When Kiehl’s introduced the 1cc CollaShot Plumping Serum ($55 for 30 mL; $78 for 50 mL) earlier this year, it was marketed as a serum specifically formulated for skin changes that may occur after GLP-1 weight loss. Real-world data is now available on the performance of this innovative pink serum.
A post-campaign survey of NewBeauty BeautyPass members in early October revealed that 998 individuals who received the serum through Free Gift Friday and tried it rated it an average of 4.3 stars out of 5. Impressively, 85.4 percent of testers gave it four or five stars, and 62.6 percent claimed it outperformed similar products on the market.
The rapid weight loss associated with GLP-1 medications for weight management can lead to noticeable changes in facial appearance, such as sunken cheeks, reduced elasticity, and thinner-looking skin. While most plumping serums rely on hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin’s surface, CollaShot takes a different approach.
This formula features recombinant collagen polypeptides, synthetic collagen fragments, delivered in supra-liposomes designed to penetrate 10 layers of skin. It also includes rhamnose, targeting visible signs of aging related to collagen depletion, and vegan vitamin B12 for a pink hue. The name “1cc” signifies the recommended daily dosage: two pumps, twice daily.
Dr. Jane Yoo, a dermatologist and Kiehl’s brand partner, explained, “Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin firmness as the primary structural protein in the dermis.” She emphasized that while the serum does not replace injectables, it helps the skin adapt to the changes experienced by GLP-1 patients.
Clinical trials by Kiehl’s involving GLP-1 patients showed a 22 percent improvement in cheek sagging after eight weeks. Overall, skin plumpness tripled during the same period. In a consumer study, 94 percent reported increased skin radiance, 93 percent noted enhanced plumpness, and 90 percent observed more defined facial contours.
The BeautyPass survey introduced the serum to a new audience, with 66 percent of respondents unfamiliar with it before Free Gift Friday. Among the 998 participants:
- 49.8 percent awarded a perfect five-star rating, with only 2.1 percent giving one or two stars.
- 62.6 percent believed it outperformed similar serums (25.9 percent said “much better”), while only 1.2 percent thought it was inferior.
- 61.3 percent found nothing unappealing about the serum, although 16.2 percent were concerned about the price.
- Key appealing features included ease of use (48.5 percent), effectiveness (45.8 percent), Kiehl’s reputation (44.6 percent), and texture (43.4 percent).
- 70.1 percent expressed interest in repurchasing the serum.
- 67.8 percent rated their likelihood to recommend the serum as 8 to 10 out of 10, with a perfect score of 10 being the most common at 36 percent.
Testers praised the serum’s texture and overnight results. Melissa T., aged 45–54, shared, “It absorbs into my skin without leaving residue, and my skin looks fuller and more hydrated in the morning.”
Diane B., a 77-year-old with dry skin, exclaimed, “CollaShot is truly amazing! It has significantly improved my skin’s texture and plumpness.”
Cassie H., aged 35–44, described the gel as “lightweight and bouncy,” quickly absorbed without a sticky or heavy feel, and ideal under cream makeup without pilling. Aura R., aged 45–54, confessed to owning approximately 100 serums but using only five daily, with CollaShot consistently ranking in her top five.
The market for skincare products targeting GLP-1 users is expanding. CollaShot stands out due to its testing on GLP-1 patients and its use of biosynthetic collagen with a delivery system designed to reach beneath the skin’s surface. Feedback suggests broad appeal, as testers ranged from their 30s to 70s with various skin types, all awarding it a five-star rating.
Kiehl’s recommends applying the serum morning and night, with clinical results based on eight to 12 weeks of twice-daily use. The brand positions CollaShot as a supplementary treatment to in-office procedures rather than a replacement.
Methodology: NewBeauty BeautyPass Free Gift Friday post-campaign survey, conducted on October 1, 2026, via SMS to 1,200 members who received the serum. N = 998 members who tried the product.