DIY Triple Peptide Face Cream: SNAP-8, GHK-Cu & BPC-157 Formula

Introduction to Triple Peptide Face Cream

This advanced DIY face cream combines three powerful peptides: SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3), GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide), and BPC-157. This comprehensive formula creates a luxurious, multi-functional cream for experimental skincare enthusiasts. This recipe is for educational and experimental purposes only.

Important Safety Disclaimer

Please Read Carefully: This recipe is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or skincare advice. This is an advanced formulation requiring careful attention to temperature, pH, and sterile technique. Always perform a patch test 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 Peptide Trio

SNAP-8 (Acetyl Octapeptide-3): An octapeptide (8 amino acids) that has been studied in research settings for various properties related to neurotransmitter pathways.

GHK-Cu (Copper Peptide): A tripeptide-mineral complex consisting of glycyl-L-histidyl-L-lysine bound to copper, naturally occurring in human plasma.

BPC-157: A pentadecapeptide (15 amino acids) derived from a protective protein, studied for various cellular interactions.

Together, these peptides create a comprehensive anti-aging and skin-supporting formulation.

Complete Ingredients List

Phase A - Water Phase:

  • 35ml Distilled Water
  • 5ml Hyaluronic Acid Serum (or 0.5g HA powder)
  • 3ml Vegetable Glycerin
  • 2ml Aloe Vera Gel (pure)
  • 1ml Panthenol (Vitamin B5)

Phase B - Oil Phase:

  • 8ml Jojoba Oil
  • 5ml Sweet Almond Oil
  • 3ml Rosehip Seed Oil
  • 4g Emulsifying Wax NF
  • 1g Cetyl Alcohol (optional, for texture)
  • 2ml Vitamin E Oil

Phase C - Peptide & Active Phase (Cool Down):

  • SNAP-8 Solution (0.5-1ml for 1-2% concentration)
  • GHK-Cu Solution (0.5-1ml for 1-2% concentration)
  • BPC-157 Solution (0.5-1ml for 1-2% concentration)
  • 2ml Niacinamide (optional)
  • 1ml Caffeine Solution 5% (optional, for under-eye area)

Phase D - Preservation:

  • 0.5-1ml Broad-spectrum Preservative (Leucidal Liquid or Optiphen)
  • Optional: 3-5 drops Essential Oil (lavender, frankincense, or rose)

Equipment Required

  • Double boiler or two heat-safe glass bowls
  • Digital thermometer (essential for accuracy)
  • Stick blender or hand mixer
  • Glass stirring rods or spoons
  • Sterilized glass jars or airless pump bottles (60ml capacity)
  • pH test strips (pH 5.0-6.5 range)
  • Measuring cups, spoons, and syringes
  • Funnel (sterilized)
  • Labels

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Sterilize and Prepare Workspace

Sterilize all equipment, containers, and utensils with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Allow to air dry completely. Set up your double boiler. Wash hands thoroughly and consider wearing gloves.

Step 2: Prepare Phase A (Water Phase)

In a heat-safe glass container, combine distilled water, hyaluronic acid serum, vegetable glycerin, aloe vera gel, and panthenol. Mix gently. Place in double boiler and heat to 70-75°C (158-167°F). Monitor temperature with thermometer.

Step 3: Prepare Phase B (Oil Phase)

In a separate heat-safe container, combine jojoba oil, sweet almond oil, rosehip seed oil, emulsifying wax, cetyl alcohol (if using), and vitamin E oil. Heat in double boiler to the same temperature as Phase A (70-75°C). Stir occasionally until emulsifying wax is completely melted and clear.

Step 4: Combine Phases A and B

Remove both phases from heat. Slowly pour Phase B (oil) into Phase A (water) while stirring continuously with a glass rod. Once combined, use stick blender to blend for 2-3 minutes. The mixture will begin to emulsify and turn white/creamy.

Step 5: Cool Down Period

Continue stirring occasionally as the mixture cools. Monitor temperature carefully. The cream will thicken as it cools. This cooling period is critical—you must wait until the temperature drops to 40°C (104°F) or below before adding peptides.

Step 6: Add Phase C - Peptides (CRITICAL STEP)

Once cooled to 40°C or below, add your peptides one at a time:

  1. Add SNAP-8 solution, stir gently for 30 seconds
  2. Add GHK-Cu solution, stir gently for 30 seconds
  3. Add BPC-157 solution, stir gently for 30 seconds
  4. Add niacinamide and caffeine if using

IMPORTANT: Never add peptides to hot mixtures as heat denatures them. Stir gently—do not use stick blender at this stage as it can damage peptide structures.

Step 7: Check and Adjust pH

Test pH using strips. Ideal range is 5.0-6.5. If needed, adjust with tiny amounts of citric acid solution (to lower pH) or sodium bicarbonate solution (to raise pH). Mix thoroughly after any adjustment.

Step 8: Add Phase D - Preservative

Add your preservative according to manufacturer's recommended usage rate. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution. Add essential oils if desired (optional for fragrance).

Step 9: Final Mixing and Cooling

Continue stirring gently as the cream cools to room temperature. The consistency will continue to thicken. Once at room temperature, give a final gentle stir to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 10: Transfer and Store

Transfer the finished cream into sterilized jars or airless pump bottles. Airless pumps are preferred as they minimize air exposure and oxidation. Label with creation date and ingredients. Allow cream to rest for 24 hours before first use for optimal texture.

Storage Guidelines

Storage Requirements:

  • Store in a cool, dark place or refrigerator
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat
  • Use within 2-3 months when properly preserved
  • Refrigeration extends shelf life to 3-4 months
  • Always use clean hands or spatula to remove product
  • Keep container tightly closed when not in use
  • Check regularly for changes in color, smell, or texture

How to Use Your Triple Peptide Cream

Application Instructions:

  1. Cleanse face thoroughly and pat dry
  2. Apply any serums and allow to absorb
  3. Take a pea-sized amount of cream
  4. Warm between fingertips
  5. Apply to face and neck using upward, outward motions
  6. Gently massage until absorbed
  7. Use morning and/or evening
  8. Always follow with SPF 30+ during the day

Best Practices:

  • Use on clean, slightly damp skin for better absorption
  • Layer over serums for maximum benefit
  • Can be used morning and night
  • Pay special attention to areas of concern
  • Use gentle, upward massage motions
  • Don't forget neck and décolletage

Patch Test Protocol

Before full facial application, perform a comprehensive patch test:

  1. Day 1: Apply small amount to inner forearm, cover with bandage
  2. Day 2: Check for reactions (redness, itching, irritation)
  3. Day 3: If no reaction, apply to jawline area
  4. Day 4: Check jawline for any delayed reactions
  5. Day 5: If all clear, proceed with full facial application

This extended patch test is important due to the multiple active ingredients.

Tips for Success

  • Maintain accurate temperatures throughout the process
  • Use a thermometer—don't guess temperatures
  • Never add peptides to mixtures above 40°C
  • Work in a clean, organized space
  • Measure ingredients precisely
  • Don't skip the preservative—it prevents bacterial growth
  • Use distilled water only
  • Keep detailed notes of your recipe and any modifications
  • Make small batches until you perfect your formula
  • Consider using airless pump bottles for longest shelf life

Customization Options

For Dry/Mature Skin:

  • Add 2ml squalane oil to Phase B
  • Add 1g shea butter to Phase B
  • Increase glycerin to 5ml

For Oily/Combination Skin:

  • Reduce oils to 10ml total
  • Replace some oils with lightweight options like grapeseed
  • Reduce glycerin to 2ml
  • Add 1ml niacinamide for oil control

For Sensitive Skin:

  • Omit essential oils
  • Use only gentle oils like jojoba and squalane
  • Start with lower peptide concentrations (0.5ml each)
  • Skip optional actives like caffeine

For Enhanced Anti-Aging:

  • Add 0.5ml Matrixyl 3000 to Phase C
  • Add 1ml CoQ10 to Phase B
  • Include 0.5g resveratrol

Troubleshooting Guide

Cream is too thick: Add 1-2ml distilled water during Phase A in next batch

Cream is too thin: Increase emulsifying wax by 0.5-1g in next batch

Cream separated: Phases weren't at same temperature when combined—remake

Cream feels greasy: Reduce oil content or switch to lighter oils

Cream feels sticky: Reduce glycerin content

Cream has lumps: Emulsifying wax wasn't fully melted—strain or remake

Cream changed color: May indicate oxidation or contamination—discard

Cream developed odor: Bacterial growth—preservative insufficient or contamination occurred

Expected Results Timeline

With consistent use of this triple peptide cream:

  • Week 1-2: Improved hydration and skin texture
  • Week 3-4: Skin appears more plump and smooth
  • Week 6-8: Visible improvement in skin tone and firmness
  • Week 10-12: Continued refinement of skin texture and appearance
  • 3+ months: Optimal results with ongoing improvement

Individual results vary. Consistency is key for best outcomes.

Safety and Quality Reminders

Discontinue use immediately if you experience any irritation, redness, burning, or adverse reactions. This is an advanced formulation with multiple active ingredients—start slowly and observe your skin's response. If making this cream for the first time, consider starting with lower peptide concentrations and increasing gradually. Always prioritize skin safety over experimentation.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own triple peptide face cream with SNAP-8, GHK-Cu, and BPC-157 is an advanced DIY skincare project that allows you to combine multiple beneficial peptides in one luxurious formulation. Success requires attention to detail, proper technique, accurate temperatures, and sterile conditions. The result is a fresh, potent cream customized to your specific needs. Remember that proper formulation, preservation, and storage are essential for creating a safe, effective, and stable product that delivers results.

Back to blog

Leave a comment