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  3. 10 Best Peptide Serums UK 2023 | The Ordinary, Olay and More
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10 Best Peptide Serums UK 2023 | The Ordinary, Olay and More

Peptides are a popular ingredient that are added to various cosmetic products. Serums with peptides, however, are an excellent choice as they're concentrated, so they penetrate the skin faster than creams to get the best results. Many different options can be used on the face, neck, eyes and even the hair, so there's something to suit everyone's beauty goals. 


We've put together a guide with information on different peptides like matrixyl 3000 and Argireline, which can be combined with vitamin C and other ingredients to ward off sagging skin. Don't miss our picks of the best peptide serums including offerings from The Ordinary, medik8 and Wishful. If you read our tips and recommendations, you're sure to find a serum that works. 

Last updated 14/07/2023
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Table of Contents

Reasons to Add Peptides to Your Routine

Reasons to Add Peptides to Your Routine

Peptides are a beauty buzzword, but that doesn't mean we all know exactly what they are! In simple terms, these ingredients are amino acids that build various proteins. Most commonly, they make collagen and elastane which help fight the signs of ageing, but some can also treat hair loss and dark under-eye circles.


Peptides are more effective than other cosmetic ingredients because they penetrate below the skin's surface to do their job, as opposed to just sitting on top. Although many beauty products contain peptides, serums are one of the best choices as they are left on the skin all day, so the active ingredients have time to soak in. 


In addition, as with almost all serums, they often achieve better results than moisturisers as the ingredients are more concentrated, so they work faster and have stronger effects – especially when used as part of your evening skincare routine. 

How to Choose a Peptide Serum in the UK - Buying Guide

Don't worry if your knowledge of peptides is limited – we're going to talk you through the different types. In our guide, there's also a section on other beneficial ingredients to help you find the best serum for all your beauty needs.

1

Pick the Type of Peptides That Will Achieve Your Desired Result

We've already established that there are different types of peptides, so now it's time to learn what they are. Once you've read the information, you should know which ones to look for in order to achieve the most noticeable effects.

Collagen-Boosting Peptides Maintain a Youthful Complexion

Collagen-Boosting Peptides Maintain a Youthful Complexion

Most peptides found in facial serums help to boost collagen and elastane production. More collagen production means fewer wrinkles, as it stops the skin from sagging for a firm, youthful look. If this is your goal, some forms to look out for include palmitoyl tripeptides 1 and 7, Matrixyl 3000, SYN-AKE and Relistase. 


Argirelox and Argireline are a little different and are actually considered to be natural alternatives to Botox. Much like the cosmetic treatment, they reduce muscle contractions which smooths lines and helps prevent expression wrinkles. Some clinical trials have found they provide very good results, so you might want to give these peptides a try.


As we age, the skin can become thinner and develop a crepey texture. Heptapeptide-7 boosts collagen production, but it also stimulates keratinocyte proliferation that will fill fine lines and wrinkles – albeit usually only temporarily.

Brightening Peptides Improve Dark Circles and Skin Luminance

Brightening Peptides Improve Dark Circles and Skin Luminance

Anti-ageing isn't the only beauty goal peptides can accomplish – they can also help illuminate skin and brighten around the eyes. Cyrstalide is a peptide in some facial serums that induces the a-crystalline protein, which gives skin a radiant glow thanks to its highlighter-like effect. 


There are also peptides found in some eye serums that can reduce dark circles by increasing lymphatic circulation, including nicotiana benthamiana octapeptide-30 sh-oligopeptide-2, dipeptide-2 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7. This combination also tightens and firms the area under your eyes, helping you to stay looking fresh-faced for longer!

If Hair Loss Is an Issue, Try a Biotin Peptide Serum

If Hair Loss Is an Issue, Try a Biotin Peptide Serum

Do you want to improve the appearance of thin, lifeless hair? It might be worth trying peptide serums that aim to target such issues by incorporating biotinoyl tripeptide-1 and acetyl tetrapeptide-3. One of our recommendations is a form of biotin, which is found in many haircare products as it helps stimulate keratin production to increase growth.


In addition, acetyl tetrapeptide-3 boosts matrix proteins which can help anchor and improve follicle size, resulting in a reduction of hair loss and even a thickening effect. You'll often see these peptides added to hair-loss formulas to achieve maximum effects.

2

Check if the Serum Contains Other Ingredients for Healthy Skin and Hair

Check if the Serum Contains Other Ingredients for Healthy Skin and Hair

Peptide serums can also have other ingredients added, most of which are there to hydrate the hair or skin. If you suffer from dryness, for example, go for formulas that also contain hyaluronic acid or microalgae, which will lock in moisture. Hyaluronic acid works alongside peptides and helps boost their effects.


If you regularly suffer from breakouts and redness, look for ingredients that fight inflammation like hollyhock rose, aloe vera and vitamin C and B3 (especially as niacinamide). Vitamin C and B3 work particularly well with anti-ageing peptides, as C protects the proteins they create and B3 further increases collagen production.


Some haircare serums also contain caffeine, another ingredient thought to stimulate growth by blocking the hormone DHT which can cause us to lose our hair. It also appears in eye products, as it's a tried-and-tested ingredient that can reduce the appearance of dark circles. Is there anything it can't do?

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Top 10 Best Peptide Serums in the UK

Now you understand what peptide serums are, it's time to see our ranking of the best products available to buy in the UK. We've got a good range designed to cater to various different skin and haircare concerns, so we won't blame you if you pick up more than one! 
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Key features
1

The Ordinary

Buffet Serum

The Ordinary Buffet Serum 1枚目

The Very Best Peptide Serum for Any Concern

2

Olay

Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Day Serum

Olay Regenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Day Serum 1枚目

Amazing Results in Just 14 Days

3

Galia Skincare

Anti-Aging Face Serum

Galia Skincare Anti-Aging Face Serum 1枚目

Botox-Like Effects Without the Pain or Price

4

StriVectin

Peptight 360 Degree Tightening Eye Serum

StriVectin Peptight 360 Degree Tightening Eye Serum 1枚目

Tightens, Firms and Brightens in One Fell Swoop

5

The Light Salon

Hydrating Peptide Serum

The Light Salon Hydrating Peptide Serum 1枚目

An Amazing Moisture Boost With Multiple Uses

6

The INKEY List

Hepta-Peptide

The INKEY List Hepta-Peptide 1枚目

Great Under Makeup and a Bargain Too

7

Wishful

Thirst Trap Juice Serum

Wishful Thirst Trap Juice Serum 1枚目

A Super Refreshing Shot of Hydration

8

The Ordinary

Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Serum for Hair Density 1枚目

Powerful Active Ingredients to Tackle Hair Loss

9

Skin Chemists

Peptide 6 Super Serum

Skin Chemists Peptide 6 Super Serum 1枚目

For a Smooth Matte Finish

10

Medik8

Clarity Peptides

Medik8 Clarity Peptides 1枚目

Achieve a Radiant Complexion as You Protect

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

The OrdinaryBuffet Serum

Buffet Serum Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£28.10
Reference price
£28.10

The Very Best Peptide Serum for Any Concern

The Ordinary's Buffet serum tops our list as it contains a whole range of peptide complexes like Matrixyl 3,000, Synthe'6, SYN-AKE and Relistase, which will give you the best anti-ageing results. It also includes Argirelox, one of the natural Botox alternatives that will compress muscles to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.


Other beneficial ingredients include hyaluronic acid and probiotics, which together will hydrate, reduce age spots and shield against bad bacteria to stop inflammation before it causes problems. The Ordinary is a hugely popular brand and for good reason – their affordable, science-backed products do exactly what they say they will. 

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No.2

OlayRegenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Day Serum

Reference price
£14.99

Amazing Results in Just 14 Days

For a speedy solution that really works, check out Olay's Ultra Restoring day serum. You'll start to see the effects in just two weeks! It achieves this by incorporating very high levels of peptides that penetrate the skin to restore a healthy complexion. 


The product also contains vitamin B3 for 24-hour hydration and has anti-inflammatory properties to target redness. An added bonus is that it's free from fragrances and artificial dyes, so it shouldn't cause a reaction on sensitive skin. Great results from a trusted brand.

No.3

Galia SkincareAnti-Aging Face Serum

Anti-Aging Face Serum Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£14.95
Reference price
£14.95

Botox-Like Effects Without the Pain or Price

Like the thought of Botox but not keen on the pain or cost? Try this serum, which contains Argireline, an ingredient that reduces muscle contractions in order to smooth wrinkles. Plus, it has Matrixyl 3,000, a popular peptide composition, which increases collagen production for firm and bouncy skin.


The serum also contains vitamin C to brighten and help reduce age spots and the appearance of blemishes. It might not be from a high-end brand, but this is a really budget-friendly product that many people have seen results from

No.4

StriVectinPeptight 360 Degree Tightening Eye Serum

Reference price
£44.48

Tightens, Firms and Brightens in One Fell Swoop

Eyes are a problem area for many people but worry not, this bestselling treatment is here to help. It's formulated to brighten up those dark circles, reduce wrinkles around the eyelid and under-eye areas and moisturise with plum extract and microalgae.


With its cooling applicator, it doesn't only feel good to apply, but it will soothe and calm puffiness and irritation too. To top it off, it contains caffeine, which is proven to leave tired eyes feeling refreshed. What more could you want?

No.5

The Light SalonHydrating Peptide Serum

Hydrating Peptide Serum Image 1
Source:johnlewis.com
Reference price
£40.00
Reference price
£40.00

An Amazing Moisture Boost With Multiple Uses

Containing the wonder-ingredient hyaluronic acid, this lightweight serum is an excellent hydrator that doesn't leave the skin sticky. It works especially well when you apply it with the brand's Boost LED mask, so it's worth grabbing one of those for double the benefits. 


The formula also has anti-ageing properties with key peptides that firm skin, improve elasticity and reduce wrinkles, and to top it off, there's oat extract and vitamin B3 to help tackle blemishes and redness. Overall, this is a great product with some excellent properties that work to combat several different concerns.

No.6

The INKEY ListHepta-Peptide

Reference price
£25.29

Great Under Makeup and a Bargain Too

Want to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in seconds? This serum strives to do just that with soft-focus technology for an instant blurring effect. It provides a great base for makeup base too, as the complex smooths skin as it gets to work. 


Like most of The INKEY List's rage, this serum is a lot less expensive than some of the other options on the market, so it could be a smart way to try out peptides without breaking the bank. Use both it in the morning and the evening to get the best results! 

No.7

WishfulThirst Trap Juice Serum

Reference price
£28.00

A Super Refreshing Shot of Hydration

Wishful's hugely popular serum is a particularly good product for dry skin as it contains lots of hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, hollyhock rose, aloe vera and sodium hyaluronate. Not only does it hydrate, but it also illuminates skin, leaving you with a healthy, youthful glow. 


We also like that you can apply the serum to your whole body for maximum benefits. Just keep in mind that although the peptides do bring some anti-ageing properties, the highest proportion of ingredients are for hydration.

No.8

The OrdinaryMulti-Peptide Serum for Hair Density

Reference price
£21.75

Powerful Active Ingredients to Tackle Hair Loss

Full to the brim with multiple active ingredients that are aimed at preventing thinning and hair loss, this is an excellent scalp treatment from the experts at The Ordinary. There's a Procapil peptide complex, for one, which improves blood flow and activates follicles for new hair growth. 


It also contains caffeine, which blocks the DHT hormone that can lead to hair loss. You can even use it on your eyebrows! One thing to note is that the formula may make your locks feel greasy, so it's best to apply this serum before bed and wash your hair once you wake up. 

No.9

Skin ChemistsPeptide 6 Super Serum

Peptide 6 Super Serum Image 1
Source:asos.com
Reference price
£18.00
Reference price
£18.00

For a Smooth Matte Finish

Are you tired of serums leaving your skin feeling greasy? This is the perfect product for you, as it has a matte finish. It will also help hydrate skin, which is always important, as well as working to reduce fine lines thanks to the inclusion of Matrikine Peptide 6.


Unfortunately, aside from the peptide complex, the brand does not disclose what other ingredients this formula contains. However, Skin Chemists have been making high-end products for a long time, so you can trust that they sell effective serums.

No.10

Medik8Clarity Peptides

Clarity Peptides Image 1
Source:amazon.co.uk
Reference price
£35.00
Reference price
£35.00

Achieve a Radiant Complexion as You Protect

Most formulas with peptides reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, but this one is best for brightening the skin! It achieves this with zinc PCA and crystalide, which help to restore luminosity to your complexion. Plus, it's suitable for sensitive skin and can even help to calm it. 


The formula also contains 10% niacinamide, a form of vitamin B3 which can protect the skin from environmental stressors like sunlight and pollution. While effective, this serum loses a few points as doesn't have as many beneficial active ingredients as products in a similar price range. 

Anti-Ageing Products to Use With Your Peptide Serum

Anti-Ageing Products to Use With Your Peptide Serum

Peptides also come in a range of different night and day creams, which you should definitely consider adding to your new routine. Or, if it's more serums you're after, check out our articles on retinol products and other anti-ageing formulas to further tackle the first appearances of fine lines and wrinkles.

Summary

With products designed to tackle all kinds of concerns that achieve real results for many people, peptides are more than just another trending skincare ingredient. Hopefully, now you've read our guide, you should know what to look out for when choosing a peptide serum for your own beauty goals. 


Author: Rosa Fairfield

Top 5 Peptide Serums

No. 1: The OrdinaryBuffet Serum

No. 2: OlayRegenerist Collagen Peptide 24 Day Serum

No. 3: Galia SkincareAnti-Aging Face Serum

No. 4: StriVectinPeptight 360 Degree Tightening Eye Serum

No. 5: The Light SalonHydrating Peptide Serum

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When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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