As far as active ingredients in skin care are concerned, we generally have a good understanding of what everyone’s roles are. When it comes to brightening, vitamin C is our go-to; salicylic acid fights congestion, retinol slows the ageing process, and hyaluronic acid seals in moisture keeping our skin plump and hydrated.
However, there is one other name that appears on many ingredient lists, but no one really knows what it does or what it is. We’re talking about the elusive ‘peptide’.
We know peptides are a good thing, but when pushed any further on what exactly they are? We’re left scratching our heads.
So in order to find out exactly what it means when a cream or serum says it’s “full of peptides,” we did some research.
What are peptides?
Here’s a quick, simplified science lesson before we get started. Peptides are chains of amino acids that act as messengers within the body. The body uses them to build essential proteins like collagen and elastin. In the absence of these proteins, we form wrinkles, brittle nails, dry hair and sagging skin.
The idea is that by applying them topically to our skin, peptides signal our cells to begin producing more collagen, resulting in firmer skin.
Why do we need to use them in our skin care routine?
Although they’re naturally occurring within the body, after we turn 30 our collagen stores begin to deplete and the communication channels that peptides use to convey messages slow down, which is why we constantly need to top up our supplies.
When peptides are applied to wrinkles or sagging skin, it sends a signal to your body to focus its rejuvenation and repairing process on this particular area. To plump up this area, the body may produce more collagen or hyaluronic acid.
Are there different types of peptides?
The typical peptide varieties to look for when applying skin care include:
Carrier peptides: These are designed to boost collagen
Enzyme inhibitor peptides: These prevent the skin’s natural collagen stores from being depleted
Signal peptides: These peptides signal different parts of the skin to produce collagen, elastin, and other types of proteins
Neurotransmitter peptides (otherwise known as the ‘Botox compound’): These peptides smooth wrinkles by inhibiting the release of chemicals that cause muscle contractions when we feel emotion.
When incorporating peptides into your skin routine, we recommend looking for moisturisers, eye creams and masks that stay on the skin, rather than cleansers that are rinsed off immediately. By choosing formulas with added vitamins and antioxidants, such as niacinamide or vitamin C, you can also boost the effectiveness of your peptides.
What are the main benefits of peptides?
- Reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Boosts hydration
- Strengthens and repairs the skin barrier
- Stimulates collagen production
- Prevents sagging
- Soothes redness and inflammation
- Corrects uneven skin tones
The best peptide skin care products to try
For mature eyes: SkinCeuticals A.G.E. Eye Complex ($152 at Adore Beauty)
An everyday moisturiser: Olay Regenerist Whip Facial Moisturizer ($29.39 at Chemist Warehouse)
Suitable for sensitive skin: Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster ($60.36 at Paula’s Choice)
Affordable option: BOOST LAB Multi Peptide Anti-Ageing Serum ($29.95 at Adore Beauty)
Main image credit: @caudalie
What do you think about peptides in skin care? Do you use them?
A really good post, very thankful and hopeful that you will write many more posts like this one.
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pep booster is so good!!
I need to check this out when purchasing skin care
I use the Boost Lab peptide serum and I love it.
Interesting article, very informative, thank you.
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Yes please!
Never before did I comprehend what they were, so it’s a relief to have this knowledge, and I will be able to examine products in the future. slime rancher 2
Good article with good information
That was I have never understood what they were so good to have an understanding and I will be able to check products in the future. YourTexasBenefits
Thank you for the information.
Loved these tips they’re fantastic
Yes please
i don’t read a lot but this was a good read!!
i think my mum used to use peptide
should i use peptide at the age of 40???
Good article with good information .
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Love how informative this one was
The topics you share are really meaningful to me, I will regularly monitor your website. foodle
Interested in trying the Paula’s Choice one as I love that brand
I love this article, peptides are great in combination with other products like ceramides
I use the boost lab one and I love it
This sounds very good
A great ingredient
so many skincare benefits
so very pretty
I use the Boost Lab Peptide Serum, it’s quite good.
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I’m just getting into peptides and trying a few different types, this article is so helpful.
so many ingredients
a fabulous ingredient
So many things we’re supposed to be using! Can’t keep up with it all.
Interesting, a new product to try
So many lovely ingredients
Great trial to be chosen for
I’ve been using the Olay Whip moisturiser lately and it’s been good – great to know why 🙂
I have a new serum to use from Alpha H and i think it is a peptide one
Sol De Janeiro, have used it in recent past, it is divine! creamy, smells amazing, want to buy again after using up liters of other ones i have lined up!
At 2024 there are many new skincare brand that includes peptides on their formulation.
Such a nice post.