What Does a Peptide Serum Do?
It will appear as though everyone is talking about peptides at the moment. They are having their time in the spotlight, but the funny thing is, they aren’t exactly a new ingredient. In fact, peptides have been in various formulas since the 1920s and are praised for their multiple benefits they provide for the skin. From anti-ageing properties to ensuring the protective barrier is strong and functioning correctly.
As effective as peptides are for the skin, at the same time they are only able to deliver certain skincare benefits. So, with that in mind, let’s investigate further into what does a peptide serum do and the results you can expect to see when introducing this powerhouse into your daily skincare routine.
How often should I use peptide serum?
This is very much dependant on your routine and skin type. If you wanted my advice consistency is key so using a peptide serum as frequently as possible will show fast results. You’ll find that there is an array of different formulas that contain active levels of peptides, from face wash, cleanser, moisturisers, face masks and serums. This is beneficial for many of us as it gives us the option to decide which product would suit our skin type and fit into our daily regime the easiest way possible. If you are wanting to reap the rewards, then many skincare experts suggest serums are the best formula as it remains on the skin for a longer amount of time giving you optimal results.
Are peptides better than retinol?
Yes and no, this is really boils down to the skin type you have which results in the ingredients that work best for you. For those with a dry skin type that are prone to sensitivity it is considered best to avoid using retinol. This is because of the extreme drying effects it has on the skin which can lead to severe irritation. If, however, you have a combination or oily skin type, generally speaking you are able to build the skin’s tolerance effectively and team peptides and retinol together in your evening routine.
Don’t forget that if you are new to both ingredients and have never tired specific products before you should consult with a doctor or dermatologist.
Do I need peptides in my skincare?
Yes, they are beneficial to include into your daily routine. With their unique ability to combat signs of ageing, once you have applied them topically onto the skin they act like little messengers. By communicating with the skin cells in the lower layers of the epidermis you can boost the production of collagen helping the skin to appear smoother and firmer with a youthful bounce.
Peptides are also highly effective when they are teamed with other active levels of skin boosting ingredients. Many find them to deliver better results once they are used with other products instead of applied separately. The way in which you use peptides is down to you and your established skincare routine.
Do peptides really work on skin?
The short answer is yes, peptides really work on skin. The longer, more complicated answer is there is proven scientific research that demonstrates how the skin is supported by peptides. From making the skin feel firmer, smoother, and hydrated including the natural skin barrier to be fully functioning and able to protect itself from free radical damage. Having said that, the way in which peptides work on the skin is still relatively unknown. To put it simple, peptides are quite a unique skin ingredient that has a touch of magic about their properties.
Can you use vitamin C serum and peptides together?
Yes, you can, but with caution as vitamin C has a reputation of not playing nicely with certain ingredients. After performing a patch test for 24 hours and you have established you skin is happy with you using vitamin C and peptides, you can team them together. With the cell communicating properties of peptides working with the antioxidants of vitamin C you are left with a skin barrier that is healthy and functioning correctly. Remember to keep a watchful eye on how your skin reacts to this potent duo, even if you have been using them for a while, your skin can still suffer from unwanted side effects.
How long does it take for peptides to work?
This can vary from person to person as everyone’s skin is different. Other factors such as the percentage of active levels in formulas can how frequently they are used will also play a role. If you use your peptide product consistently you can expect to see results between 3-6 months. That doesn’t mean you won’t notice the benefits of the peptides instantly with the skin appearing brighter, healthy and hydrated. As I have already mentioned, if its fast results you are wanting, opt for products that remain on the skin for longer amount of time, such as serums, moisturiser, and overnight face masks. Ideally you should use your peptide products twice a day, but if you are wanting to use them just once I suggest applying them in your evening routine. This allows the active levels to work on the skin uninterrupted from exposure to free radicals whilst you catch your beauty sleep Do peptides tighten skin? Yes, peptides are known to tighten the skin. This is because they can stimulate the production of collagen and elastin in the lower parts of the skin. Over time you will find that signs of ageing, such as fine lines and wrinkles are reduced, the complexion is looking smoother and any previous skin sagging is noticeably improved. You will also find that with this comes a visibly difference in the appearance of enlarged pores. This is because with peptides boosting elastin production results in the prevention of pores becoming bigger leading them becoming clogged with impurities which tend to lead to spots and breakouts. Today I hope I have cleared up some questions you have about what a peptide serum does and the effectives it will have on the skin. Don’t forget you can come and follow us on Instagram if you have any further skincare related questions, we’ll see you there!
DQH Knowledge drop: In your 20s, your skin cell turnover decreases. (Cell turnover is a key component in keeping your skin youthful.) You know what else slows down? Your collagen production. Starting in your 20s, collagen decreases by about 1 percent per year. Should you want to prevent fine lines and wrinkles, start by eliminating behaviors that contribute to premature aging. “If it’s bad for you, it’s bad for your skin,” says dermatologist Michel Somenek.
“Cigarette smoking reduces blood flow to the skin and causes premature wrinkling and a dull skin texture. Making the repeated pursed motion to inhale can also cause smoker’s lines. Alcohol and recreational drugs are toxins for the skin that damage its cellular structure and DNA,” Somenek tells us. “The faster you eliminate vices while you are young, the better chance your skin and body have to recuperate.” Also, adopting an anti-aging routine in your 20s is key. After all, the best offense is a good defense. We spoke to Somenek and experts Joshua Ross and Audrey Kunin to find out more.
Keep reading for the best anti-aging products for your 20s, according to skincare professionals.
Sunscreen
“We all know that the sun is the number one cause of skin aging and starting the prevention in your 20s is very important,” Ross says. “The majority of your sun damage won’t start to appear until you’re in your 30s, so don’t wait until you see it surface or you’ll be behind the curve. Stay ahead of it with a good-quality zinc-based sunscreen worn daily.”
Farmacy Green Defense Daily Mineral Sunscreen
An invisible sunscreen with SPF 30, plus botanical extracts meant to protect skin with tons of antioxidants. Bonus: It’s clean and fine to use under makeup.
Bareminerals Complexion Rescue™ Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Although we recommend you use your SPF and moisturizer separately, we also understand moments when you don’t have time or energy for that extra step. For those times, this bareMinerals moisturizer is a great thing to have on hand.
Vitamin C Serum
“A great introduction to anti-aging is to start with a vitamin C serum in your morning skincare routine,” Ross says. “It’s a powerful antioxidant that will neutralize free radicals and brighten the skin.” He adds that it’s a great way to counteract the effects of the sun’s harmful rays, which, as previously mentioned, are among the biggest causes of premature aging.
Drunk Elephant C-Firma™ Vitamin C Day Serum
The Drunk Elephant C-Firma is a lightweight serum that promises to give skin a glow by combining the brightening powers of vitamin C with ferulic acid, l-ascorbic acid, and vitamin E. The included sodium hyaluronate is meant to replace hydration loss, so you shouldn’t have to deal with any irritation.
Sunday Riley C.E.O. Rapid Flash Brightening Serum
This potent serum is jam-packed with vitamin C (15 percent, to be exact), which means it’s a potential superstar at both brightening skin and dousing it in antioxidants.
Peptides
Using peptides on your skin has many benefits, says Somenek. “The skin barrier is what defends the body against pollution, UV rays, bacteria, and toxins. It can be damaged by several everyday factors. Using topical peptides aids in building a stronger barrier,” he says. “Peptides comprise elastic fibers, which are a type of protein. These fibers help to make skin appear taut and firm. Peptides can also help repair damaged skin, relieve inflammation, and even out skin tone. Some peptides can kill acne-causing bacteria that is common in 20-somethings.”
Kunin agrees, saying, “Peptides are an excellent entry point for supporting collagen.” She recommends looking for face and eye treatments that contain these collagen-boosting powerhouses.
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Eye Rescue Cream
This Charlotte Tilbury super-emollient eye cream has a base of coconut oil and shea butter (read: it’s incredibly hydrating). Botanicals plus peptides are meant to help reduce dark circles and boost collagen, respectively.
This creamy moisturizer serves up potent collagen-boosting peptides and pycnogenol, and antioxidant-rich vitamin C. “Instead of sitting on top of the skin, peptides penetrate the outer layer so they go deep. The ‘signals’ they send tell the cells to produce elastin and collagen, which are needed for youthful-looking skin,” explains Somenek.
At-Home Peel Pads
Remember that skin cell turnover fiasco we talked about earlier? One way to help support it is by exfoliating. “Exfoliation is important to help keep skin fresh and luminous,” Kunin says. She recommends using at-home peel pads as an easy and effective way to exfoliate.
“The goal in your 20s is to fight the slowing pace of cell turnover. It is wise to use products that gently exfoliate, yet still remove oil and other impurities. Products that have Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) or Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHA) are a good choice.”
According to Somenek, you should only exfoliate two to three times a week. “People of all ages are guilty of over-exfoliating and that can be too much of a good thing,” he says.
Dermadoctor Kakadu C Intensive Vitamin C Peel Pad
A few swipes of this Derma Doctor powerful peel pad promise to leave your skin glowing and smooth, thanks to the seven (yes, seven) types of chemical exfoliants, including AHA and BHA. It also contains vitamin C via Kakadu plum extract for added brightening and antioxidant protection.
KEY INGREDIENTS Kakadu plum extract is sourced from the Kakadu plum, a fruit grown in northern Australia. It contains vitamin C, which restores the skin’s natural barrier, increases collagen production, and soothes irritation.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads
These are the gold standard of peel pads, with a cult following and over 900 five-star reviews on Sephora. They’re easy to use and contain a blend of anti-aging exfoliating acids.
Emollient Night Cream
“In your 20s, you need to start upping the hydration in your skincare routine. You may have been cautious of over-moisturizing because of acne in your teens, but as you enter your 20s, your skin transitions and becomes drier,” Ross says. “I recommend an emollient night cream added into your evening skincare regimen.”
“Twenty-somethings need to make sure that they are not using creams that will clog their pores and cause excess oil production,” says Somenek. Opt for non-comedogenic products.
Cerave Skin Renewing Night Cream
One great choice is the CeraVe Skin Renewing Night Cream, which is a non-comedogenic night cream that leaves skin soft and glowy. It combines the moisturizing powers of ceramides and hyaluronic acid.
RoC Retinol Correxion Max Hydration Creme
“The best night cream ingredients contain retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and/or salicylic acid or hyaluronic acid. The goal is to moisturize, yet remove excess oil,” says Somenek. This Roc Retinol Correxion cream fits the bill as it contains both hyaluronic acid and retinol so it promises to moisturize while also being non-comedogenic.
