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Benefits Of Peptides For Skin

Benefits Of Peptides For Skin

by Gataca Admin in News

Introduction

Peptides are the building blocks of proteins- as they are composed of various combinations of amino acids that can be then used to synthesize super crucial proteins like keratin, collagen or elastin. These proteins are the ones that actually give skin its soft, elastic and bouncy texture when present in the right amounts. Our body makes these proteins by itself very efficiently all the time, so when you add peptide containing products to your skincare routine, you are just helping nudge the process along- a lot faster. If you have seen a lot of products with peptides, it is for this very reason- and they are very good for your skin too.

How Do Peptides Improve Skin Health?

Peptides help your skin make more protein. You may then wonder why using the proteins themselves doesn’t work. The reason is simple- they are too large and don’t pass through the pores that easily. Instead, when you apply peptides which are much smaller in size, you allow the raw materials to penetrate through the pores with ease- thus helping your skin make more protein with less effort. How do they do that though? Peptides move quickly and tell your skin cells to make more collagen and elastin- so think of them as delivery agents which can get the job done really well. Let us look at different ways in which peptides are useful-

  • They can help reduce the number of noticeable wrinkles- as they help smoothen them out. Collagen production picks up when you use peptides- which is good for this purpose.
  • Elastin is a protein that gives skin its much coveted elastic properties- so your skin will look firm and taut- thanks to this tiny miracle worker protein.
  • Peptides are gentle on your skin- so they can help you if you have sensitive skin related issues- like redness, inflammation or sun-damaged skin.
  • If you get overzealous with your skincare routine, then you risk damaging the integrity of the skin barrier. Peptides help repair your skin layers effectively, if you have exfoliated too hard, or spend too long under the sun, if you are a poor sleeper or if you are exposed to pollutants on a regular basis. We know- those traffic jams and work commutes can be nightmares. Peptides can also be used if you have zits, they can be clubbed with other skincare products- but NOT all of them. Example- DON’T use AHA with peptides.

Do Peptides Help With Acne And Scars?

Yes, they can! Some peptides kill bacteria very effectively, so they won’t give these critters a chance to infect your pores. Also, we know how lush a post-workout glow can look like, but please remember to wash up ok? 

Peptides vs Retinol For Anti-Aging

Peptides are a newer alternative to retinol which has been the anti-aging darling that we all know of. But, retinol is not suitable for everyone and can cause some major side effects initially- like shedding, dryness, itchy skin or even redness and it takes some getting used to. Peptides however are not like that- they are good for sensitive skin, but don’t give you quick results like retinol can.

Should You Use Peptides With Vitamin C?

Yes, they are a great combination that can help you achieve glass skin goals, or whatever else you have in mind. Vitamin C is a great antioxidant- and so can help reduce damage and brighten skin. Peptides are all rounders- so they will help with this concern too. But you should learn to layer them in the right way- Layer on some Vitamin C serum first, then follow with peptide. Ideally, you should be using a serum or a moisturiser- which means the product will be in contact for longer hours than just a cleanser for example- which you will wash off. 

Conclusion

Peptides are pretty expensive though, so they may not be very economical at times. The best time to use peptides for skin care is both- in your AM and PM routine. This way they will help you all day. Just make sure you put it on before using makeup or SPF in the morning, while you can dab some on at night after cleansing and before bedtime. Peptides are gentle products- so they will not give you dramatic results right away. They are the very definition of ‘trusting the process’ in that way!

FAQs

1. What are peptides, and how do they benefit the skin?
They are short chains of amino acids (2-100 in number) that help your body make proteins like collagen, elastin and keratin- all of which are present on your skin and help it work well and look even better. 

2. How do peptides compare to other skincare ingredients like retinol or hyaluronic acid?
Peptides are gentle like hyaluronic acid- so they can help with repair and brightening, and also take care of hydration concerns by keeping the skin barrier intact. But, it is not going to give you quick results like retinol does. Retinol goes to work by making your skin cells multiply way faster than usual- which is how your old skin cells will slough off, while allowing new ones to form under. 

3. How long does it take to see visible results from using peptides?
You can expect to see some results in a couple months after consistent usage. Remember- peptides work slowly but surely!

4. Can peptides be used on sensitive skin or with other skincare ingredients?
Yes, they are great for sensitive skincare enthusiasts too. 

5. Are there any side effects or risks of using peptides in skincare?
Some of you may be allergic to a few peptides- so make sure to do a patch test before you use them full time. Signs to watch for include redness, swelling or even itching but these are very rare.

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