What are the Best Peptides for Skin?
A breakthrough skincare ingredient transforming complexions...Discover the power of peptides for skin.
Peptides are the ultimate power players in skincare that can be found in everything from anti-aging serums to in-clinic treatments, supplements, and more.
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that, when used topically, can increase the production of collagen and elastin—proteins that plump and strengthen skin—to fade fine lines and improve skin’s firmness.
But that's not all they do. Ahead, we explore what peptides do for skin, all their benefits, the different types of peptides, and the best peptides for skin—including our top rated products featuring this powerhouse molecule.
What are Peptides?
Peptides, also known as polypeptides, are strings of amino acids that occur naturally in your skin. They act as the building blocks of collagen, elastin, and keratin—essential proteins that keep skin firm, smooth, and youthful.
Peptides work by penetrating the outer layer of skin, signaling cells to boost collagen production, enhance elasticity, and accelerate repair. This makes them a powerhouse ingredient for reducing fine lines, improving hydration, calming inflammation, and promoting a brighter, healthier complexion.
Shop Peptides for Skin
Swipe right to view more
Different Types of Peptides for Skin
There are five types of peptides for skin. Let's break down each one.
- Signal peptides, which boost collagen production.
- Carrier peptides, which deliver copper and magnesium to the skin to combat photoaging.
- Enzyme-inhibitor peptides, which help to stop the body from losing collagen.
- Neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides—found in injectables like Botox.
Benefits of Peptides for Skin
Peptides are found in many skincare products including serums, creams, and masks. According to research, peptides may help reduce inflammation, improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and even out skin tone. Here are the skincare benefits of peptides.
Anti-Aging
Peptides are known for combating signs of aging. They do this by increasing collagen production. Collagen is a vital structural protein and building block of the skin. By promoting collagen synthesis, peptides help improve skin texture, minimize wrinkles, and increase skin’s firmness.
Peptides also stimulate the production of elastin fibers, essential proteins responsible for the skin’s elasticity. As peptides encourage the formation of these fibers, the skin becomes more supple, resilient, and visibly firmer.
In a study published in 2020, researchers examined the effects of peptides on premature aging. After two weeks of topical use, peptides helped minimize the appearance of aging skin among the participants.
Skin Barrier Support
Peptides play a crucial role in strengthening the skin’s natural barrier. By promoting the synthesis of ceramides, lipids, and other essential components, peptides help enhance barrier function, preventing moisture loss and external aggressors from compromising the skin’s integrity. When the skin barrier is strong, the skin is better able to retain hydration and less susceptible to environmental stressors.
Possible UV Protection
Some evidence suggests that peptides can protect you from UV damage and pollution by supporting the skin barrier. Since UV exposure can cause fine lines and wrinkles, using peptides on the skin might help treat aging caused by UV damage.
Anti-Inflammatory
Different types of peptides boast anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate red, irritated skin. Some peptides are said to reduce redness and inflammation associated with skin conditions such as acne. For those with sensitive skin, peptides can be an excellent addition to your skincare routine to prevent flareups and promote strong, healthy skin.
Wound Healing
Peptides facilitate the skin’s regenerative processes, promoting faster healing of wounds and injuries. By accelerating skin cell turnover and collagen synthesis, peptides can repair and rejuvenate the skin. They can help heal wounds, cuts, and shave-related irritation like razor bumps and ingrown hairs.
What are the Best Peptides for Skin?
With so many different types of peptides, you’re probably wondering which one is best for your skin. Here are some of the best peptides for your skin.
1. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11
Acetyl tetrapeptide-11 is a signal peptide made up of amino acids leucine, proline and tyrosine that stimulates the growth of keratinocytes. It is designed to address signs of aging by strengthening the connection between the dermis and outer layer of of skin by stimulating collagen and elastin while accelerating skin regeneration. It has also been proven to thicken thin skin, plumping out fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9 is a synthetic peptide composed of four amino acids: aspartic acid, glutamine, histidine, and valine. This molecule helps to strengthen the epidermis, restore skin’s natural support, and keep skin smooth and supple. It’s commonly found in creams and serums designed to firm the skin and improve the appearance of fine lines.
Acetyl tetrapeptide-9 has also been shown to reduce inflammation and fight against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus which can help soothe irritated, sensitive skin and potentially combat acne.
3. Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2
Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 is a four amino acid peptide that mimics the youth hormone known as thymopoietin to fight against signs of aging. According to studies, it is able to stimulate elastin production, the protein responsible for maintaining skin’s firmness. By stimulating elastin production, this synthetic peptide can keep skin looking firm, smooth, and youthful.
Alongside its anti-aging properties, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2 can brighten the skin, reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production, and even out skin tone. It is also able to improve skin hydration by boosting the production of hyaluronic acid, keeping skin plump and hydrated.
4. Hydrolyzed Rice Protein
Hydrolyzed rice protein is a water soluble vegetable protein that is rich in amino acids, antioxidants, and peptide content. Studies indicate this ingredient can be beneficial for improving skin tone. As a conditioning agent, it is also known for improving skin’s hydration.
This peptide also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease symptoms associated with skin conditions such as dermatitis and psoriasis. As an anti-irritant with the ability to retain moisture in the skin, this protein is excellent to use when she skin feels dry, itchy, or scaly.
What are the best peptides for skin? We recommend looking for these skincare peptides above on the product labels. Give them a try and see how they impact your skin. Just so you know, it can take several weeks to see the full effects of a new skincare product or ingredient.
Best Peptide Skincare Products
Looking for the best peptide serum or cream? Here’s a roundup of our favorite peptide products.
For a visibly firmer body with a serving of shimmering pink hydration, this body oil is for you. Packed full of peptides and niacinamide, Birthday Sex Body Oil boosts collagen and elastin for a tighter physique while leaving you looking dewy.
This luxe and velvety body cream blends peptides with strawberry and hyaluronic acid to deliver your silkiest, plumpest skin. Plus, it smells absolutely scrumptious--like strawberries and cream.
Sculpt your body in just one step! This body sculpting cream is clinically proven to reduce the look of stretch marks and cellulite in just 30 days of daily use. Powered by peptides and antioxidant-rich fruits, it's your secret to a smooth, snatched bod. Plus, it's clean, retinoid-free and pregnancy-safe.
How to Use Peptides for Skin
You will find peptides in a variety of skincare products including serums, eye creams, day creams, night creams, masks, and more. The key to getting the most out of peptides is incorporating them into your daily skincare routine. Apply peptide products to your skin morning and night after cleansing.
You can safely combine peptides with various other skincare products including vitamin C, retinol, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. In fact, using peptides together with these ingredients can actually enhance their overall benefits. Ingredients to avoid mixing with peptides include glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, as they can can make peptides less efficacious.
All skin types can benefit from using peptides in their skincare routine. Whether you’re experiencing fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, breakouts, or dry skin, peptides can help. You just need to make sure you use the best peptides for skin.
Sides Effects of Topical Peptides
In the world of skincare, side effects can always happen but they’re usually rare. Peptides in skincare are generally safe for use. However, potential side effects may include skin sensitivity, redness, rashes, and itching. To avoid this, perform a patch test before using your peptide cream or serum to ensure your skin won’t react negatively.
If you have a skin condition like eczema, speak to your dermatologist if you have any concerns about using peptides in your routine.
Are Peptides Better Than Retinol?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that function as the building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin. Topical peptides signal the skin to produce more collagen, resulting in a firmer, smoother complexion.
Retinol, on the other hand, is a vitamin A derivative that accelerates cell turnover and encourages collagen production to gradually fade fine lines and age spots while improving skin’s texture and tone.
Both can work wonders for your skin. Peptides are more gentle and possess anti-inflammatory properties, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Retinol is the go-to ingredient for those wanting to combat visible signs of aging. To get the most out of both these ingredients, try incorporating them both into your skincare routine.
What is the Best Peptide for Skin?
When it comes to peptides in skincare, things can get a little confusing and overwhelming. Tripeptides? Peptide complex? Where do you even begin? With so many peptides available, from copper peptides to collagen peptides, and signal peptides, how do you choose?
Generally speaking, most peptides found in skincare products are effective at targeting signs of aging. You can start with a peptide booster formulation first or look for a cream or serum infused with the best peptides for skin that we listed out above.
What are the best peptides for skin? Acetyl tetrapeptide-2, 9, and 11, and Hydrolyzed rice protein. All of these help to combat signs of aging, fade dark spots and discoloration, and strengthen the skin barrier while soothing irritation.
Should You Add Peptides to Your Skincare Routine?
Absolutely! Peptides are a game-changer for anyone looking to maintain youthful, healthy skin. Whether you want to reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity, or strengthen your skin barrier, peptides can help. Since they’re gentle and effective, they’re a great option for all skin types—including those with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
If you haven’t already, consider adding a peptide serum, moisturizer, or body treatment to your regimen. With consistent use, you’ll start noticing smoother, plumper skin in just a few weeks.
Ready to try peptides for skin yourself? Check out our top-rated peptide-infused skincare products and experience the benefits firsthand!
