Peptides in Skincare
Are you always clued up on the latest skincare ingredients? If so, it's time to get to know peptides. This latest high-tech skincare component is popping up in more and more formulas, so we wanted to delve a little deeper and discover what makes peptides the skincare of the future
What are peptides & how do they work?
Proteins (such as collagen) are made up of amino acids and arranged in a long chain-like format. This chain of amino acids is made up of peptides. The chain is then broken down into smaller chains, which are able to penetrate the top layer of skin, sending signals to skin cells and letting them know how to function.As these smaller peptide chains effectively penetrate into skin's deeper layers, they get to work on a cellular level and the signals they send can change the way skin cells function.While peptides can be natural or synthetic, the ones used in skincare tend to be synthetic as they offer more control over how stable and effective the peptide is, as well as how it behaves.Are peptides good for anti-ageing?
In one wordyes!Collagen is the main structural protein found in skin, which forms part of skin's extracellular matrix to provide a resilient, strong, elastic base with wrinkle preventing power that keeps skin looking plump and youthful.Matrixyl, for example is a collagen-stimulating peptide that when applied topically to skin, sends a signal to prompt the formation of new collagen. Sounds like a winner, right? But it's important to remember not to pin all your skincare hopes on one ingredient. If the main aim with your skincare regime is anti-ageing, opt for a cocktail of incredible skincare ingredients such as antioxidants and other skin replenishing components that support anti-ageing.In addition to boosting collagen synthesis, peptides are also thought to strengthen other important proteins in skin such as keratin and elastin. This full circle approach with multi-tasking peptides works to improve the appearance of wrinkles, loss of firmness and even help to soften expression lines.How to use peptides
In order to get the best results with peptides, consistency is key. Regular usage (we're talking everyday) will help you make the most of the hydrating, skin smoothing and collagen boosting effects of peptides.We also recommend allowing at least one full skin cycle - between 6 to 12 weeks - before you see results.Products containing peptides
We've listed our favourite and best-selling peptide infused products
Medik8 Liquid PeptidesThis multi-peptide complex from Medik8 helps to fight lines and wrinkles by minimising muscle contractions. The innovative drone-based delivery system delivers active ingredients throughout layers of the skin.This hydrating and multi-tasking serum combines a 30% peptide complex and multi-weight prebiotics to balance skin's natural microbiome and ensure optimum skin health.Skin is plumped with a smoother complexion; skin's elasticity is restored and rejuvenated with a refined skin texture.PCA Skin ExLinea Peptide Smoothing Serum
This targeted peptide treatment from PCA Skin focuses on improving the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, particularly around the eyes, mouth and forehead.This anti-ageing serum targets areas of lax and wrinkled skin with ingredients such as Argireline to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles dramatically, whilst Sodium Hyaluronate and natural oils help to keep skin hydrated, supple, smooth and youthful.
DCL Peptide Plus CreamThis multi-action cream from DCL helps to restores a plump, youthful appearance to mature and sun damaged skins. Formulated with an exclusive blend of seven anti-ageing peptides, this moisturiser works to boost collagen production, increase elasticity and restore an even, radiant complexion.The peptides are accompanied by Vitamin C to help lighten, brighten and correct the appearance of dark spots, while Hyaluronic Acid deeply hydrates and plumps fine lines.The Ordinary Buffet
This innovative peptide serum from The Ordinary harnesses multiple peptide technologies in one formula to target multiple signs of ageing at once.The advanced peptides “ Matrixyl 3,000 peptide complex (with palmitoyl-pentapeptide 35), Matrixyl Synthe'6 peptide complex (with palmitoyl tripeptide-38), Syn-Ake peptide complex (with dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate), Relistase peptide complex (with acetylarginyltryptophyl diphenylglycine), Argirelox peptide complex (with acetyl hexapeptide-8, pentapeptide-18), Probiotic complex (with lactococcus lactis lysate) “ are combined in a base of 11 amino acids and numerous Hyaluronic Acid complexes to visibly improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and ageing skin.
HydroPeptide PolyPeptide Collagel+ Mask for EyesEyes are often the first area to show ageing skin, this is because the skin around the eyes is much thinner than elsewhere on the body. The peptide infused under eye masks from HydroPeptide work to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and brighten under eyes with key collagen supporting peptides and hydrating nutrients.The hydrogel technology is infused with key collagen supporting peptides and hydrating nutrients to target the common signs of ageing around the eyes.For all these products and more, shop online now! To book a face-to-face consultation with our professional clinicians, call 0113 282 3300. If you are looking for skincare advice, take our online skin test now and receive personalised product recommendations direct to your inbox!Written for you by: Alex, Face the FutureImage source: freepik.com
