Peptides are the talk of the town when it comes to skincare, but what do they do, and who are they for? 

What are Peptides?

Peptides are a short chain of amino acids, often called ‘the building blocks of the skin'. When I started researching for this article, I was blown away by the sheer number of dermatologists and scientific articles talking about peptides. They perform a number of function including strengthening the skin barrier, boosting hydration, evening out tone and texture and providing a gentle 'muscle relaxant' effect similar to anti wrinkle injections. Whilst not as widely studied as retinol and AHA's, they have some solid research behind them making them worth the investment in your skincare regime. 

"When applied topically to the skin, peptides act as little messengers, triggering skin cells to perform specific functions such as building collagen and elastin, reducing inflammation, and locking in skin hydration," explains Robyn Gmyrek, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at Park View Laser Dermatology.*

image source: mdpen

What do peptides actually do?

When we are injured, our body sends peptides to the injured area to help it heal. When we apply certain peptides topically, this triggers the body to repair the area as though it had been injured. 

According to Vogue, peptides are used in skincare to combat dehydration, even out pigment, strengthen the barrier function or even assist with acne. Some studies suggest certain peptides can also less muscle movement, providing a gentle wrinkle relaxing effect. There are hundreds of different peptides, so it's best to look for peptide products that are designed for your concern. 

When Should I Apply it?

Peptides are a key ingredient that is found across a range of products categories such as Cleansers, Moisturisers, Serums and Eye Creams. Adding peptides into your skincare routine couldn’t be easier. The best way to apply peptides is by selecting the specific skincare concern (e.g. fine lines around the eyes) and select the appropriate product category (keeping with this example; eye cream) with peptides as the focus ingredient.

Recommended Peptides by Skin Care Category

PEPTIDE MOISTURISERS

GA-DE Gold Premium Firming Night Cream
Who Is It For?: All skin types looking to firm skin.

Dr Irena Eris Clinic Way Night Cream
Dr Irena Eris Clinic Way Day Cream
Who Is It For?: All skin types looking to lift the skin and improve fine lines and wrinkles.

DECLARÉ Age Essential Cream
Who Is It For?: Focus on sensitive skin for those needing a boost of hydration & great way to begin adding peptides & hyaluronic acid into skincare.

PEPTIDE SERUMS

 
GA-DE Gold Collagen Nectar Serum
Who Is It For?: All skin types to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and boost collagen production.

PEPTIDE EYE CREAMS

Dr Irena Eris Clinic Way. Peptide Lifting 
Who Is It For?: Diminish the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and lift sagging skin under eyes. 

Dr Irena Eris Neometric Anti-Wrinkle Capsules For Eyes & Lips
Who Is It For?: Effectively reduces wrinkles and fine lines around the eyes. Smoothens deep folds around the mouth.

Need some help putting together the best skincare routine for your skin type? Try our skin quiz!