What are peptides? Peptides are fragments of proteins that naturally occur in your skin. These peptides are made up of amino acids, and when these amino acids are combined in certain formations they create specific peptides (there are hundreds!). Many peptides linked together form a protein.
Proteins are a fundamental building block of your skin, along with ceramides, sebum and lipids. They ensure your skin remains intact and firm, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles, texture changes and other signs of aging. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body. Collagen provides integrity, firmness and elasticity to the skin. Collagen can be found in the dermis – the middle layer of the skin – which provides the foundation for the skin and is responsible for the elasticity and flexibility of the skin.
As we age, our body’s collagen production naturally reduces due to the decrease in blood flow to the dermis, which in turn reduces the amount of amino acids and peptides delivered to the skin. If the nutrients to the skin are reduced, then the number of new cells made are also reduces. This leads to an increase of wrinkles and fine lines, as well as decreases smoothness and suppleness of the skin.
Peptides are active molecules that send signals to your cells. When collagen breaks down, it forms specific peptides that signal to your skin that it was damaged and needs to make new collagen. By applying peptides topically, we are tricking the skin into thinking that it has lost collagen and needs to make more. Peptides can also attract other cells needed to repair and reconstruct the dermis and are highly efficient at retaining moisture in the skin and improving circulation – two important factors to maintain your glow!
For the most part, peptides take time to work, as they are changing the function of your skin. Peptides are best applied in serums, as the molecules are smaller and can penetrate deeper into the skin. Typically, results can be seen in 6-8 weeks and have a longer, lasting effect.
