Growth Factors & Peptides: support collagen production, skin repair, and firmness

Jun 18, 2025
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  • Après Skin & Wellness Pluvié
    Inspired by the French word for rain, this silky serum was formulated for high-altitude dryness. A luxurious texture that quenches without clogging.
  • More to try: PCA Skin HA Boosting Serum, iS Clinical Hydra-Cool Serum, Alastin Skincare HA Immerse Serum

Growth Factors & Peptides: support collagen production, skin repair, and firmness

These ingredients are your skin’s behind-the-scenes strategists. While they don’t always give instant gratification, they’re quietly working overtime to restore structure, bounce, and resilience. Growth factors signal skin cells to repair and regenerate, while peptides act like tiny messengers—stimulating collagen, improving elasticity, and calming inflammation. Together, they can be transformative.

This category shines brightest in mature, fragile, or over-treated skin, and is especially valuable after in-office treatments like microneedling, lasers, or chemical peels. They help speed up healing while reducing downtime and enhancing your results.

But here’s the truth: not all growth factor serums are created equal. The science is complex, and many brands toss the words “peptide” or “growth factor” on a label without backing it up. Look for formulations supported by clinical trials, not just trendy buzzwords. If you’re going to invest—make sure it’s worth it.

A few of my favorites:

  • SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum (or TNS Recovery Complex)
    The OGs of growth factor serums. Yes, they’re a splurge—but they’ve stood the test of time and clinical trials.
  • Alastin Skincare Restorative Skin Complex (or Regenerating Skin Nectar)
    Powered by TriHex Technology, these are especially brilliant post-procedure. They help clear damaged collagen and elastin while signaling your skin to rebuild stronger.
  • Après Skin & Wellness Revivre
    Our proprietary growth factor serum, designed with both luxury and science in mind. It delivers the potency of clinical-grade actives with a silky, elegant finish.
  • Après Skin & Wellness Eternelle
    Originally coined “Face Back Time,” this peptide-dense formula targets visible signs of aging while being gentle enough for daily use. It firms, smooths, and restores—without the irritation.
  • ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum
    A silky, lightweight serum with a primer-like finish that leaves skin dewy and radiant—think glazed-donut glow without the grease. Loved by many for how it wears under makeup.

Pro Tip:
Apply growth factor and peptide serums to clean, slightly damp skin. Follow with moisturizer to seal in hydration. For best results, use consistently—especially during recovery periods or when your skin needs repair.