What Do Peptides Do for the Skin
Peptides are small chains of amino acids that work to improve your skin’s health and appearance in several important ways. Think of them as building blocks that help your skin repair itself and maintain its youthful qualities. When you use peptides in skincare products or supplements, they signal your skin cells to produce more collagen and elastin, which are the proteins responsible for keeping skin firm and smooth.[1][3]
As you age, your body naturally produces less collagen, which leads to wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of firmness. Peptides help slow down this process by encouraging your skin cells, called fibroblasts, to keep making collagen. This increased collagen production makes your skin look firmer and helps smooth out fine lines and wrinkles over time.[2][3]
One of the key ways peptides work is by improving how your skin cells communicate with each other. Certain peptides act like molecular glue, strengthening the connections between cells and reinforcing the barrier that protects your skin from damage. When your skin barrier is strong, it can better defend itself against environmental stress like pollution and sun exposure, and it can repair itself more quickly when damage does occur.[1]
Peptides also help your skin hold onto moisture better. By supporting the production of lipids and other hydrating compounds, peptides improve your skin’s ability to retain water, which keeps it looking plump and healthy.[1] This hydration boost is especially helpful for people with dry or sensitive skin.
Another benefit of peptides is their ability to reduce inflammation. When your skin is irritated or inflamed, peptides can help calm this response and support your skin’s natural immune balance. This makes peptides useful for people dealing with redness, sensitivity, or other inflammatory skin concerns.[1]
Different types of peptides do different things. Copper peptides, also known as GHK-Cu, are among the most well-researched. These naturally occurring peptides support wound healing, improve skin texture, and help reduce the appearance of fine lines. They also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reverse cellular damage.[6][7] Other peptides like tripeptides are specifically designed to boost collagen production and improve skin firmness.[2]
The good news is that peptides are suitable for all skin types, including acne-prone and sensitive skin. You can use them morning and night without worrying about side effects like dryness or irritation. Peptides are also stable when combined with other active ingredients, so you can layer them with acids, retinoids, or other treatments without any problems.[3]
You’ll find peptides in many skincare products including moisturizers, serums, and eye treatments. Some people also take oral collagen peptide supplements, which have shown modest improvements in skin elasticity and hydration when used for several weeks to months.[2] For the best results, pair peptides with other hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides, and combine them with healthy habits like staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and protecting your skin from the sun.[1]
While peptides are considered a proven and effective skincare ingredient, experts note that the research behind them is not quite as extensive as the evidence for gold-standard ingredients like retinoids or vitamin C. However, the clinical evidence supporting peptides is solid and growing, particularly for wound healing, tissue repair, and reducing the appearance of fine lines.[6]
Sources
https://www.aveseena.com/how-peptides-strengthen-skin-barrier/
https://drsabrina.com/blogs/eye-care/benefits-of-peptides-for-skin
https://www.oprahdaily.com/beauty/skin-makeup/a69594385/peptides-versus-exosomes/
https://www.studiomedspa.com/peptides-san-marcos
https://beyondmd.com/blog/best-peptides-for-skin-according-to-science/
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/beauty/a65617059/copper-peptides-for-skin/
https://drchernoff.com/non-surgical/body-treatments/peptides
