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Peptides are formed from short or long chains of amino acids linked together. When grouped in clusters of two, three, four, up to ten amino acids, they form a peptide of a specific type. Peptides are essentially small proteins. In skincare, peptides are used for their potential benefits in promoting healthier and younger-looking skin.

Peptides can have various effects on the skin, depending on their specific structure and function. Some common benefits of peptides in skincare include:

• Collagen Production: Collagen is a protein that provides structural support to the skin, keeping it tight and elastic. Peptides stimulate its production and help reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improving overall skin elasticity.
• Elastin Production: Elastin is a protein responsible for maintaining skin elasticity. Peptides can enhance its production and help improve skin elasticity, resilience, and reduce sagging.
• Moisture Retention: Some peptides have moisturizing properties, which help the skin retain water. This improves hydration, density, and overall texture of the skin.
• Anti-aging Effects: By targeting specific biological processes involved in skin aging, peptides can help minimize signs of aging and uneven skin tone.

The effectiveness of peptides may vary depending on the specific peptide, its concentration, formulation, and individual skin characteristics. Skincare products containing peptides can be found in various forms, including serums, creams, and masks.
If you are considering incorporating peptides into your skincare routine, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist or medical professional for guidance based on your specific needs.

Here are the most commonly used peptides in cosmetics and their names:

• Carnosine: A dipeptide, part of the body's natural antioxidant system. Neutralizes the AGEs molecule, responsible for the process of advanced glycation – an irreversible process that alters the structure of collagen and leads to its hardening.
• Copper Peptides (copper tripeptide-1): Has antioxidant and healing effects on the skin. Stimulates collagen production, improves elasticity, and helps smooth fine lines and wrinkles.
• Glutathione: The most potent antioxidant, a tripeptide. Helps whiten the skin by suppressing the oxidation process and melanin production.
• Matrixyl 3000 (palmitoyl tripeptide-1): A peptide with a lifting effect, produced in fibroblasts during skin damage and strengthens its matrix. Stimulates new production of collagen type I and II and fibronectin – important for the density and elasticity of the skin.
• Argireline (acetyl hexapeptide-8): A synthetic polypeptide similar to botulinum toxin, which inhibits the transmission of nerve impulses to muscles and reduces the depth of wrinkles, especially on the forehead and around the eyes.

For a complete and comprehensive skincare routine, peptides need "partners" to complement their action and provide the skin with exactly what it needs.
Here are some common ingredients often combined with peptides:

• Hyaluronic Acid: Retains moisture in the skin, which in combination with peptides can improve hydration, density, and overall appearance of the skin.
• Antioxidants (Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Green Tea Extract, Niacinamide): Protect the skin from damage by free radicals and in combination with peptides enhance anti-aging effects and brighten the complexion.
• Retinol: A form of vitamin A, with proven anti-aging benefits. Combined with peptides, it further enhances collagen production and improves skin texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles.
• Ceramides, Shea Butter, and Natural Oils: Help moisturize and nourish the skin, create a protective barrier, and enhance the benefits of peptides.

In addition to manual application in the form of serums, creams, or masks, peptides can be delivered to the skin using various devices and skincare equipment. This enhances the absorption and effectiveness of products containing peptides. Here are a few examples:

• Microneedling: Creates microchannels on the skin's surface, allowing better penetration and effectiveness of the ingredients introduced. Stimulates collagen and elastin production.
• Electroporation: Needle-free mesotherapy, increases skin permeability and opens protein channels, allowing easier and deeper penetration of products.
• Ultrasound Devices: Stimulate blood circulation, enhance penetration of ingredients, and accelerate regeneration.