By Scott Will
For decades, skincare companies have put peptides in creams and lotions. Now, however, we’re learning more about how peptides help skin and why they are so beneficial. We know that when certain amino acids interact with one another, forming peptides that promote better health and performance.
Peptides are often referred to as the building blocks of proteins. Some proteins, like elastin and collagen, are vital to skin health, growth, and elasticity. People buy skin products with peptides in them to boost bioavailability. With the right moisturizer, a person can promote healthier skin that looks younger without blemishes. Careful skin regimens can prevent the effects of aging and skin damage from keeping skin vibrant for longer.
If you’re new to peptides and looking to keep your skin in better condition, here’s some helpful information to get started. Learning about peptides can open a new door to improved skin health and slow the effects of getting older.
Peptides vs. Proteins
What’s the difference between peptides and proteins? It’s a question most people ask as they start learning about different peptide products.
Size is the main difference between peptides and proteins. Peptides are amino acid strains that measure 50 amino acids or shorter. On the other hand, proteins tend to be more complex and comprise more than 50 amino acids. Some proteins are made up of strings of peptides put together.
Receptors are biological machines to which proteins bind. However, they only accept proteins with the right amino acid order and shape. However, researchers are finding ways to create proteins that have specific functions by altering their shape and order. This results in specific signaling in parts and systems of the body.
Peptides & Skincare
Collagen is a protein made of three polypeptide chains. So, in research done on animal models, subjects given specific peptides saw increased collagen production. The results are promising, especially considering collagen and elastin production tends to wane as people get older. The body’s ability to produce collagen slows, which is why you see people with wrinkles, loose skin, and spots. In addition, a lack of collagen can impact the body’s ability to heal. For example, many people report that it takes longer for even minor cuts to heal as they age. The potential for more collagen is what makes many skincare products so popular.
Some Peptide Benefits
One of the reasons peptide https://www.peptidesciences.com/blog/peptides-what-are-they products are desirable is that collagen is too large to absorb through the skin. Instead, people use products like bone broth or swallow collagen supplements. However, some small peptides are tiny enough to absorb through the skin and may promote better natural collagen growth.
One peptide named BPC-157, for example, showed in animal models that it increased the production of type 1 collagen, which facilitated the healing process, especially the healing of complex injuries like tendon and ligament injuries. It also increased blood flow to affected areas and helped keep inflammation in check.
Some peptides also demonstrated in animal models the ability to increase pigment in the skin. Melanotan 2, for instance, was initially developed as a sunless tanning option. Later, however, the peptide also showed various other health benefits in research tests.
Choosing Peptide Skin Products
Nowadays many skincare products with peptides to include in their daily routines. Serums, lotions, and other products keep the skin moisturized and healthy. When choosing a peptide product, always read the labels or ask the company specific questions about how to best use the products.
Using peptide skincare products works best when doing other practical things that keep your skin healthy and prevent unnecessary damage. For example, staying out of the sun unless wearing sunblock is one of the best things anyone can do to keep their skin looking young and clear. Harmful UV rays cause the skin to degrade and may even increase cancer risk.
In addition, living a healthy lifestyle, drinking plenty of water, getting proper rest, and other healthy living tips go a long way toward protecting the skin. An effective skincare routine with high-quality products adds to healthy lifestyle choices and will keep your skin looking fantastic even in your later years.
