Apply a peptide serum to clean skin, after cleansing and before moisturiser. A few drops is enough for your face and neck. Use it once a day, in the morning or at night, and give it at least four weeks before deciding whether it suits you.
How do you apply a peptide serum?
The steps are the same for most water-based serums.
- Cleanse with a gentle cleanser and pat dry.
- Apply a few drops to your palms and press onto your face and neck.
- Wait about a minute until it stops feeling wet.
- Moisturise to finish.
- Add sunscreen if it is morning.
Where does a peptide serum go in a routine?
Go from thin to thick. Here is a full routine for anyone using more than one product.
| Order | Morning | Night |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cleanser | Cleanser |
| 2 | Vitamin C, if used | Peptide serum |
| 3 | Moisturiser | Eye cream |
| 4 | Sunscreen | Moisturiser |
How much serum should you use?
Three or four drops usually cover the face. Using more will not speed anything up, and it may leave skin feeling sticky.
How long until you see a difference?
Most cosmetic peptide studies run for 4 to 12 weeks. Take a photo in the same light on day one and again at week eight, because slow changes are easy to miss in the mirror.
How do you patch test a new serum?
Apply a little to the inside of your arm or behind your ear for 24 hours. If you get redness, burning or itching, do not use it on your face.
Common questions
Do I apply peptide serum before or after moisturiser?
Apply it before moisturiser. Thinner products usually go on first, so a water-based serum goes on clean skin and a cream or oil-based moisturiser follows it.
Should I use peptide serum morning or night?
Either works, so pick the time you will keep up. Night suits many people because sunscreen and makeup are out of the way, but a peptide serum can sit under sunscreen too.