Welcome to the world of Peptides: What are they & why they’re good for your skin

Palmitoyl Oligopeptide…Copper Peptide…Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 and Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7…Acetyl Hexapeptide-8… we hate to break it to you but NO, this isn’t a time-travelling episode where you go back to the past & attend those nightmarish organic chemistry lectures. All the names mentioned above (goodluck trying to read them) are called peptides & they’re not as uncommon as you might think. For starters, peptides are  are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. But for skincare enthusiasts like you & me, we’re not new to the world of peptides.

The skincare industry has been raging about Peptides for quite sometime now & it’ for all the right reasons. You see, incorporating peptides into your skincare routine can have a tonne of benefits like better collagen production, anti-aging effects & better skin healing and repair. But with names so complicated, the world of peptides might seem intimidating & rather “artificial”, let alone use them regularly in your routine. Well, everything’s about the change by the end of this blog, so without further ado, let’s dig in!

What are Peptides?
Peptides are small chains of amino acids, which are the fundamental building blocks of proteins. Amino acids are organic compounds that play crucial roles in various biological processes, including the formation of proteins that are essential for the structure and function of our skin.

Peptides consist of two or more amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. The length of a peptide can range from just a few amino acids to several dozen. When a peptide contains approximately 10 to 50 amino acids, it is often referred to as an oligopeptide, while shorter chains are called dipeptides or tripeptides. Peptides play crucial roles in various biological processes within the body, including cell signaling, enzyme function, and the structure and function of proteins. In terms of skincare, peptides have gained significant attention for their potential benefits in promoting skin health and addressing specific skin concerns.

Peptides also act as signaling molecules in the skin, communicating with cells and triggering specific biological responses. They can bind to specific receptors on the surface of skin cells, initiating a cascade of cellular events. Depending on the specific peptide, these events can include stimulating collagen production, promoting wound healing, enhancing skin moisturization, or regulating other important cellular functions.

What are the benefits of Peptides in skincare?
Certain peptides are also involved in skin healing and repair processes. They can promote cell turnover, stimulate collagen synthesis, and support the regeneration of the skin's barrier. This can be beneficial for addressing various skin concerns, including scars, blemishes, and inflammation. In the world of skincare, there are numerous peptides available, each with its unique properties and benefits. Peptides such as Matrixyl, copper peptides, Argireline, and palmitoyl oligopeptide are commonly found and known for their specific effects on the skin.

Peptides can also have antioxidant properties, meaning they can help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can be generated by factors such as UV radiation, pollution, and stress. They can contribute to premature aging and skin damage. Peptides with antioxidant properties can neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and minimizing the signs of aging. One of the key roles of peptides in skincare is their ability to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a protein that provides structural support, elasticity, and firmness to the skin. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, leading to the formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. Peptides, particularly those known as collagen peptides or collagen-boosting peptides, can help signal the skin to produce more collagen, thereby improving skin texture and reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Peptides interact with the skin by penetrating the uppermost layer, known as the stratum corneum, and reaching the deeper layers where they can exert their effects. The specific mechanisms of peptide interaction can vary depending on the peptide and its intended purpose. Here are a few common ways peptides interact with the skin:

Receptor binding
Some peptides bind to specific receptors on the surface of skin cells, triggering a signaling cascade that leads to various cellular responses. For example, peptides that stimulate collagen production may bind to receptors on fibroblast cells, which are responsible for producing collagen.

Cell communication
Peptides can act as signaling molecules, communicating with skin cells to regulate their function. They may send messages to cells to produce more collagen, elastin, or other proteins, or to initiate the healing process.

Penetration enhancement
Peptides can improve the penetration of other active ingredients by temporarily disrupting the skin barrier or enhancing the absorption of molecules. This can allow other beneficial ingredients to reach deeper layers of the skin and exert their effects.

What are the most commonly used peptides in skincare?
In the realm of skincare, there is a wide range of peptides available, each with its unique properties and benefits. Some of the commonly found and beneficial peptides include:

Matrixyl: This peptide stimulates collagen synthesis, improves skin elasticity, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Copper peptides: These peptides have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting collagen production, wound healing, and overall skin health.

Argireline: Often referred to as "Botox in a jar," this peptide is believed to have a muscle-relaxing effect, which can help reduce the appearance of expression lines and wrinkles.

Palmitoyl oligopeptide: This peptide is known for its skin brightening properties, helping to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone.

Matrixyl 3000: It is a combination of peptides that work synergistically to boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity.