The 10 Best Peptide Serums for Healthy, Radiant Skin, Dermatologist Recommendations

And why you need this skin care ingredient in your daily routine. Dermatologists have long lauded the benefits of high-quality peptide serums. 

Along with sunscreen and retinol, peptides are one of the most important ingredients for healthy skin and are often found in some of the best anti-aging serums. 

But what exactly are peptides? Peptides are chains of amino acids that "help heal the skin, stimulate collagen production and moisturize the skin," says Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., a board-certified adult, pediatric and fellow cosmetic dermatologist at Scottsdale Affiliated Dermatology. 

explained AZ. Over time, using a peptide serum can help replenish some of the collagen and elastin (proteins in your skin) that are lost as you age, making your skin appear firmer. 

Peptides pair well with other skin care products already in your skin care regimen and are "particularly useful for those who cannot tolerate harsh ingredients like retinol or glycolic acid," 

says board-certified dermatologist and cosmetics and added Joshua Zeichner, MD, Director of Cosmetics Division. Clinical Research, Department of Dermatology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York. 

Next, find the best peptide serums, dermatologist-approved, for tighter, brighter skin. Peptide+HA serum 

1. Ordinary peptide + HA serum: Debra Jaliman, MD, a New York City dermatologist and author of "Skin Rules," says this skin-friendly formula contains peptides that can help "improve the appearance of fine lines" because it effectively "stimulates collagen production." ". "It also contains glycerin and hyaluronic acid for hydration." 

2. Olay Collagen Peptide 24 Serum: This affordable, fan-favorite peptide serum is also a favorite of Dr. Jaliman, because it contains hydrating and brightening niacinamide to provide a more even skin tone. 

"Another great addition is that it contains pentapeptides, which stimulate collagen production," she explains. 

3. SkinMedica Retinol 1.0 Complex: Like peptides, retinol is a powerful ingredient when it comes to skin care. This serum contains peptides and retinol to increase collagen production while improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 
"It also contains squalane for hydration and niacinamide for a more even skin tone," adds Dr. Jaliman added. 

4. Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Anti-Wrinkle Serum: PhD. Jaliman recommends the formula "for anyone with fine lines," estimating that it contains powerful moisturizing ingredients like glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and squalane, in addition to an impressive blend of 21 peptides. 

One of the peptides is Hexapeptide, which according to Dr. Lal works similarly to Botox and helps "soften wrinkles around the eyes and eye area." 

5. Paula's Choice Pro Collagen Peptide Booster: PhD. Lal recommends this collagen-boosting peptide blend because it helps condition and moisturize the skin for overall skin health. The brand claims users will see immediate results, while the peptides promote long-term results. 

6. SolaWave Solabiome Plumping Peptide Serum "While most peptides are designed to increase collagen production, the peptides in this serum are designed to improve hydration," explains Dr. Zechner. "It's combined with hyaluronic acid to plump and moisturize the skin. Plus, it can be used with other collagen-stimulating products." 

7. Ordinary peptide + copper peptide 1% Copper peptides not only support collagen production for a smoother overall appearance, but are also powerful brighteners, explains Dr. Lal recommended this formula from The Ordinary. In addition to copper peptides, this serum also contains a variety of other potent peptides as well as hyaluronic acid and glycerin to moisturize the skin.

8. Mario Badescu Super Peptide Serum Thanks to the presence of aloe vera (which Dr. Jaliman says is a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient), this serum is extremely soothing and suitable for all skin types. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid to keep skin hydrated and healthy. 

9. COSRX Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream The cream has a lightweight, almost serum-like consistency and "combines rich snail slime with peptides to firm the eye area," Dr. Illustrator says. Products containing peptides are especially helpful for the eye area, adds Dr. Lal adds that this area is more susceptible to dryness and loss of elasticity than other parts of the face. 

10. Obagi Medical Professional-C-Peptide Complex Vitamin C is an excellent ingredient to combine with peptides, especially for patients with discoloration, Dr. Jaliman said. It is a powerful antioxidant that helps brighten skin and is also an excellent producer of collagen itself. This brightening peptide serum "also contains hyaluronic acid for hydration and aloe vera for anti-inflammatory properties," adds Dr. Jaliman added.