DIY BPC-157 and KPV Face Serum Recipe: Peptide Skincare Formula

Introduction to BPC-157 and KPV in Skincare

BPC-157 and KPV are peptides that have gained interest in skincare applications. This guide provides a recipe for creating a peptide-based face serum combining these two compounds. This recipe is for educational and experimental purposes only.

Important Safety Disclaimer

Please Read: This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or skincare advice. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying to your face. If you have sensitive skin, allergies, or any skin conditions, consult with a dermatologist before use. Ensure all ingredients and equipment are properly sterilized. Use at your own risk.

Understanding the Peptides

BPC-157: A pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) that has been studied in research settings for various properties.

KPV: A tripeptide (3 amino acids) derived from alpha-MSH, studied for its potential interactions with cellular pathways.

When combined in a serum, these peptides create a lightweight, easily absorbed formula suitable for facial application.

Ingredients List

Base Ingredients:

  • 30ml Distilled Water
  • 10ml Hyaluronic Acid Serum (or 0.3g HA powder dissolved in water)
  • 5ml Vegetable Glycerin
  • 3ml Aloe Vera Gel (pure, preservative-free)

Peptide Phase:

  • BPC-157 Solution (0.5-1ml of reconstituted peptide for 1-2% concentration)
  • KPV Solution (0.5-1ml of reconstituted peptide for 1-2% concentration)

Additional Actives:

  • 2ml Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) - optional
  • 1ml Panthenol (Vitamin B5) - optional
  • 0.5ml Vitamin E Oil

Preservation:

  • 0.5-1ml Preservative (Leucidal Liquid, Optiphen, or similar broad-spectrum preservative)

Equipment Needed

  • Sterilized glass beaker or mixing bowl
  • Glass stirring rod or sterilized spoon
  • Amber or cobalt blue glass dropper bottles (50ml total capacity)
  • Funnel (sterilized)
  • pH test strips (optional but recommended)
  • Measuring cups and syringes
  • Labels for dating and ingredient listing

Preparation Instructions

Step 1: Sterilize Everything

Clean and sterilize all equipment, bottles, and utensils with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Allow to air dry completely. Wash hands thoroughly before beginning.

Step 2: Prepare the Base

In your sterilized beaker, combine distilled water, hyaluronic acid serum, vegetable glycerin, and aloe vera gel. Stir gently but thoroughly until well mixed. The mixture should be clear to slightly cloudy.

Step 3: Add Optional Actives

If using niacinamide, panthenol, or vitamin E oil, add them to the base mixture now. Stir gently to incorporate. These ingredients should be added before the peptides.

Step 4: Add Peptides (Critical Step)

This is the most important step. Add your reconstituted BPC-157 solution first, stirring gently. Then add your KPV solution, continuing to stir gently. Important: Never shake vigorously as this can denature the peptides. Use gentle swirling or stirring motions only.

Step 5: Add Preservative

Add your chosen preservative according to the manufacturer's recommended usage rate (typically 0.5-1% of total formula). Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution throughout the serum.

Step 6: Check pH (Optional)

If you have pH strips, check that your serum is between pH 5.0-6.5, which is ideal for skin. If needed, adjust with tiny amounts of citric acid (to lower) or baking soda solution (to raise).

Step 7: Bottle and Label

Using a sterilized funnel, transfer the serum into your amber or cobalt blue dropper bottles. Dark glass protects peptides from light degradation. Label with the creation date and ingredients.

Storage Guidelines

Store your peptide serum in the refrigerator to maximize shelf life and peptide stability. The serum should last 4-6 weeks when properly preserved and refrigerated. Always check for any changes in color, smell, or texture before use. Discard if any signs of contamination appear.

How to Use Your Serum

Application Instructions:

  1. Cleanse your face thoroughly and pat dry
  2. Apply 3-5 drops of serum to your fingertips
  3. Gently press and pat the serum into your face and neck
  4. Allow 2-3 minutes for complete absorption
  5. Follow with your regular moisturizer if desired
  6. Use once or twice daily (morning and/or evening)

Best Practices:

  • Always apply to clean, dry skin
  • Use within 2 minutes of cleansing for best absorption
  • Store in refrigerator between uses
  • Use a clean dropper or pour into palm (don't touch dropper to skin)
  • Apply sunscreen during the day when using peptide products

Patch Test Protocol

Before applying to your face, perform a patch test:

  1. Apply a small amount to your inner forearm
  2. Cover with a bandage and wait 24 hours
  3. Check for any redness, itching, or irritation
  4. If no reaction occurs, test on a small area of your jawline
  5. Wait another 24 hours before full facial application

Tips for Success

  • Work quickly but carefully to minimize peptide exposure to air
  • Keep all ingredients refrigerated before and after mixing
  • Use distilled water only—tap water contains minerals and bacteria
  • Don't skip the preservative—it prevents bacterial growth
  • Make small batches to ensure freshness
  • Keep detailed notes of your recipe and any skin observations
  • Consider adding antioxidants like vitamin C for additional benefits

Customization Options

You can customize this serum based on your skin needs:

For Dry Skin: Add 1-2ml of squalane oil or rosehip seed oil

For Oily Skin: Reduce glycerin to 3ml and add 1ml witch hazel

For Sensitive Skin: Omit optional actives and use only the base + peptides

For Aging Skin: Add 0.5ml Matrixyl 3000 or other anti-aging peptides

Troubleshooting

Serum is too thick: Add more distilled water, 1ml at a time

Serum is too thin: Add more hyaluronic acid serum or glycerin

Serum feels sticky: Reduce glycerin content in next batch

Cloudiness appears: This may indicate contamination—discard and make fresh batch

Safety Reminders

Discontinue use immediately if you experience any irritation, redness, or adverse reactions. This formulation is experimental and results may vary. Peptides in skincare are still being studied, and individual responses can differ. Always prioritize skin safety over experimentation.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own BPC-157 and KPV face serum allows you to experiment with peptide skincare at specific concentrations. Remember that proper formulation, sterile technique, and appropriate preservation are essential for creating a safe, effective product. Start with lower peptide concentrations and observe how your skin responds before increasing amounts.

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