Having sold out more than 10 times in a short six-month span, the Matrixyl 3000 Collagen Boosting Serum ($40) from Depology is popular among the beauty community thanks to rave reviews from a Canadian esthetician on TikTok. Promising firmer and bouncier skin to reduce physical signs of aging, this serum is now the K-beauty brand’s most popular and best-selling product in its lineup of products.

The serum is formulated with 3% Matrixyl, and the active ingredient is a blend of synthetic peptides that are designed to reduce the signs of aging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “Matrixyl works by enhancing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid synthesis in the skin, creating a plumper and voluminous finish, while concealing underlying wrinkles,” explains Michelle Henry, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin & Aesthetic Surgery of Manhattan. Matrixyl 3000 combines the two synthetic peptides palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 and is shown to be effective in concentrations ranging from 3% to 10%.

Depology, Matrixyl 3000 Collagen Boosting Serum — $40.00

“Matrixyl works by enhancing collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid synthesis in the skin, creating a plumper and voluminous finish, while concealing underlying wrinkles.” — Michelle Henry, MD

Produced naturally in the body, collagen gives our skin firmness and elasticity. The protein also helps retain moisture so our skin stays soft and plump. But collagen production levels decline as we age, resulting in loss of firmness and volume.

Desperate to help improve the look of the deep-set wrinkles that plague my neck, intensified only by years of not wearing sunscreen in my early 20s, yet easily put off by the irritations of retinol, I thought this serum seemed like a promising alternative. According to Dr. Henry, my instincts were on point. “Clinical studies show that Matrixyl 3000 is a faster-acting product, is gentle on sensitive skin and leads to less skin irritation, redness, or dryness,” she says. “And unlike retinol, Matrixyl does not demonstrate an increased risk of UV damage, making it a more accessible skin-care option.” Though short-term studies haven’t identified any side effects of Matrixyl 3000, some people may experience slight irritation or redness whenever incorporating a new skin-care product.

For the past month, I’ve used this serum twice daily. After cleansing in the morning and evening, I let my skin dry before applying two or three drops of the serum all over my face, massaging my forehead lines and the areas around my eyes. Then I apply another few drops of the serum on my neck in upward strokes. After applying the serum, I seal it in with a moisturizer.

While my face looks smoother and more plump after a month of continued use, I’m most excited that the wrinkles on my neck look slightly less pronounced.

The unscented formula is packaged in a 30 mL sapphire glass bottle with a dropper (and a travel size 10 mL version for jetsetters). Though the clear serum is unexpectedly thick and gel-like, it’s also lightweight; it absorbs quickly and doesn’t leave a greasy or sticky feel. Despite experiencing hormonal acne, I’ve found that this formula doesn’t further aggravate it. While my face looks smoother and more plump after a month of continued use, I’m most excited that the wrinkles on my neck look slightly less pronounced.

Though the serum was formulated to target signs of aging, this product also pulls double duty as a soothing moisturizer, thanks to the presence of hydrating ingredients like aloe vera leaf juice, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid. “These ingredients enhance skin-care formulas by acting as humectants, helping the skin retain moisture and experience less irritation,” Dr Henry explains. :Hyaluronic acid can improve the skin’s moisture levels, creating a smoother and more supple appearance. Aloe vera offers soothing and antioxidant properties, while glycerin prevents excess moisture loss and is optimal for dry skin types.” Even without the concerns of wrinkles and fine lines, people looking to achieve a more radiant complexion can use this serum as a hydration supplement. Having seen results in just a month, I’m excited to see what happens after two.