LA LABRetinol + GHK-Cu + Snap-8 Routine
The LA LAB Peptide Face Cream is a 30g day & night treatment built around three actives that each do a different job: Retinol renews the skin's surface, GHK-Cu (copper peptide) rebuilds collagen and elastin beneath, and Snap-8 softens the expression lines caused by muscle movement. Used morning and night as the final treatment step before moisturiser/SPF. For acne-prone skin, retinol helps renew the surface and refine the look of pores overnight while GHK-Cu's repair support helps fade the marks left by past breakouts — if you prefer a lighter, oil-free layer for oily skin or daytime, pair it with the retinol-free Face Serum.
Retinol — Renews the Surface
A vitamin A derivative that converts to retinoic acid in the skin and binds retinoic-acid receptors, driving cell turnover and collagen production. Over time it smooths texture, refines pores and softens fine lines. It is the ingredient that needs careful introduction (see the retinol section below).
GHK-Cu — Rebuilds the Structure
A naturally occurring copper tripeptide that declines with age. It stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis and delivers copper, the cofactor for lysyl oxidase — the enzyme that cross-links and strengthens those fibres. It also supports the skin's own repair and antioxidant pathways, improving firmness and elasticity. That same repair support helps fade the marks left behind by blemishes, improving overall clarity on acne-prone skin.
Snap-8 — Relaxes the Movement
Acetyl octapeptide-3, a topical peptide often called a "Botox alternative." It is a fragment of SNAP-25 that competes within the SNARE complex the nerve needs to release acetylcholine at the muscle, gently reducing the micro-contractions that etch expression lines — topically and far more mildly than an injectable.
Retinol is powerful but can cause dryness, flaking or mild irritation if introduced too fast. Build tolerance gradually.
| Week | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–2 | 2 nights / week | Let skin adjust. Mild tingling is normal; strong burning is not. |
| Weeks 3–4 | Every other night | Increase only if comfortable. |
| Week 5+ | Nightly (and AM if tolerated) | Full routine once skin is comfortable. |
- Weeks 1–2: possible mild dryness or "purging" as cell turnover speeds up — normal; keep it gentle.
- Weeks 3–6: smoother texture and a more even, hydrated look.
- Weeks 8–12: softer fine lines, improved firmness as collagen support builds.
- Acne-prone skin: retinol helps refine the look of pores and renew the surface, while GHK-Cu supports repair and helps fade post-blemish marks over time.
- Consistency matters more than quantity — a little, used regularly, beats a lot used occasionally.
- Patch test on the inner forearm before first facial use.
- Avoid the immediate eye area and any broken or irritated skin.
- Do not use retinol products during pregnancy or breastfeeding — switch to the retinol-free Face Serum instead.
- Avoid layering with other strong actives (high-strength acids, benzoyl peroxide) on the same night unless your skin is used to it.
- Store cool and out of direct sunlight; keep the lid closed to protect the actives.