Dermatologists Say These Peptide Serums Help Plump, Firm, and Hydrate Skin

"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."

If you’re looking for the best peptide serum to add to your skincare routine, look no further. Peptides are not only one of the top ingredients for maintaining healthy skin but they also play well with other actives—making them the perfect anti-aging serum to give your existing lineup of skincare products a boost.

Meet the experts: Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; Debra Jaliman, M.D., NYC-based dermatologist and author of Skin Rules; Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in NYC

But what are peptides, exactly? Peptides are chains of amino acids that “help heal the skin, stimulate collagen production, and hydrate the skin,” explains Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified adult, pediatric, and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ. Over time, the use of peptide serums can make the skin look firmer by helping to replenish some of the collagen and elastin (proteins in our skin) that we lose with age.

Peptides pair well with the other skincare products already in your regimen and “are particularly useful in people who cannot tolerate more harsh ingredients, like retinol or glycolic acid,” adds Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in NYC.

Ahead, find the best dermatologist-approved peptide serums that may yield firmer, more radiant skin.

Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

The Ordinary is well-known for its simple and effective skincare products that truly deliver. This skin-loving formula is no exception: It contains a variety of peptides and helps “improve fine lines” as it effectively “stimulates collagen production,” according to Debra Jaliman, M.D., New York City-based dermatologist and author of Skin Rules. “It also has glycerin for hydration as well as hyaluronic acid.”

User review: “I didn’t realize how much this product helps my skin until I accidentally forgot to bring it on a trip for a few days,” one Sephora reviewer wrote. “My face was dull and dry… as soon as I got home, I used it and *wow* my skin bounced right back to being hydrated and glowy. Great price point for what it does”

Key Ingredients: Matrixyl 3000 peptide complex, hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Benefits: Hydrating, firming | Size: 2.0 fl. oz.

Collagen Peptide 24 Serum

This affordable, fan-favorite peptide serum is another favorite of Dr. Jaliman’s as it contains hydrating and brightening niacinamide to help create a more even skin tone. “Another great addition is that it has pentapeptides to stimulate collagen production,” she explains. By aiding in collagen production, this serum has the potential to help boost skin elasticity and reduce fine lines.

User review: “I can’t start my day until I have put Olay serum on my face and neck. The serum makes me look refreshed and I have very few lines,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I am almost 80 and people tell me my skin looks wonderful.”

Key Ingredients: Palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 (peptide), panthenol, niacinamide, glycerin | Benefits: Hydrating, firming | Size: 1.3 fl. oz.

Retinol 1.0 Complex

Like peptides, retinol is a powerhouse ingredient when it comes to skincare. This serum contains both peptides and retinol to increase collagen production while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. “It also contains squalane for hydration and niacinamide to even out skin tone,” Dr. Jaliman adds. The well-rounded blend of ingredients will ensure you get all the smoothing benefits of retinol and peptides with minimal risk of irritation.

User review: “This is an excellent product for wrinkle reduction and firming. I've been using it for over three years and get tons of compliments on my 50-year-old skin,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I tried Retin-A and it was too strong. This product is a great balance of being very active/effective, but not drying my skin out so much.”

Key Ingredients: Palmitoyl tripeptide-8 (peptide), retinol, niacinamide | Benefits: Firming, smoothing | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Peptide Skinjection Amplified Wrinkle-Fix Serum

Dr. Jaliman recommends this formula “for anyone with fine lines,” and appreciates that it contains powerful hydrating ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and squalane in addition to an impressive blend of 21 peptides. One of those peptides includes Argireline, which Dr. Lal says works similarly to Botox in that it helps to “soften lines around the eyes and elevens.” It also includes Argirelox, a proprietary peptide ingredient that the brand claims helps to prolong the effects of in-office injectable wrinkle treatments.

I used up an entire bottle of this serum a few months ago, soon after my first experience with Botox. I can’t say whether it prolonged my results since it was my first treatment, but I will say the effects lasted about two months longer than the 3-4 months I was expecting. Plus, this serum didn’t break out my acne-prone complexion (win!) and kept my skin feeling comfortable and hydrated.

Key Ingredients: Amplified Matrixyl (peptide complex), Argireline (peptide), Argirelox (peptide), squalane, glycerin | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Pro Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster

Dr. Lal recommends this blend of collagen-boosting peptides as it helps to firm and hydrate the skin, maintaining overall skin health. The brand claims that users see results instantly, while peptides promote long-term results. Another perk? This product can be used alone as a serum or mixed into your favorite skincare products to “boost” results.

User review: “[This is] one of the best serums I ever used. It gives me the glowy and bouncy skin I dreamed of. It really helps my skin elasticity,” one Sephora reviewer wrote. “Love the product so much—10/10 from me.”

Key Ingredients: Peptides (tridecapeptide-1; sh-polypeptide-121; palmitoyl tetrapeptide-72 amide), glycerin | Benefits: Firming, smoothing | Size:.67 fl. oz.

Solabiome Plumping Peptide Serum

“While most peptides aim to increase collagen production, the peptide in this serum is designed to enhance hydration,” explains Dr. Zeichner. “It is paired with hyaluronic acid to plump and moisturize the skin. Plus, it can be used alongside your other collagen-stimulating products.” Made with a blend of potent yet gentle ingredients, this powerful serum not only firms the skin over time but also delivers instant plumping benefits.

User review: “A very nice facial serum that is gentle and effective on my mature combination skin. It's a clear serum that is easy to spread across the face. Absorbs well and feels soothing,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “Moisturizes the skin without leaving it feeling oily or greasy. Does not get sticky or tacky either. Works great with other skincare products and is easy to wear under makeup.”

Key Ingredients: Avocado peptides, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Hydrating | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1%

Copper peptides not only aid in collagen production for an overall smoother appearance, but they are also powerful brightening agents, explains Dr. Lal, who recommends this formula by The Ordinary. In addition to copper peptides, this serum also contains a variety of other effective peptides for extra firming benefits plus hyaluronic acid and glycerin to keep skin hydrated. Just be sure to avoid using this serum with vitamin C, as Dr. Lal warns the ingredient doesn’t pair well with copper peptides.

User review: “I absolutely love this serum! I have been using it for a while now and it has made such a difference in the overall appearance of my skin,” one Sephora reviewer wrote. “My skin appears more hydrated, smooth, and overall glowy.”

Key Ingredients: Copper peptides, Matrixyl (peptide complex), Argirelox (peptide), glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Hydrating, firming | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Super Peptide Serum

Thanks to aloe vera (an effective anti-inflammatory ingredient, per Dr. Jaliman) this serum is ultra-soothing and great for all skin types. It is also formulated alongside hyaluronic acid for hydration and to keep skin healthy. Plus, it contains a powerful blend of peptides including palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7—a peptide commonly used in anti-aging products for its ability to boost collagen production and increase skin firmness.

User review: “This serum gave me a youthful glow (I’m middle-aged). It plumped up my face and makes it look tighter and brighter,” wrote one Amazon reviewer.

Key Ingredients: Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (peptide), hyaluronic acid, aloe vera | Benefits: Hydrating, soothing, firming | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream

This cream has a lightweight, almost serum-like consistency, and “combines plumping snail mucin with peptides to firm the under eye area,” explains Dr. Zeichner. This formula also contains panthenol to keep the skin hydrated and niacinamide for brightening benefits. Peptide-containing products are especially helpful for the under eyes, Dr. Lal adds, because the area is more prone to dehydration and loss of elasticity than other parts of the face.

User review: “I’ve been using it faithfully every night for a couple of weeks now, and let me tell you, it’s like someone turned down the dial on my dark circles. They haven’t vanished (I mean, I wasn’t expecting miracles), but they’re definitely less pronounced,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “And those fine lines? Smoother. I’m not saying I look 20 again, but when the mirror gives me a little less ‘tired librarian’ and a bit more ‘rested and ready,’ I’m not complaining.”

Key Ingredients: Snail mucin, adenosine (peptide), niacinamide | Benefits: Hydrating, soothing, firming | Size: 0.84 fl. oz.

Professional-C Peptide Complex

Vitamin C is a great ingredient to combine with peptides, especially for those with discoloration, notes Dr. Jaliman. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten the skin, and is a stellar collagen producer in its own right. This brightening peptide serum “also contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and aloe which is anti-inflammatory,” Dr. Jaliman adds.

User review: “I am 70+ years young and I have a few very stubborn dark spots that have defied lasers and peels. I purchased this product and have seen significant lightening of these stubborn dark spots. I have been using this product faithfully for 3 weeks,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I am quite critical and really see the difference. My skin is smoother. I find it easy to use spreads nicely and absorbs quickly into my skin. No smell, creamy texture.”

Key Ingredients: Vitamin C, kinetin (peptide), zeatin (peptide), panthenol | Benefits: Brightening, firming | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Centella Unscented Serum

While peptides are generally deemed sensitive-skin friendly, those with reactive skin might consider formulas with extra-soothing ingredients or those that are free from common irritants. Luckily, this serum by Purito checks both boxes. It’s full of ceramides, hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and Centella Asiatica (an herb that helps heal compromised skin), in addition to a variety of peptides to soothe and hydrate the skin. It contains no essential oils or fragrances.

User review: “I found this serum to be very hydrating and lightweight, while still moisturizing and protecting my skin. I think this serum would be good for warm or cold weather depending on your skin type,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “There is no sticky feeling after it dries down and it does a great job at calming my irritated skin.”

Key Ingredients: Centella Asiastica, palmitoyl peptides, ceramides, panthenol | Benefits: Soothing, hydrating, firming | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Protini Powerpeptide Resurfacing Serum

This smoothing serum contains lactic acid, a mild exfoliant, to address skin texture and dry skin while a blend of 11 peptides deliver hydration and help “to strengthen and firm” the skin, Dr. Zeichner explains. These ingredients work together to brighten your complexion, boost elasticity, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

User review: “This is such a fabulous serum!! It didn’t pill with other products. I noticed a decrease in discoloration,” one Sephora reviewer wrote. “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.”

Key Ingredients: Lactic acid, peptide complex, amino acid blend| Benefits: Smoothing, firming | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

TNS Advanced+ Serum

Growth factors are highly-effective, powerful peptides and one of Dr. Lal’s most-recommended ingredients to look for when selecting a peptide serum. This option from SkinMedica contains an innovative peptide complex, flaxseed, and marine extracts in addition to the growth factor blend, all of which “help nourish and support your skin and help it grow better,” Dr. Lal previously explained.

I’ve been using this serum for the last few months and while I don’t love the idea of purchasing another bottle because of the price, I know I will. This serum plays well with my other favorite skincare products, absorbs quickly, and I’ve definitely noticed a smoother complexion (it’s been a great pore minimizer)! Plus, I love knowing I’m using a product with proven anti-aging benefits—prevention is key, after all.

Key Ingredients: Human fibroblast conditioned media (growth factors), peptide blend, glycerin, flax seed, marine extracts | Benefits: Smoothing, firming | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Pomegranate Peptide Firming Serum

This peptide serum contains a blend of peptides, including copper peptides, helping yield a brighter, smoother complexion. It is also formulated with various plant extracts, glycerin, and hyaluronic acid to hydrate the skin. Reviewers appreciate how firm and bright this serum makes their skin look.

User review: “This product brightened my skin and repaired the barrier making it more firm and dewy,” wrote one Sephora reviewer. “Works great for my skin type.”

Key Ingredients: Polypeptides, copper peptides, pomegranite seed oil, hyaluronic acid, glycerin| Benefits: Hydrating, firming, brightening | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

peptide glazing fluid

This glow-inducing serum from Rhode contains a variety of peptides “that help hydrate the skin, as well as hyaluronic acid,” explains Dr. Lal. “It’s really great for those who have dry, ‘crepey’ skin and want a gentle product that they can easily add to their routine.” Reviewers especially love how the serum provides instant hydration and that it offers serious smoothing benefits over time.

User review: “I love this product, I’m 67 and use retinol nightly, this product keeps my skin from feeling dry all day. I use it under my foundation which now goes on very smoothly,” one Rhode reviewer wrote. “I have noticed a definite softening of wrinkles at eyes and lips.”

Key Ingredients: Acetyl hexapeptide-8 (peptide), glycerin, niacinamide, marula oil| Benefits: Hydrating, firming | Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Argireline Solution 10%

Argireline, which is a neurotransmitter peptide, is one of Dr. Lal’s go-to peptides for its ability to “work underneath the skin and the muscles” and soften fine lines and wrinkles. He recommends this affordable argireline serum from The Ordinary as it helps to smooth lines with its concentrated formula. Plus, this formula is fragrance-free and has an extremely short ingredient list, making it potent yet gentle.

User review: “I’m 72 and have spent thousands on expensive products in my lifetime. I believe I found the Holy Grail with this stuff!” one Sephora reviewer wrote. “After only a few weeks my fine lines have lessened and my deeper lines have softened. Even my neck wrinkles.”

Key Ingredients: Argireline (peptide) | Benefits: Firming, smoothing | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Magic Water Cream Refillable Gel Moisturizer

This “water” gel moisturizer is extremely lightweight and toes the line between moisturizer and serum. “It does double duty to hydrate the skin while offering peptide benefits,” Dr. Zeichner explains. “It contains a specialized peptide complex that plumps the skin,” as well as brightening antioxidants and powerful hydrators.

User review: “This cream is a game-changer for my skincare routine. Its lightweight formula absorbs quickly, leaving my skin feeling hydrated and refreshed,” one Sephora reviewer wrote. “Within weeks, I noticed a visible improvement in my complexion, making it a must-have in my beauty arsenal.”

Key Ingredients: Biopeptide complex, glycerin, niacinamide, shea butter, squalane | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Size: 1.7 fl. oz.

Collagen Booster Firming Peptide Serum

This firming serum from The Inkey List contains Matrixyl 3000, a peptide that Dr. Lal notes is commonly used for its ability to boost collagen production. The lightweight, affordable serum also contains a variety of other peptides, plus glycerin and hyaluronic acid for max hydration.

User review: “I’ve bought this product a couple of times and absolutely LOVE it,” wrote one Sephora reviewer. “It’s lightweight and feels amazing on my skin. I’ve noticed my skin is more firm around my mouth and eyes.”

Key Ingredients: Matrixyl 3000 (peptide complex), glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Needle-less Serum

Recommended by Dr. Lal, this fan-favorite serum is the brand’s best-seller thanks to its ability to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, sans needles, per the brand and its independent consumer panels. It contains a number of peptides, as well as soothing ceramides and moisturizing ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

User review: “I’ve been using Needle-less for over a year now and have seen a noticeable improvement in my skin, overall texture, fine lines, and smoothness,” wrote one five-star reviewer. “I love it!”

Key Ingredients: Peptide blend, niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.

Peptide Shot Serum

This Korean skincare favorite has been trending thanks to its affordability and quality ingredients. It contains a blend of powerful peptides to boost collagen production and smooth skin, as well as hydrating ingredients like panthenol and glycerin to provide instant plumping.

User review: “Not sure what kind of magic is in this bottle, but it is amazing! You can literally FEEL your skin firming up when you put it on,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “It makes your skin glow and so smooth, perfect under makeup. Highly recommend and will be reordering!”

Key Ingredients: Peptide blend, niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Size: 3.38 fl. oz.

How to choose and use the best peptide serum

✔️ Consider the peptide type. Not all peptides are created equal,” explains Dr. Zeichner. “Different peptides do different jobs.” A few that Dr. Lal suggests looking for are growth factors, Matrixyl 3000, palmitoyl, pentapeptides, Argireline, and copper peptides, which all help to stimulate collagen and elastin.

✔️Look for additional active ingredients. Peptides are powerful ingredients on their own, but Dr. Jaliman suggests looking for a peptide serum that contains active ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane, or glycerin for added hydration and moisture. You can also choose a product containing brighteners like vitamin C or niacinamide if you also have uneven pigment, she adds.

✔️Pair with a moisturizer. Layering your peptide serum under another moisturizing formula will help boost overall skin health, too. “I typically recommend applying peptide-containing serums alongside traditional moisturizers in the evening to enhance cell turnover and strengthen the foundation of the skin,” Dr. Zeichner adds.

The benefits of peptides for skin

There are many different kinds of peptides, all of which “act like messengers” that tell your skin to perform a specific job, Dr. Ziechner explains. The most common “job” peptides in skincare perform is the stimulation of collagen and elastin production—which are proteins in the skin that maintain firmness and smoothness, Dr. Lal says.

By using peptide serums that boost collagen and elastin, over time you may notice several benefits such as:

• Reduced fine lines and wrinkles

• A more lifted appearance to the skin

• Better overall skin health and hydration

• A more radiant complexion

What products should not be mixed with peptide serums?

One of the benefits of using a peptide serum is that it easily fits into almost any existing skincare routine. Most peptides and peptide serums can safely be used with all active ingredients, including retinol and exfoliating acids.

However, there is one exception. If you are using a serum containing copper peptides (like The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1%) you should not use it in the same routine as vitamin C, says Dr. Lal. He explains that since vitamin C is an antioxidant, it is unstable and can change the pH of the skin, reducing the efficacy of each ingredient. All other peptides can safely be used with vitamin C.

How often can you use peptide serums?

Another perk of using peptide serums is that they are usually well-tolerated by the skin and can be used daily. Dr. Lal says that applying a peptide serum once per day is sufficient, but they can also be used twice per day if desired.

Dr. Jaliman agrees, explaining that peptide serums “can be used morning and night,” adding that they should be used after cleanser and toner and before your moisturizer.

How we chose the best peptide serum

We spoke with Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ, Debra Jaliman, M.D., New York City-based dermatologist and author of Skin Rules, and Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist and director of cosmetic and clinical research in dermatology at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. We also sifted through countless online reviews to find the best peptide serums available.

Why trust us

For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.

You Might Also Like

• Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss?

• Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50