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 Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life.
What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin?
Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition.
Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes.
If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider.
What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin?
Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity.
Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C.
Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post.
Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster.
This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster.
While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin.
It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin.
Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning?
Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance.
You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather.
Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.
