If you have ever shopped for beauty & skincare products, you have likely heard of peptides. They are boasted as beneficial ingredients in skin products all the time. But they are rarely ever actually explained. They sound great, but what exactly are they, and how do they actually help your skin?
I am here to break them down for you 🩷
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. In skincare, peptides play an essential role as signalling molecules, helping to trigger skin cells to perform specific functions. These are things like producing collagen, elastin, and other proteins that keep the skin firm, smooth, and healthy.
So essentially, they tell your skin to make more of the things that are responsible for the youthfulness in our face. Definitely understand the benefit for them now!
So let’s chat about how peptides actually work in skincare because these little chains are so versatile & provide so many benefits to our skin!
Boosting our collagen
Some peptides stimulate collagen production, which helps improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and promote a more youthful appearance.
Protecting & Repairing our barrier
Peptides can help to strengthen the skin’s natural barrier. This helps to improve hydration and protection against environmental damage.
Reducing inflammation
Certain peptides reduce inflammation, making them incredible for calming redness and irritation.
Wound healing
Peptides help with skin repair and regeneration. This is key for fighting acne and avoiding big red blemishes or darkened post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Pigmentation regulation
Interestingly, some peptides, like "melanostatins," help control melanin production, which helps with reducing hyperpigmentation and preventing new dark spots.
Peptides are seriously such a versatile, and effective skincare ingredient.
This is why I had to include them as an ingredient in my Brightening Clay Mask—specifically Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 and Hydrolyzed Collagen.
They play a huge role in supporting your skin health by brightening, tightening, and lifting the face. Here's how:
1. Acetyl Hexapeptide-3 (Peptide):
- This is the one they often refer to as a "botox-like peptide," it works by relaxing facial tension, which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
- It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, which helps tighten and lift the skin, improving firmness and elasticity.
- Additionally, it smooths out the skin's surface, giving it a brighter and more youthful appearance.
2. Hydrolyzed Collagen:
- Hydrolyzed collagen provides amino acids that support the skin's natural collagen production. This is key for enhancing elasticity and firmness.
- Interestingly, it also improves the skin's moisture retention. Now, this helps to create a plump and hydrated look in the skin, giving you a lifted, smoother appearance.
- Perhaps most importantly, it helps repair and restore the skin barrier. An essential part of good skin health. This strong and healthy skin barrier is crucial to alleviating & preventing most skin concerns. On top of that, it will assist with improving your skin texture and tone over time.
These peptides work together so synergistically to support a firmer, more lifted appearance while brightening and protecting your skin.
So if you are looking to get fabulous skin, definitely get your hands on products with peptides and you will be heading in the right direction!
Talk soon,
K xx
