What are Peptides in Skincare?

Peptides are having a moment in skincare, but what do they actually do? Consider this your comprehensive guide.  First, peptides are strings of amino acids that form specific proteins essential to skin health and are included in skin care products to boost their efficacy. Peptides are effective because they can penetrate the outer layer of the skin instead of sitting on top of the skin, effectively signaling other cells to produce collagen and elastin. 

Here are some of the benefits of incorporating peptides in your skin regimen...

Benefits of Peptides in Skin

Using peptides in your skincare routine can enhance the production of vital proteins like elastin and collagen - crucial for skin health. Collagen, specifically, is made of three polypeptide chains, thus the addition of peptides can stimulate more collagen production which can result in firmer, younger looking skin. 

Although collagen is naturally generated in the body, its production declines with age which can result in wrinkled, dull looking skin. The collagen molecule itself is actually too large to be absorbed into the skin but peptides can be absorbed and utilized to produce more collagen and more collagen leads to plumper skin and lips, resulting in decreased appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Peptides can also help build a stronger skin barrier, defending the body from environmental damage like bacteria, pollution, UV rays and other aggressors. As the first line of defense, an improved skin barrier results in less wrinkles and fine lines, less discoloration and overall healthier looking skin. 

Some studies also suggest that peptides in skincare can help reduce inflammation, repair damaged skin and even out skin tone. 

Some peptides are also antimicrobial and can kill the bacteria that causes acne for clearer looking skin. 

How to Pick the Right Peptides

• Select the appropriate form: Opt for a peptide product such as a serum or moisturizer that maintains prolonged contact with your skin. A cleanser may not be as effective since it is washed away.
• Select accompanying ingredients carefully: Peptides complement well with other ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acids. However, combining peptides with an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) may reduce their effectiveness.
• Look at the label: Peptides ideally should be near the top of the ingredient list. They may also appear as 'palmitoyl' on the list. 
  

While peptides can be effective, it is important to consider that there are many different kinds of peptides with different functions and that research is still developing. It is also recommended to refer to a dermatologist for recommendations for your individual skincare needs.

It's essential to note that peptides are not a magical cure. To slow down signs of aging, it is important to integrate healthy anti-aging habits into your skincare routine and lifestyle for maximum results. Effective anti-aging skincare involves using peptides along with protective measures, such as consistent sun protection, regular cleansing, adequate hydration, and a healthy balanced diet.

Bestselling Peptide Skincare Products

1) Vivier C E Peptides - our top selling Vitamin C antioxidant serum with peptides to fight visible signs of aging and environmental aggressors 

2) Alastin Restorative Eye Treatment - an anti-aging eye cream formulated with peptides to smooth wrinkles and reduce puffiness 

3) SkinMedica TNS Advanced Serum - a powerful anti-aging serum with peptides and growth factor proven to address sagging skin 

Sources: 
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/peptides-for-skin 
https://www.healthline.com/health/peptides-for-skin#about-peptide-products 
https://www.colorescience.com/blogs/learn/peptides-for-skin?srsltid=AfmBOoqDz2EPB69fP_vaERqEJ05lIVpvfQlL-ha5b0gUWvHTyC1MmLSZ