As a dermatologist, I frequently encounter patients curious about the latest anti-aging products, particularly those boasting collagen-boosting benefits. Recently, a patient asked about the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer, wondering if it truly delivers on its promises. Given Olay’s longstanding reputation in the skincare world, I decided to take a closer look at this moisturizer to provide a thorough review that will help you determine if it’s the right fit for your skincare routine.

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 Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer 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 Olay

Olay is a well-established brand that has been a staple in the skincare industry for decades. Originally launched in the 1950s as “Oil of Olay,” the brand has continually evolved, focusing on affordable skincare solutions backed by scientific research. Olay is known for its extensive range of products targeting various skin concerns, from anti-aging to hydration, all designed to be accessible to a wide audience.

Olay Peptide Ingredients

Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer has exactly one peptide:

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 this peptides:

**Pentapeptide-4**, more commonly known as "**Matrixyl**," is an older technology developed in the early 2000s. Far more sophisticated peptides are on the market, even at a cheaper price point.

Usage

For best results, the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer should be applied twice daily—morning and night—on clean skin. Dispense a small amount and gently massage it into your face and neck until fully absorbed. In the morning, follow up with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from UV damage, which can counteract the collagen-boosting benefits of the moisturizer.

If you’re new to peptides or niacinamide, you can start by applying the moisturizer once daily to allow your skin to adjust before increasing to twice daily use. This product can be layered under makeup without causing pilling, making it a versatile addition to your skincare routine.

Time to See Results

Consistency is key when it comes to seeing results with the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer. While you may notice an immediate improvement in hydration and skin smoothness, the anti-aging benefits will take time. Typically, you can expect to see more significant changes in skin firmness, texture, and the appearance of fine lines after 8 to 12 weeks of consistent use. Collagen synthesis is a gradual process, but with regular application, you should start to notice a firmer, more youthful complexion.

Side Effects

The Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. However, as with any skincare product, there is a possibility of irritation, especially if you have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients. Niacinamide is known to be a gentle ingredient, but in rare cases, it can cause redness or tingling. It’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before applying a new product to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.

Texture and Feel

The Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer is generally well-tolerated by most skin types, including sensitive skin. However, as with any skincare product, there is a possibility of irritation, especially if you have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients. Niacinamide is known to be a gentle ingredient, but in rare cases, it can cause redness or tingling. It’s always a good idea to perform a patch test before applying a new product to your entire face, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.

Packaging

Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer is packaged in a sleek jar, which is common for many moisturizers. While the jar packaging is easy to use, it does expose the product to air and light with each use, which can potentially degrade some of the active ingredients over time, especially peptides. To maximize the longevity of the product, be sure to close the lid tightly after each use and store it in a cool, dark place.

Price and Value

Priced around $30 to $40 for a 50 mL jar, the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer is a mid-range product that offers good value for the benefits it provides. It’s widely available in drugstores, online retailers, and supermarkets, making it accessible to a broad audience. Given the quality of the ingredients, particularly the inclusion of peptides and niacinamide, it offers a solid value for those looking to address early signs of aging without spending a fortune.

Comparisons

When comparing the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer 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 more advanced peptide technology (Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 is a new, more advanced Matrixyl). It’s cheaper, too.
Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Cream is a peptide-rich moisturizer that targets signs of aging. It has an advanced copper delivery system. It also contains Matrixyl-3000 (the next version of Matrixyl). However, it comes at a much higher price point. While Drunk Elephant offers a more luxurious texture and added moisturizing benefits, Olay provides a more budget-friendly option.

The Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer offers okay peptides at an accessible price point.

Dermatologist's Opinion

If you want to get into peptides, the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer is not a good start. As a moisturizer? Fine. But the singular peptide being marketed in the name is not anything to write home about. This peptide is older technology. If you are serious about trying peptides, there are better formulas out there (see here) at a cheaper price point, too!

Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer FAQ

Is Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer suitable for all skin types?

While it is formulated to be gentle and hydrating, it is best suited for normal to dry skin types. Those with very oily skin might find it too rich.

Can I use this moisturizer with other active ingredients?

Yes, it pairs well with other actives like hyaluronic acid, retinoids, or Vitamin C. However, introduce new products gradually to avoid irritation.

How long does it take to see results?

You may notice immediate hydration and smoother skin, but visible anti-aging benefits like improved firmness and reduced fine lines typically take 8 to 12 weeks.

Is this product non-comedogenic?

Olay does not specifically label this moisturizer as non-comedogenic, but its ingredients are generally safe for acne-prone skin. However, if you are prone to breakouts, monitor your skin's response when using it.

Is this moisturizer fragrance-free?

Yes, the Olay Collagen Peptide Face Moisturizer is fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin.

Dermatologist Reviews: Olay Collagen Peptide Moisturizer