Peptides

Peptides are fragments of proteins. There are composed of a sequence of amino acids. Peptides have a wide range of uses in skincare as they can regulate a range of cellular processes.

Peptides can modulate the function of collagen, elastin, skin cell turnover, and pigmentation production (melanogenesis).

Peptides act as:

• Carriers: they help increase stability and/or penetration of active ingredients in formulations.
• Signalling: they give signals to cells (usually to regenerate)
• Neurotransmission: they act in a comparable way to Botox to prevent wrinkles

They need to be incorporated into sophisticated cosmeceutical formulations to enhance their penetration into the skin and preserve their stability overtime.

Reference

1. Ledwoń P, Errante F, Papini A, Rovero P, Latajka R. Peptides as Active Ingredients: A Challenge for Cosmeceutical Industry. Chemistry & Biodiversity. 2021;18(2).
2. Lupo M, Cole A. Cosmeceutical Peptides. Dermatologic Therapy. 2007;20(5):343-349.
3. Pai V, Bhandari P, Shukla P. Topical Peptides as Cosmeceuticals. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology. 2017;83(1):9.