Peptides are a major skincare trend in 2026, offering a gentle way to stimulate collagen production. These small chains of amino acids absorb deeply into the skin, triggering it to produce more collagen and elastin, without the redness, peeling, or irritation associated with retinoids and exfoliating acids.
What Are Peptides and How Do They Work?
Collagen is a key protein for keeping skin firm and plump, but natural production declines by roughly 1-1.5% per year from around age 25. Topical ingredients like retinoids and vitamin C can stimulate collagen, but peptides are the hydrating, gentle alternative gaining popularity.
‘The most common peptides used within skincare products are signal peptides like palmitoyl pentapeptide, which encourage collagen and elastin production,’ explains Mr Hasaneen Al Janabi, Founder and Lead Injector of Dr Hass Clinic. ‘Meanwhile, copper peptides also help with wound healing, and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides like argireline help smooth wrinkles and fine lines caused by micro-expressions like smiling or squinting.’
Top Peptide Skincare Formulas
The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum features mixed peptide technology with signal peptides, carrier copper peptides, argireline, and hyaluronic acid for hydration. It costs £28.90.
Drunk Elephant Protini™ Polypeptide Face Moisturiser is a lightweight gel cream with nine signal peptides, leaving skin bouncy and hydrated. It costs £62.
Beauty of Joseon Revive Eye Serum uses a peptide complex with 2% retinal liposome, ginseng root extract, and niacinamide to boost collagen and brighten dark undereye patches. It costs £15.
Olay Collagen Peptide Day Cream is an affordable option with a smoothing collagen peptide complex, niacinamide, and Vitamin E. It costs £18.99.
Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum combines a multi-peptide complex with PDRN, an ingredient extracted from salmon DNA, to accelerate cell turnover and tissue repair. It costs £24.
Medik8 Advanced Pro Collagen+ Peptide Cream targets fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging with collagen, anti-ageing peptides, and NAD+ longevity booster, potentially increasing collagen production by 45%. It costs £82.
Byoma Longevit-8 Peptide Serum is a budget-friendly option with firming copper peptides, niacinamide, and a Tri-Ceramide Complex to improve elasticity and deliver lasting hydration. It costs £21.99.
