Collage: Paula Balondo; Source images: Courtesy of brandsSave this storySave this story
If your goal is chasing or maintaining that youthful glow, the best growth-factor serums might be your easiest next step, especially if needles and lasers aren’t your thing. But for the uninitiated, what are growth factors? “Growth factors are proteins that play an important role in stimulating cell growth, regeneration, and healing,” says Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
Growth-factor serums are also a well-researched and highly effective addition to modern skin care, according to Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Newport Beach, CA. “Clinical trials have demonstrated their ability to improve skin firmness, hydration, and elasticity,” adds Dr. Murphy-Rose. However, as with all serums, not all growth-factor treatments are created equal. The key types you'll commonly hear about are EGF (epidermal growth factor), which mainly speeds up skin cell turnover and repair, while FGF (fibroblast growth factor) is more focused on supporting collagen and elastin production—think structure and bounce.
Our Top Growth-Factor Serums
- Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum, $295
- Best Brightening: Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma, $200
- Best for Early Signs of Aging: Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP, $94
- Best for Dry Skin: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum, $188
- Best Budget: The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum, $18
You’ll also see a distinction in how those growth factors are sourced: Some formulas use growth factors derived from human stem cell-conditioned media (essentially, those are lab-cultured cells that release a mix of signaling proteins), while others rely on biomimetic or lab-engineered peptides designed to mimic those same signals. Both approaches aim to trigger similar repair pathways in the skin, though they differ in complexity, intensity, and—often—price point.
So, let’s cut to the chase and dive into the formulas dermatologists and editors trust.
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
- Do growth-factor serums really work?
- Is growth factor better than retinol?
- Meet the experts
- How we test and review products
- Our staff and testers
Best Overall: SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Save to wishlist
SkinMedica
TNS Advanced+ Serum
Amazon
Dermstore
Bluemercury
Why we love it: A routine Best of Beauty Award winner, SkinMedica’s TNS Advanced+ Serum is a human growth-factor formula that set the standard long before it became a buzzword. If you’re wondering, TNS stands for tissue nutrient solution, a nod to its star ingredient: human fibroblast conditioned media. This serum supplies the skin with growth factors to improve the appearance of fine lines, coarse wrinkles, skin tone, and texture. “SkinMedica received the patent in 2000 for the first cosmetic product with growth factors,” explains Dr. Amin. “It’s one of the most clinically supported growth-factor serums on the market, offering firmer-looking skin in as little as two weeks,” adds Dr. Murphy-Rose.
Allure executive beauty director Jenny Bailly applying the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Jenny Bailly
Bailly after applying the SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum
Jenny Bailly
Tester feedback from executive beauty director Jenny Bailly
LargeChevron
“I say it to any skin-care consumer who will listen: When I use SkinMedica TNS Advanced+ Serum regularly, I get not-infrequent compliments on my skin. When I run out—which I really try to avoid—they start to dry up. This stuff just makes my skin… better. My only beef with this OG serum had been the dual-chamber bottle. SkinMedica just launched totally new packaging for TNS Advanced+, and I've had zero dual-pumping issues with the cleaner, slimmer bottle.” —Jenny Bailly, executive beauty director
Tester feedback from contributing commerce editor Deanna Pai
LargeChevron
“A dermatologist once told me that this stuff was the reason she was well into her 40s before she started using Botox, so I, being in my late 30s, see it as my alternative, too. And while, okay, I do get Botox, I supplement it with this every morning, which keeps my skin firm and smooth. I see it as more preventative than reparative at this point, but I really like the lightweight texture and nonexistent scent. My only gripe is with the dual applicator; sometimes, it only pumps product out from one side, which means I can be left using only one of the enclosed serums for weeks." —Deanna Pai, contributing commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: growth factor blend, peptide complex, French flaxseed
- Type of growth factor: human
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it’s for: aging and sagging skin
Best Brightening: Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma
Save to wishlist
Dr. Diamond's Metacine
Instafacial Plasma Bioactive Growth Factor Serum
Bluemercury
Allure associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey applying the Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma
Annie Blay-Tettey
Why we love it: Jason B. Diamond, MD, a Beverly Hills-based facial plastic surgeon, created the Metacine collection as a take-home version of his famous Diamond InstaFacial—a treatment beloved by the Kardashian sisters and Alex Cooper of Call Her Daddy, and even stamped “dreamy and creamy” by Kate Hudson. While the in-office facial uses lasers, microneedling, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to tighten skin, the Metacine system delivers similar effects with two products: plasma and emulsion. Plasma features bioidentical human growth factors to boost skin regeneration, while Emulsion, with retinoids, accelerates cell renewal.
Five years in the making, the formula is backed by an independent (albeit small) clinical study of 35 participants across a range of skin tones, who swapped out their usual routines and were evaluated at four and eight weeks using clinical-grade imaging and self-assessments—so it pulls from both clinical data and real-world use. P.S. Just like PRP, the serum has a red tint, but fear not, it dries down clear.
Blay-Tettey before applying the Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma
Annie Blay-Tettey
Blay-Tettey after applying the Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Plasma
Annie Blay-Tettey
Tester feedback from associate beauty editor Annie Blay-Tettey
LargeChevron
“I can't put my finger on why I love this serum so much, but my skin drinks it up! It feels ultra hydrating, yet doesn't leave a stick or tacky finish. Over the months I've been using it, I see an improvement in my skin—it's smoother and more supple.” —Annie Blay-Tettey, associate beauty editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: sodium hyaluronate, polypeptides, 4-hydroxyacetophenone
- Type of growth factor: bioengineered
- Fragrance-Free: yes
- Who it’s for: all skin types
Best for Early Signs of Aging: Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
Save to wishlist
Medik8
Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
Amazon
Dermstore
Medik8
Why we love it: If Medik8’s Crystal Retinal felt like it was pushing your skin a little faster than you’d like—or you’re pregnant and steering clear of retinoids—this is the kind of serum that slips seamlessly into that same spot in your routine. The Liquid Peptides Advanced MP Serum takes a hi-tech route to smoothing and draws inspiration from in-office aesthetic treatments.
What sets this Medik8 serum apart is its mix of growth factor-inspired “mini proteins,” including oligopeptide-1 (a lab-engineered EGF) alongside a dense lineup of signal peptides, which fit into cell receptors responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. Together, they keep those early expression lines from sticking around long enough to turn into deeper wrinkles, so skin looks smoother the longer you use it.
Allure senior commerce director Shanna Shipin applying the Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
Shanna Shipin
Shipin after applying the Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
Shanna Shipin
Tester feedback from senior commerce director Shanna Shipin
LargeChevron
“I was so excited to try this product (not least because of the ‘Botox in a bottle’ conversation surrounding it), and let me tell you: This is something worth making room for in your routine, especially if you're pregnant and can't use retinol, or are simply too sensitive for the likes of vitamin A! This formula impressed me right away since it includes peptides that are both fast-acting (as in, you can see an immediate skin-plumping effect) and those that work over time to smooth out deeper-set wrinkles.
The texture is gel-like and can feel a smidge tacky on the fingers (you can see me in the demonstration video smacking it between my hands to show its interesting consistency), but it applies smoothly and feels totally weightless. Part of my love for it comes from that bounce of light you get off the skin right after applying. I haven't experienced pilling with foundation or other moisturizers, and importantly, no instant itchy feeling that I get with some high-performing skin-care products.” —Shanna Shipin, senior commerce director
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: peptides (palmitoyl tripeptide-5, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and acetyl hexapeptide-8), hyaluronic acid, panthenol
- Type of growth factor: oligopeptide-1 (lab-engineered EGF)
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it’s for: early signs of fine lines and wrinkles
Best for Sensitive Skin: Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Botanical 2GF Ampoule
Save to wishlist
Haruharu Wonder
Black Rice Botanical 2GF Ampoule
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why we love it: It’s not surprising that a K-beauty brand would find a way to make growth factors feel a little less intimidating (and less technical). Haruharu Wonder's Black Rice Botanical 2GF Ampoule swaps traditional lab-grown or animal-derived versions for plant-based EGF and FGF derived from rice to support collagen and elasticity without feeling harsh on skin.
The rest of the fragrance-free formula is basically everything you want when your sensitive skin’s feeling off: fermented black rice for antioxidant support, hyaluronic acid for a glassy, hydrated look, and madecassoside (a classic Korean beauty ingredient derived from Centella asiatica) to calm skin. There’s also adenosine in the mix to smooth the look of fine lines. It’s lightweight, sinks in quickly, and layers without any stickiness.
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Botanical 2GF Ampoule
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying the Haruharu Wonder Black Rice Botanical 2GF Ampoule
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee
LargeChevron
“This is very much a slow-and-steady kind of serum—don’t expect an overnight transformation, which is the case with most skin-care products—but after giving this a few weeks, I started to notice the subtle shifts like my skin looking a bit smoother and less tight from dryness. For my sensitive, reactive skin, the gentler approach is the whole point. This plant-based option lets you dip into growth factors without wondering if you’re going to wake up in a red, hive-y mess. My skin appreciates it!” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: fermented black rice, hyaluronic acid, madecassoside, adenosine
- Type of growth factor: plant-based
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it’s for: people with sensitive skin
Best for Dry Skin: Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Save to wishlist
Allies of Skin
Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Amazon
Dermstore
Revolve
Why we love it: If firmer, smoother skin is your North Star, Allies of Skin’s Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum turns goals into results. Infused with a 9% lifting peptide complex and a 3% lab-engineered growth factor (SH-oligopeptide-1) complex, “this non-comedogenic serum is designed for those who want to target wrinkles and a loss of skin volume and firmness,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
The formula goes a step further with copper lysinate/prolinate to soften the appearance of deeper lines, MSM—a sulfur-rich compound that supports skin’s elasticity—for a firmer, more supple feel, and Centella asiatica to keep skin calm amid daily stressors like UV and pollution. Plus, it means that beyond lifting and firming, it improves elasticity, restores hydration, and strengthens the skin barrier, leaving your complexion looking more refreshed.
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Sarah Han
Han after applying Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & GF Advanced Lifting Serum
Sarah Han
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
LargeChevron
“Ok, the serious and immediate glow I get from this ultra-silky Allies of Skin serum alone was enough to sell me on it. (My face is freshly rinsed with water in the video—no toners or essences applied beforehand.) But of course, the ingredients are what do the heavy lifting, and when I first read into this product, I knew it meant business.
While I'm only 32, I don't plan on getting injectables or Botox to stave off any fine/expression lines, so this is one of the many preventative topical measures I plan on using consistently to keep my skin looking as firm, lifted, and smooth as possible. This serum sinks into my skin immediately and provides a slight gripping effect that's perfect for makeup—an unexpected bonus, but I'll absolutely take it.” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: 9% LiftingPeptide Complex, 3% sh-oligopeptide-1 growth factor complex, MSM, copper lysinate, phospholipids, glycolipid
- Type of growth factor: 3% sh-oligopeptide-1 growth factor complex (synthetic)
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it’s for: anyone with signs of aging
Best Splurge: Angela Caglia Cell Forté Serum
Save to wishlist
Angela Caglia
Cell Forté Serum
Amazon
Nordstrom
Bluemercury
Allure content director Kara McGrath applying the Angela Caglia Cell Forté Serum
Kara McGrath
Why we love it: You could juggle four different serums, or you could use one Best of Beauty Award winner that works as hard as vitamin C, retinol, hyaluronic acid, and peptides combined. Angela Caglia’s Cell Forté Serum uses the brand’s proprietary BIOMSC technology to pack serious multitasking power into a single bottle. This serum uses what’s called human conditioned media from mesenchymal stem cells—basically, the nutrient-rich liquid those cells are grown in, which contains helpful, skin-supporting ingredients. That means it’s packed with growth factors to boost collagen and skin renewal, along with signaling molecules that encourage skin cells to “communicate,” plus calming proteins that support repair and reduce inflammation, according to Dr. Camp.
In layman’s terms, it smooths fine lines, brightens tone, and boosts elasticity. Plus, it deeply hydrates, thanks to tremella mushroom, multi-weight hyaluronic acid, and Bacillus ferment that also support a healthy skin barrier.
Tester feedback from former Allure content director Kara McGrath
LargeChevron
“This super lightweight serum made my skin look glowy in just one use. I particularly like it for the summer months, when I want a serum that hydrates without making me feel sticky.” —Kara McGrath, former content director
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, peptides, snow mushroom, mesenchymal stem cell conditioned media, niacinamide
- Type of growth factor: human
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it’s for: all skin types
Best Budget: The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum
Save to wishlist
The Inkey List
15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum
Amazon
Ulta Beauty
Sephora
Why we love it: Especially when the seasons start to shift into spring, we inevitably see The Inkey List’s 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum popping back up all over our FYP—right when skin’s looking dull and uneven after a long winter and in need of a serious brightening reset. “In addition to plant-derived peptide EGF to target hyperpigmentation, this serum also brightens the skin with 15% vitamin C,” says Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Chicago. Designed for use in the morning, the serum has a lightweight feel and sinks quickly into the skin—just be sure to layer SPF on top. Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can boost the efficacy of your everyday sunscreen, though it can’t stand in for sunscreen on its own.
The best part is that “while most epidermal growth-factor serums are over $100, this one is less than $20,” he says. It’s a rare formula that pulls its weight, tackling dullness and fine lines without the usual price tag—though since the EGF is plant-derived, you may need a bit more patience to see those line-smoothing results.
Allure features director Dianna Singh applying The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum
Dianna Singh
Singh after applying The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum
Dianna Singh
Tester feedback from features director Dianna Singh
LargeChevron
“I often play the field with skin care, but vitamin C serum is one of the few product types I use every morning (the other is—no surprise—SPF). I like the idea of pairing an ingredient I already know and love with one that can help it perform even better—in this case, EGF. The formula is quick to absorb and layered beautifully with my other products—no pilling or stickiness! It does have a little bit of that telltale vitamin C smell, but frankly, I find all the best ones do. It gave my skin a glazed-donut glow immediately, and I'm looking forward to monitoring what it does for my dark spots with continued use.” —Dianna Singh, features director
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: vitamin C, plant-derived peptide epidermal growth factor
- Type of growth factor: plant
- Fragrance-free: no
- Who it’s for: those with dark spots
Best for Mature Skin: PCA Skin Pro-Max Age Renewal
Save to wishlist
PCA Skin
Pro-Max Age Renewal
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Why we love it: Some days call for a multistep routine in the name of self-care. Other days, you just want results—fast. PCA Skin’s Pro-Max Age Renewal is your shortcut to firmer, bouncier skin, powered by growth-factor-mimicking peptides. Unlike traditional growth factors, which can be unstable and struggle to penetrate the skin, these peptides are smaller, more stable, and shown to stimulate collagen and elastin.
“This serum is formulated to penetrate more deeply to trigger collagen production, while micro-algae deliver instant firming and kangaroo paw flower smooths texture,” says Dr. Camp. In other words, it supports the very cells responsible for firmness and elasticity, so skin looks tighter, plumper, and smoother.
Allure contributing commerce writer Christa Joanna Lee applying PCA Skin’s Pro-Max Age Renewal
Christa Joanna Lee
Lee after applying PCA Skin’s Pro-Max Age Renewal
Christa Joanna Lee
Tester feedback from Lee
LargeChevron
“The past six years of mom life have definitely fast-tracked the aging process for my skin (shocking, I know). Uneven texture, dryness, and dullness are my biggest concerns, and PCA Skin Pro-Max Age Renewal makes such a difference in making my skin look juicy and plump. While it works best on freshly cleansed skin, I also love using it midday for a quick pick-me-up. Just remember to follow with sunscreen during the day, since it can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.” —Christa Joanna Lee, contributing commerce writer
More to know
LargeChevron
- Key ingredients: Micro Growth Factor Technology (peptide blend), biopolymers with micro-algae, kangaroo paw flower extract, growth factor–mimicking peptides
- Type of growth factor: growth factor-mimicking peptides (patent-pending MGF technology)
- Fragrance-free: yes
- Who it’s for: anyone with mature skin or early signs of aging
Frequently Asked Questions
Do growth-factor serums really work?
In short, yes. “Data suggest that well-formulated, high-quality growth-factor serums can deliver measurable benefits,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “With consistent use, these serums can lead to noticeable improvements in overall skin quality.” Alas, they don’t work overnight. “Like any skin-care product, growth-factor serums should be used for at least two to three months before you can accurately decide if they are effective—or not—for your specific skin concern,” says Dr. Camp. “Consistency is key in treating the skin with a new active ingredient, such as a growth factor.”
According to Dr. Amin, “It is also important to note that not everyone will respond the same way to these serums, and factors like genetics, lifestyle, and diet can influence the outcome.”
Is growth factor better than retinol?
“Growth-factor serums stimulate the skin's natural cellular repair processes, promoting rejuvenation with minimal irritation, making them a great option for sensitive or reactive skin types,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “However, they tend to be quite expensive." Retinol, derived from vitamin A, accelerates cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Unlike growth factors, retinol can cause skin irritation and requires a gradual introduction into your routine. "Both can support hydration and are powerful tools for addressing signs of aging, but their best use depends on your skin’s needs and tolerance,” Dr. Murphy-Rose adds.
According to Dr. Amin, the decision to use retinol or growth factors depends on what you're looking for in a skin-care routine. “For improving skin texture, retinol may be more effective in the long term due to its ability to promote cell turnover and collagen production,” she says. “Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of retinol and retinoids in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. For very sensitive skin that cannot tolerate retinol, growth factors may be more suitable, especially if you're looking for something less likely to irritate.”
Meet the experts
- Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
- Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in the tri-state area
- Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Salmalita Cosmetics, based in Chicago
- Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology based in Newport Beach, California
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best growth factor skin-care products, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the "best" for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We're proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
Leave a Reply