Peptides have been a buzzword in the skincare industry for some time, but they’re an often misunderstood tool and beauty lovers struggle to fully understand what they are or how they can benefit the skin. These powerful ingredients have the potential to significantly improve skin health, but it’s crucial to understand how they work in order to use them effectively in your routine.
In simple terms, peptides are like small building blocks that make up larger proteins in your skin. When peptides are applied topically, they can send signals to skin cells that trigger beneficial processes, like boosting collagen production or reducing inflammation.
“Peptides are short strands of 2-100 amino acids — essentially fragments of proteins — which can act as cell signalers, changing cellular behaviour by influencing gene expression,” says Dr Lauren Jamieson, MBChB MRCGP, a medical aesthetic doctor with 15 years of experience. Amino acids act as the building blocks of (many essential) proteins, and peptides string them together to target specific cell processes that affect the skin.
“This stimulates pathways to treat the source of ageing and other problems in the skin, not just the symptoms, meaning they are a powerful tool for anti-ageing,” Dr Jamieson explains.
Experts explain that peptides can perform various functions in skincare, from boosting collagen production to reducing inflammation and improving skin barrier function.
Some peptides, like copper peptides, act as antioxidants, protecting skin from environmental damage that can lead to wrinkles and sagging. Others, like palmitoyl pentapeptide-4, stimulate fibroblasts, the cells responsible for making collagen and elastin – the proteins that keep skin plump and youthful-looking.
There are also peptides with antimicrobial properties that can help fight acne-causing bacteria. And certain peptides can even relax facial muscles in a way similar to Botox, temporarily reducing the appearance of dynamic wrinkles.
Peptides can be incorporated into a range skincare products, from serums and creams to eye treatments and night masks. Skin experts recommend looking for formulas that contain a range of different peptides to target multiple skin concerns.
The key is using the right peptide-infused products consistently. Peptides work cumulatively over time, so you need to use them regularly, ideally once or twice a day, to see the full benefits.
Look for skincare formulas that contain a variety of different peptides, which will allow you to target multiple skin concerns. Some of our top peptide-rich picks include:
Hydropeptide Eye Authority, £71 hydropeptide.co.uk
Crushed pearl powder, peptides, and plankton extract brighten the eye area and can reduce the look of expression lines, wrinkles, and puffiness.
Minimalist Multi-Peptides 10% Face Serum, £13 beautybay.com
A rejuvenating, collagen-boosting serum boosted with peptides that restore youthfulness, resulting in younger, firmer-looking skin.
Dermaroller Lipopetide with Vitamin A, £28 dermaroller-uk.com
This night cream was expertly formulated to rejuvenate the skin during sleep. Its blend of potent peptides and vitamin A can reduce wrinkles and enhance skin smoothness for a more youthful look.