Quick answer: Both are six-amino-acid peptides used in firming skincare, but they're different molecules with different backstories. Hexapeptide-10 is a fragment of laminin, a protein that anchors the skin's layers together. Hexapeptide-11 is a sequence first identified in yeast extracts and studied for how it affects skin cells' protein upkeep. Most of the evidence for both comes from lab studies, so choose on the whole formula rather than the peptide name.
The side-by-side
| Hexapeptide-11 | Hexapeptide-10 | |
|---|---|---|
| Amino acid sequence | Phe-Val-Ala-Pro-Phe-Pro | Ser-Ile-Lys-Val-Ala-Val ("SIKVAV") |
| Where it comes from | First identified in yeast extracts | A fragment of laminin, found where the skin's outer and inner layers meet |
| What it's studied for | Supporting skin cells' protein-maintenance systems; the look of firmness and elasticity | Supporting the proteins that hold skin layers together; the look of firmness |
| Trade name you may see | Often listed simply as hexapeptide-11 | Serilesine |
| Strongest evidence | Lab studies on skin cells, plus small cosmetic assessments | Mostly lab and supplier studies |
Hexapeptide-11, explained
Hexapeptide-11 is a short chain of six amino acids first isolated from yeast. The most cited research is a 2015 lab study (Sklirou et al., Redox Biology) on human skin fibroblasts, the cells that make collagen and elastin. It found the peptide influenced the cells' "proteostasis" network: the systems that build, check, and clear out proteins. That's a promising mechanism for skin that's aging, but it's cell-culture work, not a large clinical trial on faces. For the full rundown, see What Is Hexapeptide-11?
Hexapeptide-10, explained
Hexapeptide-10 is a six-amino-acid piece of laminin, a protein in the thin layer that glues the outer skin to the deeper layer beneath it. Supplier and lab data suggest it can encourage skin cells to make more of the anchoring proteins in that junction. You'll usually see it sold under the ingredient name Serilesine. Like most cosmetic peptides, it lacks large independent clinical trials.
Neither is Argireline
A common mix-up: acetyl hexapeptide-8 (sold as Argireline) is also a six-amino-acid peptide, but it's a different molecule studied for the look of expression lines. "Hexapeptide" just means six amino acids, so the number after it matters.
So which should you choose?
Honestly, the peptide name matters less than people think. Since neither has big trials behind it, the bigger factors are:
- What else is in the formula. Peptides work best alongside hydration. A serum with hyaluronic acid does more than a peptide on its own.
- Whether you'll use it every day. A gentle serum you actually use beats a harsh one you abandon.
- Transparency. Look for the full ingredient list so you can see where the peptide sits.
We chose hexapeptide-11 for our HexaPeptide-11 Serum and paired it with hyaluronic acid at two molecular weights, one for surface plumpness and one for longer-lasting hydration. Expect the hydration right away and give anything the peptide contributes 8 to 12 weeks.
If you want the strongest option
If your skin tolerates retinoids well and you want maximum intensity, a retinoid has far more evidence than any peptide. Peptides are the gentle, supporting player. We compare them directly in Peptides vs Retinol.
FAQ
Is hexapeptide-11 better than hexapeptide-10?
There's no head-to-head study, so no one can honestly say. They're studied for different mechanisms.
Can you use hexapeptide-11 with retinol or bakuchiol?
Yes. Peptide serum first, then bakuchiol or retinol.
Is hexapeptide-11 safe for sensitive skin?
Peptides are among the gentler active categories. Patch test anything new, and check the full ingredient list for anything you react to.
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This article is general information about cosmetic ingredients and isn't medical advice. Cosmetic products affect the appearance of skin; for skin conditions or medical concerns, talk to a dermatologist.