Peptides For Skincare: An Expert Guide

Your Peptide Questions Answered By Skincare Expert, Brittany Hanchard

Peptides are found in every cell & tissue of the body. Once popular in the seventies for skincare, peptides are now seeing a resurgence in popularity as a hero ingredient for anti-aging. This is why now, more than ever, there is a large range of questions about peptides that still remain unanswered.

That's why we asked our skincare expert, Brittany Hanchard the top trending questions about Peptides and we have the answers for you below.

What are peptides?

Peptides are found in every cell & tissue of the body. They are short chains of amino acids that form larger proteins which are the building blocks of the skin. These proteins are essential for the skin’s architecture & functions.

What do peptides do on the skin?

There are three main categories when we speak to peptides used in skincare.

Signalling peptides which work to boost collagen, elastin and others structure protein productions,
Carrier peptides which promote regeneration of the skin.
Inhibitor Peptides which work by regulating the body’s natural process of losing collagen and can help inhibit pigmentation.

In addition to the breakthrough characterization of peptides contained in different plant extracts, our Laboratories also conducted in-vitro testing on reconstructed skin models.

What ingredients can’t you use peptides with?

Although peptides play well with most other active ingredients there are some which should be avoided when using skincare containing them. AHA’s such as Salicylic Acid & Glycolic Acid can hinder the efficacy of peptides. They can have the ability to break the bonds in the amino acid chains which can convert the peptides into individual amino acids and lowering efficacy.

How do peptides work for acne-prone skin?

Due to the anti-inflammation & anti-bacterial properties, peptides are great for an acne-prone skin. They have the ability to free the skin of acne causing bacteria that can linger on the skin. Due to these properties they are also able to faster repair the skin at a much faster rate following a breakout.

Why are Peptides gaining popularity as a powerful anti-aging ingredient?

The latest research shows that peptides can have a range of benefits on the skin. From supporting the skin barrier to acting as an antioxidant (which will assist with inflammation) but most notably in the antiaging space, supporting collagen production & reducing muscle contractions. Given we lose 1% of collagen every year from the age of 30 & collagen becoming such a buzz word in beauty this has made peptides a very desirable ingredient in anti-aging skincare!

How has Peptide Technology Changed in Skincare and what does the latest research say?

Whilst peptides have been present in skincare for many years, through technologies such as green science we have been able to harness the power of peptides in a way like never before. Science has been able to almost perfectly match the sequence of human proteins known to be involved in skin-related processes such as collagen & elastin production and create products such as Renergie H.P.N which work to mimic functions natural occurring in the skin. With the peptides being such a fine molecule structure they are able to be effectively absorbed deeper into the skin- ultimately leading to smoother, firmer skin!

What is a better skincare ingredient: Peptides or Retinol?

Whilst retinol aids in collagen synthesis in the skin, it can often cause dryness, inflammation & sun sensitivity making it unsuitable for sensitive skin. Peptides however aid inflammation of the skin, work to strengthen the skin’s barrier and have hydrating properties which makes them a gentler anti-aging active and the perfect option for a sensitive skin.

How do peptides help strengthen the skin barrier and calm inflamed skin?

Peptides work exceptionally well to aid in strengthening the skin barrier and calming the skin. As peptide molecules are very fine, they are able to effectively penetrate the skin and work on a deeper level. Peptides contain antioxidants meaning they are able to fight free radicals in the skin that may be causing oxidative stress, overall having anti-inflammatory effect.