5 types of peptides essential to maintain healthy skin

Skincare tips: Understanding the types of peptides crucial for your skin can help you choose the right products to enhance your skincare routine (Image: Canva)

Peptides are the latest buzzword in skincare, and for good reason. These short chains of amino acids are the building blocks of proteins such as collagen, elastin, and keratin, which are fundamental to maintaining the skin’s structure, elasticity, and firmness. As we age, the natural production of these proteins decreases, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and a loss of radiance. Peptides can help to combat these signs of ageing by stimulating the skin to produce more of these essential proteins.

Understanding the types of peptides crucial for your skin can help you choose the right products to enhance your skincare routine.

Signal Peptides

Signal peptides are crucial for stimulating the skin to produce more collagen, elastin, and other proteins. These peptides act as messengers, sending signals to the skin cells to kickstart the production of new proteins.

One of the most well-known signal peptides is Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4, commonly known as Matrixyl. This peptide has been shown to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production, leading to firmer and smoother skin.

Carrier Peptides

Carrier peptides play an essential role in delivering trace elements, such as copper and manganese, to the skin. These elements are vital for the enzymatic processes involved in wound healing and collagen production.

Copper peptides, in particular, are known for their ability to promote the healing of damaged skin, reduce inflammation, and improve skin elasticity. GHK-Cu is a prominent copper peptide that has been extensively studied for its regenerative properties and ability to improve skin texture and reduce the signs of ageing.

Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides

Enzyme inhibitor peptides work by inhibiting the activity of enzymes that break down collagen and elastin in the skin. One such peptide is Trifluoroacetyl Tripeptide-2, which inhibits the activity of the enzyme progerin, associated with skin ageing. By preventing the breakdown of these essential proteins, enzyme inhibitor peptides help maintain skin firmness and elasticity. This type of peptide is particularly beneficial for mature skin, helping to preserve its youthful appearance.

Neurotransmitter Inhibitor Peptides

Neurotransmitter inhibitor peptides, often referred to as "botox-like" peptides, work by blocking the release of neurotransmitters that cause facial muscles to contract. This action reduces the formation of expression lines and wrinkles. Acetyl Hexapeptide-8, also known as Argireline, is a well-known peptide in this category. Studies have shown that Argireline can significantly reduce the depth of wrinkles around the eyes and forehead, providing a non-invasive alternative to Botox treatments.

Antimicrobial Peptides

Antimicrobial peptides are naturally occurring peptides that help protect the skin from infection and inflammation. These peptides can kill bacteria, fungi, and viruses, making them particularly useful for acne-prone and sensitive skin. LL-37 is a well-known antimicrobial peptide that has been shown to reduce inflammation and promote healing in acne-prone skin. By maintaining a healthy skin barrier and reducing the risk of infection, antimicrobial peptides can help keep the skin clear and healthy.