Update 7/9/22. Wouldn't you love the secret to smoother, younger-looking skin? What do women all around the world know that you need to know? These are two of the questions asked at the beginning of the Principal Secret Reclaim infomercial which you may have seen on TV. It's been a while since I reviewed Reclaim and I thought it was time for a fresh look. The ingredients appear to differ from when I last reviewed it but the principle key ingredient is the same. Let's take a look at Principal Secret Reclaim – and the commercial – and see what we can discover.
Principal Secret Reclaim Ingredients
| Octinoxate (7.5%) | Octisalate (5.0%) | Oxybenzone (3.0%) |
| Water | Octyldodecyl Neopentanoate | Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride |
| Cetyl Alcohol, | Glyceryl Stearate, | PEG-100 Stearate |
| Cetearyl Alcohol | Dipalmitoyl Hydroxyproline | PEG-8/SMDI Copolymer |
| Glycerin | Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 | Sodium Hyaluronate |
| Ahnfeltia Concinna Extract | Glycosaminoglycans | Melon Fruit Extract |
| Banana Fruit Extract | Grape Leaf Extract | Iris Florentina Root Extract |
| Hibiscus Abelmoschus Extract | Tricaprin | Dimethicone |
| Butylene Glycol | Ceteareth-20 | Carbomer |
| Aminomethyl Propanol | Trisodium EDTA | Ethylhexylglycerin |
| Caprylyl Glycol | Hexylene Glycol | Potassium Sorbate |
| Phenoxyethanol |
Read the ingredients from left to right. This tells the relative amounts of each in the skin cream. Of these, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 is the most important because it's mentioned on the product. Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 is the scientific name for Argireline.
What Is Argireline
At the heart of the Principal Secret's Reclaim is an ingredient called Argireline. The scientific name for Argireline is acetyl Hexapeptide-8. Hexapeptide is a fancy way of saying the molecule in this anti-wrinkle cream is made up of 6 amino acids.
At one time, it was said Argireline was the “the secret to the wrinkle reduction power of Reclaim.” Interesting. Does it have any proof? Yes. lets look at it next.
Argireline Wrinkle Research
Researchers in Spain in 2002 tested argireline (10% solution) in women and noted it reduced wrinkle depth by 30% after 30 days of use. Wrinkle depth refers to how deep the wrinkle looks.
One issue with this study was researchers did not tell us how many women were involved. The summary of the study only mentioned “volunteers.” How many volunteers? Was it 5, 10, 100? Generally, the more people in the study, the better the study.
Researchers in China tested Argireline – twice daily – against a placebo in 60 women (25-60 yrs of age) for 4 weeks. These researchers noted a 48.9% improvement in women using Argireline compared to placebo. They also saw a significant improvement in wrinkle depth too.
Another part of this study involved applying Argireline to the skin of old mice. Here, researchers noted improvement in skin texture and an increase in skin collagen production. Various other lab mouse and test tube research also exist too which show Argireline can reduce wrinkle appearance.
Argireline Before & After Results
Watch on my Youtube channel if you prefer
How Does Argireline Work?
The research reveals argireline is basically a Botox cream. In other words, it looks like botulinum toxin but, on a molecular basis, it's a weaker version. Argireline acts similarly to botulinum toxin by temporarily relaxing the collagen and elastic fibers of the skin and temporarily paralyzing the muscles. It works by inhibiting acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter involved in muscle contractions.
This Botox-like effect results in a more smoother skin appearance. The company which makes argireline – Lipotec/Lubrizol (Lubrizol.com) – used to say that “ARGIRELINE® is a safer and milder alternative to Botulinum Toxin.” In a small study, it was noted argireline extended the time between Botox treatments with no side effects.
Argireline is also one of the main ingredients in the anti-wrinkle cream too
One difference between Argireline cream and Botox is argireline is about 4000 times less potent than botox. Some researchers also say argireline can be used between botox treatments and that it might reduce the frequency of botox treatments.
Argireline Before & After Results
Watch on my YouTube channel if you prefer
Can You Buy Argireline?
Yes. Here are some argireline serums I found.
Argireline Side Effects
Principal Secret Reclaim is safe according to research. It may be wise to first use it on a small patch of skin first to see what happens. Some online testimonials have mentioned the cream might (again, in theory), temporarily relax more muscles than you want to relax. This may cause temporary skin sagging. There is no proof of this happening. If it happens, I think the risk may be low.
- To be safe, don't use it during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
- Don't combine with Botox unless your dermatologist says it's okay
- Injecting Argireline is not recommended
- Does it work on all skin types? I don't recall any study mentioning if Argireline works as well on black vs. white skin for example. My guess is it probably does. Most research involves women but it probably also fades facial wrinkles in men as well.
Is Victoria Principal A Chemist?
Back when this stuff was sold via a 30-minute infomercial, it was said Victoria Principal is a “member of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists.” I thought this was interesting because as far as I know Victoria Principal has no formal scientific training. I'm sure many of those on her team are though.
I went to website of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (scconline.org) and discovered anybody can download a membership application. A basic membership costs $140. It looks like anybody can be a “member” if you pay $140 and provide a few references.
The Catherine Crier Interview
In one of the infomercials there was a short segment with Catherine Crier that starts out this way: “And here to get to the facts and science behind Principal Secret Reclaim's astonishing results is television news journalist Catherine Crier.”
The segment starts out with Catherine Crier saying to Victoria Principal “Welcome” – as if Victoria Principal has shown up to the set of some TV interview show. But, since this is a commercial for Victoria Principal's product, it's actually Catherine Crier who is the “guest.”
Many infomercials look like “interview shows.” For example, you may remember seeing the commercial for the arthritis supplement called Supple which to me, looked almost like the set of the Larry King Show!
Speaking of Larry King, he's still doing infomercials for Omega XL supplements.
Does Reclaim (Argireline) Work?
Since Argireline is a weaker version of botox, makes sense women and men might notice a temporary reduction in facial wrinkles. That said, I recommend speaking to a dermatologist or esthetician before trying any Argireline skin creams.
I have been using Advanced for about 11 years…I have included some of the Reclaim line…and I am very happy with the products…I always get good compliments….I always advice my friends to try….I am going to be 64 years old in January…so happy to be your customer….
Hi Delfina, I’m so glad to hear Principal Reclaim has been working well for you! Happy Birthday too 🙂
I used it for 6 months then stopped and now I’m back, i missed it, its’ a lovely product. My skin feels soft and does look younger it definitely works for me.
I always dispensed product onto the back of my left hand the proof for me is that I noticed my left hand became noticeably less wrinkled.
It’s available on the website and eBay ( be aware of tiny sample products sold for full price )
Hi Michelle, thanks for sharing. Im really glad Principle Secret is working well for you.
I absolutely love this product! After I started using it some of my friends thought I had surgery. I’m on auto ship so I never run out. Highly recommended!
I used Principal Secret for years, until I couldn’t get it any more. It is the best product I have ever used. My skin has deteriorated since stopping. I will search again for where to buy. Love, love her products and book, The Body Secret.
Doogle, happy you liked her product. I just searched online. it is still being sold online at various websites. I hope that helps.
I have used her products for a number of years. I will run out of my supply in the next couple of months and was wondering where else I can buy similar products which will have the same effect on my skin. I am 57yrs old and have enjoyed wonderful younger looking skin due to the reclaim products. Can anyone advice alternative brands please
Hi Sheel, they still sell it on Amazon. Here is Principal Reclaim on Amazon.
Hi Joe,
I just ordered the introductory offer @ $19.95 from the Principal Secret site and am looking forward to using it.
That said, I just wanted to say in response to how the original cast members have aged, not everyone ages the same and some people, such as my Dad, never show their age — he always looked 20 years younger than he was and never used anything or had anything done.
I seem to have inherited this. I consider myself fortunate and am not complaining but as I think Katherine Hepburn once said, there is no pleasure in watching one’s self rot so I decided to order Principal Secret. Plus, I currently live in Arizona where it is miserably dry. Not good for the skin.
Best regards, LeAnn
LeAnn, I agree with Kathrine Hepburn. You are so fortunate to be in AZ as we on the East coast are prepping for a deep freeze later today (8 degrees ouch!). I hope Principal Secret aids to your natural “dick clark” genes 🙂
Hi Joe, I thought this study (which is independent of this brand but a study of the main active ingredient) might be of interest to you. I would love to see what you think.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23146065/
Meg, that’s an interesting study and thanks for sharing it. It was a small study (looks like only 12 people) but it does seem to show that Argireline (acetyl Hexapeptide-8) helps people go longer between botox injections. Looks like the study lasted a few months which is also something Im glad of. Again, thanks for sharing this!
I have been using Reclaim by Principle Secret since 1996 and I have had no side effects and I am 63 years old and I feel like I really have not aged that much. I have no wrinkles or lines around my eyes. I have been very pleased with the product and that is why I have been using it for all these years.
Thanks for your feedback and glad it is helping you!
Hi Joe,
I was interested to read your comments (I was a bit annoyed that you persistently got Victoria’s name wrong – it’s PrinciPAL). I have bought Principal Secret for a few years now and love the products – especially the eye serum and the face serum. I do find, however, that is I have watery eye, the face cream can irritate my eyes, but other than that I find it’s really nice.
I was a friend of Victoria’s on Facebook until she deleted her account, which was a shame. I am a little-known English actress and would be only too happy to endorse her products – for a modest Fee, of course! The only diwnside I find is that the 3-month supply comes relentlessly – whether or not you have used the previous pots up, so I have quite a lot of surplus supplies, but I love the product, and have bought it since it was in the original packaging (pink instead of white).
Best wishes, Cheryl.
Hey Cheryl, thank you VERY much for pointing out my major bonehead blunder in misspelling victor’s last name! I’ve seen her on TV for over 30 years and I cant believe I misspelled her name! I have corrected my mistake and I thank you much for pointing it out to me!
I appreciate your words and happy that her product works for you (other than the eye thing).
I checked out your website and you have definitely shown up in my living room -Dr Who, Sarah Jane and Being Human (love the BBC version!). Keep me posted on your future acting gigs.
As my Scottish relatives like to say, Cheerio! 🙂
I SAW IT ON TV TODAY. I ORDERED THE SPECIAL FOR 19.95. I CAN;T WAIT TO GET IT. I DO HOPE IT WORKS AND LEAVES NO SAGGY SKIN BEHIND THOUGH.
Cheryl, I hope it helps you also! Please do let me know what happens 🙂
Who ever said there was botox in Argireline? No one ever said that.
Denise, if you read check out the Wikipedia page for Argireline, they do say its a form of botox
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Acetyl_hexapeptide-3
So I shouldnt use it? I just ordered it. If it is dangerous then I should cancel it within the 30 days.
Denise, I don’t think its dangerous and you may even notice a difference if it works like I think. Since I have not heard anything about sagging skin etc from this product, I think they may be over hyped and not noticed by most people. I think if this was something that was common, we would have heard of it by now.
I really liked the advanced 3 step. I may change over to the original kit. I think you are allowed to pick 3 products for one price. I just hope the price hasnt gone up too drastically. I used to get so many compliments on my skin. It made me look at least 6 yrs younger.
Denise, let me know about the price. I have not seen it on TV lately, which makes me think maybe the price may have went down. Im not sure. Also check ebay too. Im really glad you’ve had good results with it 🙂
Hi Joe, Its gotten too expensive $59 plus $10 shipping, so I can only afford to order it every 5 mos. People who have surplus sell it on ebay. That is a good idea as it sells super fast.
Denise, thanks for that. Yes, everything can be found on ebay 🙂
Good review Joe, especially your analysis of the advert with Catherine Crier.
Don’t forget everyone, Victoria Principal married a plastic surgeon! Everyone else on the Dallas comeback show has aged considerably and I don’t think Vicoria’s cosmetics will be responsible for her current beautiful looks.
Sandy thanks Im glad you found me. Ill have to check out the new Dallas TV show to see how everybody aged relative to her.
I just discovered your site and so thankful for it. I’m very interested in nutrition and health and it seems everday a new products come out that claims to be the product we MUST have. It’s so confusing and expensive if you try to get them all. I usually search reviews and of course they are always on the site of the ones selling the product so suspect at best. Thanks for non-biased info.
By the way, if the lady Christallin, who posted on here last Dec. is still posting on here, I would love to be your FB page so I can read about the products you use to have such amazing skin.
Cynthia, thanks for the very nice words and I’m glad you found my website 🙂 Yes Christallian still posts here and in case she doesn’t see this, you can find her from my FB page.
Thanks for that review. What can you tell me about Hydroxatone?
Far, Ill be reviewing hydroxatone very soon. Its next on my review list.
I’ve tried Hydroxatone. It does nothing that a cheap supermarket cream won’t do.
This is interesting Joe. The whole promotion of the product is based on the logical fallacy of Appeal to Authority. You brought that up by stating Victoria isn’t a member of the Society of Chemists. She is not a dermatologist or licensed Esthetician either as far as I know. She was on a night time drama 30 years ago and that makes her an expert? Well, people will try anything regardless.
I have flawless skin 🙂 People stop me in the street and everywhere I go asking what I do or use on my skin. The first thing I tell them is that I exercise 5 days a week. I sweat heavily (known to flush out toxins.) I drink lots of water every day and eat a diet high in vegetables and fruit, I discuss some of the skincare products I currently use on my Facebook page, because people always ask.
You can betcha none of what I use costs more than $20.00 (Regenerist moisturizer by Oil of Olay.) In fact my favorite new skin care find is Freeman Feeling Beautiful facial masks and exfoliating cleansers. They cost 1.35 a piece at Walmart.
As with exercise, consistency is the key. Whatever your regimen is, you must do it ALL OF THE TIME. The other thing that is probably most important for those interested in anti-aging is to use a sunblock!!! Even in the winter. Make sure it an SPF of 55 or higher. The sunblock that comes in makeup or moisturizers does not count (unless you can verify the SPF.) Sun damages the skin more than anything except maybe drug and alcohol abuse.
Joe, you will never catch me paying to have botulism injected into my face or any of that other houey. I will be 51 years old on January 2, and I am smoking! See it’s the attitude that counts. Feel good, look good.
God bless you and yours this holiday season.
P.S. You got me started again!
Christallin, thanks for your feedback and Merry Christmas AND Happy Birthday!
I have that getting started effect on people I guess 🙂
I am more interested in the skincare that you use. Could you share some eye creams or other face care you use