How many times do you find yourself gravitating towards a product due to certain ingredients? The answer is likely to be all of us but if we’re honest many of us would probably struggle to explain how even the most common ingredients benefit our skin. If you’re familiar with the term peptides in skincare but not so clear about exactly what they do for your skin, don’t worry you’re not alone. We’re here to help, we’re going to uncover exactly what peptides are and how they can work within your routine.

Peptides are made up of amino acids and when different combinations of amino acids form they create different peptides meaning there are hundreds of peptides. Amino acids are the building blocks of both peptides and proteins. Some commonly known proteins are collagen, elastin and keratin which affect the tone and texture of skin.

Varying combinations of amino acids mean that different peptides have different effects; they can help to improve the signs of ageing, help to repair skin, hydrate the complexion, strengthen hair and encourage hair growth.

Peptides are small so have the ability to penetrate deep into the skin layers. They can help to reinforce proteins that naturally occur in the skin, such as collagen, which helps to rejuvenate skin for a healthy looking complexion. Collagen helps to give skin its firmness and elasticity but as we get older our body’s collagen production reduces which can lead to fine lines and wrinkles and sagging skin.

Peptides are thought to send signals to cells that encourage them to repair and rejuvenate in order to counteract ageing. Applying peptides topically can improve the quality of your skin by ‘signalling’ to it that it has been damaged and therefore needs to produce more collagen which can help to smooth skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and firm the skin’s texture. Healthy, younger looking skin, sign us up!