 2% Bakuchiol Treatment* and none came close to the PTR in terms of gentleness. As you can see, the serum is super runnyDon’t mistake its gentleness with weakness though. For me this has been just as effective at maintaining my skin health as Curology. Minimal fine lines and plump skin sans irritation, I can’t complain! As for the price, yes it’s steep, but I’ve been using my bottle for 6 months every night, and I’m only about 2/3 way through, which means the entire bottle will last me about 9 months. $110/9 ≌ $12/month, which is actually less expensive than Curology! Other Granactive Retinoid productsI haven’t tried any of these, but if you’re hesitant to drop $$$ on the PTR, here are some affordable alternatives:
Final Verdict
If you've been loving Curology and have seen great results while experiencing no or minimal irritations, by all means keep using it! But if you're like me and prefer gentler products, this PTR serum still delivers results and is a better value in the long run! If it's your first time switching to granactive retinoid and you have doubts about their efficacy, then I'd recommend trying one of The Ordinary options! The PTR serum was provided for review purposes, but all opinions are 100% honest and my own. This post contains affiliate links, and each purchase helps cover the cost of running this blog at no extra cost to you! Full disclosure policy What is retinoid peptide?Retinoids. 'Retinoids' is an umbrella term for vitamin A. The two main retinoids are retinol and tretinoin, the latter of which is prescription-only. Retinol appears in many serums and creams, both professional and supermarket. Just like peptides, retinol smooths wrinkles and tightens the skin.
What is Granactive retinoid?Granactive retinoid, or hydroxypinacolone retinoate, is a synthetic retinoic acid ester. This active compound is a derivative of Vitamin A-- one of the most studied ingredients for preventing and reversing the signs of aging and photo-damage.
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