Knowing what your skin needs is necessary to come up with the best skin care routine. From the right ingredients to the exact steps, you have to be able to offer your skin the best care.
Peptides, one of the hero ingredients, are said to wonders to your skin. But should you really incorporate them into your skin care routine?
We’ve compiled a list of everything you need to know about this buzzy ingredient.
Remember that you should talk first with a specialist about what’s best for your skin. What works for a person might not have any effects on you.
Peptides 101
Peptides are some cool short chains of amino acids and essential building blocks of proteins like keratin, collagen, and elastin (all responsible for tone, texture, firmness, and elasticity). What’s interesting is that peptides are actually occurring in our bodies.
So, why do we still need them in our skin care routine?
“As we age, the amount of collagen and elastin being produced by the body gradually decreases,” explains Dr Mary Sommerlad, dermatologist.
And that’s where peptides really shine. They can stimulate our bodies to produce elastin and collagen, keeping our skin plump and firm.
Types of Peptides
Before you choose to add the new ingredient to your skin care routine, you should know that there are three types of peptides:
- carrier;
- signal;
- enzyme inhibitor;
- neurotransmitter.
Each type works differently upon the skin as follows:
Signal peptides can highly stimulate the body to produce more collagen and elastin.
Enzyme inhibitor peptides can reduce the breakdown of collagen.
Carrier peptides support the wound healing.
Neurotransmitter peptides can smooth the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
The carrier peptides formulas are the most recommended, but it’s better to discuss with a dermatologist first to figure out what’s best for you.
When Should You Use Peptides?
If you’re using a peptide moisturizer, make sure that the serum before it (if you applied one) doesn’t have any potentially aggravating active ingredients. However, this is more for those with reactive skin.
On the other hand, if you’re using a peptide serum, apply it post-cleanse and before moisturizing.
Keep in mind that only a correct skin care routine can help your skin!