Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum Review

Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum
4.4
/ 10
Moisturizing
8.8 Humectancy icon Humectancy
0.0 Occlusivity icon Occlusivity
Review

Does Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum Work?

 
According to CreamScan AI's analysis of the ingredient list, here’s what Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum has to offer:
 
Moderate moisturizing. It has a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.

  

Key Benefits of Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum

 
These are the key benefits you can expect from using Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum:
 

🔵 Lightweight Purely Humectant Moisturizing, Ideal for Oily Skin

According to CreamScan analysis, Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum is quite moisturizing, with a moisturizing rating of 4.4 out of 10.

Is it more humectant or occlusive? Purely humectant. It has zero occlusivity (we didn't find any occlusive ingredients on the ingredient list) and a very high humectancy of 8.8 out of 10, primarily due to the high content of Glycerin (est. ≈4.0%) and Propanediol (est. ≈3.0%).

This humectant-rich product, when used alone as a moisturizer, is ideal for oily skin, providing significant hydration in a lightweight, fast-absorbing formula without any occlusive ingredients.

📌 Certain studies suggest that humectants alone may not effectively moisturize the skin. If you use this product as your only moisturizer, we recommend following it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients.

💧 A Humectant Boost for Any Skincare Routine

But it’s not limited to oily skin - such a humectant boost will also positively contribute to the moisturizing efficacy of any skincare routine when used as a step before applying the main moisturizer. This type of formulation is typically used in serums, where a light, fast-absorbing texture is key.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the moisturizing rating calculation.

📌 Please note that this is not a complete list of benefits. We are in the process of enhancing our AI model to incorporate anti-pigmentation, exfoliation and anti-acne ratings.

Things to Be Aware Of: Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum

 
CreamScan AI identified a few things to consider before adding Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum to your skincare routine:
 

⚠️ If It’s Your Only Moisturizer, It Needs to Be Paired with Some Occlusives

While humectants are highly effective at attracting water to the skin, studies (J. N. Kraft, C. W. Lynde) suggest they may not be efficient when used alone.

One major drawback of purely humectant moisturization is that the water attracted by humectants to the upper layers of the skin can evaporate completely into the environment through transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Adding occlusive ingredients helps seal this moisture into the skin and prevent further water loss.

If you’re using Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum as your only moisturizer, consider pairing it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones. These work alongside humectants to create a protective barrier, locking in hydration and ensuring longer-lasting moisturization. The amount of occlusive needed depends on your skin type - the drier the skin, the more occlusives it requires.

If this product is used not as a standalone moisturizer but as part of your skincare routine, such as a toner or serum, it should be applied before your main moisturizer (unless it's a sunscreen), which will provide the necessary occlusivity on top of it.

⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy

If one of your main reasons for choosing Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, it currently has a zero anti-wrinkle rating.

It contains some ingredients often marketed as effective in reducing wrinkles, specifically sh-Polypeptide-1, sh-Oligopeptide-1, sh-Polypeptide-9, and Adenosine. However, the studies supporting the anti-wrinkle claims of these ingredients provide insufficient evidence of efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards. 

While this does not categorically rule out the possibility that these ingredients may reduce wrinkles, their efficacy is not supported by convincing, vehicle-controlled, double-blind clinical studies - at least none that were available to the CreamScan team at the time of publication.

Therefore, these ingredients do not generate the anti-wrinkle rating.

📌 Moisturizers, when used regularly, are proven to prevent wrinkle formation and even reduce existing wrinkles. Therefore, this product, like any other moisturizer, can deliver some anti-wrinkle effects through its moisturizing action.

Please refer to the Ratings section below for details of the anti-wrinkle rating calculation.

Pros & Cons of Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum

 
Here’s an overview of the pros and cons of Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your skincare routine:
 

🟩 Pros:

✅ When used alone: Provides humectant-rich moisturizing ideal for oily skin
✅ As part of a routine: A humectant moisturizing boost, beneficial for any skin type
✅ Lightweight texture
 

⭕ Cons: 

⚠️ Only if used as a standalone moisturizer - it needs to be paired with occlusives to seal in humectants
⚠️ Questionable anti-wrinkle efficacy
   

Summary: Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum

 
Based on the ingredient list analysis, CreamScan AI suggests that Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum
, when used alone, delivers lightweight, humectant-rich moisturizing, making it ideal for oily skin. As part of a moisturizing routine, it provides a humectant boost, beneficial for all skin types.
 
That said, there are some things about Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum worth noting.
 
Looking at its moisturizing profile, we found that it doesn’t contain any occlusive ingredients, potentially allowing the moisture attracted to the skin by humectants to evaporate. Therefore, if it’s used as the only moisturizer in a routine, it’s recommended to pair it with one that contains at least some occlusive ingredients, such as oils, butters, or silicones.
 
If one of your main reasons for considering Kate Somerville Kx Active Concentrates Bio-Mimicking Peptides Serum is its potential anti-aging effects, please note that, according to CreamScan analysis, its anti-wrinkle efficacy is questionable. None of the ingredients in this product provide substantial evidence of their anti-wrinkle efficacy according to CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards.
 
📌 Fact check. At CreamScan, we are committed to accuracy and fairness. If you spot any errors or something that doesn’t seem right, please click here to let us know. We regularly update the ingredient lists and monitor the latest research on ingredient efficacy to ensure that our information remains as complete and precise as possible. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and does not substitute professional advice. We do not guarantee the efficacy or safety of any product, as individual results may vary.

 

Ingredients

Est. % Ingredient Origin Functions
75
6
4
3
2
1.5
1.3
1
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Est. %
Water
Function:
Origin:
PPG-24-Glycereth-24
Function:
Origin:
Glycerin
Function:
Origin:
Propanediol
Function:
Origin:
Spondias Mombin Pulp Extract
Function:
Origin:
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Pulp Extract
Function:
Origin:
Musa Sapientum (Banana) Pulp Extract
Function:
Origin:
Acetyl Glutamine
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Hyaluronate
Function:
Origin:
Acer Rubrum Extract
Function:
Origin:
sh-Polypeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
sh-Oligopeptide-2
Function:
Origin:
sh-Oligopeptide-1
Function:
Origin:
sh-Polypeptide-9
Function:
Origin:
sh-Polypeptide-11
Function:
Origin:
Panthenol
Function:
Origin:
Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Leaf Extract
Function:
Origin:
Zinc PCA
Function:
Origin:
Caprylyl Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract
Function:
Origin:
Lecithin
Function:
Origin:
Sclerotium Gum
Function:
Origin:
Pullulan
Function:
Origin:
1,2-Hexanediol
Function:
Origin:
Bacillus
Function:
Origin:
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Function:
Origin:
Silica
Function:
Origin:
Adenosine
Function:
Origin:
Benzyl Alcohol
Function:
Origin:
Potassium Sorbate
Function:
Origin:
Butylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Hexylene Glycol
Function:
Origin:
Disodium EDTA
Function:
Origin:
Citric Acid
Function:
Origin:
Sodium Benzoate
Function:
Origin:
Xanthan Gum
Function:
Origin:

Ratings

All humectants
8.8
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Raiting
Humectancy All humectants 8.8 10
8.8
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Occlusivity All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
None
Moisturizing rating
4.4
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Humectancy
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
All humectants 8.8 10
8.8
All humectants
8.8
4
3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
10
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark Occlusivity
None
All occlusives 0.0 20
0.0
All occlusives
0.0
None
Benchmark
20
Ingredient
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
when present at, %
in this formula est. %
Rating
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
n/a
- 0.3 -
Total
0
sh-Polypeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
sh-Oligopeptide-1
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
sh-Polypeptide-9
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Adenosine
-
Ingredient anti-wrinkle power
n/a
when present at, %
-
in this formula, est. %
0.3
Anti-wrinkle rating
0
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Antioxidants
0.3
0.3
All antioxidants 0.6 3 No
All antioxidants
0.6
Sodium Hyaluronate
0.3
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract
0.3
Benchmark
3
Ingredient Est. % Benchmark
Rich in Soothing
0.3
0.3
All soothing 0.6 5 No
All soothing
0.6
0.3
0.3
Benchmark
5

Ingredients explained

Water
Est. %75
Function
Origin
WaterThe most used ingredient in skincare. Its concentration defines the product texture: rich creams may have about 50% of water while a light jelly about 90%. Water doesn’t moisturize the skin by itself and is used in skincare as a solvent for other ingredients.
PPG-24-Glycereth-24
Est. %6
Function
Origin
PPG-24-Glycereth-24
Glycerin
Est. %4
Function
Origin
Glycerin

The most popular moisturizing ingredient in the world. It is a powerful humectant – cheap yet very effective.

Propanediol
Est. %3
Function
Origin
PropanediolAn excellent solvent capable of mixing water with normally water-insoluble ingredients. It also functions as a humectant due to its water-loving alcohol groups. Propanediol can control the viscosity of a product by reducing its thickness.
Spondias Mombin Pulp Extract
Est. %2
Function
Origin
Spondias Mombin Pulp Extract
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Pulp Extract
Est. %1.5
Function
Origin
Mangifera Indica (Mango) Pulp Extract
Musa Sapientum (Banana) Pulp Extract
Est. %1.3
Function
Origin
Musa Sapientum (Banana) Pulp Extract
Acetyl Glutamine
Est. %1
Function
Origin
Acetyl Glutamine
Sodium Hyaluronate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium Hyaluronate

A sodium salt of famous hyaluronic acid. A potent humectant that hydrates the skin, supports collagen function, and fills out small wrinkles. Sodium hyaluronate also offers soothing and antioxidant properties.

Acer Rubrum Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Acer Rubrum Extract
sh-Polypeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Polypeptide-1

Also known as Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor. It has collagen and elastin-boosting effects and can result in firmer, more elastic skin. It has been tested for scar healing, but its use in skincare products is still a bit controversial.

sh-Oligopeptide-2
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Oligopeptide-2

Description is coming soon

sh-Oligopeptide-1
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Oligopeptide-1

Also known as Human Epidermal Growth Factor. It increases metabolism in skin cells and is claimed to improves skin texture and elasticity.

sh-Polypeptide-9
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Polypeptide-9

Also known as Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. It stimulates the formation of new blood vessels, thereby improving microcirculation. It is not well researched for use in skincare and is still a bit controversial.

sh-Polypeptide-11
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
sh-Polypeptide-11
Panthenol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
PanthenolA popular soothing and moisturizing derivative of vitamin B5. Panthenol is particularly beneficial for dry, flaking, burned, or damaged skin. It is used to alleviate the symptoms of a rash, dermatitis, eczema, chapped lips, and sunburn.
Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Leaf Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Cichorium Intybus (Chicory) Leaf Extract
Zinc PCA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Zinc PCAA two-part ingredient: Zinc helps to control sebum and bacteria in acne-prone skin, while skin-identical PCA is a moisturizing humectant. Zinc PCA may even boost collagen production and so is researched as a potential anti-wrinkle ingredient.
Caprylyl Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylyl GlycolAn emollient that improves product spreadability and offers a silky feel on the skin. It also acts as a preservative booster that improves the efficacy of other preservatives. According to the manufacturer, it is also a humectant moisturizer.
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed ExtractAn antioxidant, soothing, and wound healing extract derived from soybeans. Soybeans are a famous source of phytoestrogens - plant compounds that have a similar effect to steroid hormones.
Lecithin
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
LecithinA humectant, emollient, and emulsifier best suited for water-in-oil emulsions. Lecithin can come from sunflowers, soy, and eggs. The downside to lecithin is that it causes an extra burden on the formula’s preservative because it is nutritious.
Sclerotium Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sclerotium GumA thickener with a silky, velvety feel that many manufacturers use as an alternative to silicones.
Pullulan
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Pullulan
1,2-Hexanediol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
1,2-HexanediolA multi-functional formula helper. It is a well-studied preservtive against bacteria and can help pigments and fragrances disperse evenly in a formula.
Bacillus
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Bacillus
Caprylhydroxamic Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Caprylhydroxamic AcidA chelating agent used alongside preservatives in order to boost their antimicrobial activity.
Silica
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
SilicaA widely used cosmetic ingredient with the same chemical composition as the sand found on beaches. A common function of silica is its ability to control viscosity. In certain chemical forms, it can effectively thicken cream-style products.
Adenosine
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Adenosine

A key molecule responsible for energy transportation, signaling, and enzyme activity. Adenosine is a popular anti-wrinkle ingredient, however, the key study about its anti-wrinkle efficacy (1) does not meet CreamScan Research Evaluation Standards as it is not double-blind.

Benzyl Alcohol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Benzyl Alcohol

A multifunctional ingredient that is supplied as a clear, colorless liquid. Its main function is as a flavoring agent and fragrance. It also acts as a broad-spectrum preservative, solvent, and viscosity-controlling agent that thins the product.

Potassium Sorbate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Potassium SorbateA preservative widely used in food and personal care products, available from natural sources or synthetically produced. Potassium sorbate works by inhibiting the growth of yeasts, molds, and some bacteria.
Butylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Butylene Glycol

A clear, colorless liquid humectant that draws moisture to the skin. The humectancy of butylene glycol, owed to its two hydroxyl groups, is quite considerable, although not as powerful as glycerin, which contains three hydroxyl groups.

Hexylene Glycol
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Hexylene GlycolA multifunctional ingredient that is best known for its use as a solvent. It can dissolve both water-based ingredients and oils. For this reason, it can also function as an emulsifier, allowing oil and water ingredients to mix and remain stable.
Disodium EDTA
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Disodium EDTAA synthetic chelator that helps to maintain the look and smell of a product by 'locking up' troublesome metal ions.
Citric Acid
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Citric AcidA gently exfoliating AHA that helps to remove the top layer of dead skin cells. In comparison to other AHAs, citric acid has been shown to be one of the least effective. It is also very commonly used as a stabilizing and pH-controlling agent.
Sodium Benzoate
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Sodium BenzoateA preservative that usually works in combination with other preservatives. It has to be at low pH (<5.5) to be effective.
Xanthan Gum
Est. %0.3
Function
Origin
Xanthan GumA natural multi-functional ingredient that originates from fermented sugars. Xanthan gum acts as a viscosity-building agent to thicken skincare products. It is also an excellent stabilizer and works well to hold other ingredients together.