Vita-Peptide Intensive Serum 1

Description

The Youth EssentiA system: how it differs from the AVST Step-Up

The Vita-Peptide Intensive Serum 1 is the first step in a vitamin A step-up system that runs parallel to the Skin EssentiA AVST moisturisers — but is meaningfully different in formulation philosophy. Where the AVST moisturisers deliver vitamin A in a cream base as the only active system, the Youth EssentiA serums deliver vitamin A at higher concentrations in a lightweight serum matrix that also contains a comprehensive peptide and antioxidant complex from the very first step.

This matters because it means the Youth EssentiA user is simultaneously building vitamin A tolerance and delivering Matrixyl 3000 (collagen signalling) and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12 (laminin and collagen IV stimulation) at every step of the progression. The two active systems — vitamin A and structural peptides — work synergistically: vitamin A normalizes fibroblast activity and upregulates collagen synthesis; the Matrixyl peptides signal the same fibroblasts through different receptor pathways, amplifying the collagen response beyond what either system achieves alone.

Key ingredients — what’s new in Step 1

Retinyl Propionate (Vitamin A): At the lowest concentration in the system. Retinyl Propionate is a highly stable retinoid ester with excellent penetration properties and a lower irritation profile than retinol, making it the appropriate entry point for mature skin beginning intensive vitamin A therapy.

Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate (Vitamin C): A lipid-soluble, highly stable vitamin C derivative that delivers antioxidant protection and collagen-synthesis support without the pH sensitivity and instability of ascorbic acid.

Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12: A peptide with documented activity on laminin and collagen IV synthesis — the structural proteins of the dermal-epidermal junction. As this junction weakens with age, the visible result is the sagging, looser appearance of mature skin; strengthening it contributes to improved skin firmness and definition.

Ceramide NG: A ceramide identical in structure to those found naturally in the stratum corneum. Essential for barrier integrity — and particularly relevant as a serum ingredient because ceramide loss is one of the primary mechanisms of barrier deterioration in ageing and hormonally depleted skin.

Lycopene: A powerful carotenoid antioxidant — research confirms its UV-stress protective capacity exceeds that of beta-carotene and significantly exceeds that of vitamin E. Particularly relevant in the context of vitamin A therapy, where UV-induced vitamin A degradation is a constant threat to the skin’s retinoid reserves.

Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG): The primary polyphenol from green tea, with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that make it a meaningful additive to any vitamin A formulation targeting photo-damaged and ageing skin.

Who it’s for

Vita-Peptide Intensive Serum 1 is for anyone entering the Youth EssentiA serum step-up system for the first time, regardless of age or skin concern — though it is specifically noted as appropriate for mature and sun-damaged skin. Those with problematic or blemish-prone skin are directed to the Clarity+ range rather than this system. Use a minimum of 2–3 full bottles before advancing to Intensive Serum 2, allowing approximately 10–12 weeks per bottle at twice-daily use.

Important shelf-life note

This serum has an unusually short 9-month unopened shelf life — likely reflecting the formulation complexity and preservative system. Check the date of your product on receipt and store in a cool, dry place away from direct light to preserve vitamin A and vitamin C stability.

How to use

After cleansing and toning with the Vita-Peptide Toner, apply the serum to the face and neck. Follow immediately with the Vita-Antioxidant Defence Crème. Alternatively, mix equal quantities of serum and crème in the palm of your hand before applying. Use morning and evening.

Daily broad-spectrum sun protection is essential when using any vitamin A product.

Ingredients

Aqua (Water), Butylene Glycol, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Glycerin, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate, Sorbitol, Tocopheryl Acetate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate, Sodium Lactate, Hydrolysed Jojoba Esters, Polysorbate 20, Palmitoyl Oligopeptide, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Tribehenin, Ceramide NG, PEG-10 Phytosterol, Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, Carbomer, TEA-Lactate, Serine, Lactic Acid, Urea, Allantoin, Retinyl Propionate, Sodium Chloride, Disodium EDTA, Helianthus Annuus (Sun ower) Seed Oil, BHT, Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, Rosmarinus Of¬cinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Epigallocatechin Gallate, Xanthan Gum, Lycopene, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Ascorbate, Tocopherol, Glucose, Corn Starch Modified Zea Mays, (Corn) Starch, Sodium Benzoate.

Unique Verve is an authorized Environ stockist. Environ products are only available through authorized professionals — purchasing through an authorized retailer ensures product authenticity and proper storage.