Peptide-Infused Skincare: The Future Of Anti-Aging Beauty

Do I Need A Skincare Routine?

T he skin is one of the body’s most important organs. Skin is filled with receptors, allowing the body to experience sensation and respond to the environment. Skin also protects the body from environmental elements and governs body temperature. Due to all the benefits the skin provides, the skin must be properly maintained. A skincare routine should cleanse, hydrate, and protect skin so that this organ can perform necessary functions. The facial skin is particularly sensitive and requires extra care with quality ingredients like peptides.

The benefits of peptides

Peptides are a collection of amino acids that support the body. Peptides share some similarities with proteins, but peptides are comprised of shorter sequences that range from 2-50 amino acids. Peptides are known to lower inflammation, minimize the body’s aging process, reduce high blood pressure, aid in muscle development, and prevent free radical damage. The advantages of peptides have prompted researchers to add these amino acids to skincare products to improve skin health.

The importance of antimicrobial peptides

A unique form of peptides called antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) fight against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. These peptides also heal wounds, fight cancer cells, and act as antioxidants to protect skin from damage. AMPs are a natural part of the immune system and the skin. Antimicrobial peptides are common in humans and amphibians. AMPs can also be found in foods like yogurt and pickles. An imbalance of AMPs can lead to skin conditions like acne, rosacea, and psoriasis. Skincare manufacturers can add AMPs to products to help consumers dealing with these skin ailments.

The story of collagen

Collagen is one of the most beloved peptide ingredients in skincare. Collagen peptides are the building blocks of skin, hair, teeth, bones, and muscles. Collagen is present in the dermis, which is the second layer of the skin. This peptide is vital to cell regeneration and works with elastin to make skin soft and supple. As people age, the body generates less collagen, and the skin starts to sag and wrinkle. Skincare products infused with collagen can stimulate cell turnover and reduce signs of aging. Many products like serums, face creams, moisturizers, face masks, and cleansers contain collagen and are marketed as anti-aging solutions.

Other peptides used in skincare

Elastin-derived peptides (EDPs) are the result of elastin protein chains separating into smaller sequences. EDPs naturally occur in skin and keep skin firm. Many anti-aging skincare products combine collagen with elastin in hand creams, night creams, day creams, and lotions. Another type of peptide-infused skincare uses polypeptides. Polypeptides are three-dimensional structures that are larger than peptides with 51 or more amino acids. Other types of peptides, like signal, carrier, and neurotransmitter, work to rehabilitate skin texture and enhance glow.

Incorporating peptides into a skincare routine

People don’t need a prescription to access peptide-infused skincare. Many of these products are sold over the counter at local retailers and pharmacies. The price points also range from low to high, depending on the manufacturer of the product. People with questions regarding peptides could consult a medical professional to learn more about amino acids, proteins, and peptides in the body.