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A fountain of eternal youth doesn't exist, but the best peptide serums are pretty good fill-ins for targeting sagging skin. No, they won't transform you into your 17-year-old self, but the popular skin-care ingredient is a powerful agent for minimizing the look of fine lines and wrinkles. Here's the skinny: Peptides are an umbrella term for tiny chains of amino acids. These chains act as molecular-level messengers between skin cells, directing them to address skin elasticity and hydration—two key factors in wrinkle severity. They won't stop the clock—but they’ll theoretically minimize signs of aging, if that's what you're looking for.
Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox, $150
- Best Firming: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum, $295
- Best Drugstore: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream, $68
- Best for Mature Skin: Laneige Bouncy and Firm Serum, $45
- Best Booster: Medik8 Liquid Peptides, $66
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr. Few Clean Retinol, $195
- Best for Face and Neck: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum, $188
- Best for Dry Skin: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum, $20
- Best for Dry Skin: Alastin Skincare Restorative Skin Complex, $230
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- What are peptides?
- How do peptides benefit the skin?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: SkinCeuticals P-Tiox
SkinCeuticals
P-Tiox
SkinCeuticals
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Why it's worth it: We can go on about the science of the SkinCeuticals P-Tiox Serum’s powerhouse peptide duo, but here are the basics: The neuropeptides in this formula target expression lines that neuromodulators like Botox can't, like those around the mouth. On top of its sag- and line-reducing properties, P-Tiox is infused with brightening niacinamide and laminaria extract, a seaweed-derived ingredient rich in skin tone-evening antioxidants. David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, notes that the formula includes sensitive-skin-friendly gluconolactone (also known as polyhydroxy acids or PHA) for gentle resurfacing and more effective penetration of actives. The results over time are glowy, glass-reflective skin.
Allure contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai applying SkinCeuticals P-Tiox serum to her face
Deanna Pai
Pai after applying SkinCeuticals P-Tiox serum to her face
Deanna Pai
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
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"A plastic surgeon once told me that I have a very expressive face—which was a nice way of saying my face is a hotbed for expression lines. That's where this stuff comes in handy. The lightweight serum uses peptides to inhibit signals to the facial muscles, kind of like neuromodulators, but on a much weaker scale. Still, I've found that it works wonders for all the little expression lines where injectables just can't help, like around my mouth." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptides (dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate, acetyl hexapeptide-8), niacinamide, laminaria extract, polyhydroxy acids
- Who it’s for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Firming: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
SkinMedica
TNS Advanced+ Serum
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it's worth it: Ask any derm about growth factor skin care, and they'll likely bring up SkinMedica's TNS Advanced+ Serum, the patented formula (since 2000) that started it all. "Numerous clinical studies have since backed TNS growth factors," board-certified dermatologist Mina Amin, MD, previously told us. "It's one of the most clinically supported growth-factor serums on the market, offering firmer-looking skin in as little as two weeks," Blair Murphy Rose, MD, another board-certified dermatologist based in New York City, further supported.
You might be wondering, validly so: What are growth factors? "These naturally occurring proteins stimulate cellular repair and regeneration, boosting collagen and elastin production to improve skin firmness, texture, and overall vitality," Saami Khalifian, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in Encinitas, California, explained. But that's not all to TNS Advanced+'s name—though TNS (tissue nutrient solution) is, in fact, related to the main event, human fibroblast conditioned media. The innovative growth factors are paired with a peptide duo to kickstart elasticity and plumpness even more.
You thought we were done? In the other chamber of the serum's bottle is an antioxidant treatment stocked with marine extract, green microalgae, and more to support cell renewal. One pump dispenses both chambers seamlessly into one silky, lightweight, and fragrance-free formula.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum to her face
Sarah Han
Han after applying SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum to her face
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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"I've heard—and read on allure.com—so much hype about this serum and, coupled with the fact that I hadn't tried growth factors yet, it was a no-brainer. It hasn't been long enough for me to speak on long-term results (I'll update this review at a later time!) but my skin did seem/feel considerably plumper after—and in the morning. I thought the scent would be questionable but it was non-offensive and relatively pleasant. I'm fully aware I'm not considered mature at almost 32 but that doesn't mean I'm immune to future concerns related to the passage of time (what a mouthful)." —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptides (trifluoroacetyl tripeptide-2 and dimer tripeptide-43), human fibroblast conditioned media, Lactococcus ferment lysate, shea butter, glycerin
- Who it’s for: people with mature skin or those looking to prevent signs of aging
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Drugstore: Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Avène
Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Amazon
Dermstore
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: Our sensitive-skin editors have a soft spot for Avène because, even with heavy-hitters like retinoids, the brand consistently prioritizes delicate skin. The French pharmacy brand’s RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream proves that even those with easily irritated skin can get in on the benefits of vitamin A. Featuring 0.1% retinaldehyde (a.k.a retinal, a gentler but highly effective retinoid), it smooths texture, brightens dullness, and supports firmer-looking skin without the harsh side effects. The formula layers in the brand’s signature thermal spring water to calm and comfort, evening primrose oil to nourish, and, of course, peptides to restore bounce. With its velvety, cushiony texture, it delivers noticeable results at a pace sensitive skin can comfortably keep up with.
Allure contributor Annie Blackman applying the Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Annie Blackman
Blackman after applying the Eau Thermale Avène RetrinAL 0.1 Intensive Cream
Annie Blackman
Tester feedback from contributor Annie Blackman
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"I'm new to retinoids, plain and simple. I've been more aware of my frown lines recently and wanted to start my retinol journey. This bottle of Avène goes easy on my skin, has a lovely light and creamy consistency, and paired with my Dieux Instant Angel Moisturizer, it's a total breeze. I've noticed some amped-up glowiness and am eager to see where the whole thing goes." —Annie Blackman, contributor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 0.1% retinaldehyde, thermal spring water, evening primrose oil, vitamin E, peptides (oleoyl dipeptide-15, oleoyl tetrapeptide-31)
- Who it’s for: people with mature skin or sensitive skin who are new to retinoids
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Mature Skin: Laneige Bouncy and Firm Serum
Laneige
Bouncy and Firm Serum
Amazon
Sephora
Why it's worth it: Laneige’s Bouncy and Firm Serum stands out with its cheerful pink formula—and an equally energizing approach to mature skin. A multitasking blend of peptides (acetyl heptapeptide-4, hexapeptide-8, tetrapeptide-2, and octapeptide-3) works to improve elasticity and soften the look of fine lines, while soluble collagen restores bounce and resilience. Peony root and flower extracts add soothing, antioxidant power to brighten and even tone. The formula also features the brand’s proprietary encapsulated formula of vitamin C, vitamin E, and algae oil—tiny, antioxidant-rich spheres that melt the second they touch your skin, nourishing and boosting glow with every application.
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Laneige Bouncy and Firm Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Laneige Bouncy and Firm Serum
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
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“Laneige has always been a win for my sensitive, dry skin, and this serum just proves why. The cherry-pink, bouncy little capsules are super cute on my vanity, but more importantly, the formula is insanely hydrating, gentle, and never sticky. My favorite off-label trick is that I slather it on the backs of my hands to keep dryness at bay.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycerin, niacinamide, peptides (including acetyl heptapeptide-4, hexapeptide-8, tetrapeptide-2, and octapeptide-3, peony, collagen, algae oil
- Who it’s for: people with mature or dry skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Booster: Medik8 Liquid Peptides
Medik8
Liquid Peptides
Amazon
Dermstore
Why it's worth it: An alternative name for Medik8 Liquid Peptides could be "Liquid Magic." Of course, no skin-care product is capable of straight-up magic, but when there are 10 peptides involved, we know something's working. Each peptide has its own specialties; for example, drone-targeted copper peptides are encapsulated in a polymer system that delivers the actives to where they’re most needed in your skin. Expression line peptides help reduce facial muscle contraction by blocking the relevant pathways—thus, resulting in fewer fine lines and wrinkles. As far as where this fits into your skin-care routine, you can use it day and/or night before your oil-based serums (like the brand's vitamin C or retinal serums) and moisturizers.
Former Allure shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis applying Medik8 Liquid Peptides to her face
Angela Trakoshis
Trakoshis after applying Medik8 Liquid Peptides to her face
Angela Trakoshis
Tester feedback from former shopping market editor Angela Trakoshis
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"This silky, fast-absorbing texture feels weightless yet deeply hydrating on the skin, like a thick moisturizer. It's packed with a 30% peptide complex and hyaluronic acid to instantly plump my skin. No joke, after using this, the bounce my skin has is comparable to a trampoline. Not to mention, it layers like a dream under makeup—no pilling here." —Angela Trakoshis, former shopping market editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptide complex (30%) (10 types, including matrixyl 3000 and copper peptides), multi-weight hyaluronic acid, glycerin
- Who it’s for: all skin types
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Sensitive Skin: Dr. Few Clean Retinol
Dr. Few
Clean Retinol
Neiman Marcus
Dr. Few
Why it's worth it: We know "clean" is a murky/unregulated word, but let the ingredients in Dr. Few's Clean Retinol speak for themselves. Retinol is listed relatively low, meaning a gentler concentration, and is buffeted by a bevy of sensitivity-soothing ingredients. Hibiscus hydrosol, green tea hydrosol, aloe leaf juice, shea butter, sodium hyaluronate, and ginseng root are just a few of the hydrating, calming boosters that will leave your skin looking and feeling calm.
Of course, the peptides are the main draw for this story. Argireline and matrixyl signal to your cells to produce collagen, smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. As our tester attests below, this Dr. Few formula is nonsense-free (a.k.a. no filler ingredients) and delivers results without unnecessary retinol-induced irritation.
Allure shopping director Shanna Shipin applying the Dr. Few Clean Retinol
Shanna Shipin
Shipin after applying the Dr. Few Clean Retinol
Shanna Shipin
Tester feedback from shopping director Shanna Shipin
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"As someone with super dry, eczema-prone skin, retinol is an ingredient my current (and past) dermatologists have advised me against for years—for good reason! When I hit 33 and the strain of new-mom years began to show, however, I was determined to try and incorporate the powerhouse ingredient into my routine. This beauty from Dr. Few is it. The formula has a limited ingredient list and is front-loaded with skin-nourishing oils and peptides that leave you with a comfortable, hydrated feel. It's all helping avoid dermatitis flare-ups and any kind of adverse reaction to the retinol—including peeling or redness—as I ramp up usage. While I await its wrinkle-smoothing benefits, the cream has already helped me avoid acne breakouts." —Shanna Shipin, shopping director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptides (acetyl hexapeptide-3/argireline, matrixyl), retinol, green tea hydrosol, aloe leaf juice, shea butter, sodium hyaluronate, ginseng root
- Who it’s for: people with dry skin, prone to dermatitis
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Face and Neck: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Allies of Skin
Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Revolve
Why it's worth it: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum takes a high-tech approach to firming, especially in areas where sagging tends to show first: the face and neck. This concentrated formula features a blend of peptides, each chosen for a distinct aspect of skin support, from enhancing elasticity to strengthening structure. Growth factors further renew skin, helping it feel stronger and more resilient. And the lightweight texture absorbs quickly, making it easy to layer under the rest of your skin-care routine. You’ll notice instant hydration and firmer skin over time.
Han applying the Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Sarah Han
Han after applying the Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“Ok, the serious and immediate glow I get from this ultra-silky Allies of Skin serum alone was enough to sell me on it. (My face is freshly rinsed with water in the video—no toners or essences applied beforehand.) But of course, the ingredients are what do the heavy lifting, and when I first read into this product, I knew it meant business. While I'm only 32, I don't plan on getting injectables or Botox to stave off any fine/expression lines, so this is one of the many preventative topical measures I plan on using consistently to keep my skin looking as firm, lifted, and smooth as possible. This serum sinks into my skin immediately and provides a slight gripping effect that's perfect for makeup—an unexpected bonus, but I'll absolutely take it.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: 9% LiftingPeptide Complex, 3% sh-oligopeptide-1 growth factor complex, MSM, copper lysinate, phospholipids, glycolipid
- Who it’s for: anyone with signs of aging
- Fragrance-free: yes
More peptide serums we love:
Best for Dry Skin: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Hyaluronic Acid
The Ordinary
Multi-Peptide + Hyaluronic Acid
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: The Ordinary’s Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum earns its name from a powerful mix of skin-firming peptides that help round out any routine. This elasticity-boosting formula combines five peptide complexes to address firmness and fine lines in multiple layers of the skin, while copper peptides bring anti-inflammatory benefits and antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. "It is particularly helpful for people who want a single serum that addresses multiple signs of aging in a gentle but effective way," says Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Fort Wayne, IN. To top it off, multiple molecular weights of hyaluronic acid deliver instantly plumping hydration, so skin looks bouncier right away and more resilient over time.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptides (copper tripeptide-1, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, pentapeptide-18, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-38, dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate), hyaluronic acid
- Who it’s for: anyone who wants to target dry skin and multiple signs of aging at a budget-friendly price
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Budget: The Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum
The Inkey List
Collagen Peptide Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: Instead of delivering collagen directly (which works well as a surface-level moisturizer but can’t easily penetrate the skin), Inkey List’s Collagen Peptide Serum relies on peptides to mimic its effects. “The peptides in the formula are small, which means they are better absorbed into deeper layers of the skin for maximum efficacy,” says Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Birmingham, Alabama. Translation: You’ll see plumper, more hydrated skin almost instantly—and with continued use, firmness and smoothness, proving that bouncy, healthy-looking skin doesn’t have to cost a fortune.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: matrixyl 3000 peptide complex (palmitoyl dipeptide-5 diaminobutyroyl hydroxythreonine, palmitoyl dipeptide-5 diaminohydroxybutyrate, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, palmitoyl tripeptide-1), hyaluronic acid, radish root
- Who it’s for: all skin types, especially people with dry skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Dullness: Alastin Skincare Restorative Skin Complex
Alastin
Restorative Skin Complex
Amazon
Alastin
Why it's worth it: Tiffany J. Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Rhode Island, recommends Alastin's Restorative Skin Complex, which she likes for its patented TriHex peptide technology. This proprietary blend supports collagen and elastin production by maintaining an optimal environment for new batches of skin cells to flourish. On top of that, the gel-like formula contains barrier-restoring ceramides and squalane that will make sure your skin looks and feels its most supple. The addition of niacinamide gives it brightening properties, making it a good option for treating signs of sun damage or overall discoloration concerns.
Pro tip: "I often recommend that patients use Restorative Skin Complex and Alastin Regenerating Skin Nectar together for recovery and rejuvenation after a procedure like a laser treatment," said Dr. Murphy Rose.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: peptides (palmitoyl hexapeptide-12, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, palmitoyl tripeptide-5, palmitoyl dipeptide-5 diaminobutyroyl hydroxythreonine, palmitoyl dipeptide-5 diaminohydroxybutyrate, acetyl hexapeptide-38), niacinamide, tremella mushroom
- Who it’s for: people with dry skin, discoloration, or sensitized post-procedure skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
What are peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, "like glycine, arginine, histidine, et cetera," says Dr. Kim. “They're designed to boost and replenish amino acids, which are the building blocks for collagen production.” You might recognize amino acids as the building blocks of protein, but peptides tend to be shorter chains than proteins. And compared to topical collagen, peptides have a small particle size that allows them to penetrate the surface level of your skin at a deeper level. They’re great at reducing the appearance of fine lines and leaving skin firmer, Dr. Kim says.
How do peptides benefit the skin?
The abundance and quality of our body's natural collagen production decreases over time, as Dr. Hartman previously explained. As a result, wrinkles start to form and skin begins to sag, but peptide chains mimic the structure of amino acids to diminish the look of these concerns. Mature skin, in particular, can benefit from peptides for their ability to improve skin firmness.
That said, not all peptides are created equal. The most common types of peptides consist of signal peptides, carrier peptides, enzyme-inhibitor peptides, and neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides, depending on how they work. For example, copper peptides are carrier peptides—they activate wound healing and deliver copper to the skin, which, in turn, stimulates collagen production. (Keep in mind, however, that labs and brands can and often do trademark their own peptide complexes.) While you’ll often find "peptides" placed front and center on the actual product packaging, you can also seek out ingredients like dipeptide, tripeptide, and hexapeptide. It's also not uncommon to see multiple peptides strung together to maximize their collagen-boosting benefits.
Peptides seldom cause skin sensitivity or irritation, but you should still be discerning of your serum’s formulation. "If someone has a [negative] reaction, it's most likely from the preservatives, other chemicals, or essential oils in the formula, not the peptides," Dr. Kim says.
Meet the experts
- Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Los Angeles
- Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology based in Birmingham, Alabama
- Saami Khalifian, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist at SOM Aesthetics based in Encinitas, California
- Blair Murphy Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City
- Dara Spearman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Radiant Dermatology Associates based in Fort Wayne, IN
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing every product included in each review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best peptide serums, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers, editors, and contributors, determined that every product excelled in each category—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
