A Guide To Peptides And All The Benefits That Make Them A Must-Have Item For Your Skin’s Health

If you are a skincare guru or keep yourself updated with the latest skincare trends, chances are you must have come across the term ‘peptides’. Thanks to TikTok and Instagram, the hype surrounding this magic ingredient as an essential anti-ageing ingredient that helps in repairing and hydrating the skin is real.

So, the question arises — what are peptides? Furthermore, how do they function in skincare? Lastly, is it worth investing in skincare products with peptides as one of their key components?

Dr Dinyar Workingboxwalla, a dermatologist and the co-founder of Beauty by BiE answers, “Peptides, in particular, are a powerful ingredient everyone should incorporate into their routine. These small proteins signal your skin to produce more collagen, leading to firmer, smoother and more youthful-looking skin. Men, just like women, experience ageing, environmental stressors and skin damage. By embracing peptide-infused skincare, men can enhance their skin’s resilience and maintain a fresh youthful appearance.”

To explain how peptides function, we have consulted with dermatologists to decode the science behind them, the benefits for skin and body, ways to increase their presence and the best peptide-infused skincare formula to add to your grooming regime.

What are peptides?

According to WebMD, peptides “consist of chains of amino acids, serving as the fundamental units for proteins”. Essentially, they are concise protein structures comprising approximately 2-100 amino acids. As fragments of proteins, they play a vital role in the regeneration and maintenance of healthy skin.

Certain peptides function to enhance collagen production, which is crucial for skin elasticity and firmness, while others exhibit antioxidant properties, shielding the skin from the detrimental effects caused by free radicals and environmental stressors.

Talking about adding the component into one’s skincare routine, Dr Natasha Vijayendran, consulting dermatologist at Re’equil explains: “Peptides are generally well-tolerated, even for sensitive skin. However, it is advisable to do a patch test on your skin before using it over your face. This magic ingredient can be found in various skincare products, from serums and moisturisers to eye creams, usually mentioned in the ingredients list such as palmitoyl tripeptide or acetyl hexapeptide.”

However, she reminds us that it is not an overnight process and will take time for the skin to ramp up production. “Within a few weeks of use, you might notice a subtle improvement in the texture and hydration of your skin. In the long term, there is a more significant reduction in wrinkles and a firmer, even better complexion,” she adds.

Benefits of peptides in men’s grooming routine

Dr Vijayendran shares the versatility of this skincare element, “Peptides are a game-changer in men’s skincare and overall health. They help in building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin and contribute to making your skin look plump, firm, and youthful.”

She continues, “Peptides push your skin to regenerate, and stimulate collagen and elastin production, making it firmer, softer, smoother skin. They even out skin texture, help reduce wrinkles, strengthen your skin barrier, reduce inflammation and minimise those pesky enlarged pores. Peptides can be a powerful tool to keep your skin healthy-looking for years.”

Protects skin barrier: The skin barrier is the body’s primary defence against bacteria, ultraviolet rays, pollution and other toxins. It can sustain damage due to excessive exfoliation, prolonged exposure to cigarette smoke and pollutants or inadequate sleep. Using peptide skincare plays a crucial role in fortifying and strengthening the barrier.

Improves skin elasticity and reduces fine lines: Peptide-infused skin care is best for building skin elasticity and aids in reducing the visibility of wrinkles and fine lines, thanks to its collagen-boosting element add-on.

Minimises signs of ageing: Peptides have the potential to reduce the visible effects of ageing and maintain a youthful appearance. They also enhance collagen and elastin production, promoting a rejuvenated and revitalised complexion, resulting in a voluminous and well-hydrated skin texture.

Help with reducing pigmentation: Peptides designed for the skin play a vital role in healing damaged skin. Different types of peptides aid in reducing the visibility of acne scars and pigmentation.

The best peptide-infused skincare product recommendations

Cosrx 6X Peptide Skin Booster

Buy Cosrx Serum Here

Paula’s Choice Pro-Collagen Multi-Peptide Booster

Buy Paula's Choice Booster Here

Laneige Cream Skin Cerapeptide Toner & Moisturiser

Buy Laneige Cream Here

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide + Copper Peptides 1% Serum

Buy The Ordinary Serum Here

(Hero and feature image credit: Unsplash/CottonBro and Maria Lupan)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– When should peptides be used in men’s skincare routine?
If men want to build their skin barrier, and elasticity and reduce pigmentation and ageing, skincare products with peptides should be used in their routine.

– Can I use sunscreen with peptides?
Yes, sunscreen can easily be paired with peptide-infused skincare.