When it comes to firming skincare products, few are as highly regarded as the hardworking, concentrated formulas in the best peptide serums. Peptides have collagen-stimulating and skin-smoothing benefits, and while different types serve different functions, they all have the same backstory. As Dr Sonia Khorana, a cosmetic doctor and dermatology expert explains, “peptides are chains of amino acids that serve as the building blocks for proteins, such as collagen, elastin and keratin, which are responsible for texture, tone, elasticity and firmness.”
“When applied in a serum form, peptides send a signal to your skin to start repairing itself by triggering a boost in collagen production, resulting in a healthier-looking complexion, so you notice an improvement in the appearance of wrinkles, the skin barrier, skin hydration and reduction in inflammation.”
The bottom line: adding this face serum to your skincare routine is a great way to firm and tone the skin while boosting the skin’s repairing process for a more resilient glow with no downsides. Below are the best peptide face serums worth trying, according to dermatologists.
Meet the experts:
- Dr. Zeichner, an Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York.
- Dr Sonia Khorana, a cosmetic doctor and dermatology expert.
- Tiffany Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC.
- Dr. Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist.
- Dr. Castilla, a board-certified dermatologist.
What are the different types of peptides?
Most formulas feature a combination of peptides, so you don’t necessarily need to worry about how each functions, but it is worth familiarising yourself with the different types of peptides when looking at ingredients.
Signal peptides, like Matrixyl 3000, work by sending a message to the cells to boost production of proteins like collagen and elastin, which ultimately helps firm the skin. These are the most commonly used peptides in skincare. There’s also neurotransmitter cells like argireline, which Dr. Zeichner says help relax muscles and improve the appearance of wrinkles, smoothing the skin.
Meanwhile, he says carrier peptides (which include copper peptides) help to strengthen the barrier and stimulate collagen by delivering minerals to the skin. They function similarly to signal peptides in that they improve skin firmness and soften texture. Finally, there’s growth factor peptides to help with wound healing and skin regeneration. They also encourage collagen production (noticing a theme here?), making them particularly adept at reducing the appearance of fine lines.
Do peptide serums actually work?
With regular use, peptide serums are a worthy investment. “Peptides serums can help promote collagen synthesis which improves skin texture, reduces the appearance of wrinkles, and enhances skin tone,” Tiffany Libby, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, explains. Think of peptides as tiny little messengers that send signals to other cells to produce more collagen and elastin.