Peptides have gone from a niche ingredient to one of the most searched terms in skincare, and for good reason. They are gentle, they suit almost every skin type, and the best ones are backed by years of research. But with so many peptide products on the shelf, it can be hard to know what you are actually paying for. This guide explains what peptides are, what they can and cannot do, and how to choose a peptide serum that is worth adding to your routine.
What are peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, the same building blocks that make up proteins like collagen and elastin. Your skin naturally uses peptides as messengers: when collagen breaks down, small peptide fragments are released, and these act as signals that tell the skin it is time to repair and rebuild.
Skincare peptides are designed to imitate those messages. Applied to the skin, they help encourage the skin's own renewal processes, which is why they are so popular for fine lines, loss of firmness and uneven texture.
What do peptides do for your skin?
Different peptides do different jobs, but with consistent use a well-formulated peptide serum can help to:
- Reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles
- Improve the look of firmness and elasticity
- Smooth uneven skin texture
- Support a healthy, resilient skin barrier
- Give skin a plumper, more hydrated feel
Peptides work gradually. They are not an overnight fix, and most people start noticing a difference in skin texture and firmness after around 8 to 12 weeks of daily use.
The main types of peptides on skincare labels
Not all peptides are the same. Most fall into a few broad groups:
Signal peptides
These are the most common. They send messages that support the skin's natural collagen and repair signalling. Examples include Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) and Matrixyl Synthe'6 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38).
Carrier peptides
These deliver trace minerals to the skin. The best known is Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu), which has been used in clinical skincare for decades to support the look of firm, smooth and calm skin.
Expression line peptides
These are designed to soften the look of lines caused by repeated facial movement, such as frown lines and crow's feet. Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, often sold under the name Argireline, is the most famous example.
How to choose a peptide serum
A few things are worth checking before you buy:
1. More than one peptide
Because each peptide targets a different signal, a blend of several well-researched peptides gives a more complete result than a single peptide on its own. Look for a serum that names its peptides, not just one that says "peptide complex" on the front.
2. Named, recognised ingredients
Peptides like Matrixyl 3000, Matrixyl Synthe'6, Copper Tripeptide-1 and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 have been studied for years. If a brand tells you exactly which ones it uses, you can look them up and know what you are getting.
3. A lightweight, skin-friendly formula
Peptides are best delivered in a light serum that absorbs quickly and layers easily under moisturiser and SPF. A skin-friendly pH also helps keep them stable and comfortable on the skin.
4. A formula you will actually use every day
Consistency matters more than anything with peptides. Choose a texture you enjoy so it becomes a habit.
How to use a peptide serum
- Cleanse and pat your skin dry.
- Apply 2 to 3 drops of peptide serum to your face, neck and chest.
- Follow with moisturiser to lock in hydration.
- In the morning, finish with SPF.
Peptides can be used morning and night. They are gentle enough for most skin types, including sensitive skin, and they pair well with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.
Using vitamin C too? A simple approach is to use your vitamin C serum in the morning and your peptide serum at night. This keeps your routine easy and lets each product do its job. If you use an exfoliant such as an AHA or BHA, apply it on separate nights from your peptides.
The ASI Multi-Peptide Serum
Our Multi-Peptide Serum was reformulated for 2026 and brings together eight peptide and firming technologies in one lightweight, fast-absorbing serum, made in our own lab on the Gold Coast:
- Matrixyl 3000 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7) to support smoother, firmer-looking skin
- Matrixyl Synthe'6 (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38) to help visibly refill the look of wrinkles
- Syn-Coll (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5) for a smoother, more resilient texture
- Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) to support firmness and a calm, healthy-looking barrier
- Tego Pep 4-17 (Tetrapeptide-21) to support elasticity
- Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 to soften the look of expression lines
- Pepha-Tight for an instant tightening feel
It is designed to target fine lines, loss of firmness and uneven texture at every stage of skin ageing, and it layers easily under moisturiser and SPF.
Peptides FAQs
Are peptides good for sensitive skin?
Yes. Peptides are among the gentlest anti-ageing ingredients and are generally well tolerated. As with any new product, patch test first if your skin is very reactive.
How long do peptides take to work?
Most people notice smoother texture within a few weeks, with firmness and fine lines improving over 8 to 12 weeks of consistent daily use.
Can I use peptides with retinol?
Yes. Peptides are a good partner for retinol because they are gentle and help support the skin barrier. Apply your peptide serum first, then your retinol product, or use them on alternate nights if your skin is sensitive.
Can I use peptides every day?
Yes. Peptides work best with daily use, morning and night.
What age should you start using peptides?
There is no set age. Many people start in their late 20s or 30s as a preventative step, but peptides are beneficial for mature skin too.