Oxy-R Peptides

Three routes to the same enzyme

Oxyresveratrol, drawn from Artocarpus lakoocha wood, is one of the strongest tyrosinase inhibitors available in cosmetics, several times the laboratory potency of kojic acid. Tetrapeptide-30 and acetyl glycyl beta-alanine approach melanin production from the peptide side, calming the signalling that tells melanocytes to overproduce. The three together aim at pigment at its source rather than only exfoliating what has already surfaced.

The supporting bench

Gluconolactone, a polyhydroxy acid, and a small dose of lactic acid keep surface turnover ticking so brightened cells reach the top faster, with hyaluronic acid and glycerin holding water in a thin, fast-absorbing gel.

Why two bottles

Oxyresveratrol oxidises quickly once opened. Medik8 splits the 20ml into two 10ml bottles so the second is still fresh when you reach it: roughly a month each at the recommended dose.

The fit

Medik8's pigmentation specialist, built to run under C-Tetra by day and Crystal Retinal by night without adding another acid or a retinoid of its own. Fragrance-free.

Sun spots, post-blemish marks, melasma-prone skin and general uneven tone; anyone who wants a dedicated brightening step that is not hydroquinone, not an acid and not a retinoid; and pregnancy or breastfeeding routines, where most pigmentation actives are off the table.

Worth knowing

Contains sodium metabisulfite, avoid with a known sulfite sensitivity. Fragrance-free. Pigment work is slow: allow eight to twelve weeks, and daily SPF is the other half of the result.

Morning and/or evening on clean, dry skin: two to three drops pressed over the whole face, or concentrated on areas of pigmentation, before other serums and moisturiser. Open the second bottle only when the first is finished.

SPF 50 every morning while using it.

Use alongside

Under C-Tetra Advanced in the morning for the antioxidant-plus-brightening pairing, under Crystal Retinal at night, and alongside Liquid Peptides Advanced MP if both are in the routine, thinnest first. No conflict with vitamin C, retinal or peptides; skip leave-on exfoliating acids on the same night if skin runs sensitive.