PeptideS

Peptides are among the latest trending active ingredients in the cosmetics industry. Facial care products containing peptides are said to have a whole host of amazing effects. Peptides are a natural building block of our skin; they are part of the proteins that make up its innermost layer. Peptides therefore support healthy, fresh, and firm skin and can thus promote a youthful appearance. No wonder cosmetics containing peptides are finding more and more loyal fans!

But what exactly are peptides?

To understand what peptides are, you first need to understand the structure of the skin. Our skin consists of proteins (such as collagen), which in turn consist of many amino acid compounds. One specific type of these compounds are peptides—short chains of specific amino acids that are linked together by so-called peptide bonds—which are the building blocks of the innermost structure of a protein.

There is not just “the one” peptide

Depending on the combination in which the individual amino acids are linked together, hundreds of different types of peptides are created. Their mode of action also differs depending on their composition: some peptides regulate metabolism, others affect hormone balance, and still others are components of our skin. When we talk about “peptides” as active ingredients, we are not referring to a specific substance, but rather to an entire class of organic chemicals.

Dipeptides, tripeptides, tetrapeptides

The name of each compound changes depending on how many individual amino acids a peptide consists of. You can also see this in the list of ingredients when you read through it for peptide cosmetics. There you will find “dipeptides,” which consist of two amino acids, while ‘tripeptides’ consist of three and “tetrapeptides” consist of four amino acids. If more than 10 amino acids are linked together by peptide bonds, they are called polypeptides.

Peptides in skin care – what's in them?

And above all: what is all the hype about this anti-aging ingredient? Peptides can have a positive effect on skin texture when used in serums, creams, or lotions. Since peptides are naturally responsible for skin firmness and resilience, they can also support these properties as an active ingredient in skin care and cosmetics.

Important: It depends on the type of peptides

It is important to know that the skin itself allows very little to penetrate beneath its surface. This is a natural protective function designed to ward off harmful substances—the more complex the protein (i.e., the more amino acid compounds it contains), the less easily it can penetrate the skin. However, this also means that many active ingredients (even in very expensive high-end cosmetics) cannot penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and therefore cannot work there—they are repelled by the skin's defense system. It is therefore important not only that a particular active ingredient is contained in cosmetics and skin care products, but also in what form and chemical composition it is present.

Good prospects for tripeptides as wrinkle reducers

Short-chain peptides, especially tripeptides, have proven effective in anti-wrinkle treatments. Many users have experienced a real anti-aging boost when using peptide skin care and cosmetics, commonly referred to as the “peptide boost.” As a result, the skin's moisture content increases, making it appear stronger and more resilient.

Always combine peptides with other active ingredients

Peptides can be ideally combined with other active ingredients, thereby enhancing their effectiveness. Combining them with antioxidants such as vitamins C or E is particularly beneficial, as these provide additional protection and firming for the skin. Peptide cosmetics can also be ideally combined with hyaluronic acid, which acts as an absolute moisture booster and ensures fresh, plump skin all day long, especially in the morning.

By the way: although peptides are part of the human organism, they can be obtained in a vegan way.

Peptides occur naturally in the human body, but also in many plant species – which is why vegetarians and vegans need not worry about using skin care or cosmetic products containing peptides. In fact, peptides can now also be produced artificially in the laboratory and are completely harmless.

Do you have any questions about peptide cosmetics?

Then don't hesitate to email us. We will be happy to answer your questions, recommend products, and advise you on the benefits and compatibility for your individual skin type. We look forward to hearing from you!

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