Today we’re exploring the benefits of peptides in skincare and why K-Beauty is obsessed with them. Hint: More peptides = more collagen, better hydration and younger looking skin.
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are found naturally in skin, which is comprised mostly of collagen. They are active molecules and make up about 80% of the skin’s dermis. As we age, the body produces an average of 1% less collagen peptides for skin each year after the age of 20. It stops production entirely around the age of 40.
What Do Peptides Do In Skincare?
Peptides benefit the skin in many different ways, particularly when it comes to anti-aging. They target wrinkles, loss of firmness, dehydration, dullness and discolouration. Some peptides even target wound healing, thanks to their regenerating properties. There are many different types, and each of them have different effects.
Our Favourite Peptides
The “Palmitoyl”s – Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12, which smooth wrinkles and strengthen the skin’s barrier.
Keratin-based peptides, which repair the skin and hair by helping with hydration and elasticity levels.
Tripeptide-1, which is believed to be able to stimulate collagen production.
Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 and Myristoyl Pentapeptide-1, which help minimise redness.
Hexanoyl Dipeptide-3 Norleucine Acetate, which activates skin cell regeneration.
Azelaoyl Bis-Dipeptide-10, which diminishes the appearance of pigmentation and dark spots.
Copper tripeptide, which can heal wounds and calm inflammation.
Some types of peptides can be vulnerable to degradation from light and air, so it is important to store them correctly.
Our Favourite Korean Skincare Products Containing Peptides
Korean beauty’s love for peptides has exploded in the last few years, and you’ll find them in everything from cleansers to toners and moisturisers. A few of our favourites include:
Cleanser
d’Alba Peptide No Sebum Mild Gel Cleanser, a mildly acidic gel cleanser infused with coconut oil-derived surfactants, white truffle and low molecular peptides to restore hydration and prevent excess oil.
Toner
d’Alba Piedmont Peptide No Sebum Balancing Toner, a unique toner that stands out thanks to its high-quality anti-aging formula that combines luxurious white truffle with pearl, niacinamide and peptides. It keeps sebum and moisture levels in check while also working to tackle the appearance of fine lines and pigmentation.
Serum
Rovectin Aqua Activating Serumsupports and restores the appearance of aging skin. Peptides ad collagen provide anti-aging benefits.
Moisturisers
d’Alba Peptide No Sebum Repair Cream, a multi-purpose facial cream packed with peptides and amino acids to calm skin and regulate oil production, leaving it matte and fresh.
APLB Collagen Peptide Moisture Cream– At a versatile pH 5.5, this collagen peptide cream is great for all skin types and is particularly suited for those looking to refine skin tone and reduce wrinkles. If your skin is lacking in elasticity, is marred by dark spots and unevenness or has visible signs of aging, then this is the moisturiser for you.
Eye Creams
APLB Daily Miracle Eye Cream is infused with hard-hitting peptides, brightening niacinamide and anti-aging adenosine to improve the look of dull, dark and lined eyes.
Cosrx Advanced Snail Peptide Eye Cream – this is a non-heavy, double-functioning eye cream that visibly brightens the eye area by helping to diminish the appearance of dark circles and puffiness with 72% of snail secretion filtrate, 5 types of peptides and niacinamide.
Have you tried peptides in skincare? Let us know which products you love in the comments!
"Peptides benefit the skin in many different ways, particularly when it comes to anti-aging. They target wrinkles, loss of firmness, dehydration, dullness and discolouration."
