Frequently Asked Questions
Do growth-factor serums really work?
In short, yes. “Data suggest that well-formulated, high-quality growth-factor serums can deliver measurable benefits,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “With consistent use, these serums can lead to noticeable improvements in overall skin quality.” Alas, they don’t work overnight. “Like any skin-care product, growth-factor serums should be used for at least two to three months before you can accurately decide if they are effective—or not—for your specific skin concern,” says Dr. Camp. “Consistency is key in treating the skin with a new active ingredient, such as a growth factor.”
According to Dr. Amin, “It is also important to note that not everyone will respond the same way to these serums, and factors like genetics, lifestyle, and diet can influence the outcome.”
Is growth factor better than retinol?
“Growth-factor serums stimulate the skin’s natural cellular repair processes, promoting rejuvenation with minimal irritation, making them a great option for sensitive or reactive skin types,” says Dr. Murphy-Rose. “However, they tend to be quite expensive.” Retinol, derived from vitamin A, accelerates cell turnover, smooths fine lines, and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Unlike growth factors, retinol can cause skin irritation and requires a gradual introduction into your routine. “Both can support hydration and are powerful tools for addressing signs of aging, but their best use depends on your skin’s needs and tolerance,” Dr. Murphy-Rose adds.
According to Dr. Amin, the decision to use retinol or growth factors depends on what you’re looking for in a skin-care routine. “For improving skin texture, retinol may be more effective in the long term due to its ability to promote cell turnover and collagen production,” she says. “Multiple studies have shown the efficacy of retinol and retinoids in reducing fine lines and wrinkles. For very sensitive skin that cannot tolerate retinol, growth factors may be more suitable, especially if you’re looking for something less likely to irritate.”
Meet the experts
- Mina Amin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles
- Brendan Camp, MD, a double board-certified dermatologist and dermatopathologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery in the tri-state area
- Omer Ibrahim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Salmalita Cosmetics, based in Chicago
- Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology based in Newport Beach, California
How we test and review products
When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that’s included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best growth factor skin-care products, we considered each product’s performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
Our staff and testers
A beauty product is a personal purchase. You might be searching for a face cream to address persistent dryness or a new nail product to add to your Sunday self-care routine; you may simply be browsing around for the latest launches to hit the hair market. No matter what you seek or your individual needs and concerns, Allure wants to ensure that you love anything we recommend in our stories. We believe that having a diverse team of writers and editors—in addition to the wide range of outside testers and industry experts we regularly call upon—is essential to reaching that goal.
After all, can we really say a skin-care product is the “best” for people over 50 if the only testers we’ve solicited opinions from folks who have yet to hit 30? Can we honestly deem a high-end diffuser worthy of your hard-earned cash if it’s never been tested on curls? We’re proud that our staff spans a wide range of ages, skin tones, hair textures, genders, and backgrounds, which means that we are able to fairly assess any beauty product that comes into the beauty closet.
