What to know about the Collagen Boosting Ingredient?
We hear the word over and over again, but what are peptides? And do we want them in our skin-care products? According to Zen Day Spa Owner Lisa McCrink—and basically every skin-expert on the planet—the answer is a resounding yes.
What are peptides in skin care? To explain the benefits of peptides, Ms McCrink explains their relationship with our BBF: “Collagen is a protein comprised of long segments of amino acids arranged like a chain,” she says. When collagen breaks down—an unfortunate, but very normal byproduct of aging—short segments of amino acids are then formed. “These are the tiny proteins and active molecules known as peptides.” Simply put, peptides in skin care are “building blocks for new collagen and elastin,”.
How quickly do we lose collagen? You might be surprised. After the age of 20, we lose about 1 percent of our collagen production each year, which results in thinner, more fragile skin as we age. To help counteract this, incorporating collagen-boosting ingredients such as peptides in your skin-care routine is a good idea. “Everyone in their twenties should protect their youthful beauty with healthy lifestyle habits and by the age of 30, they should consider adding serums and masks to amplify their collagen,”
Which peptide should I look for?
There are five different types of peptides used as skin-care actives, and all function slightly differently: signaling peptides, carrier peptides, enzyme-inhibiting peptides, neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides and antimicrobial peptides. The most common of these? Matrixyl (palmitoyl- or oligopeptide pentapeptide), a neuropeptide that is often used in serums and creams because of its ability to reduce fine lines.
Lisa xx
