AQ Skin Solutions Active Serum 30ml growth factor face serum
AQ Active Serum 30ml bottle and packaging
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AQ Skin Solutions - Active Serum 30ml

£175.00

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Product details

About AQ Skin Solutions - Active Serum 30ml

In short: AQ Skin Solutions Active Serum (30ml) is a daily growth-factor face serum built around OligoPeptide-1 (AQ’s patented GF technology). AQ positions it for the look of smoother, firmer, more even skin with continued daily use — typically assessing results after about six weeks.

AQ Skin Solutions Active Serum 30ml

AQ Skin Solutions Active Serum is a concentrated growth-factor face serum designed for daily use on the face, neck and décolletage. It is built around AQ’s patented Growth Factor (GF) technology — clinically grown fibroblast growth-factor proteins, including OligoPeptide-1, formulated to match signalling proteins the brand describes as present in young, healthy skin.

As we age, environmental stress (including UV, pollution and free-radical exposure) and a natural decline in the skin’s own growth-factor production can leave skin looking rougher, more lined, less elastic and uneven in tone. Active Serum is AQ’s hero topical for supporting the look of youthful skin function alongside a consistent skincare routine.

What is growth-factor serum?

Growth factors are specialised signalling proteins involved in how cells communicate. In cosmetic skincare, growth-factor technology is used topically to support the visible qualities associated with healthier-looking skin — texture, firmness, glow and the appearance of fine lines — rather than acting as a single vitamin or acid.

AQ’s Active Serum is frequently searched for as an “AQ active serum”, “AQ skin solutions active serum” or “growth factor serum” alternative to clinic brands such as ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum. The two formulas are different: ZO’s current serum uses five synthesised human-comparable growth factors; AQ’s Active Serum centres on OligoPeptide-1 within AQ’s patented GF platform, with supporting antioxidants (including tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate / vitamin C ester and tocopheryl acetate / vitamin E).

Key benefits (as described by AQ)

  • Supports the look of reduced skin roughness and uneven pigmentation
  • Helps diminish the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines
  • Aims to give skin a youthful glow
  • Gradually fades the look of sun and age spots with continued use
  • Positions GF technology to support the skin’s own repair-oriented processes
  • Paraben-free, sulfate-free, phthalate-free and cruelty-free (per AQ)

Key ingredients

  • OligoPeptide-1: AQ’s lead growth-factor peptide (fibroblast GF technology).
  • Tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate: a stable vitamin C ester used for antioxidant support.
  • Tocopheryl acetate: vitamin E derivative for antioxidant conditioning.
  • Glycerin: humectant for surface hydration.
  • Lactic acid: mild AHA present in the formula (use sensitively if you are acid-reactive).

Full INCI (AQ UK): OligoPeptide-1, Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Polysorbate 20, Xanthan Gum, Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Lactic Acid, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Phenoxyethanol, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol. Always check the pack you receive, as formulations can change.

Who is Active Serum for?

  • Adults concerned about photoageing, fine lines, uneven tone or loss of firmness
  • People searching for a clinic-grade growth factor serum for face
  • Anyone building a regenerative routine alongside exosome or peptide serums (for example EXO|E or ZO Growth Factor)
  • Those who prefer a non-greasy, fragrance-light daily serum (bergamot oil is present — patch-test if citrus-sensitive)

How to use AQ Active Serum

  1. After cleansing, gently pump a small amount onto clean fingers — press the pump no more than halfway.
  2. Lightly apply over the complexion, neck and décolletage.
  3. Avoid contact with the eyes (use AQ Eye Serum for the orbital area).
  4. AQ recommends daily use; optimal improvement is generally assessed after about six weeks.
  5. Finish morning routines with broad-spectrum SPF.

Product details

  • Brand: AQ Skin Solutions
  • Product: Active Serum (Daily Topical System)
  • Size: 30ml
  • RRP: £175.00
  • Format: Pump serum
  • Technology: Patented growth-factor (OligoPeptide-1) platform
  • SKU (brand): A2-101

Frequently asked questions

What is AQ Active Serum?

It is AQ Skin Solutions’ 30ml daily growth-factor face serum, built around OligoPeptide-1 and supporting antioxidants, for the look of smoother, more even, youthful-looking skin.

How is it different from ZO Growth Factor Serum?

Both sit in the growth-factor serum category. ZO’s next-generation formula uses five synthesised human-comparable growth factors; AQ Active Serum uses AQ’s patented OligoPeptide-1 GF technology. Choice often comes down to brand preference, texture and the rest of your routine.

When will I see results?

AQ notes moderate renewal may appear within about two weeks for some users, with optimal improvement usually assessed after around six weeks of daily use. Individual results vary.

Can I use it with retinol or acids?

Many people layer growth-factor serums with other actives, but introduce one change at a time. Active Serum itself contains lactic acid; if your routine already includes strong retinoids or exfoliating acids, start slowly and buffer with moisturiser if needed.

Is it prescription?

No. Active Serum is a cosmetic skincare product and can be added to basket in the usual way.

Sources

Reviewed 9 November 2026 by Skin by Science against AQ UK product information. Cosmetic product — not a medicine.