Growth factors are often-talked-about ingredients in the beauty world. But what are they, exactly?
More importantly, what can they do for your skin? Growth factors are naturally-occurring substances that regulate various cellular processes, including growth, proliferation, and differentiation.
They are crucial for tissue development, wound healing, and maintaining the overall health and function of cells, explains Robyn Gmyrek, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. They can be derived from human cells or plants.
When applied topically, growth factor serums may help support collagen production, improve skin elasticity, and enhance the skin’s natural repair processes. They also minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
They can also contribute to hydration and overall skin rejuvenation, Gmyrek explains. In short, they’re a great anti-aging ingredient.
Their other big boon is that growth factors are typically very well-tolerated. A multi-tasking, youth-boosting ingredient that won’t wreak havoc on your skin? Yes, please.
However, not all growth factor serums are created equal. Specific benefits can depend on the overall formulation of the product. Here are some of the best options.
Best Overall: Dr. Diamond’s Metacine Instafacial Collection. Dr. Jason Diamond is a plastic surgeon to some of the biggest stars.
Consider this the at-home version of that in-office treatment. This two-step system consists of a plasma and an emulsion.
The results? Smoother, firmer, more radiant skin. Byrdie’s associate editorial director, Jill Di Donato is a super-fan.
My skin literally drinks it up, that’s how well it absorbs. I’ve been using it daily for six weeks and my skin is more firm and bouncy.
Runner-Up, Best Overall: Skin Medica TNS Advanced+ Serum. This cult-classic is a long-beloved staple.
It’s often-recommended by dermatologists, Gmyrek included. This serum is well-regarded for its combination of growth factors, antioxidants, and peptides.
It aims to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, she says.
Best with Retinol: Perricone MD Growth Factor Firming Lifting Serum. A growth factor that helps promote collagen production and elasticity is enhanced by retinol.
The latter helps improve exfoliation. Also noteworthy is the addition of an eggshell membrane.
Best K-Beauty: Maskad Anti-Aging Serum. There are three different types of growth factors to be found in this Korean-made serum.
They have a synergistic effect.
Best Budget: The Inkey List 15% Vitamin C and EGF Brightening Serum. Growth factor serums aren’t cheap.
It has a 1% concentration of an epidermal growth factor. It’s also a great antioxidant.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Neocutis Bio Serum Firm Rejuvenating Growth Factor and Peptide Treatment. Human growth factors are paired with other ingredients.
Known for its proprietary growth factor blend, this serum is designed to support collagen production and improve the overall texture and elasticity of the skin, she says.
Best Peptide-Alternative: Dr. Babor EGF Growth Factor Concentrate. This relies on biomimetic peptides.
It’s a great pick for those who are squeamish about using human-derived growth factors. It’s also slightly less expensive.
Best Hydrating: Epi.Logic Master Plan Collagen Renew Growth Factor Serum. All growth factor serums can help with skin hydration.
There’s also hyaluronic acid in the mix. A snow mushroom also helps to lock in moisture.
Best Plant-Based: BioEffect EGF Plumping and Firming Serum. It relies on a growth factor that comes from barley.
It’s been clinically-proven to improve skin density and thickness. It contains just seven ingredients total.
Best with Exomes: Elevai Enfinity Rejuvenating Serum. Exosomes in skincare are poised to be the new hot trend.
They’re nanoparticles released by cells. They work by communicating between cells. Exosomes are the star of the show here.