The skin is affected by many surrounding factors, among which the most common are environmental factors and lifestyle. The combination of these external and internal influences will be reflected in the health and appearance of the skin. As you probably know, the effects of the aging process can be ameliorated by constant maintenance. Anti-aging products are reliable allies that can considerably improve the appearance of the skin. In addition to the classic vitamin C and vitamin A, you've probably also heard of peptides. They have been shown to play a crucial role in maintaining the health and vitality of the skin. But in order to better understand their benefits, in this article we will break down information such as what they are, their various types and how to use them so that you get the desired effects.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are chains of amino acids—the building blocks of proteins—that occur naturally in the body. In general, the role of peptides is to send signals throughout our body for better functioning. Since they serve as messengers, facilitating communication between cells, they are vital components of various physiological processes. They stimulate the skin's ability to regenerate.
When it comes to the essential proteins found in our skin, collagen and elastin immediately come to mind. They are essential in maintaining the firmness and elasticity of the skin. Unfortunately, through the aging process our body produces less collagen and elastin and thus fine lines, wrinkles, dull and sagging skin appear. But here comes the role of peptides. By encouraging collagen synthesis, peptides can stimulate collagen production and effectively diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving skin a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Peptides are divided into two groups: endogenous peptides and exogenous peptides.
Endogenous peptides are produced in various cells in the body, from neuronal cells to cells of the immune system. Peptides are involved in a number of important processes in the body, from wound healing to intracellular communication.
Exogenous peptides are peptides that enter the body from outside sources, such as food, supplements, and drugs.
Benefits of Peptides
Whether used in cosmetics (face creams, peptide eye creams and serums) or in dietary supplements, the benefits of peptides are manifold. Among the most common we list below:
Improve muscle health - consumed through supplements, peptides can help improve muscle mass. For example, collagen peptides are effective for increasing muscle strength, reducing joint pain, and improving joint mobility in both athletes and sedentary individuals.
It helps brain functions and mental health - for this category of problems there are opiate peptides. They are found in foods such as wheat, dairy products, spinach, chocolate, meat and fish, but also in your body. Due to the fact that they bind to certain receptors in the brain, exogenous opiate peptides can have positive effects on the nervous system and can be beneficial in times of stress, anxiety and depression.
Slow down the aging process - collagen peptide supplements can help reduce wrinkles and improve skin hydration. Studies also show that collagen peptide supplements can help improve skin elasticity, hydrate skin, and reduce wrinkles by increasing collagen levels in the skin. Collagen peptides are rapidly absorbed in the digestive tract and accumulate in the skin. Cosmetic products with peptides have the same beneficial effect, reducing signs of aging, pigmentation spots and skin inflammation.
Contributes to wound healing - collagen peptides are beneficial for wound healing due to the collagen present in increased levels.
Other benefits - peptides are believed to have other roles such as: increasing bone density, antimicrobial properties, reducing inflammation, preventing thrombosis, regulating blood pressure, antioxidant effects.
Peptides From Food
Peptides are found naturally in foods such as: dairy products, grains, meat, soy, peas, beans, chickpeas, eggs, fish and seafood. Exogenous peptides are also often found in dietary supplements. This is preferred over protein taken directly from food, as peptides are more easily absorbed by the body than complete proteins. Proteins are larger than peptides and are more difficult to break down and absorb by the body.
In addition, peptides are less likely to cause allergic reactions compared to complete proteins, which is why they are often used in infant formulas.
Peptides in Cosmetic Products
Although their benefits are considerable, the use of peptides in cosmetics is a developing field. Proteins, such as collagen, are much larger in structure and cannot easily penetrate the skin. That's why peptides are a more effective option for the cosmetic field. The peptides in this industry are mostly synthetic, specially created for specific biological functions and optimized for stability and penetration of the stratum corneum of the skin.
In the cosmetics industry there are five types of peptides, each with a specific role:
1. Signaling peptides
It signals the skin to produce more collagen and elastin to give skin a firmer appearance.
2. Neurotransmitter-inhibitory peptides
This type of peptides has an effect similar to botox which is performed by the cosmetic surgeon. By applying creams or serums containing peptides, you will see their effect of relaxing muscles, blurring fine lines and wrinkles.
3. Enzyme inhibitory peptides
They stop our body's natural process of breaking down collagen proteins in the skin, preventing pigmentation.
4. Carrier peptides
It provides trace elements that are necessary for our skin cells to function properly. These proteins contribute to the absorption of minerals in the skin. For example, copper has been shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and improve skin damaged by pigmentation.
How Are Peptides Used?
Using peptide cosmetics is easy to incorporate into your skin care routine. The most recommended are serums and creams, as they will maintain a long contact with the skin and have time to reach its deep layers. It is recommended that serums and creams with peptides be applied in the evening, after removing make-up, or in the morning, before sunscreen.
The Right Choice of Peptides
Considering the types of peptides used in the cosmetic industry, your choices will have to be guided by their effects and the needs of your skin. Carefully reading product specifications or consulting a dermatologist can help you identify the peptides best suited to your skin care goals.
Peptides and Skin Diseases
Peptides are not exclusive to a certain skin type. Whether you have acne-prone or sensitive skin, there are peptide formulations tailored to address specific concerns.
Thus, peptides with anti-inflammatory properties reduce local inflammation in the skin and contribute to its faster healing. Another plus is the effect of evening out the skin tone.
There are also peptides with antimicrobial effects, being used effectively against acne and the bacteria that favor its development. Following the application of cosmetics with peptides recommended against acne, pimples will be visibly reduced and the skin will become cleaner.
Combination of Peptides with Other Skin Care Ingredients
Using peptides in synergy with other skin care ingredients can amplify their benefits on the skin.
Among the most common combinations that you can use with an effect against skin aging are:
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Peptides and Vitamin C - is a classic combination, with an anti-aging role, complementing each other. The initial application of Vitamin C is recommended, followed by the peptide product. Often a Vitamin C serum is combined - for example, VITAMIN C BRIGHTENING SERUM , with a peptide cream.
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Peptides and Retinol - are complementary ingredients with the same anti-aging benefits. As above, a retinol serum can be applied first - for example, RETINOL FACIAL SERUM , followed by a peptide cream. You will notice the amazing lifting effects and much smoother skin.
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Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid - hyaluronic acid has a moisturizing role by attracting moisture from the atmosphere directly to the surface of the skin, so it is advisable to first use the serum with hyaluronic acid on slightly damp skin, followed by a cream with peptides.
Peptides and hyaluronic acid ensure the skin is enriched with essential proteins and provides adequate hydration for a more youthful appearance of the skin.
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Peptides and Niacinamide - these two ingredients combine harmoniously for a firming effect on the skin. If you use them separately, it is recommended that the niacinamide serum be applied first, followed by the peptide cream. Often, these two ingredients are found in the same product, which will make your care process easier. Niacinamide is beneficial for comforting sensitive or redness-prone skin, while peptides firm the skin.
Integrating Peptides into Lifestyle
Given that the oxidative effects on the skin are determined by external and internal factors, we must be concerned with care on all levels. Achieving radiant skin isn't just about using cosmetics. Adopting healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and adequate hydration, complement the effects of the peptides, contributing to long-term skin health.
In conclusion, peptides are a wonder ingredient in skin care and beyond, offering a multitude of benefits for those seeking radiant, healthy skin. Achieving a radiant complexion starts with delving deeper into the roles of peptides and integrating them into a personalized skin care routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Are peptides suitable for all skin types?
Yes, peptides are versatile and can be beneficial for various skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone skin.
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How long does it take to see results from using peptides?
Results vary, but consistent use for several weeks is often necessary to see noticeable improvements.
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Can I use more peptide products in my skin care routine?
Yes, combining different peptide formulas can amplify their overall effectiveness.
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Are there any side effects of using peptides on the skin?
Peptides are generally safe because they are also found in the human body, but it is recommended that you do a sample test and consult a dermatologist if you are concerned about your skin's reaction to this ingredient.
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Can peptides eliminate wrinkles completely?
While peptides can significantly reduce the appearance of wrinkles, complete elimination can depend on various factors, including skin care habits, lifestyle, and genetics.