This content has been reviewed and updated on November 22, 2023.
Of the various ingredients in skincare products, peptides often take the spotlight. Skin produces peptides naturally, and they help form the proteins that support firmer, youthful-looking skin1. Peptides in topical form deliver messages to other cells to trigger skin-rejuvenating responses. This guide discusses peptides and their benefits.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids (polypeptides are the longer version). Peptide bonds connect amino acids to form the solid foundation, or building blocks, of different proteins in your skin, hair and nails.
The human body changes in various ways with age. The skin is no exception. The once youthful-looking tissue can form fine lines and wrinkles and appear dull as the body's natural processes slow down over time.
Age also affects how much collagen and elastin fibers the body produces. These proteins maintain the skin's firmness, elasticity, and smoothness, giving it a plump, resilient appearance. Unfortunately, collagen and elastin fiber levels decline as the body gets older.
Delivering more collagen directly to the skin can be a difficult task. This is where peptide-infused skincare products come in handy. The molecules in peptide-infused products are small enough for the skin to absorb, preventing clogged pores. The synthetic peptides carry messages to prompt various responses.
Concerning skin, topical peptides encourage the body to produce more collagen2 to keep skin hydrated3 and improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and sagging. Peptides boost elastin fiber levels, too, to help skin appear firmer.
Naturally-Derived Peptides in OSEA Products
Naturally-derived peptides are vital ingredients in many OSEA Malibu products. You'll find peptides for skin in our Ocean Eyes Age-Defying Eye Serum. It contains a biomimetic tetrapeptide that improves the look of aging skin. Quinoa extract is also a standout ingredient that helps improve the look of puffy under-eyes.
The Anti-Aging Sea Serum is a peptide powerhouse, with pea- and sacha inchi-derived peptides that boast anti-aging benefits for the skin.
How to Add Peptides into Your Routine
It only takes a few adjustments to create a peptide-enriched skincare regimen. You'll typically find peptides in eye creams, serums and moisturizers, so replace your peptide-free products with elixirs from our collection.
Remember to cleanse as the first step in your morning and evening skincare routine. Our pore-decongesting cleansers contain lactic acid, witch hazel, and other ingredients that wash away excess oil and impurities to create a clean surface for optimal peptide absorption. Our cleansers also contain hydrators, which can help you avoid tightness that happens when skin is stripped of its natural oils.
Sources
1. Leonard, Jayne. What to Know About Peptides for Health. Medical News Today. Retrieved on Nov. 21, 2023 from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326701.
2. Gallagher, Grace. Peptides and Your Skin Care Routine. Healthline. Retrieved on Nov. 21, 2023 from https://www.healthline.com/health/peptides-for-skin.
3. Johnson, Jon. Ways to Smooth the Skin by Boosting Collagen Levels. Medical News Today. Retrieved on Nov. 21, 2023 from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/317151.
4. Kubala, Jillian. What Is Collagen, and What Is It Good For? Healthline. Retrieved on Nov. 21, 2023 from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/collagen.
5. Gokhool, Noemie. Fermented skin Care: Here’s What You Need to Know About the Trend. Allure. Retrieved Nov. 21, 2023 from https://www.allure.com/story/what-is-fermented-skin-care.