12 Growth Factor Serums Tested and Recommended in 2025
When looking for products to mitigate the physical signs of aging, experts recommend adding a growth factor serum to your routine. The powerful skincare cocktails often come with a hefty price tag—but are they worth the hype? I (along with my fellow Prevention editors) decided to put the industry’s top picks to the test.
You may be wondering what a growth factor serum is; they are made up of proteins, known as growth factor, that help to naturally repair the skin, explains Marisa Garshick, M.D., a leading board-certified dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in NYC. “While growth factors exist naturally in the body, with age the levels decrease,” she explains.
Saami Khalifian, M.D., a double board-certified dermatologist based in Encinitas, CA, recommends those 35 and older add growth factor serum to their routine. “Around that age, collagen production declines, and cumulative sun exposure begins to break down elastin and hyaluronic acid at a faster rate than we make it,” he says. “Growth factor serums help stimulate the skin’s natural ability to restore and rebuild these essential components, which can lead to improved texture, firmness, and overall skin quality over time.”
Meet the experts: Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., a double board-certified adult, pediatric, and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ; Marisa Garshick, M.D., a leading board-certified dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in NYC; and Saami Khalifian, M.D., a double board-certified dermatologist based in Encinitas, CA
There are many types of growth factors, which can be human-derived, synthetically derived, or naturally derived (such as from plants or snails), explains Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., a double board-certified dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ., who prefers to use products with human-derived growth factors (or growth factors synthetically based on human growth factors) for maximum efficacy.
Ahead, explore the best growth factor serums tested by editors and vetted by dermatologists—plus expert tips on choosing the right one for your needs.
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Pros
- Contains growth factors and peptides
- Helps lift and tighten skin
- Smooths and brightens complexion
Cons
- Pricey
“This is the iconic, ‘hero’ product in the growth factor category and remains one of the best options available,” says Dr. Khalifian, noting that it’s suitable for all skin types and “boasts outstanding clinical data” supporting its ability to lift and tighten the skin. Dr. Lal recommends this product for the same reasons, as does Dr. Garshick who appreciates that it “uses a blend of a next-generation growth factor as well as an innovative peptide complex to help nourish the skin,” while smoothing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and improving skin tone and texture.
What we think: As a skincare-loving editor, I can attest to the complexion-boosting abilities of this product. I’ve been using it on and off for the last two years, going through three bottles. While I am in my mid-20s and can’t exactly attest to some of the claims from other reviewers regarding wrinkle reduction, I can share that it invariably helps with my textured skin and gives me an overall brighter, smoother, more rejuvenated-looking complexion. I’ve also noticed that while using it, my skin heals more quickly from procedures like microneedling or chemical peels.
Active ingredients: Human fibroblast conditioned media (growth factor blend), peptides, marine extracts | Benefits: Smoothing, lifting, brightening | Dermstore rating: 4.6 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
2
BEST VALUE GROWTH FACTOR SERUM
The INKEY List 15% Vitamin C + EGF Serum
Pros
- Vitamin C works to brighten skin
- Formulated with a key growth factor
- Affordable
Cons
- May be too strong for sensitive skin
We found this option from The Inkey List is both effective and affordable. Dr. Lal appreciates that it contains oligopeptide-1 which he refers to as “a true growth factor,” and something he recommends searching for on your product ingredient labels. This lightweight serum also contains 15% vitamin C, making it a great option for those looking for a brighter complexion in addition to a smoother, more lifted appearance. However, the high percentage of vitamin C in this serum may be too much for certain individuals with sensitive skin.
What we think: “Honestly it was pretty harsh on my skin, even only using it a few nights a week,” explained Prevention Assistant Editor Madeleine Haase, who tested this product for a few weeks. “I would say that it does effectively brighten for a fraction of the cost of other growth factor serums. However, people with sensitive skin should be careful since it is a hard-core product.”
Active ingredients: Oligopeptide-1 (growth factor), vitamin C | Benefits: Brightening, firming | Amazon rating: 4.4 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
3
BEST LUXURY GROWTH FACTOR SERUM
Dr. Diamond’s Metacine INSTAFACIAL PLASMA Bioactive Growth Factor Serum
Pros
- Lightweight yet moisturizing
- Contains growth factors and peptides
- Designed to mimic the effect of platelet-rich plasma skin rejuvination
Cons
- Cannot be paired with vitamin C products (contains copper peptides)
I’m well aware this is quite the pricey pick, but if you’re in the market for a luxurious growth factor serum that truly delivers on its promises, consider this formula.
What we think: I tested this serum twice daily for just over a month (and thankfully still have quite a bit left in the bottle) and I am already seeing results. I struggle with large pores on my cheeks and this product has done what I thought was impossible with skincare alone by noticeably reducing their appearance. I also find that my acne spots have been healing much faster since introducing this product into my routine.
My only complaint is that while this serum layers easily with other products, it contains copper peptides which aren’t meant to be used at the same time as vitamin C. Copper peptides are wonderfully effective at firming and repairing the skin, as Dr. Garshick previously explained—but it means I sometimes needed to pick and choose when I use this serum versus my go-to hyaluronic acid serum which happens to also contain vitamin C.
Active ingredients: Oligopeptides and polypeptides (bioidentical growth factor blend), peptides, copper peptide | Benefits: Smoothing, firming, hydrating | Brand website rating: 4.5 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
4
BEST GROWTH FACTOR SERUM FOR WRINKLES
Neocutis Bio Serum Firm
Pros
- Contains growth factors and peptides
- Reviewers say it softens and smooths skin
- Addresses lines, wrinkles, and texture
Cons
- Some reviewers felt they needed to use a lot of product to cover their face
“This topical serum contains both growth factors and proprietary peptides to improve the overall appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while improving skin texture, overall firmness and elasticity, and boosting hydration,” Dr. Garshick says. “It is safe to use on the face, neck, and décolleté one to two times per day and can be followed by a moisturizing cream.”
What we think: “I’m usually skeptical when it comes to trying skincare with high price tags, but this little bottle worked wonders on my complexion,” says Prevention Senior Commerce Editor, Charlotte Lewis, who tested this product for just over four weeks. “It’s so intensely moisturizing, but also absorbed so quickly—immediately upon application, my skin looked instantly smoother and refreshed. The next morning, my cheek felt baby smooth (I’m not exaggerating, I made multiple people feel it to confirm!), and within a week I could tell that both my laugh lines and the fine lines around my eyes were noticeably reduced. I’ve now been using it for over a month, and the texture of my skin has never been better. I cannot see myself stopping use any time soon.”
Active ingredients: Tetrapeptides and tripeptides (growth factors), antioxidants, glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Smoothing, firming, hydrating | Amazon rating: 4.4 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
5
BEST HYDRATING GROWTH FACTOR SERUM
ZO Skin Health Growth Factor Serum
Pros
- Helps Hydrate skin
- Lightweight formula
- Addresses uneven tone and texture
Cons
- Some reviewers disliked the scent of the product
Dr. Lal says that this serum from ZO Skin Health is a “very good product,” in that it helps reduce the visible signs of aging like fine lines, loss of elasticity, and uneven tone and texture. And while growth factors in general help to maintain skin hydration, this lightweight gel formula kicks things up a notch with ingredients like glycerin, red ginseng extract, and a proprietary blend that “supports skin’s natural replenishment of hyaluronic acid,” according to the brand.
What a reviewer says: “The difference a growth factor serum makes is hard to describe—my skin is plumper, smoother, and has a glow,” one reviewer wrote on the ZO Skin Health website. “I tried going without it for a month thinking it might be my imagination but as soon as I started using it again friends and colleagues commented how great my skin looked, how rested I looked, or asked if I’d ‘had something done.’ And I love how soft my skin feels.”
Active ingredients: Plant-derived growth factors, glycerin, red ginseng extract, beta glucan| Benefits: Smoothing, firming, hydrating | Brand website rating: 4.5 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
6
BEST GROWTH FACTOR SERUM FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
PCA SKIN Pro Max Age Renewal
Pros
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Lightweight formula
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Some reviewers reported packaging issues
“This serum works to help to lift and firm the appearance of the skin, while also reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” explains Dr. Garshick. “It uses a patent-pending Micro Growth Factor Technology offering deeper penetration to help support collagen production.”
What we think: “I used this serum for four weeks, two times a day, and noticed my skin is now softer and smoother, but can’t say that wrinkles were reduced. I think seeing more dramatic results like that would take longer (especially for ‘older’ women),” explains Prevention Production Coordinator, Sue Kakstys. “I was pleasantly surprised that my sensitive skin was not irritated by the application. The serum was lightweight, absorbed quickly, and only a small amount was needed.”
Active ingredients: Tripeptides (growth factors), glycerin, hyaluronic acid | Benefits: Smoothing, firming, hydrating | Amazon rating: 3.2 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
7
BEST GROWTH FACTOR SERUM WITH RETINOL
Perricone MD High Potency Growth Factor Firming & Lifting Serum
Pros
- Contains retinol to boost skin cell turnover
- Helps enhance collagen production
- Large bottle
Cons
- One reviewer disliked the “gritty” texture
Dr. Lal recommends this growth factor serum for its ability to lift and firm the skin using an innovative formula. Not only does this serum contain growth factors, but it also boasts retinol to maximize the skin-boosting benefits. Retinol benefits overlap with growth factor benefits like lifting, firming, and brightening as both aid in collagen production, but the retinol in this formula also aids with skin renewal and exfoliation.
What a reviewer says: “I can’t say enough about this product! Give it three weeks of using a thin layer AM + PM and watch your skin change. Tone, texture, and fine lines look like they’re getting filtered out,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “I had two lines on my upper lip from a fever blister drying out and the lines are about gone. Read the clinical studies on EGF. It’s a win-win for anti-aging. Even my neck looks younger. I’m 50 years old and I wish this was around in my 20s.”
Active ingredients: Polyamine growth factor, retinol, niacinamide | Benefits: Lifting, firming, smoothing | Amazon rating: 4.5 stars | Size: 2.0 fl. oz.
8
BEST GROWTH FACTOR SERUM FOR DRY SKIN
Osmosis+ Beauty StemFactor Growth Factor Serum
Pros
- Hydrates dry skin
- Contains a blend of human growth factors
- Helps nourish skin
Cons
- Lemon peel oil in the formula may irritate sensitive skin types
If you’re looking for a product that’s at the forefront of growth factor technology, this is it. This innovative serum contains over 600 different growth factors and peptides, along with advanced exosome technology, according to the brand.
What we think: “I love the lightweight texture of this serum—it absorbs super well without a sticky feeling, and it feels like my skin drinks it right up when applied. It also seemed to layer well with my other skincare products (my toner, serum, and moisturizer),” says Prevention Associate Commerce Editor Hannah Jeon, who tested this product for around three weeks, using it twice daily. “My skin type is more on the dry side and can be sensitive to some products, but I had no irritation issues with this serum at all. My skin has definitely been feeling pretty well-hydrated and smooth since I’ve been using it—and I usually struggle with dryness this time of winter. One thing that particularly amazed me about the serum: One morning I woke up with a small cut/scar on my nose (presumably from accidentally scratching my face with my fingernails in my sleep), and I applied the serum as normal. The scar was gone the next morning—it had healed so quickly, and I think it was thanks to the serum!”
Active ingredients: Human stem cell conditioned media (growth factors), human fibroblast conditioned media (growth factors), witch hazel, lemon peel oil | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Dermstore rating: 5.0 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
9
BEST INNOVATIVE GROWTH FACTOR SERUM
Plated Skin Science DAILY Serum
Pros
- Hydrating and moisturizing formula
- Contains innovative blend of exosomes
- Supports healthy skin
Cons
- Pricey
“This is my go-to product for post-procedural care and daily use alike. Patients appreciate its nourishing, calming effects, especially following energy-based treatments,” says Dr. Khalifian. “It supports healthier, more resilient skin and works beautifully as part of a comprehensive skincare regimen.” This serum utilizes a potent blend of exosomes, which Dr. Khalifian says contain growth factors, plus other helpful “biochemical cues” like peptides and lipids that signal to your skin cells to perform functions that support repair and regeneration.
What we think: “I can’t say I notice a big difference in the way my skin looks, but I like the moisturizing job it does—my skin is definitely more moisturized, or it makes my regular moisturizer do a better job, or perhaps it’s the two of them together,” says Prevention Executive Editor Stephanie Dolgoff.
Active ingredients: Human platelet extract (exosomes), glycerin | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Brand website rating: 5.0 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
10
BEST LIGHTWEIGHT GROWTH FACTOR SERUM
Allies of Skin Multi Peptides & Growth Factors Advanced Lifting Serum
Pros
- Lightweight
- Contains a blend of growth factors and peptides
- Suitable for sensitive skin
Cons
- Pricey
This serum from Allies of Skin features a blend of skin-loving ingredients that promote skin healing, rejuvenation, and nourishment. It’s designed to lift and tighten the skin with a potent yet non-irritating formula that the brand says is dermatologically tested for sensitive skin.
What we think: “This lightweight and hydrating serum contains 3% of a growth factor complex along with a ton of other high-tech skincare ingredients like lifting peptides and a copper-amino acid complex,” says Good Housekeeping Health and Beauty Reviews Analyst Chiara Butler. “It’s a great thirst-quenching first layer of skincare, and the before and after photos from the brand are very impressive!”
Active ingredients: Oligopeptide-1 (growth factor), peptides, amino acids, glycerin | Benefits: Hydrating, lifting, smoothing | Dermstore rating: 4.3 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
11
BEST GROWTH FACTOR SERUM FOR DULL SKIN
BIOEFFECT EGF Serum
Now 11% Off
Pros
- Contains a plant-based growth factor
- Fragrance-free formula
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not for those who want human-derived growth factors
This product utilizes plant biotechnology with growth factors derived from barley, along with a hydrating blend of hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and Icelandic water. The brand says that the specific growth factor included in the formula is “moisture-binding” and promotes healthier-looking skin with increased firmness.
What we think: “Whenever I feel my skin could use a little extra TLC, I reach for this serum. The brand is recognized for its inclusion of plant-based Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF) produced in barley, a protein that promotes the skin’s natural cell renewal process, and this serum is no exception,” says Good Housekeeping Director, Beauty and Environment Lab, Sabina Wizemann. “With just seven ingredients, the formula is lightweight and absorbs quickly, so I apply it before my other skincare products. I’ve found that a few drops are enough to cover my entire face and neck. After about a week of use, I usually notice that my skin looks firmer, smoother, and more radiant—in short, it just looks better. It has a high price point, so this is not my year-long ritual; I treat it as a seasonal investment, usually during the spring and fall.”
Active ingredients: Barley SH-Oligopeptide-1 (plant-based growth factor), hyaluronic acid, glycerin | Benefits: Hydrating, firming, smoothing | Amazon rating: 4.2 stars | Size: 1.0 fl. oz.
12
BEST GROWTH FACTOR SERUM FOR UNDER EYES
iS Clinical Youth Eye Complex
Pros
- Targets fine lines around the eyes
- Hydrating formula
- Safe for sensitive under eye skin
Cons
- Pricey
The Youth Eye Complex from iS Clinical is a great option for anyone looking to specifically target the under eyes. This eye serum uses a blend of growth factors to reduce fine lines and wrinkles around the delicate eye area while also providing hydration and antioxidant protection.
What a reviewer says: “This product has really helped with the dark circles under my eyes. After using this cream I can really feel the difference and the skin feels tighter and smoother,” wrote one Dermstore reviewer. “I don’t have many wrinkles on my eyelids after using this cream. Best cream ever.”
Active ingredients: Tripeptides (growth factors), centella asiatica, vitamin K | Benefits: Firming, brightening, hydrating | Dermstore rating: 4.8 stars | Size: 0.5 fl. oz.
What is a growth factor serum?
Growth factor serums are skincare serums made with growth factors. These serums are normally associated with anti-aging benefits.
“Growth factors are naturally occurring proteins that enable cells to communicate with one another. By binding to specific receptors on target cells, they deliver ‘instructions’ that can prompt those cells to carry out specific functions,” Dr. Khalifian explains. “These messenger molecules have been used in skincare for many years because they help boost the skin’s own production of collagen and elastin—two key components that maintain firmness, elasticity, and overall skin quality.”
While many serums use human-derived growth factors, there are plenty of options that are naturally or synthetically derived, according to Dr. Lal, who prefers human-derived growth factors or growth factors synthetically based on human growth factors.
What do growth factor serums do?
The many benefits of growth factor serums come from their ability to support collagen production and help skin cells grow healthier and function better, explains Dr. Lal. As your skin produces more collagen you may notice:
- Softening of fine lines and wrinkles
- Tighter and more firm skin
- Brighter complexion
- Improvement in skin hydration
How to choose and use the best growth factor serums
✔️ Look at the ingredient label. Make sure the serum you choose has a high enough concentration of growth factors by ensuring it falls high on the list of ingredients. “When reviewing product labels, terms like ‘human fibroblast,’ ‘growth factor,’ or ‘human-conditioned media’ indicate that growth factors are present,” Dr. Khalifian explains. If you’re looking at an exosome-based product (like Plated Skin Science’s DAILY Serum), Dr. Khalifian states that the word “exosomes” should appear clearly in the ingredient list. Dr. Lal adds that on product ingredient labels you may see the consensus names of growth factors (as determined by the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients): human oligopeptide-1, human oligopeptide-10, and human oligopeptide-12. However, for those who prefer a naturally derived option, there are plant-based growth factors available as well.
✔️ Take research into consideration. “Look for products supported by solid clinical research, ideally with results published in peer-reviewed journals. Many brands make claims, but few invest in the rigorous testing that yields substantial, credible data,” Dr. Khalifian suggests. “Both Plated and SkinMedica, for instance, have conducted high-quality clinical trials with impressive short- and long-term results.”
✔️ Consider other ingredients. To get the most out of your serum, Dr. Garshick suggests choosing one that contains other active ingredients “that may help to work to complement the effects of growth factors such as peptides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants.”
✔️Don’t count out exosomes. Like growth factors, exosomes are relatively new to the skincare world. However, they function in a very similar way. Dr. Khalifian explains that both ingredients fall under the larger umbrella of biochemical cues, or types of ingredients that influence our cells to carry out a certain action. Exosomes contain growth factors, (as well as peptides, lipids, and other biochemical cues) and are essentially a “collection of signals that can help target cells to repair, regenerate, and function optimally,” says Dr. Khalifian.
✔️Use it daily. Use your growth factor serum every day, either once or twice per day (following the directions on the bottle), Dr. Garshick suggests. These serums “should always be applied to freshly cleansed skin as the first step in your skincare routine,” adds Dr. Khalifian. “Best practice is to allow these products to dry for a few minutes before proceeding with the next product application.”
How we chose the best growth factor serums
We tried all of the products on this list or spoke with Karan Lal, D.O., M.S., F.A.A.D., a double board-certified adult, pediatric, and fellowship-trained cosmetic dermatologist with Affiliated Dermatology in Scottsdale, AZ, Marisa Garshick, M.D., a leading board-certified dermatologist at Manhattan Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery in NYC; and Saami Khalifian, M.D., a double board-certified dermatologist based in Encinitas, CA, for their recommendations. We also sifted through countless online reviews to find the best growth factor serums available.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor’s degree in English. If she’s not reading or writing, you can probably find her frequenting the skincare and makeup forums on Reddit or hogging the squat rack at the gym.
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