This Ingredient Preserved Leonardo da Vinci's Sketches
Now It's In Your Serum
Hello, Gorgeous!
I’m in middle of testing out a few new serums but wanted to share the delightful weirdness of a star ingredient in two new launches.
You know that feeling when you discover an ingredient has a thousand-year backstory? (Probably just me). Meet gallic acid — the unsung hero of both medieval manuscripts and your new favorite serum.
From scrolls to serums
For over 1,400 years, iron gall ink — made partly from gallic acid extracted from oak tree galls (those random weird bumps on oak trees) — was the ink of choice for everyone from monks copying scripture to Leonardo da Vinci sketching his masterpieces. Legal documents, royal records, Torah scrolls — all preserved by this remarkable compound’s ability to bond, protect and endure. It wasn’t just ink. It was history’s way of saying this matters, keep it safe.
Fast forward to 2026, and Cetaphil has essentially had the same idea about your skin.
They just dropped two new serums: Advanced Daily Defense Serum and Repair & Renew Serum. Both are built around Gallic AOX Power, their proprietary complex pairing gallic acid with vitamin E to defend against free radicals, pollution, and daily environmental stress.
I’ve only just started testing them out, but here are the claims:
The daytime formula promises to visibly improve radiance and fine lines from first use.
The overnight version works while you sleep, plumping skin, evening tone, and repairing your skin barrier, reportedly 2x faster than no treatment.
I love the fact that these are Cetaphil products which means they’re targeted for even the most sensitive skin. I’ll let you know what I think after I’ve used both for a few more days, though I’m pretty sure that even medieval monks would approve. Both products are about $20, on Walmart.com.
So what do you think about classic brands expanding their territory to targeted skincare? Let’s meet in the comments to discuss!
Rachel, Your beauty concierge 💋
Quick note: I included some affiliate links and from time to time some sponsored products which means I might earn a small commission on sales made through these links, but I also throw in stuff I love just because. Prices are current at publish time.
Wow interesting that brands are finally tapping into nature's ingredients that have been used for thousands of years - and for very different purposes back then! Look forward to hearing your thoughts on these serums!