As Indian consumers become more ingredient-conscious, these skincare brands are bringing peptide-focused formulations into the mainstream.
The way Indian consumers shop for skincare is changing. Instead of being swayed primarily by celebrity campaigns or attractive packaging, many shoppers are now examining ingredient lists, researching formulations and looking for products that address specific concerns. This growing focus on efficacy has helped ingredient-led skincare emerge as an important part of India’s beauty market.
Peptides are among the ingredients benefiting from this shift. These short chains of amino acids are associated with supporting collagen production and maintaining skin elasticity, making them popular in formulations targeting concerns such as fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness. Greater awareness driven by dermatologists, skincare educators and social media has further encouraged consumers to explore science-backed products.
Several Indian beauty brands have responded by placing active ingredients and formulation-led skincare at the heart of their propositions. Here are five names that have found a place in this evolving category.
Minimalist
Minimalist has built its identity around straightforward formulations and transparent communication about ingredients. Its peptide-led offerings are positioned for consumers concerned with signs of ageing, skin firmness and barrier support.
The brand’s approach combines science-focused product development with pricing that makes active-ingredient skincare accessible to a broader audience. Its growth has also been reflected financially: after being acquired by Hindustan Unilever, Minimalist recorded ₹514.8 crore in operating revenue in FY25, a 48% rise from FY24.
The Derma Co.
The Derma Co., part of Honasa Consumer, approaches skincare through a dermatologist-inspired lens, with formulations built around active ingredients. Its peptide offerings are complemented by ingredients such as ceramides, hyaluronic acid and retinol, allowing the brand to address concerns related to ageing and skin-barrier health.
Its portfolio includes the Peptide Complex Serum and Ceramide + Peptide Moisturizer, alongside a wider selection of skincare products. The brand’s individual revenue is not separately reported because Honasa publishes consolidated financial results.
Foxtale
Mumbai-based Foxtale has built a strong consumer following with its simplified approach to skincare and digital-first brand building. Rather than positioning skincare as an elaborate routine, the brand focuses on products designed around specific everyday needs.
Its portfolio includes the Daily Moisturizer, Super Glow Moisturizer, Vitamin C Serum, Hydrating Cleanser and Overnight Glow Mask. Foxtale’s business also recorded significant growth, with revenue rising from ₹83 crore in FY24 to ₹199 crore in FY25.
d’you
Premium skincare label d’you has carved out a distinct space by concentrating on a relatively compact range of multifunctional products. Its formulations incorporate ingredients such as peptides and ceramides, with an emphasis on maintaining and strengthening the skin barrier.
Among its better-known products are In My Defence Barrier Building Moisturizer and Hustle Serum. Although the company has not disclosed its revenue, its positioning appeals to consumers looking for premium formulations and performance-oriented skincare.
Deconstruct
Founded by Malini Adapureddy, Deconstruct has grown around a simple proposition: make active-ingredient skincare easier for consumers to understand and use. Its formulations are aimed at shoppers who want targeted solutions without overly complicated routines.
The brand sells products including Gel Sunscreen, Brightening Serum, Clearing Serum, Barrier Repair Moisturizer and peptide-based moisturizers. It reported ₹130 crore in FY25 revenue, while also reaching EBITDA profitability as it expanded through marketplaces and quick-commerce channels.
