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The power of peptides

There are so many buzzword ingredients in skincare these days it can be difficult to keep up.

If you’ve heard of the word “peptides” but have no clue about what they are and how they’re good for the skin; don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Dr. Thivi Maruthappu, consultant dermatologist for the Skin Health Alliance and Olay, has given us the rundown of what you need to know about peptides.

What are they?

“Peptides are short chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins in the body including those important for the structure and function of the skin such as collagen, elastin, and keratin,” Dr. Thivi explains. “Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and essential for our skin’s texture and resilience, a loss of collagen over time can lead to fine lines and sagging skin.”

Why are peptides good for the skin?

“When specific peptides are applied to the skin, they trick it into making more collagen. Collagen levels naturally decline over time, usually starting to drop in our 20s, which can lead to fine lines and sagging skin. By boosting collagen, it helps to maintain a plump and radiant complexion,” the expert shares. “Collagen is actually too large a protein to penetrate into the skin, so that’s where peptides come in – they are only a few amino acids long so they can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin where they exert their activity to stimulate collagen production.”

There are quite a few different types of peptides – some deliver minerals, some reduce collagen breakdown, and some help reduce the contraction of expression lines.

“It is the signal peptides that promote the formation of collagen; the Olay Collagen Peptide24 Range contains a patented peptide complex that’s proven to boost collagen production for stronger skin in four weeks.” Dr. Thivi adds.

Other peptide products to check out include the Peptide Booster by Paula’s Choice, Peptide4 Night Recovery Cream-Oil by Elemis, and Mario Badescu’s Peptide Renewal Cream.