13 best peptide serums 2025, according to dermatologists
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Best peptide serum overall: Nip + Fab Peptide Fix Finishing Oil 2%
Best glow-enhancing peptide serum: Medik8 Liquid Peptides 30ml
Best for skin-smoothing: Naturium Multi-Peptide Advanced Serum
Truly transformational elixirs, the best peptide serums are potent formulas that work to firm and smooth the appearance of the skin. 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, and smooth over any pesky fine lines and wrinkles — all while also boosting the skin’s repairing process so you're left with a resilient and long-lasting glow. Below are the best peptide face serums worth trying, according to dermatologists.
SKIP TO: Our full product reviews | What are the different types of peptides? | Do peptide serums actually work? | What other skincare ingredients pair well with peptides?
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.
To find out how we test skincare then head over to our About Us page. Elsewhere, shop hydrating serums for dry skin, ceramide serums to boost your delicate skin barrier, the best serum sticks for moisture and glow on the go, the best retinol serums and best hair serums.
Ahead, our full edit of tried and tested peptide serums.
1/13Best peptide serum overall: Nip + Fab Peptide Fix Finishing Oil 2%
There's a lot to love about this peptide serum by Nip + Fab. For starters, it's essentially two highly concentrated formulas in one — simply shake the bottle to combine the multi-peptides and nourishing oils with the active copper peptides. When activated, the peptides work together to stimulate the production of collagen, and therefore encourage a firmer, smoother, and more hydrated complexion. Meanwhile, key skin-perfecting actives like refining and renewing bakuchiol, antioxidant-rich grapeseed oil, and moisturising baobab oil help to rejuvenate your appearance, and leave you with a lit-from-within glow. Clinically proven to reduce the visibility of wrinkles by up to 45.79% in 4 weeks, it's basically an essential last step in any skincare routine.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: Copper peptide, glycerin, peptide complex, bakuchiol, pumpkin and sunflower seed oils / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Absorbs quickly and seamlessly, plumps and hydrates skin, visibly firms
- What could improve: Nothing of note
“My favourite serum at the moment is the Medik8 Peptide Serum. It boasts a blend of 10 different peptides and a 30% concentration, making it my go-to for skin rejuvenation. What I love most is its quick absorption, which is perfect for oily skin types as it doesn’t feel sticky or clog pores. With continued use over time, this serum enhances the skin’s appearance, making it look more plump, firm, and hydrated, while reducing the visibility of wrinkles and improving texture and giving a radiant glow and finish to the skin,” says Dr Raj Arora, GP Doctor, Medical Educator and Founder of The Face Bible Clinic.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: Matrixyl 3000, drone-targeted copper peptide, carnosine, hyaluronic acid / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Absorbs quickly, plumps skin
- What could improve: Bottle can be difficult to open
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Dr Derrick Phillips, consultant dermatologist says, “the serum contains Argireline amplified peptide to promote smoothness and elasticity of the skin, a combination of glycolic and lactic acid to improve skin texture, and ferulic acid to protect against the harmful effect of environmental free radicals that accelerate skin ageing. This readily absorbed serum can be easily incorporated into your routine after cleansing, and before applying your moisturiser.”
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: BArgireline amplified peptide, ferulic acid and glycolic and lactic acid / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Absorbs easily
- What could improve: Some people find it leads to break-outs
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“This is a beautiful gel serum that will be a saviour over summer. It supports the skin barrier and replenishes hydration levels, which can take quite a knock when you combine increased sun exposure, scorching temperatures and drying air conditioning. The formula contains acetyl hexapeptide-8, which works as a humectant (draws water), alongside other skin conditioners to plump out fine lines for a hydrated, juicy complexion,” says Katie Onyejekwe, aesthetician and skincare educator.
Size: 50ml / Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, peptides, hyaluronic acid, Marula oil / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Plumps and hydrates skin
- What could improve: Not readily available to buy in most stores
“My favourite peptide serum is the Youthbomb™ 360° Radiance Concentrate Serum from the Beauty Pie collaboration with Dr Andrew Markey. The serum has a proprietary blend of 15 active ingredients designed to supercharge the skin’s radiance. A powerful phyto extract provides moisturising and soothing effects, while a synthetic hexapeptide helps with skin brightening and has antioxidant benefits. It contains a marine active rich in proteins and exopolysaccharides reinforces the skin’s structural integrity and elasticity. Active marine biotechnology recharges, firms, and strengthens the skin, complemented by an oat-derived molecule that offers an immediate firming effect. This formulation is free from harmful chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and phthalates, making it a clean and effective choice for luminous and healthy skin,” says Dr Ellie Rashid, a consultant dermatologist with a PhD in regenerative dermatology.
Size: 50ml / Key Ingredients: Phyto extract, synthetic hexapeptide, proteins and exopolysaccharides / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Packed full of skin-boosting ingredients
- What could improve: Price point is much better for Beauty Pie members
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Corey L. Hartman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist recommends this serum from The Inky List. “The price can’t be beat for the active ingredients, and the collagen peptides in the formula mimic those found in the skin,” he says. “The [molecules] are also smaller, which means they’re better absorbed into deeper layers of the skin for maximum efficacy.” By plumping the skin, the serum visibly reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles for both immediate and long-term effects. The serum goes on like water and hydrates skin from the inside-out.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: Matrixyl 3000, syn-tacks dual peptide / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Accessible price
- What could improve: Slightly tacky texture
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“Not only does The Ordinary's ‘buffet’ serum contain a powerful blend of peptides, including Matrixyl 3000 and Argireline, but it’s also packed with hyaluronic acid for hydration, amino acids for repair, and probiotics for a balanced skin microbiome. All this for a price that won’t break the bank – it’s the perfect all-in-one serum for anyone looking to address multiple skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to dullness and uneven texture," says NHS Doctor, Dr Kemi Fabusiwa.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: Matrixyl 3000, Argireline, amino acids, hyaluronic acid / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Budget price point
- What could improve: Slightly tacky
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If lightweight hydration and visible firming effects are your goal, look no further. Youth to the People’s potent triple-peptide formula delivers hydration deep in the skin to plump and visibly improve fine lines and wrinkles. The ultra-lightweight gel serum is perfect for oilier skin types, because it’s formulated for dehydrated skin (which lacks water) rather than dry skin (which lacks oils)—the formula is packed with moisture-multiplying minerals that help the skin quite literally hang onto hydration longer. It works well under makeup and absorbs into the skin for a non-tacky finish.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: 4D hyaluronic acid, triple bio-peptide blend, cactus and rambutan peel / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Effectively hydrates without weighing down skin
- What could improve: Some users report problems with pump
“This Beauty Pie Triple Hyaluronic Acid Lipopeptide Serum contains lipopeptides, three weights of hyaluronic acid and glycerin for hydrated and bouncy skin. It is also super affordable at member prices,” says Dr Khorana.
Size: 50ml / Key Ingredients: Triple weight hyaluronic acid blend, seafill, idealift / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Incredibly hydrating
- What could improve: Price point is much better for Beauty Pie members
The formula uses peptides paired with a more stable version of vitamin C—tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate—and niacinamide (which can help reduce hyperpigmentation) for a maximum brightening effect.
Two potent brightening agents—vitamin C and niacinamide—alongside hyaluronic acid work in tandem with RéVive’s signature bio-renewal peptide serum to enhance radiance, refine skin texture, and even out skin tone. The proprietary peptide mimics the cellular renewal process, helping deliver smoother, suppler skin with each use. Together, the four powerhouses deliver what Dr. Hartman calls “the maximum brightening effect,” giving skin an immediate glow in addition to its longer-term benefits.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: Bio-renewal peptide, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, vitamin C, snow mushroom / Skin Types: Ageing, dry, normal, oily
- What we like: Impressive clinical results
- What could improve: Very expensive
Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist and Founder at Self London says, “Estée Lauder Futurist Peptide Serum Primer is is a hybrid product combining skincare and makeup, featuring beneficial peptides. I love using it under my makeup for a soft-blur finish. The added peptides and hyaluronic acid provide extra skincare benefits, making it an exceptional primer that enhances both appearance and skin health at the same time.”
Size: 27ml / Key Ingredients: Butylene Glycol, glycerin, Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Soft-blur finish that works well as a primer
- What could improve: Pipette doesn't draw too much product
“Under eye skin can be prone to discolouration and fine lines, but is also one of the most sensitive and dehydration-prone areas on our face, partly due to a lack of sebaceous glands in the area. This product contains both firming peptides as well as brightening ingredients, which is delivered in a nourishing barrier-supporting omega-rich base. Personally, I have seen noticeable benefits in my under eye area from using this peptide eye cream”, says Dr BeiBei, an NHS dermatologist and skin scientist.
Size: 15ml / Key Ingredients: Chrysin, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Firms and brightens under eyes
- What could improve: Not readily available to buy in most stores
“This has serum has three peptides – hexapeptide 12, tripeptide 1 and tetrapeptide 7, along with vitamin C and various antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Ferrulic, making it a straightforward all in one product that can be easily used on the face, neck and decollete twice a day. It's packed full of active ingredients for those looking for a simple skin care regime,” says consultant dermatologist Dr Sajjas Rajpar.
Size: 30ml / Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, peptides / Skin Types: All
- What we like: Created by dermatologists
- What could improve: Can only be bought directly from the brand
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.
“Peptides also have hygroscopic properties, meaning they can attract and retain water, which helps hydrate skin and improve moisture retention.” That means peptides not only help immediately quench thirsty skin, but they also help the skin hold onto that moisture for longer.Peptides also help with overall skin repair and strengthen the skin barrier, which Dr. Engelman, a board-certified dermatologist says can help reduce moisture loss and contribute to healthier, more radiant skin. But, like any other product, those effects only work with regular continued use.
TLDR: Peptides help strengthen your skin by sending signals to other cells, while they work to improve hydration by drawing in and retaining water. All of this ultimately helps skin be more resilient and appear more radiant.
What other skincare ingredients pair well with peptides?
According to Dr. Zeichner, peptides generally play nice with other ingredients and skin care products. While Dr. Castilla, a board-certified dermatologist, says they tend to work best as part of a well-rounded skincare routine that includes daily face sunscreen and an antioxidant like one of the best vitamin C serums. Dr. Engelman also suggests pairing peptides with ingredients that help enhance their benefits, like vitamin C, niacinamide, and the best hyaluronic acid serum formulations.
She also recommends layering a peptide serum with a good face moisturiser that has ceramides in it to help lock in moisture and hydration, and strengthen the skin barrier. That being said, the dermatologists we spoke to warned against mixing peptides with harsh exfoliants like AHAs and BHAs, which may counteract the benefits of peptides. You can, however, pair peptides with retinol— in fact, they can help mitigate some of the irritation that comes with retinol use.
