9 Best Peptide Serums, Tested & Reviewed for 2025
Of course, like vitamin C and vitamin A, peptides come in a variety of forms (hundreds!). In skin care specifically, you’ll see a lot of 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. “And neurotransmitter peptides are known for their Botox-type benefits.” While neurotoxins like Botox paralyze our muscles to smooth and prevent wrinkles, neurotransmitter peptides block the chemicals that trigger muscle contractions.
Intrigued? Below, you’ll find a list of top options for serums containing peptides; we selected them after interviewing three board-certified dermatologists, consulting with ELLE editors for their favorites, and reviewing numerous customer reviews. Read on to discover the 14 best peptide serums for a plump, dewy complexion.
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Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
This serum is about as straightforward as it gets—it promises to deliver an infusion of peptides, and that’s exactly what it does. A whopping 30 percent of the formula is a combination of multiple peptides that plump and smooth the skin with each use. Because it’s so gentle, you can even layer it with other actives like retinol.
Key ingredients: Peptides, panthenol
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Dermstore rating: 4.8/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Every morning begins with this Liquid Peptide serum. No matter what my skin is going through, the serum revives it, adding plumpness and softness in just a few uses. I pair this with the Medik8 retinol, my powerhouse duo that keeps signs of aging at bay.”—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Fragrance-free
- Tightens skin
Cons
- Takes time to see results
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
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars
Our expert says: “The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum targets early signs of aging, is water based, and moisturizes with hyaluronic acid. The price point on this serum is also great!”—Dr. Marnie Nussbaum, board-certified dermatologist
Pros
- Cult-favorite formula
Cons
- Very thin consistency
Dermatologists and ELLE editors have been shouting out this peptide serum for what feels like centuries. Inspired by the effects of injectables, it features a patent-pending blend of advanced peptides and actives (think: PHA, niacinamide, laminaria extract) to visibly reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and boost radiance. The results really do rival those of Botox.
Key ingredients: Hexapeptide, dipeptide, PHA, niacinamide, laminaria extract
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Ulta rating: 4.2/5 stars
Our expert says: “Skinceuticals P-Tiox improves fine lines, smooths, and firms the skin. It contains polyhydroxy acid to plump as well as laminaria extract to target wrinkles and soothe the skin.”—Dr. Marnie Nussbaum
Pros
- Fades dark spots and redness
Cons
- Some reviewers found it drying
From the brain of an esthetician, Peach & Lily’s offerings understand that supple, smooth skin shouldn’t require aggressive formulas that can do more harm than good. Soothing, reparative, and nourishing, the Glass Skin serum enhances radiance and reduces fine lines and wrinkles through a blend of peptides, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide.
Key ingredients: Peptides, peach extract, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide
Skin type: Normal, dry, combination, and oily
Size: 1.35 fl. oz.
Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “As an acne-prone girl, glass skin is what I so desperately want to achieve, but sadly, the journey there has been fraught with a compromised barrier, more breakouts, and a hole in my wallet. I found relief in this serum, which combines my favorite ingredients—hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and peptides—to give me bouncy, smooth, and soft skin. Tackling these dark spots is next on the list.”—Nerisha Penrose, ELLE.com beauty commerce editor
Pros
- Lightweight formula
- Suitable for daily use
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
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
Size: 1 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 4.2/5 stars
Our expert 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, beauty expert
Pros
- For face and neck
- Tightens and firms skin
Cons
- Not suitable for sensitive skin
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
Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
Dermstore rating: 4.6/5 stars
An ELLE editor says: “Using this serum after a fresh cleanse feels like a splash of water on a rather hot day. I typically use this serum at night because I enjoy how plump and soft my skin feels upon waking up.”—Nerisha Penrose
Pros
- Minimizes the appearance of expression lines
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Need to exfoliate before use
Formulated with a 19 percent peptide complex, this serum works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for a smooth complexion. It’s also designed to accompany injectable treatments, minus a trip to the dermatologist.
Key ingredients: Amplified Matrixyl, Argireline
Skin type: Oily, combination, normal
Size: 1.01 fl. oz.
Sephora rating: 4.5/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “I’ve almost used a full bottle, and I can definitely see my fine lines and wrinkles looking plumper and smoother. I love that it’s lightweight—[it does] not feel heavy under any moisturizer or makeup. Will continue using.”
Pros
- Ideal for dull, uneven skin
- Can be used on face and neck
Cons
- Small bottle for the price
This serum, which contains L-ascorbic acid (the most effective form of vitamin C) and a copper tripeptide growth factor, is beneficial for individuals with discoloration. The formula can be spread over the face and neck to reduce the appearance of stretch marks, scar tissue, and acne.
Key ingredients: L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
Skin type: All
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.”
Pros
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- May not be suitable for very dry skin
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
Size: 1.01 fl. oz.
Amazon rating: 4.4/5 stars
An Amazon reviewer says: “This stuff is awesome. A little bit goes a long way. I call it botox in a bottle because it tightens your skin up and minimizes wrinkles.”
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.
Dr. Marnie Nussbaum is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City.
What are peptides?
Peptides naturally occur 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 acetylation), which decreases their efficacy.
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.
Why Trust ELLE Beauty
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. For this piece, the writers spoke with trusted dermatologists about peptide serums.
How We Tested
For this piece, ELLE writers including Emma Aerin Becker and Carol Lee consulted board-certified dermatologists and licensed estheticians to learn about the best peptide serums and discover their top picks. They also tested them out, read through countless customer reviews, and evaluated each product on their unique features.
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