A Beginner's Guide to Peptides in Skincare

Peptides are short-chain amino acids that play an important role in many bodily functions. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and when two or more amino acids join together they form a peptide.

There are different types of peptides, each of which play individual roles in your body. They can help with a range of functions, including hydrating skin and minimizing the appearance of wrinkles.

Peptides are present in many foods. They can also be taken in supplements and applied to your skin as an ingredient of creams, lotions, and serums.

What Role Do Peptides Play In Skincare?

Peptides are found naturally in your skin, and can also be manufactured and applied topically to the skin via skincare products. 

Peptides form many proteins in your body, such as collagen and elastin, which help to keep your skin looking healthy, bright, hydrated, and more youthful. Peptides, including those that form the protein Keratin, can also help with skin appearing brighter, hair shine, and improved skin texture.

Peptides and proteins in our skin are depleted over time, and therefore we lose the associated benefits to our skin. Unfortunately proteins are too large to be effectively absorbed through your skin. However peptides are smaller and more easily absorbed, which is why they're added to skincare products.

If you’re unsure whether your skincare products contain any peptides, then check out the ingredient list. You should look out for anything with ‘peptide’ in the name. This can include dipeptide, tripeptide, tetrapeptide, hexapeptide, and oligopeptide. They can also be listed as palmitoyl or carnosine.

Benefits of Peptides in Skincare

Peptides can benefit the skin in several ways, as follows:

Top Tips For Using Peptides In Your Skincare Routine

If you’re looking to introduce peptides into your skincare routine then serums and creams are a great place to start. These have prolonged contact with the skin, allowing for longer absorption. Find out when best to apply your serums or creams in our article What’s the Best Order to Apply Your Skincare Routine?

Peptides work well with other skincare products. Combine them with products that include hydrating and soothing ingredients like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid. Try Cetaphil Healthy Radiance Antioxidant-C Serum, which contains Cetaphil’s GentleBright Complex with a form of vitamin C, and niacinamide. This serum helps to reduce the signs of photoaging and to improve your skin’s radiance.

Peptides are important building blocks of proteins and have many functions in your body. With various studies highlighting the benefits of peptides for your skin, why wouldn’t you add them to your skincare routine? Don’t forget to use peptides with other hydrating and soothing ingredients to help plump, hydrate, and smooth your skin.