The buzzy skincare ingredient works overtime to soften wrinkles and revitalize skin
If it seems like peptide serums are popping up everywhere these days, you’re not wrong. The beauty industry is borderline obsessed with peptides, arguably due to the skincare ingredient’s potential for supporting skin health and addressing common signs of aging.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids. “There are many different kinds of peptides, all designed for very unique functions,” explains Ryan Turner, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and the co-founder of skincare brand TRNR Skin. “Most people look to peptides when they want a product with anti-aging properties. Among other benefits, peptides may help firm skin, smooth fine lines and wrinkles, soothe skin, and brighten uneven skin tone.” That said, despite convincing marketing campaigns, peptides aren’t miracle workers, and Turner says that more research to fully support the benefits of peptides is needed.
However, if you are interested in giving peptides a place in your routine, choosing a serum may be the way to go. “Serums are designed to be targeted treatments, featuring more concentrated actives in a format that absorbs more deeply into the skin than a moisturizer,” explains Turner. “Serums are an especially ideal format for peptides because peptides are very small molecules, so that fast absorption and deeper penetration of a peptide-infused serum can deliver more powerful benefits. That’s not to say you can’t or won’t see results from a moisturizer formulated with peptides—it may just take longer to see results.”
Not sure where to get started? We asked expert dermatologists for their favorite peptide serum picks, studied product benefits and ingredient lists, and sifted through customer reviews to compile this list of the best peptide serums to shop now. Keep scrolling to check out options from Peter Thomas Roth, The Ordinary, Drunk Elephant, and more.
SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum
Pros
Boosts Radiance
Tested to complement neurotoxin injections
Cons
Thin, watery texture might not be for everyone
According to Turner, this new launch from SkinCeuticals "may prove to be a leading peptide formulation based on the active ingredients." Alongside PHA and niacinamide, it's formulated with a peptide complex that features neuropeptides to address nine different types of expression lines, smooth skin texture, and enhance radiance. What's more, the fragrance-free formula has been specifically tested by physicians to complement in-office neurotoxin injections and can be used with retinol.
One satisfied customer writes: "I've been using Skinceuticals P-TIOX consistently for a month now, and I'm pleased with the results. While dramatic changes might take longer, I've definitely noticed a refinement in my skin's texture. Fine lines appear slightly softened, and my complexion has a healthier glow. The serum absorbs quickly and layers well under moisturizer." —Russ
Best Budget-Friendly
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum
Pros
Hydrating
Budget-friendly
Uses four different peptide technologies to address wrinkles and aging skin
Cons
May feel slightly sticky after application
This popular peptide serum further proves that skincare doesn't have to cost an arm and leg to deliver results. Ringing up for less than $35, the formula utilizes four different peptide technologies, plus hyaluronic acid, to smooth the skin, reduce the appearance of existing and dynamic wrinkles, and improve elasticity. On top of all that, it has a glowing reputation for offering skin-plumping hydration and absorbing quickly, and layering well under makeup.
One satisfied customer writes: "This serum is extremely lightweight and has helped strengthen my skin barrier. I use it in the morning and night both and find that it sits really well under makeup. It’s great at making your skin less dry." —mmanasaa
Peter Thomas Roth Peptide Skinjection Amplified Wrinkle-Fix Serum
Pros
Offered in a refill size
Designed to complement the results of in-office injectables
Cons
Some reviewers claim it has a gritty texture
Over-the-counter peptide serums can't truly compete with injectables like Botox in terms of reducing wrinkles, but they can complement in-office treatments. Featuring peptides like Matrixyl, Argireline, and Argirelox, this refillable serum from Peter Thomas Roth was designed with that intention in mind. Not only is it meant to help soften the look of existing expression lines and prevent new ones from forming, but the brand claims it can help prolong the need for an injection treatment by up to six months.
One satisfied customer writes: "I love PTR products, so when this was released I jumped on it. It has no fragrance, melts into my skin and I can use it with all my actives no problem. It's eco-friendly and is refillable, I'm 4 weeks into religiously using this and my 11's have lessened, so have the wrinkles on my forehead." —Drizzydrake 2014
rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
Pros
Gel-like texture
Leave behind a dewy, glazed finish
Hydrating
Cons
May not be hydrating enough for drier skin types
Hailey Bieber's Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid is a well-deserved viral hit. Formulated with peptides, hyaluronic acid, marula oil, and niacinamide, the silky-smooth gel-serum hydrates, plumps, and evens skin tone and leaves behind a dewy, illuminating finish that wears well under makeup and rivals your favorite pastry. We give Bieber bonus points for the serum's oh-so-chic, minimalist packaging.
One satisfied customer writes: "I always run out of this so fast! It’s the best thing that my skin has met! Ugh, I feel so confident in my own skin now!" —Dulce R.
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Pros
Includes growth factors
Fragrance-free
Targets fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin
Cons
Over $150
If your main goal for adding a peptide serum into your skincare routine is to ward off signs of aging, reach for SkinMedica's wrinkle-smoothing TNS Advanced+ Serum. Each bottle features two separate chambers—one filled with a peptide and growth factor-packed complex and another featuring a blend of plant-based ingredients like marine extract and green microalgae as well as peptides. One pump dispenses both formulas at the same time, and together, they work to specifically address and improve the appearance of concerns like fine lines, sagging skin, and uneven skin tone.
One satisfied customer writes: "This is THE best product I have used. I have results in my skin texture and fine . My skin has never looked this good!!" —Jennifer
Best Drugstore
Olay Super Serum Night Repair
Pros
Budget-friendly
Hydrating
Reduces the appearance of dark spots
Cons
May not be gentle enough for reactive, sensitive skin types
This drugstore night serum scores a stamp of approval from Alexis Stephens, a board-certified dermatologist based in Coral Springs, Florida, and the founder and CEO of Parkland Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery, thanks to its multitasking benefits. "I love this product because the formula includes not only peptides but ingredients like salicylic acid and glycerin to provide faster cell renewal and deep overnight moisture," she explains. "The serum provides multiple skin benefits in one like smoothing lines and reducing dark spots."
One satisfied customer writes: "I started to use this every night, and while I haven’t used it long enough to notice it’s affects on fine lines, I do love how it feels and how it’s made my skin more even toned." —JS
Drunk Elephant Powerpeptide Resurfacing Serum
Pros
Exfoliates
Addresses signs of aging
Cons
Some reviewers complain the product's scent is unpleasant
Using a peptide serum enhanced with exfoliating benefits ensures you'll never forget about the essential, glow-boosting skincare step. This Drunk Elephant formula features 11 moisture-binding signal peptides to assist with firming the skin and plumping up fine lines, plus lactic acid to gently slough off dead skin cells, which in turn helps skin appear smoother and more radiant.
One satisfied customer writes: "This is such a fabulous serum!! It didn't pill with other products. I noticed a decrease in discoloration. My skin looks a lot smoother and feels much softer. I’ve also noticed that there's some bounce to my skin. Overall, great product." —Beaa92
Best for Sensitive Skin
Cetaphil Healthy Renew Anti Aging Face Serum
Pros
Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
Budget-friendly
Hydrating
Cons
Some reviewers claim results take a while to show
When you have sensitive, reactive skin, trying a new skincare product can trigger some anxiety. Will the formula smooth and soothe like its supposed to, or will it flare uncomfortable irritation and unwanted redness? Take some of the worry out of the equation with a peptide serum specifically tested on sensitive skin. This fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formula has a lightweight, gel-like texture and utilizes purified peptides as an alternative to retinol to support collagen production and firm the skin. It's also infused with vitamin B3, vitamin B5, rice extract, and edelweiss extract to soothe, hydrate, and boost radiance.
One satisfied customer writes: "I have very, very sensitive skin, so I always look for brands that won’t irritate my skin. I really like this serum, it doesn’t irritate at all and makes my skin smooth and plump, at a very reasonable price. Definitely recommend." —Love
Youth to the People Triple Peptide & Cactus Oasis Serum
Pros
Hydrating
Fragrance-free
Cons
Some reviewers claim the pump doesn't work well
Did you know that dry, dehydrated skin can make existing wrinkles look even more noticeable? A peptide serum packed with hydrating ingredients can help quench the skin's thirst, plumping up fine lines in the process and giving skin a healthy-looking glow. On top of hyaluronic acid to attract water to the skin and cactus stem to retain that moisture, this fragrance-free gel serum is enhanced with a peptide blend to support collagen production.
One satisfied customer writes: "This is one of my favorite serums. It does exactly what it says it does ! It’s not greasy and dries well into your skin." —Rolu
EIGHTH DAY Regenerative Serum
Pros
Addresses multiple signs of aging
Developed by a reconstructive skin cancer surgeon
Cons
Over $150
Developed by a reconstructive skin cancer surgeon, this luxurious daily serum is fueled by a patent-pending peptide-rich plasma composed of bioidentical peptides, growth factors, and amino acids, along with classic skincare ingredients like glycolic acid, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and manuka honey. According to the brand, the potent formula stimulates the cells to promote skin healing and addresses 10 visible concerns, such as loss of volume and elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles, dullness, redness, signs of sun damage, and dehydration.
One satisfied customer writes: "Omg this is the only serum I will ever use!! My skin is super sensitive and had become irritated from another serum with a ton of fragrance in it. My skin looks so plump, hydrated and healthy now! Only after 3 days!!! I was skeptical about the price, but it works!" —WorkinggirlSF
