If you haven’t yet discovered the benefits of peptides in skin care, then you’re in for a treat. These tiny molecules have made great strides in recent years, with remarkable new research revealing just how beneficial they can be for your skin. Of course, not all the hype surrounding peptides is true, but there are definitely aspects of this skin care ingredient that deserve your attention.

As interest in peptides continues to grow, more and more research is uncovering the functions that they play in the skin. Most notably, new studies have shown that peptides can be used to slow or even improve the visible signs of aging. As a result, the cosmeceutical industry has been working hard to replicate these peptides and add them to their skincare formulations.

Despite all the advancements in peptide research, there are still many new peptides that are currently under investigation. These peptides are being assessed for their potential value as skincare ingredients, although there are still challenges to be overcome. For example, the sizes of these peptides can often prohibit them from entering through the skin barrier, and their stability in skincare formulas is also a concern.

Understanding Peptides – The Building Blocks of Proteins

Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the fundamental units that make up proteins. A chain of amino acids that contains less than 100 units is referred to as a peptide, while a longer chain is called a protein.

The classification of peptides is quite diverse and encompasses a wide range of structural and functional components that occur naturally in the body. One of their most critical roles is serving as biological messengers, known as bioactive peptides. For instance, insulin is a polypeptide that regulates blood sugar levels, while oxytocin regulates childbirth and breastfeeding. There are many other peptides that help with communication between cells or cell signaling to regulate vital body functions such as wound healing, collagen and elastin synthesis, blood vessel production, immune function, and pigment production.

As skin ages, there is a decline in the quantity of peptides, which can lead to visible signs of aging. However, recent research has revealed that peptides can be used to slow or reverse these effects. The cosmeceutical industry has focused on developing peptides that can be added to skincare products to provide a measurable benefit. Despite the potential benefits, there are still challenges faced in using peptides in skincare formulations. For instance, the sizes of the peptides can limit their ability to penetrate through the skin barrier, and they may not be stable in skincare formulas.

Also read: How Stress Affects the Skin

Understanding How Peptides Work in the Skin

Peptides play a crucial role in the communication system of the skin. As a broad category, peptides refer to a variety of structural and functional components that occur naturally in the body. Peptides are responsible for cell signaling, which regulates essential body functions such as wound healing, collagen and elastin synthesis, blood vessel production, immune function, and pigment production.

One category of peptides, known as signal peptides, also called matricins or collagen stimulators, plays a critical role in wound healing, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and pigment regulation. Signal peptides stimulate the proliferation of fibroblasts, leading to increased production of collagen and elastin in the skin. They also inhibit the breakdown of collagen and elastin, slowing down the aging process. Clinical studies show that signal peptides improve wrinkles and uneven texture, increase skin elasticity, and enhance hyperpigmentation.

Another group of peptides, neurotransmitter inhibitor peptides, prevents facial muscles’ movement, reducing the appearance of wrinkles on the skin, similar to the effect of botulinum toxin (Botox). However, this group of peptides is still under investigation.

Carrier peptides in the skin transport trace elements like copper and manganese, which are essential for wound healing and collagen synthesis. The most well-known and best-studied carrier peptide is Copper Tripeptide, which also functions as a signal peptide. Copper Tripeptide is a versatile skincare ingredient, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. It aids in the regeneration of new skin, improving wrinkles and skin moisture.

In summary,

Peptides are usually combined with other peptides and active ingredients in skincare products for maximum benefit, as individual peptides may not work effectively on their own.

It’s important to be well-informed about the different types of peptides and their functions when selecting skincare products. Not all products are created equal, and choosing the right peptides can help achieve your desired outcome of having vibrant, radiant, and healthy skin.