Peptides are small chains of amino acids. They are building blocks of proteins, including the proteins your skin needs to build collagen and elastin. Peptides help to maintain hydration in the skin to give you a more radiant, youth-boosted appearance.
To maximize absorption, many dermatologists and skin care experts recommend using peptide products that are left on your skin, like serums and moisturizers rather than a cleanser that you wash off. It can be beneficial to choose products that have, in addition to peptides, vitamin C and other antioxidants, niacinamide, and hyaluronic acid. However, you should avoid using alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) with peptides as they can make the peptides less effective.
Peptides are easily absorbed into the skin making them beneficial in fighting premature signs of skin aging. They are known to help protect your skin’s natural barrier and help firm and smooth your skin. Peptides can also help even out skin tone.
Peptides are safe to use on most skin types. Vitamin A derivatives like retinol can sometimes be harsh and drying on the skin, so peptides can be an anti-aging alternative as they tend to be gentler on the skin.
Peptides can be found in many types of skin care products depending where on your skin you want to use them. Many dermatologists and skin care experts recommend choosing serums and moisturizers with peptides in them as they stay on the skin longer; however you can also get peptides in products from cleansers to eye creams and even sunscreens.
