Everyone has that one beauty product that they’ll always run back to. For me, it’s Drunk Elephant’s Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer. Besides the occasional swap in the winter—or when I need to test something new for my role at Byrdie—this peptide-rich cream has been a staple in my nightly routine for over five years. It’s really the Goldilocks of moisturizers: not too heavy, not too light, and smartly packaged in a clean, delightful pump tub component. (A design that has since been duped a dozen times over). And as I enter my 30s, I can say with confidence that this formula has played a huge role in the overall health and appearance of my skin today. Ahead, read about the key ingredients in Protini, why I reach for it so often, and how to tell if it’s for you.

Drunk Elephant Protini Polypeptide Moisturizer

The Formula

• Packed With Peptides: Second only to retinoids and SPF, peptides are considered to be one of the most effective anti-aging ingredients in skincare. “Peptides are building blocks of protein and send signals to help build collagen,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Mamina Turegano. “And depending on the peptide, they can also send signals to improve moisturization in the skin.” 
• Fragrance-Free: Like all Drunk Elephant products, Protini is completely fragrance-free. As I’ve crossed over into a new decade, I’ve found that my skin is consistently more calm, clear, and balanced when I avoid fragrance, so this is a huge plus for me. That’s been my personal experience, but it doesn’t necessarily ring true for everyone—if you love the sensorial experience of scent in your skincare, go off!
• Gel-Cream Texture: The texture here is absolutely divine. It’s a true gel-cream, offering the moisturization power of a cream, but the lightweight texture (and quick absorption) of a gel. As someone with combination skin, it can be challenging to find a lightweight moisturizer that can still address skincare concerns like fine lines and wrinkles, but Protini does exactly that.

My Review

I started using Protini when I was 24, and not to brag, but I think my skin looks even better now at age 30. It’s genuinely the Goldilocks of texture: It absorbs quickly and doesn’t feel heavy on my skin, but it also doesn’t disappear completely into the abyss of my pores (as a true gel moisturizer does). Instead, it leaves my cheeks feeling soft, supple, and supremely hydrated.

Like any moisturizer, this isn’t a product where you’ll necessarily see an immediate before and after—but after more than five years of consistent use, I’m pretty happy with the overall health and appearance of my skin. My skin barrier is balanced, my fine lines are subdued, and even my dermatologist is impressed with my skin’s firmness (thanks to the peptides).

Protini vs Other Drunk Elephant Moisturizers

If you love the appeal of Drunk Elephant—the smart packaging, the fragrance-free formulas, and the mix factor—but want something a little richer (or lighter) for your skin type, the brand probably has an option for you. Lala Retro is the next-thickest cream, packed with ingredients like ceramides and marula oil. Next on the buttery scale would be Bora Bora Barrier Repair Cream, followed by the brand’s occlusive Wonderwild Miracle Butter, which can be used head to toe to soften rough skin or to slug your skincare. Meanwhile, if you’re on the more oily side of the skin type spectrum, B-Hydra Intensive Hydration Serum is a lightweight, hydrating serum that can be used alone (especially in the morning) or underneath a moisturizer to give it a boost.

More Drunk Elephant Moisturizers

Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Refillable Moisturizer

$66 at Sephora

Drunk Elephant Bora Barrier Rich Repair Cream

$74

$71 at Amazon

Drunk Elephant Wonderwild Miracle Butter

$39

$38 at Amazon

Drunk Elephant Hydration Serum

$54

$52 at Amazon