There is a wide variety of anti-aging products on the market that promote the use of peptides to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but what exactly are peptides and how do they work? Are peptides the real deal, or are they just another hyped up ingredient?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins and is important for maintaining the structure and function of the skin. Peptides can be either naturally occurring in the body or synthetically made.
There are various types of peptides used in skincare, each with its specific functions and benefits. Two common types are signal peptides, which stimulate collagen production, and neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides, which help reduce muscle contractions that lead to wrinkles. When applied topically they prompt skin cells to produce collagen and elastin. More collagen and elastin leads to firmer, plumper, and more youthful looking skin. Let's dive a little deeper into the benefits and how it works.
Single Peptides: One of the primary benefits of peptides in skincare is their ability to stimulate collagen production. Collagen is a protein that provides structure and firmness to the skin. As we age, collagen production decreases starting in our thirties, leading to the development of wrinkles and sagging skin. Peptides can help boost collagen synthesis, improving texture and tightening the skin resulting in less wrinkles and firmer skin.
Neurotransmitter-inhibiting Peptides: Targets facial muscle contractions that lead to dynamic wrinkles, such as crow's feet and forehead lines. These peptides work by blocking signals from neurotransmitters that cause muscles to contract excessively. By relaxing facial muscles, skincare products with neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides help minimize the appearance of expression lines and prevent new wrinkles from forming.
These Serums and creams containing peptides can be applied daily to clean skin, focusing on areas prone to wrinkles or loss of firmness. Consistent use of peptide-based skincare can lead to visible improvements in skin texture, firmness, and overall youthful appearance.