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.
Shop the Best Peptide Serums
- Expert PickSkinCeuticals P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Peptide SerumRead more
- Best Budget-FriendlyThe Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA SerumRead more
- Best for Fine Lines and WrinklesPeter Thomas Roth Peptide Skinjection Amplified Wrinkle-Fix SerumRead more
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.
Expert Pick
SkinCeuticals P-TIOX Anti-Wrinkle Peptide Serum
$148 at DermstoreCredit: dermstore
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
$34 at Sephora$25 at Amazon$28 at WalmartCredit: sephora
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
Best for Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Peter Thomas Roth Peptide Skinjection Amplified Wrinkle-Fix Serum
$61 at Sephora$61 at Amazon$61 at Walmart
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
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Best for a Glowy, Dewy Finish
rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid
$30 at rhodeskin.comCredit: rhode
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.
Best Overall
SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
$295 at Dermstore$114 at Walmart$295 at SkinstoreCredit: dermstore
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
$35 at Amazon$30 at WalmartCredit: amazon
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
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Best Exfoliating
Drunk Elephant Powerpeptide Resurfacing Serum
$82 at Sephora$79 at Amazon$77 at WalmartCredit: sephora
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
$21 at Amazon$23 at Walmart$29 at Ulta BeautyCredit: amazon
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
Best for Dry Skin
Youth to the People Triple Peptide & Cactus Oasis Serum
$57 at Sephora$50 at Walmart$57 at NordstromCredit: sephora
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
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Best Splurge
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
Meet the Experts
- Dr. Alexis Stephens, MD is a board-certified dermatologist based in Coral Springs, Florida and the founder and CEO of Parkland Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery.
- Dr. Ryan Turner, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and the co-founder of skincare brand TRNR Skin.
What should you look for in a peptide serum?
“Which peptide serum you choose should depend on your skin type, goals, age, budget, or other skin concerns,” says Stephens. There are different types of peptides, each offering a specific benefit. For example, some target fine lines and wrinkles, while others offer more hydration.”
In terms of formulation, Stephens mentions that peptides are best when they’re paired with other skincare ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid: “These ingredients help to maximize the benefits of peptides while addressing additional skin concerns like hydration and balancing oil production.”
Turner recommends looking for a product that’s been clinically tested and studied and formulated with clinically proven ingredients. “Peptides are very buzzy right now, and as a result, there are plenty of products with peptides on the market, but not all are created equally,” he notes.
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innisfree Ginger Honey Sleeping Mask Overnight Face Treatment, 2.02 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
23
How do you incorporate a peptide serum into your skincare routine?
According to Turner, peptide serums can be used in both your morning routine and your evening routine—but the other ingredients in the formula should guide you when you work it into your lineup. “Generally, serums are lightweight and are applied first after cleansing to maximize their absorption,” he says.
Looking for more Bazaar-approved skincare?
- The 10 Best Vitamin C Ferulic Acid Serums—and Why You Need the Combo
- The 10 Best Tinted Moisturizers with SPF
- The 12 Best Cerave Skincare Products for Every Skin Type and Concern
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