Peptides are a key part of our bodies — they’re the building blocks of proteins and act as messengers. You’re probably most familiar with them in terms of bodybuilding and anti-aging (we’re talking about collagen peptides, sermorelin peptides, and the like), but they also play roles in everything from regulating our hormones to optimizing organ function and even helping us look younger.
As a skincare ingredient, peptides are known to boost the skin’s natural production of proteins, which can help reduce fine lines and wrinkles as well as increase firmness and elasticity. They can also strengthen the skin’s barrier, which is important because it protects against bacteria, UV rays, and pollution that can cause premature aging.
They can also encourage the production of hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring compound that helps to plump the skin and make it look firmer. And they can encourage the proliferation of fibroblasts, which are the cells responsible for creating new collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycans — another family of carbohydrates that support the structure of the skin.
You can get peptides in a variety of foods, such as beans, lentils, eggs, fish and milk. But many people prefer to use peptide-based products that are more specifically formulated for the face and hair. These products often come in the form of serums, cleansers and moisturizers. Some may contain peptides derived from moringa seeds, for example, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants to promote radiant-looking skin.
However, oral peptide supplements are not as effective as injectable peptides because the body breaks them down into amino acids before they can be absorbed. And since they’re considered supplements and not medications, they aren’t regulated by the FDA, so you should always do your homework and choose an authentic product from a reputable brand.
In the past, peptide treatments were done in a medical clinic or doctor’s office, but at-home peptide services are becoming more and more popular with clients. With an at-home peptide service, you can schedule an appointment online or over the phone with an experienced and qualified practitioner. Your peptides will then be shipped directly to your door and you can use them at the comfort of your own home.
While there are no ingredients that you should absolutely not mix with peptides, it’s best to apply them in the order of serums, followed by creams and then oils. This allows the peptides to be absorbed into the layers of your skin. It’s also a good idea to avoid sunscreen with peptides, as the sun can break down the peptides. You should also make sure that you’re using the right type of sunscreen — SPF 30 is recommended for peptides, while SPF 50 is recommended for non-peptide products. This is because SPF 50 has a higher concentration of UVA rays, which are more damaging to the skin than UVB rays. For more tips on how to care for your skin, check out this article from our friends at Dermatologist on how to make your skincare routine work for you.