On many cosmetics, the term "Peptides" is increasingly found. True beauty allies, these active ingredients play a major role in fighting skin aging. Why are they effective in reducing wrinkles? Lyssa explains to you:

What is it?

Peptides are chains of amino acids that notably stimulate the production of proteins such as collagen, keratin, or elastin.

There are several variations:

Acetyl Tetrapeptide-15, Hexapeptide-2, Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9, Alanyl Glutamine, Acetyl Hexapeptide-1, Carnosine

 

 

 

If peptides are so prized in cosmetics, it is because they have powerful cellular activity. For the epidermis, they are an essential element for their various actions. They help provide hydration, firmness, and elasticity to the skin.

In cosmetics, peptides are not necessarily only anti-aging actives: they are also used for their qualities as skin conditioning and protective agents, hair conditioners, antioxidants, or humectants.

 Depending on the nature of the amino acids and their sequence, they can have anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, antioxidant, healing, or exfoliating effects, for example.

 

How does it work?

Imagine peptides as little messengers that encourage our cells to carry out a specific action. They can stimulate the production of collagen and hyaluronic acid, for example, to make the skin revitalized and better protected against external aggressions (pollution…). This process, highly valued in anti-aging / anti-wrinkle care, helps boost cellular rejuvenation. However, immediate results should not be expected: beneficial effects generally appear after at least 4 weeks of application (too bad!)

 

To fight skin aging?

Each peptide has its function; there is almost a peptide for every skin indication.

Enzyme-inhibiting peptides are to be favored to fight wrinkles and fine lines, thanks to their function as collagen production stimulators.

Oligopeptides (long-chain peptides) provide trace elements that also promote collagen production.

Signal peptides are good anti-aging agents due to their function as collagen and elastin boosters. Finally, neurotransmitter peptides can be effective in limiting muscle contractions (thus avoiding the frown line!).

 

Most anti-aging products composed of peptides are generally combined with other active ingredients for more significant and longer-lasting results: vitamin C, hyaluronic acid (or other moisturizing, regenerating agents, etc.).

 

Peptides are already particularly effective actives in small amounts; it is not necessary to cover yourself in cream to have a faster effect. The advantage: peptides are very well tolerated by all skin types; they suit everyone (if you are patient, of course!)

 

Little bonus:

Peptides are also present in our foods and become active when we digest them.

The richest in peptides: dairy products. Milk, cheeses, yogurts are enriched with antimicrobial and antioxidant actives.

Peptides are also found in eggs, cereals (corn, rice, wheat), soy, and beans.

That said, a balanced and varied diet is a good way to take care of your skin, isn't it?