As a dermatologist, I’m frequently asked about the latest and most effective skincare products, especially those that claim to address multiple signs of aging. Recently, a patient came to me asking about the Maelove Peptide Squad, a serum that has been gaining popularity for its promise to rejuvenate the skin by targeting wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. Given the growing interest in peptides and their role in anti-aging, I decided to take a closer look at this product and share my opinion!

Overview of Peptides

“Peptides” have been everywhere for the past few years. TikTok touts these tiny protein fragments as the next big thing in skincare. But are peptides really as miraculous as they sound, or is it just marketing?

Let’s look closer at what peptides actually do, the science behind their supposed benefits, and whether they deserve your hard-earned money.

Click the video to the right for a whirlwind overview of peptides, or read on for more info!

The star of the Maelove Peptide Squad is, of course, peptides. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as building blocks for proteins like collagen and elastin, which are essential for maintaining firm, youthful skin. As we age, the natural production of these proteins slows down, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and other signs of aging. Peptides in skincare work by signaling the skin to produce more collagen, thus helping to restore its structure and elasticity.

When people talk about "peptides," it can mean a lot of different things, making it a very broad and unclear term. Peptides are short chains of amino acids, but there are many different types, and they can do different things for your skin. Because of this, it's hard to know exactly what a product with peptides will do without more details. On the other hand, when someone mentions retinol, we know exactly what that is—a type of Vitamin A that helps with wrinkles and skin texture. So, while "retinol" is specific, "peptides" is more like an umbrella term that needs more explanation.

So how do we know if a peptide is really good for our skin? It can be tricky because many studies on peptides are sponsored by the companies that make them, which can sometimes make the results seem better than they are. Plus, a lot of the research is done in a lab (in vitro) or on animals, not on actual people. This means we don't always know how well these peptides will work on human skin. Sometimes, the results we hear about are also self-reported, meaning people just say how their skin feels, which isn't always super reliable. So, it's important to be cautious when hearing big promises about peptides.

Brief Overview of Maelove

Maelove is a relatively new brand that has quickly gained a loyal following for its affordable, science-backed skincare products. Founded by a team of MIT graduates, Maelove is known for combining advanced ingredients with a minimalist approach to skincare. The brand focuses on creating high-quality products that deliver results without unnecessary fillers or inflated price tags. Maelove’s commitment to transparency and effectiveness has made it a favorite among skincare enthusiasts who want results without breaking the bank.

Maelove’s Peptide Ingredients

The Maelove Peptide Squad is packed with a potent blend of peptides:

It's hard to find accurate information about peptides, especially with so much hype surrounding them in the skincare world. To cut through the noise, here's a no-nonsense overview of these peptides:

Usage

To use the Maelove Peptide Squad, apply a few drops to clean, dry skin both morning and night. Gently massage the serum into your face and neck, focusing on areas with visible signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. After applying the serum, follow up with your favorite moisturizer to lock in hydration.

For best results, incorporate this serum into your daily skincare routine consistently. It’s also important to use sunscreen during the day, as sun protection is crucial for preventing further signs of aging.

Time to See Results

When using peptides in your skincare routine, patience is key. Unlike ingredients that provide immediate effects, peptides work gradually. You can generally expect to see initial improvements in skin texture and hydration within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent use. For more significant results, such as increased firmness and reduced wrinkles, it may take 2 to 3 months of regular application. Keep in mind that results can vary depending on the specific peptide, formulation, and your skin type. Consistency and long-term use are essential to maximizing the benefits of peptides.

Side Effects

The Maelove Peptide Squad is formulated to be gentle and is generally well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin. However, as with any skincare product, there is a small risk of irritation, particularly if you have very reactive skin. Common side effects may include mild redness or a tingling sensation upon application, but these are usually temporary.

If you experience persistent irritation, discontinue use and consult a dermatologist. Always perform a patch test before applying the serum to your entire face to ensure your skin can tolerate it.

Texture and Feel

The Maelove Peptide Squad has a lightweight, non-greasy serum that absorbs quickly into the skin. It feels hydrating and leaves the skin with a smooth, soft finish. The serum is easy to layer with other products, making it suitable for both morning and evening routines. Despite its potent formulation, it doesn’t feel heavy on the skin, making it ideal for those who prefer a more lightweight serum.

Packaging

The Maelove Peptide Squad comes in a minimalist bottle with a dropper applicator, which allows for precise control of the product. The packaging is simple yet functional, protecting the serum from light and air exposure, which can degrade the active ingredients over time. The dropper ensures that you can dispense just the right amount of product, minimizing waste.

Price and Value

Priced at around $30 for a 1 oz bottle, the Maelove Peptide Squad offers excellent value for money. Given the quality of the ingredients and the effectiveness of the formula, it’s a cost-effective option for those looking to incorporate peptides into their skincare routine without spending a fortune. The serum is available directly from the Maelove website, as well as through other online retailers.

Compared to other peptide serums on the market, the Maelove Peptide Squad is competitively priced, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers. Its affordability, combined with its high-quality formulation, makes it a standout product in the peptide serum category.

Comparisons

When comparing the Maelove Peptide Squad to other popular peptide serums, such as The Ordinary Buffet and Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream, a few key differences emerge:

The Ordinary Buffet is another affordable peptide serum that contains a blend of peptides for anti-aging benefits. However, The Ordinary Buffet does not include the additional hydrating and brightening ingredients found in the Maelove Peptide Squad, such as hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. The Ordinary, however, has more advanced peptide technology (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 is a new, more advanced Matrixyl than Matrixyl-3000 in Maelove’s product).
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is a peptide-rich moisturizer that targets signs of aging. It has a more advanced copper delivery system. It also contains Matrixyl-3000. However, it comes at a much higher price point than the Maelove Peptide Squad. While Drunk Elephant offers a more luxurious texture and added moisturizing benefits, Maelove provides a more budget-friendly option.

The Maelove Peptide Squad stands out for its combination of peptides, hydration, and brightening ingredients, all at an accessible price point. Its lightweight texture and comprehensive formulation make it a strong competitor in the peptide serum market.

Dermatologist's Opinion

As a dermatologist, I hesitantly recommend the Maelove Peptide Squad. The peptides included are mostly older technology. However, it also includes hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and antioxidants if you’re looking for a more well-rounded addition to your skincare routine. If you are serious about trying peptides, there are better formulas out there (see here).

What makes Maelove Peptide Squad unique?

Maelove Peptide Squad is a peptide-rich serum designed to combat signs of aging, including fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of firmness. It combines a blend of peptides, including Copper Tripeptide-1 and Matrixyl 3000, with other skin-loving ingredients like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. This powerful combination helps to rejuvenate and strengthen the skin.

Can I use copper peptides and Vitamin C together?

Copper peptides and Vitamin C can both be beneficial for the skin, but it’s generally recommended to use them at different times of the day. Vitamin C is best used in the morning to protect against free radical damage, while copper peptides are ideal for nighttime use to support the skin’s natural repair processes.

Is Maelove Peptide Squad the best copper peptide serum?

Maelove Peptide Squad is a strong contender among copper peptide serums due to its balanced formulation, which combines copper peptides with other powerful anti-aging ingredients. While there are many excellent copper peptide serums on the market, Maelove Peptide Squad stands out for its affordability and effectiveness.

Can I use copper peptides and retinol together?

It’s generally safe to use copper peptides and retinol in the same skincare routine, but it’s recommended to apply them at different times. Retinol is often used at night for its anti-aging benefits, while copper peptides can be applied afterward or on alternate nights to avoid potential irritation.

Dermatologist Reviews: Maelove Peptide Squad