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 What is a Peptide?
Peptides occur naturally in the body. A peptide is a portion, or a
building block, of a protein. Like proteins, peptides are composed of
amino acids. All peptides influence or direct the cells of the body in
some way. Different types of peptides influence different types of
cells.
How
are peptides used in skin care?
The
peptides used in skin care are designed to communicate with and direct
the skin cells to behave in a certain way, such as producing more
collagen or thicken the skin.
Which Peptides to look for in skin care ingredients?
The
peptides used in skin care are synthesized in the labs and are able to
enter the cells of the skin and remain intact. Because of this the
future potential for the development of new peptide products is very
promising.
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Copper Peptides:
Copper is essential to collagen production. When the level of
copper inside skin cells increases, collagen production goes up.
Copper, however, is a potentially toxic metal. It should not be
taken internally as supplement at high dosages (more than 2 mg
per day). Inorganic copper applied directly to the skin would do
more harm than good as it promotes free radical formation. The
use of copper bound to special peptides can be a safer and more
effective way to stimulate collagen production. |
Benefits of Copper Peptides:
- Stimulate the process of wound healing and reduce subsequent
scarring. The same process may also reverse wrinkles and other signs
of skin aging.
- Reduce skin irritation that can accelerate skin aging by promoting
the formation of free-radicals and other toxic by-products.
- Help minimize damage from daily wear and tear of the skin. One
study shows that copper peptides helps recover skin integrity after
exposure to SLS, a common detergent found in many shampoo, cleansers
and dishwashing/laundry products.
Typically, copper peptides should be applied once a day. Acidic
environment makes copper dissociate from the peptide, leading to
decreased effectiveness and, possibly, skin damage. Do not apply copper
peptides at the same time as AHA, retinoids, vitamin C or any other
acidic products. Experts also recommend discontinuing copper peptides
for 2-3 weeks after each 2-3 months use as excessive use can promote
free radical damage and collagen breakdown.
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Palmitoyl oligopeptide & Palmitoyl-tetrapeptide-7
(a.k.a Matrixyl 3000): the combination of these two peptides
appears to stimulate the synthesis of as collagen, elastin and
glycosaminoglycans. Benefits include an increase in skin
tone/tightness and modest reduction in wrinkles/roughness. The
recommended concentration is between 3% to 8%. Studies and user
feedback on Matrixyl 3000 report virtually no obvious side
effects in short-term use. The effects and side effects of its
long-term use are not yet known.
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