The Most Loved Peptide Serums of 2024 - Unlock the Dewiest Skin Imaginable
You’ve been contemplating a peptide serum but not sure whether they’re really worth it. We break down the science behind peptide serums and how to choose the right one for you. Explore our curated selection of (mostly) Irish skincare brands offering next-level anti-ageing treatments and all-day radiance.
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Learn about how peptides work in skincare, and the types to look out for. Compare peptides and retinol.
Find the perfect peptide serum for your skin type and concerns
The Science Behind Peptide Serums
Peptides are present in many popular skincare products including anti-ageing serums, but are they really worth the hype? Firstly, we need to explore what peptides are, how they work in skincare and whether they are effective at supporting mature skin.
Understanding How Peptides Work in Skincare
Peptides are short chains of amino acids - the primary building blocks of proteins. They’re preferable over proteins in skincare because of their smaller size - peptides can cross the skin barrier and enrich deeper layers.
Different types of peptides in skincare have slightly different functions. The following lists examples of peptide types in skincare.
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Signalling peptides - these have a stimulating effect and can boost collagen and elastin production and cell regeneration. Palmitoyl peptides are common examples of these.
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Carrier peptides - as the name suggests, carrier peptides transport trace elements such as copper (copper peptide) or manganese to the target site. They also help stimulate the production of collagen and boost skin elasticity. Copper peptide serums are a popular example.
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Neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides - said to have a ‘botox effect’, these - in theory - can inhibit small muscle contractions, melanin production, hydrate and stimulate collagen production. ArgirilineⓇ or acetyl peptides are common examples of these.
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Enzyme-inhibiting peptides - these have a moisturising effect and inhibit the enzymes that break down collagen. This could slow collagen loss. Soy oligopeptides or hydrolysed rice proteins are common examples of enzyme-inhibiting peptides.
Identifying peptide types in your skincare routine can be challenging without a chemistry degree. A foolproof approach is to choose a peptide blend or a peptide matrix such as Matrixyl 3000TM. This way you can experience the multiple benefits of peptides. Nevertheless, we break down which peptide types are present in these popular skincare products.
Comparing Peptides and Retinol: Which is Superior for Radiant Skin?
Peptides are protein-derived, meanwhile, retinol is a fatty-acid-rich derivative of vitamin A. However, both have anti-ageing benefits. They target and prevent the visible signs of ageing via different mechanisms, but the outcomes are similar. Peptides alter cellular activity through signalling or inhibition. Whereas retinol modulates gene expression. Explore our diagram below describing the differences and similarities.
Do Peptide Serums Really Promote Anti-Ageing?
In short, yes. Peptides have the unique ability to alter the behaviour of skin cells and extracellular structures they interact with. When they reach the epidermis, skincare peptides have a variety of beneficial effects including collagen stimulation, wrinkle reduction, skin firming, melanin inhibition and hydration.
Discover the Top Peptide Serums of 2024 for Youthful, Dewy Skin
1. The Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum 30ml
The perfect beginner serum is the Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum. It contains a trio of signal peptides which help stimulate collagen and elastin production and boost hydration for immediate radiance and enhanced skin texture over time. The luxurious texture is fast-absorbing and doesn’t leave a greasy residue - it’s the best way to dip your toe into the world of liquid peptides.
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2. Skingredients Skin Protein Anti-Ageing Retinoid Serum
A hero product in your anti-ageing routine has to be the Skingredients Skin Protein Anti-Ageing Retinoid. A carefully curated formula of peptides, vitamins, antioxidants and retinol, provides the perfect tonic for fine lines, wrinkles, sagging skin and dullness. What’s more, you never have to decide between, retinol, peptides or antioxidants - Skingredients offers it all. Slather this magical concoction over your face, neck and chest daily and feel your skin transform. The lifetime bottle makes it even easier to top up your new favourite serum.
“I can’t live without this little bottle of bliss. Evens out my skin tone and leaves my skin so smooth. Love it.”
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| €55.00 45ml (refills are €49.00), Subscribe & Save with Meaghers Pharmacy |
3. Skingredients Skin Veg Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum
The super juicy and hydrating serum from Skingredients is another must-have for dry skin or a dull complexion. The Skin Veg Hyaluronic Acid Pre-Seum contains a super-blend of fruit and veg extracts to nourish, hydrate and protect against environmental damage. Similar to the retinol serum, this lightweight pre-serum contains pro-collagen peptides and hyaluronic acid to plump and revitalise tired or mature skin. This uses revolutionary micronised hyaluronic acid which can penetrate deeply into the epidermis where it holds moisture, stimulates collagen production and enhances the skin’s natural radiance.
“This is one of the best serums I have tried. My fine lines are noticeably more smoothed out and I am very impressed. Would highly recommend.”
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4. Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum
If you’re into preventative anti-ageing skincare, this delectable serum from Dermalogica should be a staple in your skincare routine. It contains vitamin C - the holy grail for fighting oxidative stress, preventing age spots and enabling collagen and elastin production, what’s more, it contains signal peptides for collagen-boosting effects and skincare acids for gentle daily exfoliation. This is the perfect serum to keep fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation at bay. Try the Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum for yourself.
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| €105.00 |
5. IMAGE The Max Stem Cell Serum
For the most advanced effects, choose the IMAGE Max Stem Cell Serum. It used innovative Vectorize TechnologyⓇ to deliver key skincare ingredients where they’re needed. Despite the higher price point, this is what sets IMAGE’s liquid peptides apart from the rest. Moreover, it contains a wide range of different peptides, including signalling, neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides and enzyme-inhibiting peptides for all-round anti-ageing and wrinkle-smoothing effects. Achieve visibly firmer skin, target deep wrinkles and folds and fight pigmentation and visible damage. This silky, lightweight formula is perfect for layering with your other skincare products, or underneath make-up.
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How to choose the best peptide serum for you?
Skincare peptides are generally well-tolerated, but some are better suited to your skin’s needs than others. Choosing the right one can determine your satisfaction. We explore which liquid peptides to choose for dehydrated skin, wrinkles and fine lines, skin plumpness, damage and pigmentation.
Dehydration
Whether your skin is dry, oily or combination, all skin types can be prone to dehydration and the result is a lacklustre skin tone that easily develops fine lines. To achieve healthy skin and a radiant glow, choose the Skingredients Skin Veg Pre-Serum. It contains pro-collagen peptides to revitalise tired skin and the micronised hyaluronic acid serum offers deep hydration. Botanical extracts also help nourish the skin’s barrier.
Wrinkles and fine lines
Although all the peptide serums listed help with fine lines, there is only one that can smooth away deep lines and wrinkles and that’s the IMAGE Max Stem Cell Serum. It contains 3 types of skincare peptides, plant stem cells and Vectorize TechnologyⓇ to optimise delivery and efficacy.
Damage and pigmentation
Preventing damage is always the best option and the Dermalogica Biolumin-C Serum is perfect for this. It combines potent peptides, two forms of stable vitamin C, antioxidants and lactic acid. The result is collagen stimulation, prevention of damage and dark spots and renewed skin via gentle exfoliation. Target existing damage with age-reversing IMAGE Max Stem Cell Serum or explore CoQ10 serums - ideal for stressed skin.
Skin plumpness
Low molecular weight hyaluronic acid is the hero ingredient in the Skingredients Skin Veg Pre-Serum. Combined with pro-collagen peptides, they help to hydrate and plump skin. The formula creates an instant glow and improves skin texture and resilience over time.
Best peptide serum overall
We crown the Skingredients Skin Protein Anti-Ageing Retinoid the best peptide serum because it contains retinoids for dual action anti-ageing, vitamins and antioxidants. Protect the skin from further damage and fight the signs of ageing. The silky formula glides onto all skin types without feeling greasy or heavy and it’s the only anti-ageing peptide serum you’ll need. It’s more affordable than some other serums and it comes in a refillable 45ml bottle - what’s not to love?
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Frequently Asked Questions:
Are peptide serums suitable for all skin types?
Peptides are generally well-tolerated, but you should follow the application guidelines for your peptide serum and sensitive skin types should always patch-test. Some heavier formulations may not be suitable for acne-prone skin.
How long does it take to see results from using peptide serums?
It can take up to eight weeks of regular use before you see a significant increase in skin firmness, plumpness and reduction in lines and wrinkles. However, depending on the serum’s formulation, you could see an instant hydration boost.
Can peptide serums be used in conjunction with other anti-aging products?
Peptides are generally safe to pair with a retinol serum and other antioxidant serums. In fact, we love the Skingredients Skin Protein Anti-Ageing Retinoid Serum because it contains peptides, vitamins and anti-oxidants for a complete age-reversal effect.
Are there any side effects of using peptide serums?
Peptides are generally well tolerated in topical skincare. However, if you have sensitive skin or specific allergies, they could cause irritation or a rash. Marine collagen peptides are derived from fish, so if you have a fish allergy, keep an eye out for this ingredient. Always patch-test if you’re worried about adverse reactions.
