close

Up close and personal

Wigmore News had the opportunity to speak with Ian Vitek, HydroPeptide’s Cosmetic Chemist, to discover their approach to product innovation





What does your day-to-day involve?
My days are centred around the fascinating world of formulation R&D, where I focus on creating innovative skincare solutions that deliver both remarkable efficacy and long-term stability. Much of my expertise lies in designing peptide sequences specifically for topical applications; it’s a delicate balance of science and artistry. My goal is to push the boundaries of skincare technology to address complex skin concerns in ways that are both safe and genuinely effective. Beyond the lab, I’m deeply passionate about scientific communication, which takes me to professional events where I share insights on cosmetic science, formulation strategy, and the evolving role of biotechnology in regenerative aesthetics.

How do you approach developing new products?
My approach to product development follows two distinct yet complementary pathways:ingredient research and formulation research. From there, we employ various study methodologies, including in vitro testing, which we do in the laboratory, and in vivo studies conducted with human volunteers. Having worked with topical peptide studies for nearly a decade, I’ve developed deep confidence in these established methodologies, though I recognise they may not always capture the industry’s attention in the way that newer, trendier approaches might. That’s why I’m always exploring additional testing methods, such as ex vivo studies, which bridge the gap between laboratory and real-world applications.
When it comes to in vivo studies with humans, I’ve learned to navigate their inherent limitations thoughtfully. While consumer satisfaction surveys and before-and-after photography provide valuable insights, and we can measure tangible improvements like pore size reduction and wrinkle diminishment, I’m particularly excited by genetic analysis. This deeper level of investigation asks the fundamental question: are we actually enhancing the functional capacity of our genes? It’s this kind of profound, molecular-level impact that truly excites me as a scientist.

What makes HydroPeptide different from its competitors?
What truly sets HydroPeptide apart is that we aren’t just using peptides, we’re driving innovation through creating our own. With more than 20 years dedicated to peptide science, we’ve developed exclusive, patented peptide technologies that you won’t find in any other brand. These are next-level peptides designed for better stability, better communication with the skin, and ultimately better results.
But we don’t stop there. We pair our proprietary peptides with other clinically proven technologies, like vitamin C, niacinamide, and additional advanced peptide complexes, to amplify their performance. Every formula is intentionally engineered, so the ingredients don’t just coexist; they work synergistically. This ensures the skin receives the maximum
benefit from every ingredient.
This intentional approach to formulation is especially important when it comes to peptides. While the term ‘peptide’ is often used as a catch-all for good skincare, from a scientific perspective peptides deliver very specific, measurable results. They are among the most powerful regenerative ingredients available today when designed and applied correctly. That’s why over 95 per cent of HydroPeptide products contain peptides, not by coincidence but by design. It reflects our deep commitment to the regenerative model and allows us to stand confidently alongside other leading skincare approaches while maintaining a distinct scientific identity.

What do you enjoy most about the industry?

What captivates me most about the cosmetic science industry is its remarkable position at the crossroads of scientific innovation, artistic expression, and human experience. This is a field where rigorous research transforms into products that genuinely enhance people’s daily lives and self-confidence, there’s something profoundly meaningful about that translation from laboratory to life.
At HydroPeptide, I have the privilege of working alongside a team that shares my passion for advanced peptide technology and evidence-based formulations. The brand’s unwavering dedication to sciencebased skin health, combined with our pursuit of luxury and elegance, makes each project both intellectually stimulating and emotionally rewarding.

[Peptides] are among the most powerful regenerative ingredients available today...


As a seasoned speaker at Wigmore Presents, what are you looking forward to at WP26?
I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to engage with the continued progression of scientific innovation that my esteemed peers and colleagues will be presenting in 2026. These gatherings represent the cutting edge of our field, and I’m always inspired by the collective wisdom and breakthrough research that emerges from such collaborations.

Dr Lauren Jamieson, HydroPeptide’s Medical Director, will be delivering an introductory address, which I’m particularly looking forward to, alongside world-class speakers who bring
extraordinary knowledge from their respective scientific specialisations. The depth of expertise and the diversity of perspectives at these events creates an intellectual environment that’s both stimulating and transformative for everyone involved.



WHAT ARE THE HERO PRODUCTS AND WHY?


Our hero products embody the very essence of HydroPeptide’s philosophy. They represent the marriage of cutting-edge peptide technology with luxurious, indulgent formulations that transform the daily skincare ritual into something truly extraordinary. Each of these products represents more than just a solution to specific concerns; they are designed to elevate the entire skincare experience, transforming routine into ritual and science into sensory pleasure. Power Serum stands as one of our most sophisticated solutions, meticulously engineered to target fine lines and wrinkles while delivering visibly enhanced firmness and smoothness. It’s a testament to what’s possible when advanced science meets elegant formulation.

Collagen Reactivate PM
was designed to work in harmony with the skin’s natural nocturnal repair processes, supporting endogenous collagen production to improve firmness and resilience
while you sleep.



What do you think are the industry trends to watch?

Several fascinating trends are shaping our industry landscape right now, each representing significant shifts in both scientific understanding and consumer awareness. The conversations surrounding GLP-1 face phenomenon have opened up entirely new dialogues about the interconnection between systemic health and aesthetic outcomes. Similarly, the advancement in eye and lip rejuvenation techniques is pushing the boundaries of precision and subtlety in aesthetic enhancement.

What particularly resonates with me is the growing emphasis on ethical approaches to aesthetics; this represents a maturation of our field that I find deeply encouraging.

Regenerative medicine continues to be a cornerstone topic, especially as we explore its profound implications for longevity and comprehensive skin health.

On the technical front, advanced injectables are evolving rapidly, with polynucleotides, exosomes, and sophisticated combination treatments representing the next frontier of personalised aesthetic medicine. These developments span both the research and development sectors and consumer-facing applications, creating an incredibly dynamic environment where innovation is accelerating at an unprecedented pace. It’s an exciting time to be working at
the intersection of science and beauty.

Recommended
© Wigmore Medical is a registered pharmacy: no. 9012271