7 Best Peptide Serums for Firmer, Plumper Skin

If you’ve been scrolling through skincare TikTok or reading beauty blogs lately, you’ve probably noticed peptides are having a major moment. And honestly? They deserve the hype. These tiny protein fragments work like little messengers, telling your skin to produce more collagen, firm up, and basically act younger than it actually is.

But here’s the thing—walking into Sephora or scrolling through Amazon can be overwhelming when you’re trying to figure out which peptide serum is actually worth your money. Some serums pack in multiple peptide types that work overtime, while others are pretty basic formulas with one or two peptides and not much else. I’ve done the research to bring you the best peptide serums that actually deliver results without requiring you to take out a small loan (although some of these options do get pricey!).

What Do Peptides Actually Do for Your Skin?

Before we jump into the products, let’s talk science for a second. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks for proteins like collagen, elastin, and keratin. When you apply them topically, they signal your skin to ramp up collagen production, which naturally declines as we age (thanks, time).

The result? Firmer skin, fewer fine lines, better texture, and that plump, bouncy look we’re all chasing. Different types of peptides do different things—some focus on collagen production, others help with skin barrier repair, and neurotransmitter peptides even mimic some of the effects of Botox by relaxing facial muscles. Pretty impressive for such tiny molecules.

The 8 Best Peptide Serums Worth Your Money

1. The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + HA Serum

Let’s start with the cult favorite that launched a thousand skincare routines. Previously known as “Buffet,” this serum combines four different peptide technologies with hyaluronic acid and amino acids. It’s basically a peptide party in a bottle, targeting multiple signs of aging at once.

What makes this one special is that it’s incredibly affordable (usually under $20 on Amazon) but doesn’t compromise on quality. The texture is lightweight and layers well under other products, making it perfect for both morning and evening routines. If you’re new to peptides and don’t want to drop serious cash on your first try, this is your starting point.

2. The INKEY List Collagen Peptide Serum

Another budget-friendly winner that punches way above its price point. This serum features Matrixyl 3000, a well-researched peptide that’s specifically designed to boost collagen production and smooth fine lines. It also includes Syn-Tacks dual peptide for extra firming power.

At around $15-20 on Amazon, this is one of the most affordable peptide serums that actually works. The texture is lightweight and absorbs quickly—no waiting around forever for it to sink in. After consistent use, my skin definitely looks smoother and feels bouncier. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin too, which is a huge plus.

3. Rhode Peptide Glazing Fluid

If you’ve been on TikTok at all in the past year, you’ve probably seen this one. Hailey Bieber’s Rhode line created this gel serum that combines peptides with niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and marula oil for that signature “glazed donut” skin look.

This serum is around $29-32 and gives you that instant dewy glow while working on firming and plumping over time. The texture is unique—almost cream-like for a serum—and it layers beautifully under makeup. It’s available on the Rhode website and at Sephora, though I haven’t seen it consistently on Amazon. If you’re after that glass skin aesthetic with actual peptide benefits, this delivers.

4. Medik8 Liquid Peptides

This UK brand has seriously impressed me with their peptide game. The Liquid Peptides serum contains a 30% blend of ten different peptides, plus drone-targeted technology that delivers the peptides exactly where your skin needs them most. Yes, drone technology in skincare—we’re living in the future.

It’s around $66 on Amazon and various retailers, which is definitely an investment but still reasonable for a high-performance peptide serum. The texture is crystal-clear and lightweight, absorbing almost instantly. If you want to step up from drugstore peptides without going full luxury pricing, this is your middle ground.

5. Peach & Lily Glass Skin Refining Serum

This K-beauty favorite combines peptides with niacinamide, peach extract, and hyaluronic acid for a powerful but gentle formula. It’s the serum that actually started the whole glass skin movement, and it’s earned its cult status for good reason.

Available on Amazon for around $30-40, this serum is perfect if you have sensitive skin or are dealing with inflammation alongside aging concerns. The peptide complex helps boost collagen while the other ingredients calm and brighten. The texture is silky and weightless, and it genuinely makes your skin look more luminous.

6. SkinCeuticals P-TIOX

Okay, this one is pricey—we’re talking around $185-195—but if you’re serious about peptides and have the budget, it’s worth knowing about. This serum is inspired by neurotoxin injections (like Botox) and is clinically proven to reduce nine different types of expression lines.

It features an advanced peptide complex plus PHA, niacinamide, and laminaria extract. The really cool thing is that dermatologists recommend it both as a standalone product and to complement actual Botox treatments. You can find it at medical spas and online retailers, though availability on Amazon varies. If you’re already getting injectables or considering them, this is the peptide serum to try.

7. Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster

Paula’s Choice makes some of the most no-nonsense, effective skincare out there, and this peptide booster is no exception. It contains eight different peptides plus amino acids and skin-soothing ingredients. The cool thing about this one is that you can use it alone or mix it with your moisturizer.

At around $50, it’s positioned in the mid-range category. A little goes a long way with this concentrated formula, so the bottle lasts forever. If you’re not sure how to fit another serum into your routine or you want maximum flexibility, this is a great option. It’s available on the Paula’s Choice website and Amazon.

How to Actually Use Peptide Serums

Peptide serums typically go on after cleansing and toning but before moisturizer. If you’re using multiple serums (no judgment, my bathroom cabinet is packed too), apply peptides before heavier oils or retinol products.

Here’s an important tip: don’t use peptide serums at the same time as direct acids like AHA or BHA. The low pH of acids can break down peptides and make them less effective. If you use acids, apply them at a different time of day than your peptide serum, or alternate nights.

Most peptide serums can be used morning and night, though some people prefer them in the evening. The key is consistency—you won’t wake up with dramatically different skin after one use, but give it 4-6 weeks of regular application and you should start seeing real improvements in firmness and texture.

Do Peptide Serums Actually Work?

The short answer is yes, especially if you’re dealing with early signs of aging or want to prevent them proactively. Peptides are one of those ingredients with actual research backing them up, unlike some trendy but scientifically questionable ingredients that come and go every few months.

The best part? Peptide serums work for pretty much everyone. They’re generally non-irritating, play well with other ingredients (except strong acids), and deliver visible results without the potential sensitivity that comes with retinol or harsh actives. Even people with sensitive skin can usually tolerate peptides without issues.

Whether you go for a budget option like The Ordinary or The INKEY List, or invest in something like SkinCeuticals or Medik8, adding peptides to your routine is one of those decisions your future skin will thank you for. Start with one serum, use it consistently for at least a month, and see how your skin responds. You can always experiment with different formulas once you’ve experienced what peptides can actually do.

The key is finding one that fits your budget and skin concerns, then sticking with it long enough to see results. Your skin didn’t lose firmness overnight, and it won’t regain it overnight either—but with consistent peptide use, you’ll definitely notice a difference.

This post contains affiliate links for products available on Amazon. If you purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support Blush Hour and allows me to keep creating honest beauty content. I only recommend products I’ve personally researched or would genuinely use myself!