The body makes its own growth factors, and they play an important part when skin renews and repairs itself. Their activity slows with age, and skin renews more slowly.
Growth factors in skincare are made using biotechnology. Many are now produced in plants, for example in the tobacco plant Nicotiana benthamiana, and are designed to mimic the skin's own signal proteins. In ingredient lists they often appear as sh-oligopeptide or sh-polypeptide, where sh stands for synthetic human.
In skincare, growth factors can help skin look firmer and smoother and soften the look of fine lines. They feel gentle and are often used after professional treatments and in products for mature skin.
How to use: Apply a growth factor serum to clean skin morning or evening, before moisturiser. Results build over time, so use it consistently.
Good to know: Growth factors are large, delicate molecules. Store the product as directed, ideally cool and tightly closed.
