If you are a skincare enthusiast, chances are you have heard about peptides being a key ingredient in your routine. But in case you’re wondering what they are and why they should be a part of your regimen, we’re here to demystify.
What are peptides?
Peptides, also known as polypeptides, can be naturally found in the skin. They basically are amino acids that make up collagen. Our body has the ability to make collagen naturally but over time, the production decreases. This can cause skin to look dull and wrinkled.
Adding a cream or moisturizer that contains peptides to your skincare regimen can stimulate collagen production in the skin. This gives you glowing, firmer and more youthful skin.
Our bodies naturally produce peptides so they’re suitable for people of all ages and skin types. This includes individuals with sensitive skin.
What are the different kinds of peptides?
Hundreds of different kinds of peptides exist. But there are two most important ones for your skincare - tetrapeptides and hexapeptides.
Hexapeptides are beneficial when it comes to brightening your skin.
Tetrapeptides have anti-aging properties and they help boost skin elasticity and give you firmer, tighter skin for a more youthful appearance.
How do peptides work?
Peptides work in a very interesting manner. Instead of sitting on top of your skin, they have the ability to penetrate the outer layer. They can sink in more deeply to heal your skin from within. Instead of impacting your skin themselves, peptides act as messengers. Their job is to send signals to other cells and tell them to produce collagen and elastin. For our bodies, peptides are signals that a wound needs to be healed. For example, if you have a wound on your knee, the peptides signal the body to produce collagen to heal the skin. When you introduce peptides to your skincare, it tricks the skin into thinking there has been an injury and stimulates the production of collagen. This boosted production of collagen plumps up the skin and fights early signs of aging.
What are the benefits of peptides?
Peptides have several benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them.
A. Reducing fine lines and wrinklesMore collagen in the skin helps plump up the overall appearance of skin and lips. It makes the skin firmer and fine lines and wrinkles become less visible. They can help significantly reduce or even eradicate signs of aging to give you firm, youthful skin.
B. Controls breakoutsSome forms of peptides can help get rid of acne causing bacteria and control breakouts. Including such microbial peptides in your routine can help achieve clear skin.
C. Restores elasticityPeptides aren’t just great for boosting collagen production but also elastin. Elastin is the protein that makes skin taut and elastic. Thus, peptides can help make skin firm, reduce stretch marks and scars.
D. Stronger barrierThe skin barrier defends the body against external pollutants, bacteria, UV rays from the sun, etc. Due to day-to-day exposure to pollution, sunlight or even over-exfoliation, the skin barrier becomes weak and damaged. Peptides can help build a stronger skin barrier to better protect the body.
When should one use peptides?
Peptides should be applied twice daily, during morning and evening skincare routines to hydrate and photo-protect your skin. They are very good with strengthening the skin and helping it recover faster. So that makes peptide-based formulas useful after laser or needling treatments.
Do I need peptides?
Because peptides are naturally found in our bodies, the likelihood of them being unsuitable for any individual are low. Our bodies already know peptides and are more receptive towards them. However, everyone’s skin challenges are different and may need different kinds of peptides to address. One product may not be the holy grail for everyone. That is why every PROVEN product is customized for your skin type, goals, lifestyle and environment. Take the skin quiz now to find out how best to make peptides a part of your skincare routine.
