In my experience with skin care, when you take a step back, you start to understand that most of the marketing jargon is interconnected which is to say, if you know about collagen — even in the most general terms — you're just about there on peptides.
The tl;dr: A peptide is a short-chain amino acid that, on a cellular level, helps build proteins, like collagen. So, it makes sense that you'd want them in your skin-care routine and why brands bold 'peptide' on a label. Moreover, peptides are especially trendy at the moment — peptide moisturizer feels a bit like what vitamin C serum was three years ago. So, we've amassed a helpful guide on how to shop for peptide skin-care based on your need.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum
If you need: a gentle, hydrating serum
What it is: What you're getting in this serum is 'copper' peptides, which actually help calm skin inflammation. "Copper tripeptide is used to heal wounds or calm inflammation, but it also promotes collagen and elastin synthesis, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits," dermatologist Dr. Justine Hextall tells R29. A copper peptide serum would be great for someone, like my cousin, with dry, sensitive skin.
Biossance Squalane + Copper Peptide Rapid Plumping Serum, $, available at Sephora
OleHenriksen Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer
If you need: an easy, everyday moisturizer
What it is: A daily moisturizer — powered by peptides and ceramides (which protect the moisture barrier of the skin) — that feels light, but thicker than a gel or water cream, and absorbs into the skin without leaving it looking greasy.
Ole Henriksen Strength Trainer Peptide Boost Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora
Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C + Peptide Eye Cream
If you need: a brightening eye cream
What it is: For anyone who wakes up with dark circles, this new Summer Fridays eye cream brightens (with vitamin c) and helps reinforce the elasticity of the thin under eye skin (the peptide function). I sometimes rub it all over my face, which really wakes me up.
Summer Fridays Light Aura Vitamin C + Peptide Eye Cream, $, available at Sephora
Paula's Choice Peptide Booster
If you need: a peptide you can cocktail
What is it: We love a cocktail of the skin-care variety. What's great about a Paula's Choice Peptide Booster is that it's concentrated, so you can add a drop or two to the moisturizer, serum, or oil you're already using, and you're getting the benefits of peptides without having to experiment with a whole new layering system.
Paula's Choice Paula's Choice Peptide Booster (0.67 fl. oz.), $, available at DermStore
Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Wrinkle Resist Moisturizer
If you need: a retinol
What is it: One Sephora reviewer called this nighttime retinol plus peptide moisturizer the "Holy Grail for expression lines" with "light, long-lasting hydration." I'm sold.
Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21® Wrinkle Resist Moisturizer, $, available at Sephora
Drunk Elephant Protini Powerpeptide Resurfacing Serum
If you need: an exfoliant
What is it: My co-worker Karina said this Drunk Elephant serum cleared her maskne. For an exfoliant with AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), it's surprisingly gentle, in part, thanks to the peptide complex that hydrates and soothes the skin, leaving it supple, glowy, and not stingy.
Drunk Elephant Protini™ Powerpeptide Resurfacing Serum, $, available at Sephora
Olay Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer
If you need: a vitamin C moisturizer
What is it: Olay recently collaborated with Juicy Couture on this Vitamin C + Peptides collection. The hero product is this moisturizer, which is a proper full-face brightening option. Because the formula also has lactic acid, it might be a good pick if you're prone to oiliness. Also, if you can get your hands on the matching velour tracksuit, it's worth it.
Olay Olay Regenerist Vitamin C + Peptide 24 Face Moisturizer - 1.7oz, $, available at Target
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