The 10 Best Peptide Serums for Youthful-Looking Skin in 2024
<p>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.”</p><p>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, <a href=” target=”_blank”>Drunk Elephant</a>, and more.</p>”/>
Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper’s BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
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 for Fine Lines and Wrinkles
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
Best for a Glowy, Dewy Finish
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.
Best Exfoliating
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
Now 24% Off
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
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
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
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.
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.
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