In 2018, Drunk Elephant launched its Protini Polypeptide Cream, which quickly became one of the brand\u2019s best-sellers, and since then, it\u2019s amassed thousands of five-star reviews. One of the things people love about it most? Its gel-cream texture. For me, the texture of a moisturizer is one of its most important attributes. If it doesn\u2019t feel good, absorb well or jive with everything else I\u2019m layering underneath, we\u2019re not meant to be, no matter how amazing the ingredients are. Protini has always delivered in this department, and then some. Here, my honest review of this iconic moisturizer.<\/p>\n
The Benefits of This Moisturizer<\/h2>\n
This cream is a great choice for someone who wants both moisture and benefits for aging skin. The key ingredients\u2014nine plant-derived signal peptides\u2014help support healthy collagen production for plumper, firmer skin that you\u2019ll notice with consistent use. As the skin\u2019s collagen gets stronger, the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sun damage is improved, too. My skin always looks smoother and healthier after using this moisturizer twice a day, even just for a couple weeks.<\/p>\n
True to Drunk Elephant\u2019s DNA, the formula is also free of fragrances and dyes, which I really appreciate. If you\u2019re someone who is sensitive to essential oils, this cream is also free of those. And back to the texture\u2014I want to elaborate on that. Though it\u2019s described as a \u201clightweight gel-cream,\u201d it feels more moisturizing than most other gel-creams I\u2019ve tried. My skin still feels hydrated and comfortable at the end of the day.<\/p>\n
![\"drunk](\"https:\/\/www.newbeauty.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/drunk-elephant-protini-peptide-cream.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\nBUY ON ULTA BEAUTY \u2013 $72<\/p>\n
BUY ON SEPHORA \u2013 $72<\/p>\n
\u201cEvery day, I add protein powder to my smoothie for muscle support,\u201d says founder Tiffany Masterson. \u201cI wanted a different kind of moisturizer that would do the same for my skin, so Protini was born. Jam-packed with crazy levels of amino acids, signal peptides and safe, synthetic growth factors\u2014the good kind\u2014this dreamy \u2018get-sh*t-done\u2019 cream melts right into your skin to make it hydrated, bouncy and balanced.\u201d In a clinical study, after eight weeks, 96 percent of participants showed improvement in skin\u2019s tone, radiance and luminosity; 93 percent showed improvement in texture; and 90 percent showed improvement in skin\u2019s hydration.<\/p>\n
How to Use It<\/h2>\n
Apply it morning and night on clean skin after toners and serums. I love the hygienic (and refillable!) packaging, which allows you to dispense the perfect amount for your face and neck without having to dip your fingers into the jar. Plus, refills will save you $9 a pop. My only gripe is that you can\u2019t tell how much cream is left in the jar, so if you\u2019re someone who doesn\u2019t like to run out of your favorite product (even if it\u2019s just for a day or two until your order arrives), stock up accordingly. Protini also comes in tiny travel-size if you are packing light, but don\u2019t want to switch up your routine (I\u2019ve even kept it in my clutch for a night out).<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n