Wondering what on earth peptides are? Often overshone by the likes of retinal or vitamin C, this tried-and-tested skincare ingredient is finally getting the recognition it deserves. Read on to learn all about the proven benefits of peptides.
What are peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids. Scientifically speaking, they’re defined as chains of two to 50 amino acids joining together through a covalent bond. In layman's terms, peptides are the building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin.
These proteins are responsible for the skin’s resilience and strength. Peptides and proteins are both produced naturally by the body, but as we age, this process slows down, leading to fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity.
Although there are hundreds of peptides, some are better studied to target these common signs of ageing (more on that below). Peptides can penetrate the outer layer of the skin, so instead of sitting on top of the skin, they sink in more deeply. Think of them as messengers that send signals telling the cells to produce collagen and elastin.
How do peptides benefit the skin?
Tons of ways! Think: improving your skin barrier and easing inflammation. But peptides are best known for their anti-ageing benefits. Because they work to support your skin’s ability to produce collagen, peptides help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, boosting smoothness and firmness to leave your skin looking plump and healthy.
Bonus: peptides are gentle so suitable for all skin types. They also won’t compete with other actives, so play an important supporting role in many skincare formulations. What’s not to love?
Skin Drench Moisturiser and peptides
Our jelly moisturiser, Skin Drench, was formulated with peptides to soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, promote firmness and elasticity and improve smoothness.
Packed with other skin-loving ingredients like snow mushroom extract, ceramides, squalane, hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, it works to penetrate deeply into your skin to deliver, lock in, and maintain moisture while supporting your barrier function. Translation? Smooth, plump and strong skin.
Super Retinal Vitamin A Serum and peptides
Sure, retinal might be the hero ingredient of our Super Retinal Vitamin A Serum, but we also added peptides for extra anti-aging benefits without the risk of added irritation.
Featuring a powerhouse peptide blend of Copper Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, this innovative serum firms, plumsp and brightens while you snooze. The peptide complex works to provide nutrients for collagen production, smooth skin appearance, improve skin elasticity, clarity and firmness and reduce the appearance of wrinkles to leave skin looking younger. Winning!
Back In Balance Vitamin B Serum and peptides
Peptides play an important supporting role in our Back In Balance Vitamin B Serum, too. We included Copper Tripeptide-1, a peptide that nourishes collagen synthesis, as well as other essential skin-identical ingredients like elastin, proteoglycans and glycosaminoglycans, to help improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and skin elasticity, clarity and firmness. It also has unique properties that nourish normal collagen production, with soothing, calming and antioxidant benefits.
Keen to learn more?
Take a deep dive into the best at-home anti-ageing skincare routine.
