Peptides: What are they?

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that form the building blocks of proteins. While a protein is made up of long chains of amino acids, peptides are much shorter in comparison, making them flexible and functional molecules. They play an essential role in many biological processes and are also widely used in skin care because they can stimulate skin cells and improve skin structure.

Peptides mainly act on skin cells by sending specific signals that promote cell activity. In skin care, they have the following main functions:

Promote collagen production: Peptides can stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is an important structural protein that gives skin firmness and elasticity. As we age, the skin's collagen production decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin. Peptides stimulate skin cells to produce more collagen, making the skin appear firmer and smoother.

Strengthen skin barrier: Peptides can improve the skin barrier, which helps protect the skin from harmful environmental influences and retain moisture. A strong skin barrier helps minimize skin problems such as dryness, sensitivity and irritation.

Reduce inflammation: Some peptides have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the skin. This is especially beneficial for skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, or sensitive skin. They can reduce redness and irritation.

Promote wound healing and regeneration: Peptides can support the skin's healing process by stimulating cell regeneration. They help repair the skin and are therefore also helpful in treating scars or pigmentation disorders.

Improve skin hydration: Some peptides have the ability to promote moisture retention in the skin, making dry skin better hydrated and more supple.

Anti-aging: By promoting collagen production and improving skin texture, peptides can help reduce wrinkles and make the skin appear firmer and more elastic overall.

Skin Soothing: Peptides have anti-inflammatory properties and soothe irritated skin, making it great for sensitive skin or skin with acne and rosacea.

Improved skin barrier: Peptides strengthen the skin barrier, resulting in better moisture retention and protection against external environmental influences.

Skin regeneration: They promote cell regeneration and can help accelerate the healing of scars, pigmentation disorders or other skin problems.

1. Mature skin

Benefits: Peptides are particularly well-known for their anti-aging effects. They can stimulate collagen production, resulting in firming and tightening of the skin. As we age, the skin's ability to produce collagen decreases, leading to wrinkles and sagging.

Effect: Peptides promote skin regeneration and can help improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines and sagging skin. They help the skin look more elastic and smoother.

2. Dry skin

Benefits: Dry skin benefits from peptides because they not only strengthen the skin barrier but can also improve moisture retention. Some peptides have a soothing effect and can help repair the skin barrier, which is often compromised in dry skin.

Effect: Peptides promote hydration and prevent moisture loss, making the skin appear softer and plumper.

3. Sensitive skin

Benefits: Peptides tend to be very gentle and well tolerated, making them suitable for sensitive skin. They can help soothe the skin and strengthen the skin barrier, which is often compromised in sensitive skin.

Effects: Peptides have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and irritation and stabilize the skin. They can also promote skin regeneration to soothe and heal sensitive skin.

4. Acne-prone skin

Benefits: Peptides often have anti-inflammatory properties as well and can help soothe the skin. They help the skin repair and regenerate, which can be helpful in treating post-acne scarring or pigmentation.

Effect: Peptides promote skin healing without irritating it and can help reduce acne scars and skin irregularities. They also have a regenerating effect and strengthen the skin barrier, making the skin less prone to acne.

5. Oily and combination skin

Benefits: Even oily or combination skin can benefit from peptides as they strengthen the skin barrier and support skin regeneration. Peptides help to soothe the skin without affecting sebum production or putting additional strain on the skin.

Effect: Peptides can improve the balance of the skin by providing moisture without making the skin greasy. This leads to a better texture and a balanced skin appearance.

6. Skin with pigmentation disorders or scars

Benefits: Peptides play an important role in skin regeneration and can help reduce scars or pigmentation. They stimulate collagen production and improve healing, making the skin appear smoother and more even.

Effect: Especially in the case of acne scars, melasma or hyperpigmentation, peptides can help to repair the skin and improve the complexion by stimulating the skin cells to renew themselves.

In summary:

Peptides are an extremely versatile ingredient and are suitable for almost all skin types:

Mature skin: Peptides promote collagen production and help reduce wrinkles.

Dry skin: Peptides strengthen the skin barrier and improve moisture supply.

Sensitive skin: They soothe and stabilize the skin without irritation.

Acne-prone skin: Peptides support skin regeneration and help treat scars and irregularities.

Oily or combination skin: Peptides moisturize and improve skin texture without overloading the skin.

Overall, peptides are an excellent choice for those seeking enhanced skin regeneration, hydration, and anti-aging benefits. They are gentle and versatile, making them highly beneficial for many skin types.