How the Best Peptides Skincare Can Deliver Botox-Like Results
If you've been clued into the peptides conversation, you might also be wonder what the best peptide skin-care products can do for you. This 'silent powerhouse' (there are in fact various types of peptides) is a derm favorite for healing skin, slowing aging, and stimulating collagen and elastic production. At their most basic, peptides are short chains of amino acids that form the building blocks of proteins like collagen, elastin, and keratin. These proteins are essential for firm, youthful-looking skin.
Below, we asked experts to explain what peptides are, whether they recommend them in a skincare routine, and what to look for when shopping the best peptide skin-care products, from creams and serums to essences. We also rounded up our favorite peptide products for both the face and body in the guide ahead.
Vogue's Favorite Peptide Skin-Care Products
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Best Drugstore: Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer
Why We Love It : This fragrance-free moisturizer is a top pick for sensitive skin types. It feels great on the skin and layers nicely under sunscreen or makeup. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth, it's packed with palmitoyl pentapeptide, a peptide known for helping to stimulate collagen and elastin production. 'It works by mimicking the skin's own repair signals, essentially signaling the skin to renew itself, which makes it effective for improving fine lines, firmness, and overall skin texture,' she explains. Because it's small and lipid-linked due to the palmitoyl group, she notes that it penetrates the skin more easily than some other peptides, allowing it to deliver anti-aging benefits deeper into the dermis.
: This fragrance-free moisturizer is a top pick for sensitive skin types. It feels great on the skin and layers nicely under sunscreen or makeup. According to board-certified dermatologist Dr. Nicole Ruth, it's packed with palmitoyl pentapeptide, a peptide known for helping to stimulate collagen and elastin production. 'It works by mimicking the skin's own repair signals, essentially signaling the skin to renew itself, which makes it effective for improving fine lines, firmness, and overall skin texture,' she explains. Because it's small and lipid-linked due to the palmitoyl group, she notes that it penetrates the skin more easily than some other peptides, allowing it to deliver anti-aging benefits deeper into the dermis. Key Ingredients : Collagen peptide, niacinamide, pro vitamin b5
: Collagen peptide, niacinamide, pro vitamin b5 Best for: Dry, aging, textured skin
Dry, aging, textured skin Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1.7 oz
Best for Wrinkles: Skinceuticals P-TIOX
Why We Love It : A new favorite in the skin-care community—Vogue contributor Deanna Pai described it in her review as 'the next best thing to a needle'—this formula contains biomimetic peptides and 10% argireline to target expression lines while smoothing and refining skin texture over time. While Dr. Ruth doesn't like to compare any topical product to Botox, she says the results are promising and that it can help soften fine lines. 'Argireline helps inhibit neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, which can soften the appearance of dynamic wrinkles.'
: A new favorite in the skin-care community—Vogue contributor Deanna Pai described it in her review as 'the next best thing to a needle'—this formula contains biomimetic peptides and 10% argireline to target expression lines while smoothing and refining skin texture over time. While Dr. Ruth doesn't like to compare any topical product to Botox, she says the results are promising and that it can help soften fine lines. 'Argireline helps inhibit neurotransmitter release at the neuromuscular junction, which can soften the appearance of dynamic wrinkles.' Key Ingredients : Hexapeptide, dipeptide, 5% PHA, niacinamide, laminaria
: Hexapeptide, dipeptide, 5% PHA, niacinamide, laminaria Best For : Mature skin
: Mature skin Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1 fl oz
Best Serum: Medik8 Liquid Peptides
Why We Love It : If you want to supercharge your skin=care routine, Dr. Ruth says, 'this is a more high-tech serum featuring a 30% peptide complex that is formulated with micro molecules to better penetrate into the skin.' While it's on the pricier side, she explains that it's a great option for patients looking to smooth fine lines while also hydrating the skin and adding a healthy glow. Unlike some skin-care products that take time to show results, this one delivers noticeably plumper, more hydrated skin within a week.
: If you want to supercharge your skin=care routine, Dr. Ruth says, 'this is a more high-tech serum featuring a 30% peptide complex that is formulated with micro molecules to better penetrate into the skin.' While it's on the pricier side, she explains that it's a great option for patients looking to smooth fine lines while also hydrating the skin and adding a healthy glow. Unlike some skin-care products that take time to show results, this one delivers noticeably plumper, more hydrated skin within a week. Key Ingredients : Lactic acid, glycolic acid
: Lactic acid, glycolic acid Best For : Mature skin
: Mature skin Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1 fl oz
Best for Beginners: The Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum
Why We Love It : 'The Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum is great for people who are just starting their skincare journey or anyone looking to keep their routine minimal,' says holistic esthetician Amity Murray. She recommends it to clients who want a clean, effective formulation that 'provides hydration, smooths lines, and is safe for sensitive skin.' It's also priced under $20, so you won't wince every time you use it, and you can generously apply it to your face, neck, and décolletage (as we all should be doing).
: 'The Inkey List Collagen Peptide Serum is great for people who are just starting their skincare journey or anyone looking to keep their routine minimal,' says holistic esthetician Amity Murray. She recommends it to clients who want a clean, effective formulation that 'provides hydration, smooths lines, and is safe for sensitive skin.' It's also priced under $20, so you won't wince every time you use it, and you can generously apply it to your face, neck, and décolletage (as we all should be doing). Key Ingredients : Collagen peptides
: Collagen peptides Best For : Dry, dull skin
: Dry, dull skin Fragrance-Free : No
: No Size: 1.01 fl oz
Best for Mature Skin: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Why We Love It : Murray explains that the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is a strong option for dry or mature skin. However, it's safe for all skin types and helps improve the appearance of coarse wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and texture. While it errs on the pricier side, she says it's ideal for anyone looking for a cosmeceutical-level product that delivers visible results. Clinical tests have shown improvements in as little as two weeks, provided it's used consistently.
: Murray explains that the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum is a strong option for dry or mature skin. However, it's safe for all skin types and helps improve the appearance of coarse wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and texture. While it errs on the pricier side, she says it's ideal for anyone looking for a cosmeceutical-level product that delivers visible results. Clinical tests have shown improvements in as little as two weeks, provided it's used consistently. Key Ingredients : TNS-MR, renaissance (RSC) advances
: TNS-MR, renaissance (RSC) advances Best For : Mature skin
: Mature skin Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1 oz
Best Viral: Rhode Skin Peptide Glazing Fluid
Rhode Skin
Peptide Glazing Fluid
$32
RHODE SKIN
Why We Love It : If you're already a Belieber in Hailey Bieber's Rhode lineup, then you're probably familiar with the Glazing Serum. If not, it's an easy addition to your existing routine and doesn't require much adjusting. It really depends on what you're looking for, but if you want a minimalist serum with a dewy finish and barrier-boosting peptides, Dr. Ruth says this one is a favorite for patients aiming to achieve that hydrated, glass-skin glow without irritation.
: If you're already a Belieber in Hailey Bieber's Rhode lineup, then you're probably familiar with the Glazing Serum. If not, it's an easy addition to your existing routine and doesn't require much adjusting. It really depends on what you're looking for, but if you want a minimalist serum with a dewy finish and barrier-boosting peptides, Dr. Ruth says this one is a favorite for patients aiming to achieve that hydrated, glass-skin glow without irritation. Key Ingredients : Niacinamide, peptices, hyaluronic acid, marula oil
: Niacinamide, peptices, hyaluronic acid, marula oil Best For : All skin types
: All skin types Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1.7 fl oz
Best French Pharmacy: Filorga Time-Filler 5XP Cream Clean
Filorga
Time-Filler 5XP Cream Clean
$98
DERMSTORE
Why We Love It : At times, we're convinced the French know something we don't when it comes to skincare, which is why every time we're abroad, we stock up on French pharmacy staples. Thankfully, many of them are now available stateside, like the Filorga Time-Filler 5XP Cream Clean. Murray says, 'It combines French research with luxury. This hydrating cream leaves skin looking and feeling plump.' With its creamy-gel texture, it's especially well-suited for oily skin types, helping to hydrate while gently mattifying the complexion.
: At times, we're convinced the French know something we don't when it comes to skincare, which is why every time we're abroad, we stock up on French pharmacy staples. Thankfully, many of them are now available stateside, like the Filorga Time-Filler 5XP Cream Clean. Murray says, 'It combines French research with luxury. This hydrating cream leaves skin looking and feeling plump.' With its creamy-gel texture, it's especially well-suited for oily skin types, helping to hydrate while gently mattifying the complexion. Key Ingredients : Peptides, hyaluronic acid, sea fennel extract
: Peptides, hyaluronic acid, sea fennel extract Best For : Oily skin
: Oily skin Fragrance-Free : No
: No Size: 1.7 oz
Best Copper Peptides: The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum
The Ordinary
Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum
$32
AMAZON
Why We Love It : Think of copper peptides as multitasking repair agents for your skin. Dr. Ruth explains that this serum helps boost collagen and elastin while also calming inflammation and supporting healing, making it a must-have for restoring bounce and glow, especially in aging or compromised skin. Like all of The Ordinary's products, this serum is relatively affordable and easy to add into your routine. However, the research is still evolving, and Dr. Ruth notes that more studies are underway to fully understand the role of copper peptides in dermatology.
: Think of copper peptides as multitasking repair agents for your skin. Dr. Ruth explains that this serum helps boost collagen and elastin while also calming inflammation and supporting healing, making it a must-have for restoring bounce and glow, especially in aging or compromised skin. Like all of The Ordinary's products, this serum is relatively affordable and easy to add into your routine. However, the research is still evolving, and Dr. Ruth notes that more studies are underway to fully understand the role of copper peptides in dermatology. Key Ingredients : Hyaluronic acid, peptides
: Hyaluronic acid, peptides Best For : All skin types
: All skin types Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1 fl oz
Best Cream: InnBeauty Project Extreme Cream
InnBeauty Project
Project Extreme Cream
$48
INNBEAUTY PROJECT
Why We Love It : Touted as one of the best peptide creams, InnBeauty Project Extreme Cream is an affordable option for anyone in search of a clean, effective formula. 'It provides profound hydration while minimizing lines and wrinkles,' says Murray. If you're used to lighter water creams, this one might feel slightly heavier at first, but it doesn't cause breakouts or leave behind a tacky residue. With consistent use (it's safe to use both morning and night, despite containing retinol), it helps skin appear firmer and leaves behind a healthy, radiant sheen.
: Touted as one of the best peptide creams, InnBeauty Project Extreme Cream is an affordable option for anyone in search of a clean, effective formula. 'It provides profound hydration while minimizing lines and wrinkles,' says Murray. If you're used to lighter water creams, this one might feel slightly heavier at first, but it doesn't cause breakouts or leave behind a tacky residue. With consistent use (it's safe to use both morning and night, despite containing retinol), it helps skin appear firmer and leaves behind a healthy, radiant sheen. Key Ingredients : Bio retinol, lifting peptides, ceramides, unique reverse emulsion technology
: Bio retinol, lifting peptides, ceramides, unique reverse emulsion technology Best For : Dry skin, mature skin
: Dry skin, mature skin Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 1.7 oz
Best With Growth Factors: Eighth Day Regenerative Serum
Eighth Day
Regenerative Serum
$195
NORDSTROM
Why We Love It : Developed by a dermatologic surgeon, the Eighth Day Regenerative Serum is 'a results-driven product for clients who have a more advanced regimen,' says Murray. It's formulated with all the essentials: GABA, an active neuropeptide that supports healing and repair; moisturizing hyaluronic acid; niacinamide to reduce inflammation; and glycolic acid to improve texture. As for peptides, it features a complex composed of 24 bio-identical peptides designed to leave the skin visibly renewed.
: Developed by a dermatologic surgeon, the Eighth Day Regenerative Serum is 'a results-driven product for clients who have a more advanced regimen,' says Murray. It's formulated with all the essentials: GABA, an active neuropeptide that supports healing and repair; moisturizing hyaluronic acid; niacinamide to reduce inflammation; and glycolic acid to improve texture. As for peptides, it features a complex composed of 24 bio-identical peptides designed to leave the skin visibly renewed. Key Ingredients : Growth factors, peptides, amino acids
: Growth factors, peptides, amino acids Best For : Mature, sensitive skin
: Mature, sensitive skin Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 0.5 oz
Best for Body: U Beauty The Super Body Hydrator
Why We Love It : Peptides aren't just great for the skin on your face—they benefit the entire body. If you're already a fan of U Beauty's facial products, you're in luck because the same high-performance formulas are also available in body care. Murray says the Body Hydrator is an excellent option for anyone struggling with dry or dehydrated skin. 'This body moisturizer delivers smoothness,' she says. It's also super lightweight, so you don't need to worry about spending extra elbow grease rubbing it in, and it leaves behind a subtle glow.
: Peptides aren't just great for the skin on your face—they benefit the entire body. If you're already a fan of U Beauty's facial products, you're in luck because the same high-performance formulas are also available in body care. Murray says the Body Hydrator is an excellent option for anyone struggling with dry or dehydrated skin. 'This body moisturizer delivers smoothness,' she says. It's also super lightweight, so you don't need to worry about spending extra elbow grease rubbing it in, and it leaves behind a subtle glow. Key Ingredients : Vitamin C, peptides, hyaluronic acid
: Vitamin C, peptides, hyaluronic acid Best For : All skin types
: All skin types Fragrance-Free :
: Size: 6.8 oz
Best Essence: Mara Algae + Beta-Glucan Pearl Peptide Glaze Hydrating Facial Essence
Why We Love It : Mara—the algae-based skincare line that feels quintessentially Los Angeles—sources its clinically-tested algae through wild collection in France and Ireland, making each formula as thoughtful as it is effective. As Dr. Ruth puts it, 'Think of this as your skin's pre-serum smoothie. Beta-glucan calms inflammation, algae hydrates, and peptides help maintain a healthy and hydrated skin barrier.'
: Mara—the algae-based skincare line that feels quintessentially Los Angeles—sources its clinically-tested algae through wild collection in France and Ireland, making each formula as thoughtful as it is effective. As Dr. Ruth puts it, 'Think of this as your skin's pre-serum smoothie. Beta-glucan calms inflammation, algae hydrates, and peptides help maintain a healthy and hydrated skin barrier.' Key Ingredients : Pearl powder, algae, marine collagen peptides
: Pearl powder, algae, marine collagen peptides Best For : All skin types
: All skin types Fragrance-Free : Yes
: Yes Size: 3.4 oz
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You might consider keeping your hands busy by using a fidget toy or stress ball. How long does it take to break a habit? Keep in mind, it can often take a considerable amount of time to break an unwanted habit. Exactly how much time, though, varies from person to person. How to get support If you're looking to build new, more helpful habits, consider getting support from a therapist. According to Malone, a therapist can help you uncover the root causes or reasons behind your old habits, which can provide important information to help change them. Rechtman notes that a therapist can also help you: come up with ways for making your desired habits more realistic, attainable, and easy to stick with stay accountable for creating change explore any parts of you that might resist the new habit stay motivated by providing encouragement and guidance brainstorm ideas for tweaking your habits when you have trouble making them stick Some unwanted habits can stem from mental health difficulties or trauma, according to Jahn. A therapist can help you unpack those concerns and come up with more productive coping and healing mechanisms. The takeaway Habits can play an important role in multiple aspects of your life, including mental and physical health, productivity, relationships, and self-esteem. It's always possible to build new, helpful habits and change habits that no longer align with your needs. Remember to be patient and compassionate during the process since forming new habits and making them stick takes time. A little extra help can often make a difference, too. A therapist can offer more personalized guidance and support.
