In recent years, we’ve seen a dramatic change in the skincare industry. We now know that it isn’t sufficient to rely on the same thick, pink cream our grandmothers did years ago. If we want to support our skin at every age, we’ve got to become somewhat savvy about the ingredients we’re using. Here, we focus on peptides as an active ingredient in medical grade skin care products. What are they and why do you need them?
Peptides are fractions of amino acids that result when proteins like collagen and elastin degrade. You may know that collagen and elastin are two of the most important proteins for healthy, resilient skin. When breakdown occurs, the skin loses elasticity and firmness. It becomes more prone to hyperpigmentation, thinning, and other problems. Studies show that, when we treat the skin with topical peptides, we stimulate the creation of new proteins.
Peptides exist in every cell of the human body. In addition to providing functional and structural support for the skin, peptides are also involved in various physiological functions, including metabolic processes and hormone production.
How Peptides Work
The primary function of peptides is to act as a warning signal that more collagen and other proteins are needed in order to repair tissue damage. When peptides are present, the body essentially receives the command to produce more tissue-repairing proteins. This occurs both in the skin as well as in muscles and joints. To stimulate spontaneous tissue repair in the upper layers of the skin, we can apply peptides topically in the form of a moisturizer or, even better, a medical-grade serum. The application of peptides to the epidermis tricks the body into thinking protein content is insufficient. The body then produces more proteins and healthy skin enzymes that all work together to firm and plump the skin. With consistent use, peptide skincare products can correct some of the signs of aging.
Peptides Benefit the Skin
Many different skincare formulations now contain peptides. Hundreds of different types of peptides exist, each with a capacity to affect the skin in a particular way. The signal peptides we mentioned earlier send messages to the body to produce more collagen and elastin. Carrier peptides are another type that benefit the skin. These peptides bring more mineral content to the skin to boost collagen even more. Copper peptides support existing collagen while simultaneously prompting the production of healthy new collagen.
Studies suggest that peptides are unlikely to cause side effects like skin irritation and redness. However, people interested in medical-grade skincare should know that other ingredients in these concentrated products may affect the skin differently.
Learn more about the medical-grade skincare available in our Rancho Mirage office. Call (760) 610-8990.