What Are Peptides (And Why You’re Hearing So Much About Them)?
Peptides are the quiet achievers of skincare. While ingredients like retinol and hyaluronic acid often steal the spotlight, peptides work behind the scenes to strengthen, repair, and rejuvenate your skin. They’re short chains of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins like collagen and elastin, which are essential for firm, youthful skin.
When applied topically, peptides send signals to your skin cells, encouraging them to produce more collagen and elastin. Over time, this leads to smoother texture, tighter skin, and a visible reduction in fine lines and wrinkles.
Why Peptides Are So Powerful
Peptides offer multiple benefits, making them one of the most versatile ingredients in modern skincare:
Boost Collagen Production – Stimulates natural collagen for plumper, firmer skin.
Smooth Fine Lines – Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and crepey skin.
Repair Skin Barrier – Strengthens your skin’s protective layer, improving hydration and resilience.
Enhance Product Performance – Peptides pair beautifully with other actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid.
Unlike harsher actives, peptides are gentle yet effective, making them suitable for all skin types, even sensitive or post-treatment skin.
Different Types of Peptides (And What They Do)
There isn’t just one “type” of peptide, and that’s what makes them so exciting.
Signal Peptides – Tell your skin to produce more collagen.
Carrier Peptides – Deliver trace minerals to promote healing and repair.
Enzyme Inhibitor Peptides – Help prevent collagen breakdown over time.
Neuropeptides – Work like a topical “botox,” relaxing facial muscles and softening expression lines.
How to Add Peptides to Your Routine
Peptides are most effective in serums and moisturisers, especially when applied on clean, slightly damp skin. For the best results:
Cleanse and tone your skin.
Apply your peptide serum morning and night.
Follow with moisturiser and SPF during the day.
You can safely combine peptides with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. If you’re using strong actives like retinol or exfoliating acids, apply them at opposite times of the day to avoid irritation.
Clinic Favourites: Peptide-Rich Treatments
Professional treatments take peptides to the next level. Skin needling, LED therapy, and post-treatment serums often feature peptide complexes that accelerate healing and boost collagen at a deeper level. These treatments are ideal if you want to intensify your results and rejuvenate your skin from within.
The Takeaway
Peptides might just be your skin’s new best friend, gentle enough for daily use, yet powerful enough to visibly transform your skin over time. Whether you’re aiming to smooth fine lines, restore firmness, or strengthen your skin barrier, incorporating peptides is a must for a youthful, healthy glow.
Pro Tip: Ask your skin therapist about peptide-infused serums or post-treatment products next time you’re in clinic — your future skin will thank you.