A guide to peptides in skincare products

Peptides are considered to be one of the best anti-aging ingredients currently available, making them a stalwart of many beauty products. They are capable of stimulating collagen production, improving elasticity of the skin, and reducing both wrinkles and fine lines. It sounds like magic, but it’s actually science - let’s find out more.

The science

Peptides are short chains of amino acids (typically consisting of 2 to 50 amino acids linked together). They are the building blocks that make up proteins.

Peptides are involved in many biological processes, from muscle growth and repair to the regulation of metabolism and immune functions. Some research has linked the oral intake of peptides to the reduction of skin wrinkles. Other research has found that “collagen-like peptide exhibits a remarkable antiwrinkle effect on the skin when topically applied”.

“The results demonstrate that the collagen-like peptide acts deeply and intensely on wrinkles; these properties are of great interest in the field of antiaging skin care research,” the conclusion of the clinical trial reads.

Peptides are a promising ingredient in skincare products that can help to improve skin texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a more youthful-looking complexion. But not all peptides are the same.

Peptides in skincare products

There are different types of peptides found in skincare products, each with its own properties and benefits. Knowing how each type works means you can choose the correct one to include in your formulations.

• Copper peptides: Usually known as GHK-Cu or copper tripeptide-1, these are a type of peptide that contain copper ions. They are known for their ability to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture and firmness.

• Matrixyl peptides: Also known as palmitoyl pentapeptide-4 or palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, refers to synthetic peptides which stimulate the production of collagen, with effects on skin firmness and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

• Palmitoyl peptides: Otherwise known as palmitoyl oligopeptide, this type of peptide contains fatty acid. As well as stimulating collagen production, they improve the hydration and enhance the texture of skin - making it look healthier.
• Neuropeptides: This definition includes acetyl hexapeptide-8 (also known as Argireline), pentapeptide-18, and dipeptide diaminobutyroyl benzylamide diacetate. In skincare, they help temporarily relax facial muscles - which in turn helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

• Signal peptides: In skincare, these include palmitoyl tripeptide-1, palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (which is also a Matrixyl peptide) and palmitoyl hexapeptide-12. They promote skin repair and regeneration by sending signals to cells to stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.

If you’re working on the creation of new beauty products which harness the power of peptides, our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility can produce your product to the highest quality possible.