Peptides are a bit like PPIs in terms of how they work – people talk about them, but they get thrown around, but I don’t think many of us really understand them or know what they really offer.
As Freud said, they carry the “stamp of serious science”, but much of the information provided by cosmetic brands about their peptide of choice is hollow: they describe them as “skin firming” or “enhancing”. There’s no real
explanation.
Here’s an introduction to peptides: As you probably know, collagen is a protein. Proteins are made up of amino acids arranged in chains. When collagen breaks down, shorter fragments of amino acids are created.
These small proteins and molecules are called peptides, and they have the ability to actually control your cells, for example making them produce more collagen.
And that’s not all. Consultant dermatologist Dr. Justine Hextall, of Harley Medical Group, believes that peptides can have many different applications. “They may have the effect of enhancing collagen, but there are other types of peptides that can help with general skin regeneration.
For example, it can reduce pigmentation on sun-damaged skin, improve skin elasticity, and make the skin look smoother and firmer,” she explains. “Some peptides can be used because they
“It can even be used for wound healing because of its regenerative effects,” she adds.
“Copper tripeptide is a great example. It’s used to heal wounds or relieve inflammation, and it can also boost collagen and elastin synthesis and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. That’s why you get so many
different products.” ”
Would you like more? There are also peptides that improve hydration. “Keratin peptides can repair skin and hair by increasing moisture and elasticity,” explains Dr. Hextal. The upshot? Yes, you can definitely use peptides if you suffer from any of the above issues, and unlike many so-called miracle ingredients, there’s plenty of data to back them up. The best-known is probably Matrixyl, made by peptide OG Dr. Carl Lintner. A 2013 study found that it can double collagen levels in the skin, which is nothing to sneeze at. You can find deals on Matrixyl at different price ranges: I like Paula’s Choice Peptide Booster, which costs £51, but The Ordinary has one too. Of course, that’s not all peptides can do. Integrative Beauty uses peptides in its Good Morning! Super Serum, which costs £95 and has antibacterial properties, making it perfect for oily, acne-prone skin types, as well as any slightly fungal skin types (sorry I had to say that). I’ve written a lot about my love for the NIOD CAIS (£70), but it’s so good – Copper peptides also have antibacterial properties and can rejuvenate the skin. There’s also No7’s new skincare range, Future Renew, which has been described as ‘Botox in a bottle’.
Every product from the No7 Future Renew Serum (£42.95) to the No7 Future Renew Night Cream (£34.95) relies on ‘gastrobiology’, essentially a combination of two peptides naturally found in the skin, to improve collagen.
Think of peptides as a godsend to skincare. Whatever the problem, there’s probably a peptide that can fix it. You can go for a product that plumps, brightens, hydrates or all three if you like.
Personally, I like the boosting serums best, as finding one that hits all your skin needs and contains the peptide blend you want can be quite a challenge. But if you’re looking to cut back on your routine, go for it. One of the multi-tasking products.
