Peptides appeared in the cosmeceutical field in 1973 when Dr. Lauren Pickart proposed a synthetic peptide that boosted collagen production. Later it started to be used in cosmetology. So a great variety of peptides have been developed for various market demands. But let’s first understand what peptides are?

Peptides are protein molecules that are made up of amino acids, the building blocks of our skin, hair, and nails.

Now in the production of cosmetics, 4 types of peptides are used:

Signal peptides that interact with cell receptors and stimulate the production of collagen, elastin and other proteins to keep our skin firm and elastic.

Transport peptides that ensure the delivery of essential substances to skin cells. It also contributes to the synthesis of collagen, but also reduce wrinkles, promote healing and restoration of the skin.

Neuropeptides that promote muscle relaxation. As a result, new wrinkles will not appear, and existing ones will become less noticeable.

Enzyme inhibitors are peptides that inhibit the work of enzymes. In other words, they prevent the destruction of collagen, elastin and other proteins, and also excessive skin pigmentation.

The most effective are cosmetic products that contain several types of peptides. But even if you use different products with different peptides and not only one — that’s also fine. Just keep using it one after another so the effectiveness of different peptides types will summarise.

Peptides also have many useful properties:

• Stimulate regeneration processes in skin cells;
• Increase the production of collagen and elastin;
• Restore, strengthen and stimulate the skin barrier;
• Reduce the motor activity of facial muscles, thereby slowing down the formation of wrinkles;
• Relieve inflammation and accelerate the recovery of damaged tissues;
• Protect skin from free radicals;
• Fight acne.

What products with peptides are considered the most effective?

Leave-in cosmetic products. For example, serums, as it contains the highest concentration of active substances. It’s applied after the skin has been cleansed and toned, but the cream has not yet been applied. Also, do not forget about regular exfoliation, since peptides need to penetrate into the deep layers of the epidermis, and dead cells will only interfere with it.

IMPORTANT NOTE!

Unfortunately, if you are going to use products with peptides on a permanent basis, you will have to abandon cosmetic products containing acids, vitamin C and retinol. There will be no harm to the skin, but you will not achieve a positive effect either, since these substances neutralise each other.

With the rest of the products, the peptides will combine perfectly, and if you are not using it yet, then it’s time to start.