In The Beauty Light: Peptides

What Are Peptides?

First and foremost – what even are peptides? Peptides are short chains of amino acids that come together to form proteins necessary for the skin. They are the building blocks of certain proteins (such as collagen, elastin and keratin) which are essential for maintaining the integrity of your skin. Peptides act as messengers, signaling our skin to perform certain functions by alerting different cells in our body to create and produce more collagen and elastin for example. Peptides are naturally occurring in our skin already, but adding them in your skincare products and applying them topically can be extremely beneficial. 

Benefits

There’s nothing we love more than a multitasking ingredient when it comes to our skincare routines. That’s why we love peptides, they are bursting with rejuvenating benefits:

• Collagen molecules are too large for the skin to absorb themselves, peptides act as messengers that encourage collagen production
• Peptides work to firm, soothe and hydrate the skin
• Peptides plump the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• They help build a stronger skin barrier that can get damaged over time from external aggressors and toxins
• Peptides can reduce inflammation while also working to even out skin tone and texture
• Peptides contain healing properties that strengthen the skin and prevent future breakouts.

Different Types Of Peptides

1. Signal – These peptides can be used to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin, promoting younger looking skin.
2. Carrier – Carrier peptides are most commonly recognised for their performance in wound healing. 
3. Enzyme Inhibitor – These peptides reduce the process of collagen breakdown in the skin.
4. Neurotransmitter – Neurotransmitter peptides aid in the reduction of lines and wrinkles. 

Peptides In Your Skincare Routine

Peptides work best in the form of a serum or a moisturiser (with frequent use). By incorporating them in your skincare routine with other ingredients like niacinamide,  their effectiveness can be enhanced. With that being said, it’s extremely important to stay cautious of the ingredients you choose to pair with peptides as certain ingredients can have adverse effects in combination with peptides. In most cases, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide are unlikely to cause any irritation. However, when it comes to retinoids or AHAs it’s best to avoid their combined usage. All in all, peptides are a great ingredient that have resulted in significant anti-ageing benefits, but expecting results overnight is unrealistic. Knowing what’s best for you and your skin is essential, and then finding the right products according to your needs is the way to go! And of course, SPF always!