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 (eg. 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-ageing 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 cell regeneration.

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

Copper tripeptide: Can repair damaged skin and calm inflammation.

 

Our favourite peptide in Korean skincare products 

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.

 

Essence

APLB EGF Facial Repair Essence contains a veritable buffet of hard-hitting anti-aging ingredients to support skin at all ages. The star ingredient, EGF is ideal for supporting a youthful looking complexion.

Serum

Purito Centella Unscented Serum, a super serum for sensitive skin that’s free from essential oil, alcohol and other harsh ingredients.  Centella Asiatica and peptides work to regenerate and strengthen the skin, boosting vitality and brightness to uneven and dull skin tone.

Rovectin Skin Essentials Aqua Activating Serum, a moisturising serum that supports and restores the appearance of aging skin.  Peptides, niacinamide and hyaluronic acid work together to revitalise and brighten skin through increasing your skin’s moisture levels from the inside out.

Moisturiser

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. This is also famously billed as a dupe for Drunk Elephant's Protini Polypeptide Cream. 

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 Cream

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.

 

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

 

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