What Are Peptides
Peptides, also called polypeptides, naturally occur in the skin, but they’re also included in many skincare products — and for good reason.
Peptides are amino acids that make up certain proteins needed by the skin. More specifically, collagen is made of three polypeptide chains, so adding peptides can stimulate your skin to produce collagen. More collagen can lead to firmer, younger-looking skin. The human body produces collagen naturally but over time its production decreases which is why it is important to stimulate its restoration.
How They Work
At their core, peptides are chains of different types of amino acids, like glycine, arginine, histidine. Peptides in skincare products are designed to boost and replenish amino acids, which are the building blocks for collagen production. Since amino acids are the smallest unit of a protein, peptides are able to mimic another type of protein, collagen. And compared  to topical collagen peptides also have a much smaller particle size and can actually be absorbed into your skin. Â
Benefits Of Peptides
As it has been noted, several types of peptides are able to enhance collagen production. They do this by acting as messengers in the skin, signaling your cells to produce more collagen, elastin, and keratin.
The skin barrier is the body’s line of defense against bacteria, ultraviolet rays, pollution, and other toxins. The skin barrier can be damaged from over-exfoliation, exposure to cigarette smoke and other pollution, or even poor sleep. Peptides help build up a stronger barrier.Â
Peptides can enhance the plumpness of skin and lips. When skin is firmer and plumper, wrinkles and fine lines become less visible. In addition to collagen, peptides also make up elastin fibers, another type of protein. These fibers make skin look firmer and tauter. Some peptides also have evidence of easing inflammation, repairing damaged skin, and evening out skin tone.
Some clinical data suggests that certain peptides are capable of inhibiting aging-related enzymes in the connective tissues of our skin that break down collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid (all of which can be very helpful in preventing and treating aging-related signs!). Given all of the above, peptides can help you at any stage of your healthy aging skincare journey. If you are interested in helping your skin act younger for longer, peptides are an excellent ingredient to fold into the arsenal.Â
Peptides are also major helper when it comes to improving the condition of your hair. Scalp inflammation can negatively affect the growth of your hair, leading to hair thinning and hair loss. Since peptides target and heal inflammation, they’re a great addition to any hair (or lash care) product.
Food Sources
Keep in mind that peptides are naturally found in many foods, including:
- Meat
- Fish and shellfish
- Beans and lentils
- Soy
- Oats
- Flaxseed
- Hemp seeds
- Wheat
Our Skincare Top Picks
Regen Ceutic
Regen Ceutic nourishes and firms the skin thanks to its peptides complex. The addition of hyaluronic acid and powerful antioxidants boosts the skin’s natural power to protect and repair itself. Prevents signs of skin aging. For aged and dry skin. All skin types. Fragrance-free.
Active Ingredients:Â 3% peptides complex, 3% hyaluronic acid solution, vitamin C ester & vitamin E, shea butter
Best for: skin restoration and protection, anti-aging effectÂ
stem cell nano filler lip contour
The first filling effect cream based on plant stem cell extract and hyaluronic acid specifically designed for the treatment of the delicate lip contour area. This unique combination acts synergistically and provides a twofold effect: regenerator (the plant stem cell extract stimulates collagen and elastin production, prolonging cell life) and filler (hyaluronic acid fills the thinner areas, providing support to the cells created).
Active Ingredients: hyaluronic acid, plant stem cell extract
Best for: cell regeneration, improving skin quality, texture, and look of the lips and surrounding skin
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