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Age Flawlessly: Peptides For Smoothing Fine Lines And Wrinkles
As the years pass, our bodies inevitably reveal signs that our 20s are behind us, and the days of effortlessly slipping into that old pair of favorite jeans may now be a distant memory. Unless, of course, you still effortlessly rock them — in which case, you’re the exception! However, we’re all well aware that as the years gracefully unfold, our bodies undergo numerous changes, often leaving us feeling a bit less athletic, a touch less stylish, and so on.
Despite these shifts, the primary challenge many people may face is establishing a skincare routine that effectively conceals the early signs of aging, such as wrinkles and fine lines. Now, if you’re in your late 30s-50s the chances of you trying to get the best skincare to hide early signs of aging are probably high. But we also know that skincare brands today have limited options to offer when it comes to catering to the concern of aging. Though, what if we tell you that there’s something that can help you age flawlessly?
And that something is- peptide! Yes, the efficacy of peptides has been studied in the recent few years for their action against anti-aging and the results seem promising.
In this blog, we’re here to introduce you to topics like “peptides for skin wrinkles” and “peptides for skin tightening.” Just so you can make wise decisions when it comes to aging flawlessly with mature skin. So, are you ready to take on the world with the power of peptides? Well, if you’re nodding a “yes,” then grab yourself a cup of joe or some soothing tea and read on!
Understanding Peptides
Now before we begin to grab the concept of peptides for you, let’s explore the meaning of peptides and where they come from!
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are naturally occurring amino acids, which are bonded together in a chain of 5-20 pieces with the help of peptide bonds!1,2 Peptides hold high significance in carrying out all physiological as well as biochemical processes in the human body.
People often mistake proteins for peptides; however, they’re not the same. You see, all proteins are made from peptide subunits, but not all peptides are proteins. Moreover, proteins can also be worked up by enzymes into shorter peptide units/ fragments. On the contrary, peptides are capable of performing biological functions on their own.1
Plant-Based Peptides
Earlier, the peptides were exclusively extracted from the animal source; however, thankfully! Now, peptides can be derived from plants as well. Furthermore, to the surprise of even the researchers, plant-derived peptides have been found to be capable of performing essential functions in humans. These functions include- antidiabetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antihypertensive, immunomodulatory, hypocholesterolemic, and opioid activities. Isn’t that amazing?2
Now that you have gained a basic understanding of peptides, let’s delve into their significance in skincare, which specializes in aging! However, before that, let’s take a brief look into the causes that lead to the aging of skin…just so you can better grasp the action of peptides in skincare.
What Causes Skin Aging?
Have you ever taken a close look at your grandparents or any elderly person and thought, “How did their skin turn like that?” - well, that appearance doesn’t come easy! Aging skin is a reward for all the wisdom elderly people have received through the years they have lived on this planet. Though their skin gets that appearance because of how our body works…
With growing age, the epidermis ( outermost layer of skin) tends to get thinner- which gives a transparent, pale look to the skin. Plus, the skin also loses its elasticity, and the age spots/ liver spots (which may look like freckles) also start to appear on the sun-exposed skin.3
Have you ever wondered why some graying men and women have flawless, firm, yet glowing skin while some don’t? Well, you’d be surprised to discover that apart from age and genes, other factors also play a role in skin aging. Let’s explore all of these factors in the next section.
4 Common Causes Of Skin Aging
Factor 1: Age
No one could ever stand against time, and as it goes by, our body is bound to undergo several changes. These changes include skin aging as well. When you grow old, your skin loses its firmness. Also, the collagen in the skin gets diminished to the point of null- leading to wrinkles. In addition to this, the loss of natural oils from the skin surface causes a more pronounced appearance of wrinkles and lines on the skin.4,5
Factor 2: Exposure To UV Rays
Do you know why dermatologists keep on saying to apply sunscreen? It’s because of UV rays exposure! Yes, these rays not only give you a tan, but they also have many detrimental effects on the skin- which includes melanoma (skin cancer)!6,5
However, UV rays are also the culprit behind skin aging, as when you’re exposed to the sun- the skin’s connective tissues like collagen and elastin fibers get damaged. This damage eventually leads to loss of firmness and plumpness in the skin, causing wrinkles, sagging, and lines.5
Factor 3: Frequent Facial Expressions
When you squint your eyebrows, you may have noticed some lines forming on your forehead. Or the crow’s feet beside your eyes. These expressions, when repeated several times, tend to form grooves under the skin’s surface. Also, when your skin ages, its ability to go back to how it was decreases, which may leave permanent features- like wrinkles, lines, and dents on your face.5
Factor 4: Smoking
One more reason to quit smoking! As we already know, smoking is no friend to your health, let alone your skin and facial features. When one smokes, it causes their skin to age faster (than usual), giving them premature skin aging.5
Action Of Peptides In Skincare: Battling Skin Aging
As mentioned earlier, peptides are the building blocks of proteins, the essential molecules that orchestrate numerous biological processes within our bodies. In the context of skincare, peptides play a pivotal role in stimulating collagen production- a protein that provides our skin with its structural integrity and elasticity.6
As collagen is made up of 3 polypeptides, then adding the peptides to support and trigger its boost can do wonders for your skin!7
Peptides You Should Know About!
As you may have guessed by now, there are numerous kinds of peptides with a plethora of variations. However, each peptide is unique and showcases specific properties and benefits.
Some of these “unique peptides” have been employed in skincare, which include-8
- Signal Peptides: These peptides actively help in active anti-aging. Signal peptides achieve this function by triggering the production of collagen and elastin in the skin.
- Carrier Peptides: Justifying their name, carrier peptides are the molecular transporters of the peptide family. They are known to carry out the wound-healing enzyme cofactors, which help in the function of bioprocesses and wound healing.
- Neurotransmitter-Inhibiting Peptides: These peptides control the facial muscles by blocking the neural signals. The blockage of signs often results in muscle relaxation, resulting in minimized formation of wrinkles, fine lines, etc.
Now, you all know about the kinds of peptides used to help battle the signs of wrinkles, fine lines, and skin aging. Let’s take a look at which specific peptides you should use.
Popular Peptides For Anti-Aging/Anti Wrinkles And Skin Tightening
- Argireline (Acetyl Hexapeptide-8)9
- It’s a synthetic peptide commonly known as “Botox in a jar.”
- It’s a neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptide.
- Argireline is said to work miracles on wrinkles by relaxing the fine lines on the face.
- You may find Argireline in many anti-aging products
- Matrixyl (Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4)10
- This peptide is widely known to repair skin damage.
- Matrixyl is a signal peptide, consisting of matrikines- which are messengers of skin restoration and repair.
- It’s mostly used in the anti-wrinkle products.
- This peptide mimics the effects of snake venom, leading to a temporary tightening and smoothing of the skin by relaxing the facial nerves.
- Syn-Ake is potent in removing the signs of facial lines; however, it leaves the user with an inability to express any other expressions.
- Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu, Copper Tripeptide-1)13
- This is yet another type of signal peptide.
- GHK-Cu is used to boost the collagen without causing any added irritation.
- Its course of action takes place by taking care of fine lines, wrinkles, and skin damage aided by Copper “Cu”- an essential element needed for wound healing.
- Additionally, it’s also widely used to retain the elasticity and plumpness in the skin.
- Additionally, GHK-Cu has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
- Palmitoyl Tripeptide-38 (Matrixyl Synthe'6)14
- This peptide concoction is famous for smoothing wrinkles by rebuilding the skin wherever required
- Mostly used to get rid of wrinkles on the forehead and crow's feet
Now that we’ve shared the list of the best peptides for skin tightening and anti-wrinkles, you can now shop for skincare (or peptide vials for peptide therapy) like a pro!
However, if you still feel like a novice at peptide play, we’d recommend you start with a peptide-incorporated skincare regimen.
Add Peptides To Your Skincare Routine
Picking the right peptide for skin tightening and anti-wrinkle becomes hard when you are presented with so many products in the market. But don’t worry! We’ve come up with a few easy and flexible guidelines that you can follow-
- Tip 1: Choose the right medium: While looking for peptide options in your skincare, be sure to pick a product like a serum, face cream, or moisturizer. Since peptide-based skincare isn’t going to be inexpensive, it’s always wise to get it in a leave-on product.
- Tip 2: Look out for the co-ingredients: It’s recommended to select peptide products that have co-ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, antioxidants, and hyaluronic acids.
- Tip 3: Don’t forget to read your labels: As always, don’t forget to read your labels. The product’s labels will definitely have a clue whether your chosen skincare has peptides or not.
Lastly, just be mindful of these 3 things, and you’re good to go!
Parting Thoughts!
Peptides do really come across as a promising ingredient in the battle against fine lines, wrinkles, and skin aging. Moreover, the evidence-supported peptides also offer an array of products that are here to resolve your skin-specific concerns. In the end, we really see that you have become a peptide- wiser. We wish you good luck as you get ready to embrace the peptide science to leave your skin-related concerns in the past and age flawlessly toward your future!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to your specific skin condition or health concerns. The content in this blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Any reliance you place on the information from this blog is at your own risk. We do not endorse or guarantee the efficacy of any specific skincare products or treatments mentioned in this blog. Individual results may vary. If you have a medical emergency or a severe skin condition, seek immediate medical attention.
References:
- https://www.nature.com/scitable/definition/peptide-317/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562260/
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004014.htm#:~:text=Aging%20skin%20looks%20thinner%2C%20paler,This%20is%20known%20as%20elastosis.
- https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/collagen/
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/wrinkles/symptoms-causes/syc-20354927#:~:text=As%20you%20get%20older%2C%20your,more%2Dpronounced%20lines%20and%20crevices.
- https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/uv-radiation-safety/index.html
- https://www.healthline.com/health/peptides-for-skin#benefits
- https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/10/4/111#:~:text=Signal%20peptides%20are%20active%20compounds,Table%20S1)%20%5B10%5D.
- https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/inci-ingredients/acetyl-hexapeptide-8
- https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/1240/420570/Matrixyl-3000
- https://www.ulprospector.com/en/eu/PersonalCare/Detail/472/302760/SYN-AKE
- https://www.dsm.com/personal-care/en_US/products/skin-bioactives/syn-ake.html
- https://www.ulprospector.com/en/asia/PersonalCare/Detail/5735/204101/Copper-Tripeptide-1-GHK-Cu--SpecPed-GCu11P
- https://www.ulprospector.com/en/na/PersonalCare/Detail/1240/186959/MATRIXYL-synthe6