The 16 Best Peptide Serums, According to Dermatologists

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

You probably already know that including a facial serum in your routine is one of the best ways to target specific skin concerns. Vitamin C boosters and retinol serums are some of the more common types of anti-aging serums to tighten, brighten, and firm, but don’t forget about the best peptide serums, either.

“Peptides are short chains of amino acids that play a key role in communication between cells,” says Dr. Daniel Friedmann, a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. “When applied on the skin, they can increase the production of proteins such as collagen, elastin, and fibronectin, leading to improvements in fine lines and wrinkles, elasticity, and firmness.”

That said, there are different types of peptide serums to choose from, depending on the skin concern you’re looking to address. While hundreds of different peptides are available, the most commonly used in skin care are carrier, signal, and neurotransmitter peptides. “Carrier peptides deliver trace minerals to boost collagen, while signal peptides signal different areas of the skin to promote elastin, collagen, and other proteins,” says Dr. Harold Lancer, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Lancer Skincare. “Meanwhile, neurotransmitter peptides are known for their Botox-type benefits.” Neurotransmitter peptides block the chemicals that cause muscle contractions, in turn helping to smooth wrinkles.

To find the best peptide serums, we researched dozens of options and chose them based on expert insights, ELLE editor feedback, and enthusiastic customer reviews. We also spoke with estheticians and dermatologists about the different types of peptide serums available, what to look for when shopping, and how to choose the right one for your skin type. Here, shop the 16 best peptide serums for firmer, glowier skin.

Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir

Individuals of all skin types will benefit from this peptide serum, made with golden vitamin C and niacinamide to minimize the appearance of dark spots and brighten skin. Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology, recommends this serum since it contains two anti-aging peptides, acetyl tetrapeptide 9 and 11, which may help to improve skin elasticity and firmness.

Key ingredients: Golden vitamin C, niacinamide, polyglutamic acid

Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.2/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “I got this product in a holiday package and was instantly hooked. If you want hydrated, glowy skin, use this serum. It performs as well as my fancy serums for a fraction of the price. The minute I apply, my skin immediately looks luminous. This serum increases hydration and prevents skin water loss, making it great to apply before makeup. My favorite combo is using this with the Charlotte Tilbury Magic Water Cream when I want a long-lasting makeup look.” —Danielle James, ELLE.com beauty director

"Buffet" + Copper Peptides 1%

King recommends this peptide serum that is anything but ordinary. The vegan formula combines several peptide complexes with a probiotic complex in a base of hyaluronic acid and amino acids. It’s designed to target fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

Key ingredients: Copper peptides, Matrixyl, ARGIRELOX

Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I have used this skin care every morning for the last month...My skin is smooth and clear. The fine lines are not noticeable. I have had many compliments and am very happy with this product.”

Super Serum Advance Plus

Individuals dealing with discoloration will benefit from this serum, which contains L-ascorbic acid (the most effective form of vitamin C) and a copper tripeptide growth factor. The formula can be spread over the face and neck for a visible reduction in the appearance of stretch marks, scar tissue, and acne.

Key ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C)

Skin type: All

Bottle size: 15 mL

Dermstore rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Dermstore reviewer says: “This is my holy grail serum in my morning routine. I have healed all my acne and use this as my daily vitamin C to aid in healing atrophic acne scars and hyperpigmentation.”

Revox 7

Although this serum comes with a hefty price tag, it contains seven different peptides formulated to minimize the appearance of fine lines around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. The product should be applied before moisturizer, and you can expect to see noticeable results in as little as three months.

Key ingredients: Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-19, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, Acetyl Octapeptide-3, Dipeptide Diaminobutyroyl Benzylamide Diacetate

Skin type: Combination, mature, dry, oily

Bottle size: 0.5 fl. oz.

Dermstore rating: 4.6/5 stars

A Dermstore reviewer says: “I have been using this product for about one year, and it’s a necessary part of my a.m. and p.m. skincare routine. I use it just around my eyes and have noticed a huge difference/improvement in fine lines.”

Replenish and Restore Multi-Peptide Facial Serum

For individuals struggling with excessive redness, this peptide serum can do the trick to provide a more even complexion. The hyaluronic acid and vitamin C mix aids in reducing discoloration while simultaneously soothing and softening skin. For best results, it’s recommended to use this formula twice a day, in the morning and at night.

Key ingredients: Cornus extract, gentiana scabra root extract, niacinimide

Skin type: Sensitive, oily, dry, combination

Bottle size: 3 fl. oz.

Amazon rating: 4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “All the best ingredient in this lovely silky smooth serum that leaves my face totally hydrated and smooth!! Visible results after just a few days of use!! My skin feels twenty years younger!!! Thank you!!”

Peptide Skinjection Amplified Wrinkle-Fix Refillable Serum

Formulated with a 19 percent peptide complex, this serum works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a smooth and complexion. It’s designed to accompany injectable treatments, minus a trip to the dermatologist.

Key ingredients: Amplified Matrixyl, argireline

Skin type: Oily, combination, normal

Bottle size: 1.01 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Love this serum! Super hydrating and a little goes a long way. I have tried other serums and go back to this one every time because I see results.”

Bounceback No Botox Serum

Looking to enhance your collagen levels? This serum combines growth factors, peptides, and stem cells to help stimulate collagen production and repair damaged skin. You’ll also notice a soothing effect with its botanical ingredients, including reishi and B5, providing a spa-like experience with each use.

Key ingredients: Argan oil, stem cells

Skin type: Dry, oily, mixed

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Clearstem rating: 4.9/5 stars

A Clearstem reviewer says: “My skin has never been more bright and blemish free! I love how my skin feels now.”

Timeless Skin Care Timeless Matrixyl Synthe 6 Serum Serum Unisex 4 oz

Formulated with polypeptide Matrixyl synthe’6 and plumping hyaluronic acid, this peptide serum works to enhance collagen production and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. It is best suited for individuals with dry and mature skin, but can be used on all skin types.

Key ingredients: Matrixyl®️ Synthe’6

Skin type: All skin types, dry and mature

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Target rating: 4.7/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “I love Timeless! This is my third serum and I’m still impressed. I bought this one for dermarolling and it didn’t sting or feel sticky. Face is plump and you see results sooner if you have deep acne scars or deep wrinkles. I can’t believe the money I’ve spent, just to have products not work as well as this.”

Super Facial Serum

Although skin loses its elasticity as time passes, there are ways to keep it tight and firm. This serum contains Retinol 8, which is designed to be gentler on the skin, and peptides to brighten, hydrate, and soften for a smoother complexion. The brand recommends applying the serum at night for optimal results.

Key ingredients: Retinol 8, tumeric, peptides

Skin type: Combo, mature, dry, oily

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer says: “Super expensive but it is a GREAT product! It cleared my skin completely up in about three weeks and I use it before I put my makeup on now.”

Truly Becoming Multi-Benefit Peptide Serum

Devoid of over 1,680 substances restricted by the FDA and European Union Cosmetics Regulation Guidelines, this clean serum is suitable for daily use. It uses a polypeptide complex to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while enhancing brightness. Plus, it features multiple weights of hyaluronic acid for a refreshing burst of hydration.

Key ingredients: Poly-peptide complex, marine bamboo, hyaluronic acid

Skin type: Normal, dry

Bottle size: 1.01 fl. oz.

Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says: “Loved this serum. It makes my skin feel so nice and smooth not oily at all…the scent is very nice and not too overpowering. Love how my skin has a subtle glow after application.”

Wrinkle Serum

If you have dry, rough skin, then you’ll want to consider this peptide serum from Vitabrid C12. Formulated with the brand's Secret Code P-151, this serum brightens and smoothes skin for a facial-like finish.

Key ingredients: Niacinamide, jojoba oil

Skin type: All

Bottle size: 1.01 fl. oz.

Nordstrom rating: 4.9/ 5 stars

A Nordstrom reviewer says: “It’s not too thick and goes on very smooth. After using this for four months, it makes my eye area firm and less wrinkly. It is not dramatic but still works for me.”

Oxy-R Peptides Serum

Individuals with sensitive skin will benefit from this peptide serum, which contains brightening peptides to prevent dark spots and hyaluronic acid to leave skin soft and supple. This serum comes in two bottles to increase its potency and longevity, so make sure you follow the directions upon opening.

Key ingredients: 1% Oxyresveratrol (Oxy-R), brightening twin peptides

Skin type: All

Bottle size: 0.3 fl. oz.

Medik 8 rating: 4.6/ 5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “Medik8’s peptide serum is my secret to a skin refresh. Since I’m battling an army of dark spots—and no, I’m not being dramatic, I’ve yet to declare victory over these pesky marks—I need something soothing to coat my skin with in between my retinol days. This peptide serum is basically a refreshing glass of water for my sensitive skin and helps me look younger, smoother, and softer with each use. Plus, it’s the serum I use to activate my Solawave wand.” —Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor

Collagen Booster Firming Peptide Serum

Not looking to spend a lot of money on a peptide serum? Luckily, The INKEY List offers a high-grade formula for $16 per bottle. Packed with two types of peptide complexes, the lightweight serum aims to stimulate collagen production and reduce the appearance of fine lines for a smoother complexion. For best results, apply a pea-sized amount to the face and neck in the morning and at night.

Key ingredients: Matrixyl 3000, Syn-Tacks

Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, oily

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.3/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “For the price, I’m blown away by how much hydration and plumping this gives my skin.”

Micro-Dose Anti-Aging Retinol Serum

Instead of a traditional pore minimizer, opt for this anti-aging serum that combines retinol, peptides, and ceramides to tighten and tone skin. The lightweight, creamy formula keeps skin looking youthful and even-toned with consistent use.

Key ingredients: Pure retinol, ceramides, peptides

Skin type: Normal, oily, dry, combination

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “I used this now for about a month…at first I was using it every other day and progressed to every day now. My skin has never looked clearer. My fine lines have faded so much, my acne scars are fading, and I haven’t gotten a single breakout since.”

Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum

This cruelty-free serum contains polypeptides to help increase collagen and elastin production for smoother and tighter skin. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals with dry skin as it is hydrating and moisturizing with its use of hyaluronic acid.

Key ingredients: Polypeptides, pomegranate seed oil, hyaluronic acid

Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, oily

Bottle size: 1.01 fl. oz.

Sephora rating: 4.7/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer says: “I’ve noticed a visible change in the firmness of my skin and my fine lines. Others made comments on how my skin is looking firmer, too, so it’s not just me! It doesn’t break me out, it actually keeps my skin really smooth and sits well under makeup.”

Immortal nightmilk youth restore facial serum

Add this creamy serum to your skincare regimen if you’re looking for an exfoliating and hydrating product. Formulated with AHAs and BHAs, this serum helps exfoliate, minimize the appearance of pores, and brighten skin all in one.

Key ingredients: Retinol, niacinamide, P5 peptide

Skin type: All

Bottle size: 1 fl. oz.

Ulta rating: 4.8/5 stars

An Ulta reviewer says: “This serum goes on clean–not goopy, oily or thick. My skin drinks this up and feels great when I wake up. I love knowing that this night milk doesn’t clog my pores nor does it come off on my pillow.”

What are peptides?

Peptides occur naturally in the body and, like proteins, are composed of amino acids and influence the cells of the body. “For example, if your skin is losing collagen, peptides can be used to signal the skin to produce more,” says King. “In other words, they act as chemical messengers and are often referred to as signal peptides because they tell cells what to do.”

Friedmann tells ELLE.com that peptide serums pair very well with retinol, sunscreens, and antioxidant products like vitamins C and E. That said, alpha-hydroxy acids can degrade peptides (through a process called acylation), which decreases the efficacy of peptide serums, Friedman adds.

What are the skin benefits of peptides?

Peptides have numerous benefits, which vary based on the formula and ingredients. “Some may stimulate collagen production in the skin, others may stimulate skin cells to turnover more quickly, and others may inhibit the release of neurotransmitters to keep facial muscles from forming wrinkles,” says King.

Dr. Stefani Kappel, board-certified dermatologist and founder of MDAiRE, adds that peptides can enhance skin hydration, support wound healing, and target specific skin concerns. “They may also have antioxidant or anti-inflammatory properties,” she adds.

Who should be using peptide serums?

Everyone can benefit from peptide serums, especially as a preventative measure for common skin concerns that occur with aging. “They are most useful for anyone in their mid-20s and up,” says Lancer, adding that “peptides will help with the bounce and elasticity in the skin, collagen, and tone.”

Still, Kappel says individuals with specific skin conditions or allergies should consider consulting with a dermatologist before incorporating peptide serums into their routine.

How long does it take to see results from peptide serums?

According to Friedmann, the benefits of peptide serums can be seen as early as a few weeks, but it can take up to three to four months to see the full results of an at-home treatment.

Rheanita Reese, a licensed esthetician, adds that the skin conditions being targeted will impact how long it will take to start noticing results.

Meet the Experts

Dr. Hadley King is a board-certified dermatologist, specializing in medical and cosmetic dermatology.

Dr. Harold Lancer is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Lancer Skincare.

Dr. Stefani Kappel is a board-certified dermatologist and founder of MDAiRE.

Dr. Daniel Friedmann is a board-certified dermatologist at Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery.

Rheanita Reese is a licensed esthetician and shop manager of Heyday Preston Hollow.

Why Trust ELLE

As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, ELLE.com is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items.

Casey Clark is a freelance writer from New York City who specializes in beauty, fashion, and mental health. She has written for Allure, StyleCaster, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and numerous other online publications.

You Might Also Like

• The 15 Best Organic And Clean Shampoos For Any And All Hair Types

• 100 Gifts That Are $50 Or Under (And Look Way More Expensive Than They Actually Are)