The secret ingredient to smoothing and plumping skin.
When it comes to classic and hard-working skincare ingredients, peptides are high on most dermatologists’ lists for their anti-aging and skin smoothing benefits. “Peptides are chains of different amino acids that can help stimulate collagen production to help with fine lines and wrinkles,” says David Kim, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at IDRISS Dermatology in New York City.
There are many different types of peptides, all of which have different functions. “Carrier peptides (like copper) deliver minerals necessary for wound healing and collagen production, signal peptides send a message to parts of the skin to stimulate collagen, elastin and production of other proteins, and neurotransmitter peptides block the release of chemicals that lead to contraction of muscles of expression which is why some peptides are thought to have a Botox-like effect,” says Marisa Garshick, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell-New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
“There are also enzyme-inhibitor peptides that bind to enzymes blocking an activity, such as reducing the production of collagenase, which breaks down collagen,” adds GH Senior Chemist Danusia Wnek. You’ll see peptides most often in moisturizers, serums and eye creams.
Another perk is they play nicely with other ingredients. “Peptides are generally compatible with other skincare products and provide synergy to antioxidants, retinoids and acids without additional irritation and often even help to combat irritation that may occur with some skincare products and aid healing,” says Serena Mraz, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist at Solano Dermatology and Associates in Vallejo, California.
So how exactly do peptides work? “They provide a signal to the body that healing or recovery needs to take place and this helps to boost natural collagen production,” explains Dr. Garshick. This translates into firming and tightening skin and improving skin’s texture and the appearance of wrinkles. “It’s important to note that unlike collagen, which is too large to penetrate the skin topically, peptides are shorter chains and are able to penetrate the skin to signal to the skin to boost collagen production,” she says.
The Institute Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab evaluates anti-aging serums, including peptide serums, using laboratory and consumer testing protocols. In the Lab, dozens of women use an assigned product for four weeks and have various images and measurements taken before and after usage. After the study ends, testers provides their feedback regarding ease of use, performance and overall satisfaction. Keep reading for some of our top-tested peptide serums along with dermatologist and editor favorites.
1
Best Overall Peptide Serum
No7 Protect & Perfect Intense Advanced Serum
A winner in GH Beauty Lab’s Anti-Aging Serum study — which took place over four weeks — this serum from No7 increased firmness by 21%, improved skin texture and blurred the look of pores. It contains the powerful peptide Matrixyl, in addition to retinol and hydrating hyaluronic acid. Multiple reviewers said that their skin feels smooth and soft after using, with one commenting “by the time I finished the one-ounce bottle, all of the creases almost completely disappeared!” One thing to note: It may not be ideal for sensitive skin. A few reviewers with sensitivities had reactions to the formula.
2
Best Value Peptide Serum
Olay Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Serum
“This serum is a great option for someone with sensitive skin as it is fragrance-free and helps to hydrate and plump without leaving the skin greasy or feeling irritated,” says Dr. Garshick. A previous GH Seal holder, GH Lab Clinical Data evaluations showed that this product hydrates skin significantly up to 24 hours and consumer data indicated that it could leave skin looking and feeling lifted and firmer after one day. A great value, the formula contains peptides to support collagen production and niacinamide to retain moisture and soothe the skin. Be careful when opening; some users reported issues with the dropper working properly.
3
Best Korean Peptide Serum
Glow Recipe Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum
“Combining peptides, pomegranate seed oil and hyaluronic acid, this serum works to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also helping to firm, lift and tighten the skin,” says Dr. Garshick. She loves that it doesn’t leave skin feeling dry or irritated, as “it also contains squalane to help support the skin barrier and leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth.” Reviewers like the light scent but are mixed on the results; some felt that it was super hydrating but didn’t do much in terms of wrinkle reduction.
4
Best Peptide Serum for Sagging Skin
Colorescience Pep Up Collagen Renewal Face & Neck Treatment
Dr. Garshick recommends this for sagging skin (of all skin types) as it helps to boost collagen and elastin production while remaining gentle on the skin. “It incorporates a blend of 10 peptides, glycerin and antioxidants which help nourish, improve the overall texture and tone and firm the skin,” she says. It’s gentle enough to use twice daily and is designed for the face, neck and decolletage. FYI: A few reviewers noted that the pump breaks easily.
5
Best Peptide Serum for Wrinkles
Mary Kay TimeWise Repair Volu-Firm Advanced Lifting Serum
Gentle enough for all skin types, this GH Seal holder contains a key peptide that helps maintain hyaluronic acid levels to help hydrate and plump skin. It’s non-comedogenic, so it won’t cause breakouts or clog pores. It is on the pricier side, but the results speak for themselves: After 12 weeks, clinical data showed significant improvement in the appearance of deep wrinkles and 91% of testers agreed they were less visible.
6
Best Copper Peptide Serum
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum
Copper peptides do double duty: They help with collagen production and protect against free radical damage. “This serum uses powerful copper peptides, along with a blend of other peptides, amino acids and hyaluronic acid to fight fine lines and wrinkles and improve overall elasticity,” says Dr. Garshick. Plus, it’s moisturizing and brightening. A few reviewers did notice some skin discoloration after using, so you may want to try a test patch before using all over.
7
Best Brightening Peptide Serum
Alphascience Alpha Bright Serum
A true glow getter, “Alphascience’s Alpha Bright Serum contains acetyl glycyl beta-alanine, a skin lightening peptide that acts to block the enzyme needed for pigment production in the skin and prevents pigment from moving to the upper layers of the skin and becoming visible,” says Dr. Mraz. Meaning, it helps even skin tone for an overall brighter complexion. It also has antioxidants, including ginkgo biloba, which gives the formula a unique scent that may not be for everyone.
8
Best Smoothing Peptide Serum
Isdin Hyaluronic Concentrate
Isdin’s silky serum delivers results fast and furiously. The Beauty Award Winner contains two types of hyaluronic acid and peptides to plump both inner and outer layers of skin. GH Beauty Lab data evaluations found that the formulation delivers immediate plumping and smoothing effects and will improve skin’s texture over time. “I love how this serum soaks in quickly and smooths my face instantly” and “it left my skin refreshed,” two testers said.
9
Best Peptide Serum for Undereyes
Revision Skincare Revox Line Relaxer
“Thanks to a combination of five potent peptides and a precise applicator, this serum helps to reduce the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes,” says Dr. Garshick. The GH Beauty Award winner also incorporates hyaluronic acid that helps to plump the skin and reduce dryness. The stainless steel tip allows for targeted (and cooling) application, although some reviewers reported issues with it dispensing product improperly.
10
Best Peptide Serum for Oily Skin
Estēe Lauder Advanced Night Repair – Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex
A favorite of Wnek’s, Estēe Lauder’s classic serum is popular (over 22,000 reviews!) for good reason: “I love it because it feels gentle on my combination/oily skin and yet makes my skin feel and look smoother and firmer,” she says. The luxe formula contains hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and the brand’s proprietary “night peptide” which work synergistically to plump, firm and reduce the appearance of fine lines. While most reviewers rave over the results, a few noted breakouts and irritation from the serum.
11
Best Hydrating Peptide Serum
Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum
“A blend of hyaluronic acid, polyglutamic acid and squalane plumps and boosts moisture levels in the skin, while copper peptides help to increase collagen production,” says Dr. Garshick. The lightweight (and blue-tinted, thanks to the copper) formula absorbs instantly and leaves skin soft and smooth. Make sure to keep the bottle tightly closed as a few reviewers reported leaking.
12
Best Strengthening Peptide Serum
DRMTLGY Needle-less Serum
The name says it all: This twice daily serum improves the overall appearance of fine lines and wrinkles without any injectables. “It contains a blend of peptides, including copper peptides, ceramides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to plump and firm skin, while also strengthening the skin’s natural moisture barrier,” says Dr. Garshick. Be mindful when applying because some reviewers felt the formula was very liquid-y and came out of the dropper quickly.
13
Best Plumping Peptide Serum
StriVectin Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Plump Line Filling Bounce Serum
GH Beauty Director April Franzino loves that this peptide serum is super gentle on her skin, unlike some anti-aging products that can be harsh. She was thrilled with the results as well: “It gave a noticeable plumping, hydrated effect.” Reviewers who have both acne-prone and sensitive skin agree and felt that it left skin plump, firm and smooth, with no irritation. It does have a thicker texture which some say can feel oily on skin.
14
Best Peptide Serum for Instant Glow
Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
Like a drink of water for your skin, Rhode’s glazing fluid contains a hydrating combination of niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid and marula oil. “It leaves my skin soft and smooth,” says GH Beauty Assistant Catharine Malzahn. “I like to apply this gel-like serum after cleansing and before moisturizer — I’ve worn it under makeup without any issues.” One thing to note: some reviewers complained about the “chemical-y” smell.
15
Best Affordable Peptide Serum
Good Molecules Super Peptide
A major bargain at just $12, GH Food Producer Tina Martinez received a recommendation from a dermatologist for this peptide serum and thought it may be too good to be true. “I have been using it for the last month and I feel there is a noticeable difference in my skin and other people have noticed as well,” she says. “I use it nightly before bed and my skin feels more hydrated and healthy.” Many Amazon reviewers agree with this moisturizing effect, although some didn’t see much change in their skin after using.
16
Best Peptide Serum for Fine Lines
Medik8 Liquid Peptides
If fine lines are your focus, look no further. “Medik8’s Liquid Peptides serum is packed with 10 different peptides, including matrixyl 3000, copper peptides, an expression line peptide and carnosine to help firm skin and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Garshick. It also contains hyaluronic acid to moisturize and plump. Beware of bottle malfunctions; a few reviewers struggled with getting it open.
How we test the best peptide serums
The GH Beauty Lab is constantly testing the latest anti-aging serums, including peptide serums, to gauge their efficacy. GH beauty editors scour the market for the newest and most popular serums across various price points and reputable brands and then label-mask the products to eliminate brand bias.
Dozens of consumer testers across a range of ages and skin regularly use their assigned serum as GH Beauty Lab scientists record data on changes in wrinkles, dark spots, pores, skin tone and texture. The Lab analysts also measure changes in skin’s firmness before and after the same time period with the Cutometer machine, which gauges skin laxity. Finally, consumer testers report their feedback, including perceived changes in skin tone, firmness, wrinkles, brightness and softness, plus ease of use. In the most recent anti-aging serums test, 7,820 data points were collected to find the anti-agers that actually work.What to look for when shopping for the best peptide serums
✔️ “Peptides” on the packaging: “In most cases, you can easily find if a product contains a peptide by reading the ingredient label and looking for ‘peptide’ in the ingredient name,” says Wnek.
✔️ Type of peptide: “It is important to look for the specific type of peptides included in a product as some may be preferred for fine lines and wrinkles, while others may be preferred for firming,” says Dr. Garshick. Dr. Kim specifically recommends Matrixyl 3000 as “it is a great peptide blend of Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 + Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 which work synergistically to stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation.”
✔️ Leave-on products: Wnek suggests sticking with products that stay on the skin instead of rinse-off products so that they have enough contact time with skin for optimal benefits.
✔️ Other key ingredients: “Look for other ingredients that may be included in the formulation such as hydrating ones like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, antioxidants or other active ingredients like retinols or exfoliating acids depending on your skincare goals,” says Dr. Garshick.
✔️ A trusted brand: “Choosing a peptide serum from a reputable company with robust clinical data to support claims is always a good idea,” says Dr. Mraz.
Do dermatologists recommend peptides?
Yes, in conjunction with other powerful ingredients. “While peptides alone are not sufficient for a complete skincare routine and research is still ongoing, they help to promote collagen and elastin production, which is important for skin tightening and firming as well as improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” says Dr. Garshick. “Peptides are generally well tolerated by all skin types, which makes them a good option for those with sensitive skin who are unable to tolerate retinoids or other key active anti-aging ingredients.”
Both Dr. Mraz and Dr. Kim agree that peptides are a good component to a strong and effective skincare routine. “I recommend peptides especially for patients in their 30s and older,” says Dr. Kim. “We start to lose a significant amount of collagen in our late twenties so it helps to supplement the skin with peptides and amino acids.”
Which peptide is best for sagging skin?
“While all peptides can help with sagging skin, signal peptides tend to be especially good for those with sagging skin to help firm,” says Dr. Garshick. Matrixyl 3000 is one signal peptide that Dr. Kim recommends both generally and for sagging skin, although “it’s important to remember that any skincare ingredient alone won’t instantly lift sagging skin,” he says. “Skincare products can soften the appearance of wrinkles but they’re not going to erase wrinkles or pick up your skin.”
Do peptide serums work — and are they worth it?
The general consensus among our experts is that peptide serums are effective and tolerable on most skin types but more research would be helpful to understanding their full benefits.
“Peptide serums are often more expensive than bland moisturizers, but an effective peptide often provides a lot more bang for the buck than many other products with active ingredients,” says Dr. Mraz. “Peptide serums also tend to be non-irritating and well tolerated which allows for comfortable daily use.”
Wnek notes that peptides are not only a huge category of ingredients but also a relatively new ingredient in skincare. “There needs to be more randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled studies on specific peptides without the addition of other skin benefiting ingredients to determine the peptide benefits topically,” she says. “However, we have seen products that contain peptides with other skin benefiting ingredients that have shown to provide anti-aging benefits.”