Skincare enthusiasts have likely heard whispers about the wonders of peptides. As the buzz around this powerhouse ingredient grows louder, it’s time we delve deep into understanding peptides and their transformative role in skincare. The thing is, they’re kind of challenging to get your head around if you’re new to the world of skin science. That’s why we’ve put together this blog to help you decode the world of peptides and discover why they deserve a prime spot in your skincare routine.

What Exactly Are Peptides?

Imagine building a house. Before you can construct the entire building, you need bricks, right? In the realm of our bodies, proteins like collagen are the “houses,” and peptides are the “bricks.”

Simply put, peptides are smaller versions of proteins. They’re composed of amino acids, the fundamental building units of proteins. As we age, however, these protein structures gradually degrade, leading to the familiar signs of ageing. Here’s where peptides come into play. While proteins maintain the structure of our skin, making it look plump and youthful, peptides act as messengers. They signal our skin to ramp up protein production, acting as a wake-up call saying, “We need a fix here!”

Peptides are not a one-trick pony. Their myriad benefits span from battling the visible signs of ageing to soothing sensitive skin:

Warding off the signs of ageing: As our collagen and elastin deplete, our skin starts to sag and lose its firmness. Peptides boost protein production to combat these changes. They refine skin texture, diminish pores, smooth out wrinkles, and offer an overall tightened appearance.

Calming Inflammation: Red, irritated skin can often be the bane of those with sensitive complexions. With their anti-inflammatory properties, Peptides are the antidote, offering comfort and hydration for a rejuvenated glow.

Guarding and Preserving: Daily exposure to environmental aggressors can accelerate skin ageing. Certain peptides, brimming with antioxidants, neutralise harmful free radicals. Moreover, inhibiting collagen-degrading enzymes fortifies the skin’s protective barrier.

Incorporating Peptides: The Right Way

Harnessing the full potential of peptides means using them correctly. While using a peptide-laden face wash might be tempting, skincare experts recommend leave-on products like serums or moisturisers. These allow peptides to penetrate the skin and work their magic.

When shopping, peek at the ingredient lists. Names that end in ‘peptide’ or start with ‘palmitoyl’ are your clues. While their terminology might initially seem intimidating, recognising terms like ‘Tripeptide-5’ or ‘Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12’ becomes second nature with time.

So, how should we use peptides? The answer lies in the formulation. Peptides showcase their full potential in leave-on products such as serums, moisturisers, boosters, and eye creams. The extended exposure to these products’ skin makes them the ideal peptide carrier. When encapsulated in rinse-off products, like cleansers, the peptides barely get time to do their job.

While peptides work hard independently, their efficacy multiplies when combined with other skin-loving ingredients. They play particularly well with ingredients like ceramides, which strengthen the skin’s barrier, and hyaluronic acid, known for its unparalleled hydration properties. And that’s not all; when peptides collaborate with antioxidants and skin-soothing agents, the outcome is a rejuvenated, more resilient complexion.

When it comes to peptides, patience pays off. You won’t wake up to transformed skin overnight – the benefits of peptides manifest gradually. Since our skin’s collagen diminishes by nearly 1% every year starting in our 30s, it’s essential to persist with peptide-infused products. Yes, the wait might stretch up to 12 weeks, but the results – firmer, smoother, and more luminous skin – are worth it.

While we always advocate for tailored skincare solutions through personal consultations, we can’t resist spotlighting some peptide-rich favourites. Our SkinBetter Science collection is a treasure trove of peptide goodness. Its InterFuse range is particularly noteworthy with biomimetic peptides, which mimic the body’s natural processes to enhance skin health. We also love the Société Rejuvenating Peptide Mask for an instant dose of peptide luxury. Initially conceptualised for post-procedure skincare, its rejuvenating properties make it a staple for regular skincare routines.

While the science of peptides may sound complex, their incorporation into your skincare routine is straightforward. By understanding their strengths and synergies with other ingredients, you can unlock the secret to skin that looks and feels eternally youthful.