If you've spent any time researching anti-aging skincare, you've heard the hype around retinol. It's been the gold standard for decades. But here's what the beauty industry doesn't always tell you: retinol isn't the only option—and for many people, it's not even the best one.
Enter peptides. The gentler, smarter alternative that's finally getting the recognition it deserves in 2026.
The Retinol Reality Check
Retinol works. There's no denying that. It increases cell turnover, stimulates collagen production, and can improve the appearance of fine lines and hyperpigmentation. But it comes with trade-offs:
- Irritation, redness, and peeling (especially during the adjustment period)
- Increased sun sensitivity
- Not suitable for sensitive skin, rosacea, or compromised skin barriers
- Can't be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Requires careful layering and timing in your routine
For some people, these trade-offs are worth it. But for many—especially those with sensitive skin or anyone looking for a gentler, long-term approach—peptides offer a better path forward.
What Peptides Actually Do
Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in your skin. They signal your skin to produce more collagen, support skin repair, and help maintain the structural integrity of your skin barrier.
Unlike retinol, which works by accelerating cell turnover (essentially forcing your skin to shed faster), peptides work with your skin's natural processes. They support what your skin is already trying to do—build collagen, repair damage, and maintain resilience.
Why I Formulate with Peptides
As a formulator, I'm not interested in quick fixes that compromise skin health. I'm interested in long-term results that respect your skin's intelligence.
That's why our Formula No. 71 Multi-Peptide + Copper Complex Serum uses a synergistic blend of peptides—not just one. Multiple peptides working together provide broader benefits: collagen support, skin firming, barrier repair, and antioxidant protection.
The copper complex adds another layer of benefit. Copper peptides are particularly effective at supporting wound healing and skin regeneration, making them ideal for mature skin or anyone dealing with environmental damage.
Peptides vs. Retinol: The Breakdown
Retinol is better if you:
- Have resilient, non-sensitive skin
- Want faster, more aggressive results
- Are dealing with significant hyperpigmentation or acne
- Can commit to strict sun protection and careful product layering
Peptides are better if you:
- Have sensitive, reactive, or compromised skin
- Want gentler, long-term results without irritation
- Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or prefer to avoid retinoids
- Want to support your skin barrier while addressing aging
- Prefer a low-maintenance routine that works with your skin, not against it
Can You Use Both?
Yes—but you don't have to. Some people alternate (peptides in the morning, retinol at night), but for most people, choosing one approach and sticking with it yields better results than trying to do everything at once.
If you do use both, peptides can actually help mitigate some of retinol's irritation by supporting barrier repair and hydration. Pairing a peptide serum with a barrier-supporting moisturizer like our Formula No. 72 Squalane + Amino Complex Moisturizer creates a gentler, more resilient routine.
The Bottom Line
Retinol isn't the only answer to aging skin. Peptides offer a smarter, gentler alternative that works with your skin's natural processes instead of forcing rapid turnover.
As a formulator, I choose peptides because they align with how I believe skincare should work: supporting long-term skin health, not chasing short-term results at the expense of your skin barrier.
Your skin is intelligent. Give it the tools it needs to thrive—without the irritation.