Peptides are a group of amino acids that link together to form proteins. They are the building blocks of life and found in virtually every cell in your body, making them essential to our wellbeing. There are lots of different kinds of peptides, each with a unique function. Some act as hormones, regulating blood glucose and helping your body to control its appetite, such as insulin, glucagon, and ghrelin. Others help to create and protect our cells and can even boost hair growth, improve skin elasticity, and help us burn fat.
A growing number of skincare brands are incorporating peptides into their products, touting anti-aging benefits like firmer, more elastic skin. But what are they exactly, and how do you know if they’re the right fit for you?
If you’re curious about incorporating peptides into your routine, it’s important to understand how they work in the skin. “When you’re applying a product with peptides, they’re more than just a topical — they enter the skin and trigger the release of other enzymes that initiate certain biological functions, such as increasing collagen or decreasing inflammation,” explains dermatologist Dr. Joshua Zeichner.
In fact, there are 7,000 known types of peptides hanging out in your body, and they constantly work to protect and improve your skin. But they’re best incorporated in a formula that contains other ingredients, such as vitamin C, niacinamide, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acid. If you use peptides alone, they’re more likely to get stuck on the surface of your skin and break down, which can diminish their effectiveness.
Another way to think of peptides is as messengers that signal the production of other cells, such as collagen and elastin. The more of these signals you have, the firmer and more elastic your skin will be. And some peptides, such as copper-binding peptides, are also known to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The last key thing to remember about peptides is that they’re soluble in water, so they can penetrate the epidermis and reach deeper layers of skin. That’s why it’s important to choose a serum or moisturizer that incorporates them. But they’re also susceptible to hydrolysis — which means that water breaks down the bonds between them, turning them into amino acids again. To avoid that, make sure you apply your peptides to clean skin that’s not stripped of oils or exfoliated, and always do a patch test before adding them to your routine.
What’s more, peptides are generally considered safe. However, you should always consult your dermatologist before introducing new ingredients into your skincare regimen, especially if you’re prone to sensitive skin or acne.
As more people are embracing the power of peptides, there’s an increasing demand for products that harness their full range of benefits. That’s why we created our own peptide-packed serum, to nourish and support your skin in all its glory. It’s packed with amino acids, peptides, and skin-protecting ingredients to deliver the glowing, radiant complexion you crave.