Peptides in Korean Skincare

There’s nothing more exciting than trying out the latest trends in skincare ingredients and innovations.

How do you separate the real from the hype though?

If you’ve got sensitive skin, it’s even more important to look through the marketing and know what actually works.

Today, we’re going to look at one ingredient that deserves its praise – peptides!

What are peptides?

These skincare essentials are naturally recurring short chain amino acids that are the building blocks for proteins in our body that have a direct effect on your skin. Think proteins like collagen and elastin.

We all have peptides within us and these are what keeps our skin looking firm and full of elasticity. Peptides also send biological signals to the rest of our body to encourage the production of more collagen if needed (e.g. if you’re healing from physical injuries).

If we naturally produce peptides, why do we need them in our skincare?

One of the hard truths about skincare is that for most of us, our skin peaks in its early twenties. From that point on, everything that works to give you the best skin possible starts to slow down (including your peptides).

This is why you’ll see peptides in anti-aging focused skincare.

The external peptides found in these types of skincare work similarly to how your own peptides can encourage extra collagen when you’ve been injured. When using skincare with peptides, your body is told that the skin needs extra TLC and to lend a helping hand by boosting collagen production.

With regular use, external peptides can help to smooth the appearance of wrinkles, boost firmness, rehydrate your skin and minimise discolouration.

Are all peptides the same?

There are a whole bunch of peptides that produce different benefits.

Here are some of the most common and what they do:

rH oligopeptide 1 (AKA EGF): in the body, these are proteins responsible for cell regeneration. In skincare products, it supports healthy skin by conditioning it. It is frequently used in anti-aging products.  

Palmitoyls (including Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 and Palmitoyl Hexapeptide-12): smoothes the appearance of wrinkles and strengthens the skin’s barrier.

Keratin-based peptides: repair the skin and hair by helping with hydration and elasticity levels.

Tripeptide-1 – stimulates collagen production.

Myristoyl Hexapeptide-16 and Myristoyl Pentapeptide-1: helps minimise redness.

Hexanoyl Dipeptide-3 Norleucine Acetate: activates skin cells.

Azelaoyl Bis-Dipeptide-10: reduces the appearance of dark spots and pigmentation.

Copper tripeptide: Can calm skin and assist with skin damage. 

Our favourite peptide Korean skincare products 

Essence

MISSHA Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence 5X – This cult favourite not only contains fermented ingredients and niacinamide, but also peptides to support skin elasticity and hydration, especially for dull and tired complexions.

Serum

Klairs Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop – A lightweight, fast-absorbing night serum formulated with EGF (sh-Oligopeptide-1) and bFGF (sh-Polypeptide-1), two peptides that help target signs of aging and improve skin texture and firmness.

Moisturiser

Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream – Packed with ginseng, niacinamide and peptide complex, this luxurious moisturiser helps to deeply hydrate, improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of fine lines, making it a great choice for all skin types, especially those concerned with aging.

Which peptides in Korean skincare have you tried? Let us know in the comments below! 

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