HYALU OTC
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EV HYALU SERUM
HYALU ₹1,199 incl. of all taxes
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Anti-Pigmentation Evidence 
01 / 01
01 / 01 Anti-Pigmentation
LIFTAGE SERUM
UBIK
30ML
₹1,399 M.R.P.: ₹1,399 (incl. of all taxes) Free delivery above ₹499
Clinical Efficacy Markers
- Acetyl Hexapeptide-8
- Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1
- Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7
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The Science of Anti-Pigmentation
UBIK LIFTAGE SERUM (30ML)
Drug Facts
Active Ingredients
ACETYL HEXAPEPTIDE-8
PALMITOYL TRIPEPTIDE-1
PALMITOYL TETRAPEPTIDE-7
Full Ingredient List
Aqua, Glycerine, Dimethicone, Diethylamino Hydroxybenzoyl Hexyl Benzoate, Niacinamide, Sodium Hyaluronate, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Retinol Encapsulated, Arbutin, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearic Acid, Isopropyl Myristate, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethiconol, PEG 100 Glyceryl Stearate, Carbomer, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Fragrance, Disodium EDTA
⚑ Contains photosensitising ingredient(s) — pair with SPF 50+.
INGREDIENT · RETINOID, VITAMIN A DERIVATIVE
Retinol
also known as Vitamin A, Retinyl Alcohol
Evidence
Function
May help support skin cell turnover, collagen synthesis, and reduction of fine lines and wrinkles through vitamin A receptor activation
How it works
Retinol undergoes metabolic conversion to retinaldehyde and retinoic acid, which bind to nuclear retinoid receptors (RAR and RXR) in keratinocytes and fibroblasts. This activation has been shown to upregulate genes involved in collagen synthesis, cell proliferation, and differentiation while potentially downregulating matrix metalloproteinases. Research indicates retinol may also support mitochondrial function and counteract photo-oxidative stress in dermal fibroblasts through multiple signaling pathways including those related to cellular senescence.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Retinol may carry heightened irritation risk in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types and requires cautious introduction due to increased melanin content and barrier sensitivity. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a significant concern in Indian skin populations; initiation at lower concentrations (0.25%) with gradual titration over 4-8 weeks is recommended. In Kerala's tropical, humid climate with high UV exposure, concurrent use of broad-spectrum SPF 50+ UVA/UVB sunscreen is mandatory to prevent photodamage and mitigate PIH risk. Formulations should incorporate stabilizing technologies (such as ethosomes or encapsulation systems) to reduce irritation potential while enhancing permeation without overwhelming the skin barrier. Night-time application and alternating frequency (2-3 times weekly initially) may help minimize sensory irritation and erythema in darker skin phenotypes.
Effective concentration
0.25–1 % w/w (optimal ~0.5% w/w)
Clinical evidence
Studies indicate that ethosomal encapsulation of retinol using TPGS modification substantially reduces degradation rates at room temperature while maintaining particle size stability. Research suggests that optimized ethosomal formulations with binary alcohol systems can achieve enhanced transdermal permeation and drug loading capacity, potentially addressing retinol's chemical instability limitations. Incorporation of antioxidants has been shown to further improve stability profiles of retinol-containing delivery systems.
et al. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that retinoids including retinol remain the gold standard for topical anti-aging treatments, though their application is frequently limited by skin irritation and poor tolerability, particularly in sensitive or aged populations. Studies suggest comparative efficacy between retinol and plant-based alternatives can be evaluated through transcriptomic analysis and collagen synthesis assays in both 2D and 3D skin models. Evidence indicates that retinol's irritation profile may be particularly problematic for certain populations, creating clinical demand for refined formulation approaches.
et al. Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that retinol shows promise in addressing dermal fibroblast senescence, which is a central mechanism of skin aging involving telomere shortening, mitochondrial decline, and dysregulation of signaling pathways. Studies suggest retinol's mechanism may involve modulation of pathways such as TGF-β and mTOR signaling to counteract the senescence-associated secretory pattern (SASP). However, retinol remains constrained by transdermal efficiency and cellular targeting limitations that present opportunities for formulation innovation.
et al. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that retinol has been employed in reconstructed human epidermis models to induce photo-oxidative stress, demonstrating its relevance in studying skin aging mechanisms. Studies suggest that evaluation of anti-aging compounds often involves co-treatment with retinol to assess inflammatory, hydration, proliferation, and barrier-related markers. Evidence indicates retinol's role in photodamage modeling helps elucidate mechanisms of cellular senescence and mitochondrial dysfunction in skin aging pathways.
et al. Biomedicines. 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancycaution
Photosensitivityyes — use SPF
Pairs well with
Tocopherol · Tocopheryl Acetate · Niacinamide · Hyaluronic Acid · Ceramides · Glycerin · Centella Asiatica Extract · Rosmarinus Officinalis Extract
Avoid combining with
Benzoyl Peroxide · Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) at high pH · AHA/BHA (concurrent use may increase irritation) · Tretinoin · Adapalene · Isotretinoin
INGREDIENT · VITAMIN B COMPLEX, SKIN CONDITIONING AGENT
Niacinamide
also known as Vitamin B3, Nicotinamide
Evidence
Function
Barrier support, melanin transfer inhibition, anti-inflammatory, skin tone regulation
How it works
Niacinamide functions through multiple pathways including inhibition of melanosome transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes, thereby potentially reducing hyperpigmentation. Research indicates it modulates skin barrier function by supporting ceramide and lipid synthesis, while simultaneously exerting anti-inflammatory effects through NAD+ pathway involvement. Studies suggest niacinamide's transdermal delivery is pH-dependent, with neutral formulation pH (7.4) facilitating approximately twofold greater skin permeation compared to acidic pH, which may enhance its biological activity.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Niacinamide demonstrates particular relevance for Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types, where post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and melasma represent significant clinical concerns, especially in Indian populations with genetic predisposition to melanin dysregulation. In Kerala's tropical climate with high UV exposure, niacinamide's dual mechanism—supporting barrier integrity against environmental stressors while inhibiting melanin transfer—offers protective benefits without photosensitization risk. Research indicates that niacinamide formulations optimized at neutral pH may enhance efficacy in darker skin phototypes where enhanced permeation facilitates superior melanin transfer inhibition, making it particularly suitable for Indian dermatological practice where melasma prevalence ranges from 8-40% in certain populations. Local humidity and heat may increase transepidermal water loss in tropical settings; niacinamide's barrier-strengthening properties may provide compensatory protection.
Effective concentration
2–10 %w/w (optimal ~4%w/w)
Clinical evidence
Large database analysis examining niacinamide's potential role in skin cancer prevention through supplementation.
Not specified in abstract provided Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that neutral pH (7.4) formulations increase niacinamide skin permeation approximately twofold compared to acidic pH (5.0), with corresponding changes in stratum corneum electrical properties facilitating enhanced transdermal delivery. Studies employed Franz cell diffusion experiments and electrical impedance spectroscopy using human skin models to characterize pH-dependent permeation mechanisms.
Not specified in abstract provided Scientific Reports. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that dissolving microneedle patches containing niacinamide exhibit greater skin-lightening effects than traditional topical formulations for treating melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Clinical studies have validated safety and efficacy with minimal adverse effects when using advanced transdermal delivery systems.
Not specified in abstract provided Recent Advances in Drug Delivery and Formulation. 2026. PubMed →
Systematic umbrella review evaluating nutritional supplements including niacinamide for primary prevention of skin diseases across 9,229 participants, examining preventive effects against ultraviolet radiation-induced skin pathology and other dermatological conditions.
Not specified in abstract provided Preventive Nutrition and Food Science. 2026. PubMed →
Research comparing glabridin with niacinamide as recognized inhibitor of melanosome transfer in UVB-irradiated co-culture systems demonstrated complementary mechanisms for reducing melanin transfer from melanocytes to keratinocytes through dendrite suppression pathways.
Not specified in abstract provided Pharmaceuticals (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancysafe
Photosensitivityno
Pairs well with
Glabridin · Tranexamic acid · Ceramides · Hyaluronic acid · Panthenol · Zinc compounds
INGREDIENT · HUMECTANT, HYDRATING AGENT
Sodium Hyaluronate
also known as Hyaluronic Acid Sodium Salt
Evidence
Function
May help support skin hydration and moisture retention through hygroscopic properties
How it works
Sodium hyaluronate is a sodium salt of hyaluronic acid that may help bind water molecules in the stratum corneum and dermis, potentially enhancing skin hydration. Research indicates it can penetrate the skin barrier when formulated with appropriate adjuvants and amino acids. Studies suggest the ingredient maintains structural stability during gastrointestinal transit and may exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects when combined with complementary actives. The molecule's ability to modulate CD44 receptor expression has been shown in in vitro keratinocyte models.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Sodium hyaluronate has been shown to support hydration in deeper skin tones where transepidermal water loss may be elevated, particularly relevant in Kerala's humid tropical climate where excessive moisture can paradoxically lead to dehydration due to osmotic stress. Research indicates the ingredient does not increase melanin synthesis or phototoxic potential in Fitzpatrick IV-VI skin types. However, formulations should be carefully evaluated as combination products (particularly those with amino acids or cross-linked derivatives) may require stability testing under tropical humidity and heat conditions to prevent degradation. Clinical consideration should be given to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation risk with injectable formulations in darker skin types, requiring careful injection technique and avoidance of trauma.
Effective concentration
0.1–2 %w/w (optimal ~0.5%w/w)
Clinical evidence
Research indicates that sodium hyaluronate combined with amino acids (glycine, alanine, proline) may enhance moisturizing performance compared to mono-component formulations. Studies suggest this combination strategy may reduce dosing frequency and improve hydration efficacy in skin rejuvenation applications.
Not specified in abstract Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. 2026. PubMed →
Research suggests that hyaluronic acid derivatives demonstrate high structural stability across gastrointestinal stages and may exert superior antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Studies indicate efficient intestinal barrier penetration without increased enzymatic degradation, with potential upregulation of CD44 receptor expression in keratinocytes.
Not specified in abstract Foods (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Studies indicate sodium hyaluronate can be successfully formulated in hydrogel systems with complementary ingredients such as xanthan gum, demonstrating adequate physical and microbiological stability over extended storage periods. Research suggests these formulations maintain tunable rheological properties suitable for dermal administration.
Not specified in abstract Gels (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancysafe
Photosensitivityno
Pairs well with
Glycerin · Propylene Glycol · Amino Acids (Glycine, Alanine, Proline) · Xanthan Gum · Panthenol · Niacinamide · Ceramides · Lactic Acid
Avoid combining with
High concentrations of alcohol (may cause osmotic dehydration) · Strong chemical exfoliants at high pH (may impair hyaluronic acid stability) · BDDE cross-linked derivatives in certain formulations (safety considerations)
INGREDIENT · SKIN-LIGHTENING AGENT, TYROSINASE INHIBITOR, ANTIOXIDANT
Arbutin
also known as Arbutin, β-Arbutin, Hydroquinone Glucoside
Evidence
Function
May help support melanin regulation and support more even skin tone appearance
How it works
Arbutin research indicates it functions as a competitive inhibitor of tyrosinase, the enzyme central to melanin synthesis. Studies suggest arbutin may work through modulation of the MITF (Microphthalmia-associated transcription factor) pathway to regulate melanogenesis. The compound appears to deliver hydroquinone (HQ) in a controlled manner to melanocytes, potentially reducing direct exposure to free HQ. Research indicates enzymatic stability and metabolic pathway characteristics may influence the duration and safety profile of skin-lightening effects.
⚑ For Indian skin (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)
Arbutin use in Fitzpatrick IV-VI Indian skin requires careful consideration due to increased risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) if applied before skin barrier is fully recovered from inflammation or irritation. In Kerala's tropical, humid climate with high UV index and occupational sun exposure patterns, concurrent strict photoprotection (SPF 50+ broad-spectrum, reapplication every 2 hours) is essential to prevent paradoxical darkening or PIH. Patients with darker skin tones show greater melanin density and higher baseline tyrosinase activity; arbutin efficacy may plateau at lower concentrations, and discontinuation may result in rapid repigmentation. Monitor for signs of irritation, sensitization, or unexpected darkening; lower concentrations (2-4%) and longer treatment intervals are recommended for Indian skin. Combination with other depigmenting agents should be approached cautiously to minimize cumulative irritation risk in this population.
Effective concentration
2–10 % w/w (optimal ~2% w/w)
Clinical evidence
Studies indicate that naturally derived arbutin derivatives (6'-O-caffeoylarbutin) may resist hydrolysis to hydroquinone through conjugation and steric effects, demonstrating superior enzymatic stability compared to parent arbutin. Research suggests this improved stability may contribute to prolonged skin-lightening efficacy and reduced toxicity concerns. The derivative appears to operate through MITF pathway modulation in melanogenesis regulation.
Authors not listed Chemistry & Biodiversity. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that arbutin formulated in combination with kojic acid within a supramolecular delivery system may demonstrate synergistic inhibition of melanin production pathways. Studies suggest the combination exhibited above 85% antioxidant activity in radical scavenging assays and remained chemically stable for up to 12 weeks under controlled storage. Evidence suggests such multifunctional systems may offer enhanced melanogenesis regulation potential.
Authors not listed Macromolecular Bioscience. 2026. PubMed →
Research indicates that arbutin, when evaluated in keratinocyte-melanocyte co-culture models as a contextual reference agent, may demonstrate a more favorable safety profile compared to certain alternative depigmenting agents. Studies suggest arbutin's in vitro stress signature and inflammatory response metrics warrant continued safety surveillance, particularly regarding leukoderma-related hazard assessment. Evidence indicates comparative safety profiling remains relevant for informing appropriate agent selection in clinical depigmentation protocols.
Authors not listed Molecules (Basel, Switzerland). 2026. PubMed →
Pregnancycaution
Photosensitivityyes — use SPF
Pairs well with
Kojic Acid · Glycolic Acid · Niacinamide · Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid) · Alpha-Lipoic Acid · Retinol
Avoid combining with
Rhododendrol (similar cytotoxicity profile concerns) · High-dose Raspberry Ketone (in vitro data suggests potential for similar stress signatures) · Strong Benzoyl Peroxide formulations (incompatibility/oxidation risk)
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