#NourishYourSkin Series: Peptides – What are they & what do they do for your skin?
You may have come across the buzzword ‘Peptides’ when researching anti-ageing skincare.
From tripeptides to bioactive peptides, here we will demystify this anti-ageing skincare hero. In this blog we will discuss the function of peptides, how they work to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, as well as looking at the best peptides for skin.
What are Peptides?
Our founder Dr Pauline Hili explains the science: “Peptides are small groups of amino acids (organic compounds) that act as messengers and are signalling molecules within the body. They direct and influence a number of reactions in the body. They carry information from one part of the body to other parts and direct the making of certain molecules in the body and the switching off of other processes.”
When these amino acids are combined in a particular way, they create specific peptides – yes, there are hundreds of them! And when peptides are formed, they produce specific proteins.
You may wonder why proteins are important: our skin is made up of several different molecules and proteins are the most fundamental building blocks. The most commonly known skin proteins are collagen, keratin or elastin. Peptides play a crucial role in the skin by promoting the production of the key building blocks of the skin.
What are the Benefits of Peptides for the Skin?
Dr Pauline Hili clears it up for us: “Peptides are anti-ageing as they work on the body’s reactions that cause ageing. They help slow them down and target more collagen production and help inhibit degradation. Boosting your skin care with peptides can keep the skin looking healthier for longer.”
By boosting collagen production and other skin proteins, peptides maintain our skin healthy and supple, and have many different benefits, including improving skin’s elasticity and firmness, smoothing fine lines and building skin’s natural resilience.
What are the Best Peptides for the Skin?
As we explained earlier, there are hundreds of them so you may wonder which peptides are best for your skin. Let’s take a look together.
Tripeptides
Tripeptides is a peptide made up of three amino acids.
Nourish London's Argan Skin Renew Moisturiser is a powerful anti-ageing daily moisturiser that is clinically proven to dramatically boost hydration. Featuring omega-rich Argan oil, collagen boosting Tripeptides and antioxidant Vitamin E, this luxurious daily moisturiser increases skin hydration, nourishes, smooths and firms the skin, helping to minimise signs of ageing. Precious oils of Frankincense, Myrrh and Borage rejuvenate the skin whilst the remarkable Rose of Jericho optimises hydration and strengthens skin cells to reduce fine lines. Suitable for all skin types and dehydrated skin.
Tetrapeptides
Tetrapeptides are made up of four amino acids.
T.S.L. Tighten, Sculpt and Lift Neck Elixir is a specially formulated neck cream designed to lift, firm and smooth the neck and décolleté for a more youthful look. Antioxidant-rich bioactives and peptides, including Caprooyl Tetrapeptide-3 and Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 stimulate collagen and elastin production to protect the structural components of the skin and minimise the signs of ageing. Vitamin and mineral-rich Kale and Griffonia extracts protect skin from environmental stress and damage. Proven to improve the texture of the skin on the neck and décolleté in 28 days.
Biomimetic Peptides
Biomimetic Peptides are peptides which can mimic natural peptides in the body to stimulate a reaction e.g. the production of extra collagen.
Kale Anti-Ageing Eye Cream is specially formulated for the fine skin around the eyes. This protective vitamin and antioxidant-rich eye cream boosts natural resilience against signs of ageing and protects against pollution. Supercharged with firming Biomimetic Peptides and vitamin-rich Kale extract to reduce fine lines and minimise dark circles. Amino acids, B Vitamins and antioxidants firm and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Vitamin-rich Kale extract, Maqui Berry and Pomegranate enzymes help counter puffiness and dark circles.
Bioactive Peptides
Bioactive Peptides are peptides that have an effect in biological systems such as the human body.
Kale Anti-Ageing Hand Cream is an innovative hydrating, soothing and rich anti-ageing hand cream that is scientifically formulated to improve skin texture, help correct uneven pigmentation and protect against pollution. Kale extract protects the skin against pollution whilst Rose of Jericho, hyaluronic acid and Argan oil hydrate and reduce uneven pigmentation. Bioactive Peptides and antioxidants stimulate collagen production and minimise fine lines, whilst nourishing Frankincense, Neroli and Myrrh repair and heal.