Glow First Priming Serum

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 (ac-KDVY; trade names Peptigravity, Uplevity, Thymulen-4 by Lipotec/BASF) is a biomimetic signal peptide derived from the thymopoietin hormone sequence. Its principal mechanism is upregulation of the elastin assembly pathway — specifically FBLN5 and LOXL1, proteins required to cross-link tropoelastin into mature elastic fibers — alongside collagen I/IV/VI/XIV stimulation and MMP inhibition. Peer-reviewed AFM studies (PMC6208634) confirm dose-dependent increases in keratinocyte cell stiffness and upregulation of ACTN1, ITGB4, and COL17A1. Used at 0.005–2% in serums, ampoules, and eye creams targeting firmness and skin density loss.

Extract from the pods of the Tara plant (Caesalpinia spinosa), native to the Andes; its high tannin content provides antioxidant protection and a gentle tightening effect.

A dimer of glycerin used as a humectant; provides hydration with a slightly richer, more substantive feel than glycerin.

A gold-standard humectant that draws water into the skin.

Extract from Kappaphycus alvarezii, a red algae cultivated for its carrageenan-rich polysaccharides; used as a marine humectant and skin-conditioning agent.

A mineral UV filter effective against UVB and short UVA.

Vitamin E; a lipid-soluble antioxidant that also conditions skin.