Peptides - another anti-ageing ingredient?
What are peptides?
Peptides are fragmented pieces of protein, when applied topically they stimulate the growth of existing protein in skin i.e. collagen. As we age we lose collagen in our skin which results in loss of elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles. Peptides help stimulate collagen production and promotes cell renewal. There are numerous types of peptides which target seperate skin concerns and often products will contain a number of peptides in one to achieve multiple skin benefits.
Benefits
Anti-ageing: By stimulating collagen production peptides
Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Locks in hydration
Helps make skin more firm
Smooths out complexion
Improves skin Health: Promotes Cell renewal
Repairs damaged skin
Strengthens skin barrier
Has anti-inflammatory properties - antioxidants in peptides help calm and soothe the skin
When to use peptides?
Depending on the product, peptides are generally safe to use in your AM and PM routine and with other antioxidant products such as Vitamin C and Niacinamide. It’s recommended to use peptides in an alternative routine to Retinol and AHA/BHA exfoliants.
After treatments such as peeling, micro-needling or laser using a serum containing peptides can increase the penetration of the peptide and help the skin recover from the treatment.
Opt for a serum or moisturiser which tend to have smaller molecule sizes and will penetrate the skin deeply.
Popular peptides to look out for: Copper Peptide, Matrixyl 3000.
The INKEY List Peptide Moisturizer - Best for dry skin.
I am a huge fan of The Inkey list - packaging, price and formulation. Another no fuss skincare brand that delivers on quality and price. The Peptide Moisturiser is a light weight formula that absorbs super quickly - which means if you are combination or normal skin this could work for you too. It is most suitable for dry skin type and I would avoid if you are a very oily skin type. The packaging is a push top lid which maintains the product! This product is great for cell renewal and leaves your skin feeling hydrated!
The Ordinary Matrixyl 10% + HA High Strength Peptide Formulation 30ml - Best for mature skin.
You can’t go wrong with The Ordinary - This serum treats existing and new wrinkles and signs of ageing. Consistent use is super effective on mature skin. Using a serum allows for molecules to penetrate deeper into the skin. If using with retinol use in alternative routines!
The Ordinary "Buffet" Multi-Technology Peptide Serum 30ml - best for all skin types.
The “Buffet” Serum combines an array of peptides to target multiple signs of aging at once. It is a lightweight serum that absorbs quickly and can be used with Hyaluronic Acid and Vitamin C Serums in your daily routine. The multi peptides in this serum tackle skin firmness - leaving it plump and leaves your skin with a healthy glow. Also available with the addition of Copper Peptide which is a formula specific for improving skin health and skin barrier, so if you have very dry skin this could be a good alternative.