I tested Allies of Skin’s peptide skincare range – and the results genuinely surprised me (aff)

Peptides are having a real moment in skincare. They're talked about in dermatologist-led discussions, product launches and, increasingly, in beauty podcasts.

On a recent episode of The Diary of a CEO, Steven Bartlett’s guest, Dr Alex Tatem, spelled out their appeal in simple terms: peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as signalling messengers within the skin. Rather than forcing rapid change, they work more subtly, encouraging skin to become firmer, more elastic, and more resilient over time.

This helps explain why peptide skincare rarely promises instant transformation. Instead, it's about cumulative improvement.

That philosophy feels closely aligned with Allies of Skin, an exceptional brand founded by Nicolas Travis. After a serious accident left him with facial injuries, Travis became focused on recovery, both physical and emotional, and grew frustrated with skincare that felt either overly complex or insufficiently effective.

Drawing on a background in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, he developed a line of high performance, concentrated formulas. Since launching a decade ago, the brand has cultivated a global following.

I tested four of these potent products - the Molecular Silk Amino Hydrating Cleanser, £38 for 100ml; the hero product - Multi Peptides & Growth Factors Advanced Lifting Serum; £176 for 30ml; Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Serum; £190 for 30ml, and the Peptides & Omega Eye Cream; £82 for 15ml. The range is unapologetically premium - for good reason. It works. And the results have exceeded my expectations.

The standout, for me, is the Copper Tripeptide & Ectoin Advanced Repair Serum. Copper peptides are widely associated with skin recovery, repair and resilience. At £190, it is a considered investment, but the effect is striking. After a week of using this incredible blue-coloured serum, my skin was less dry, significantly plumper, with fewer fine lines and a noticeable glow.

The Multi Peptides & Growth Factor Advanced Lifting Serum takes a broader approach, combining multiple peptide complexes with growth factors to support firmness and elasticity. It gradually improves skin’s smoothness over time. Individually these two serums are fabulous. Used together, they're outstanding.

If you're on the hunt for a new cleanser, PCA's hydrating cleanser is effective, non-stripping and leaves skin noticeably soft rather than unwanted tightness some products leave in their wake. It starts as a rich, thick gel - it looks a bit like marmalade - and froths up into a gentle foam. It's suitable for all skin types and, if packaging matters, comes in a gorgeous silver tube.

I also found the silky eye cream made a definite difference to the creases around my eyes. It's hugely successful in reducing puffing and dullness.

One online devotee of the eye cream said: "I love that it does not irritate my eyes. It absorbs nicely, isn't fragranced and keeps the skin around my eyes hydrated."

Allies of Skin has built up a loyal and grateful following. Five-star reviews have been left in abundance by beauty lovers in awe of the results. One summed up the products perfectly. She said: "Quite simply my face feels plumper and looks younger. I will never be without this brand now."