Science indicates that peptides are among the most powerful topical ingredients used when it comes to anti-aging focused skincare products. Last month I explained the benefits of micro-needling and how it basically tricks your skin into producing more collagen — and peptides are something else that does just that, without any needles.
What are peptides, exactly?
When we age, collagen breaks down and short chains of amino acids are formed. These are the tiny proteins and active molecules known as peptides. Our skin produces peptides naturally in order to trigger more collagen production, but once we start running low on the good stuff (collagen), less of it is available to be broken down and therefore less of these peptides are present in the skin to trigger that process. It’s slightly confusing, but basically, we want more collagen! Collagen plumps up the skin and keeps us wrinkle-free. Applying peptides topically is an easy way to trick your skin into producing more of it.
[ My New Favorite Ingredient ]
Used in serums and night creams Matrixyl 3000 is a blend of various elements including palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 and palmitoyl oligopeptide, both of which are known for boosting collagen production. These two ingredients are building blocks to help promote growth of skin cells, which effectively remove facial wrinkles.
Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7:
This peptide is known for reducing production of interleukin-6 substances, which degrade your skin causing it to wrinkle. Synthesis if interleukin-6 substances has increased a lot due to air pollution and global warming therefore by interfering with this action Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7 provides a protective mechanism against the environmental elements we simply can’t control.
Palmitoyl Oligopeptide:
This peptide plays a crucial role in re-constructing the skin by triggering new collagen synthesis. There is a palmitic acid attached to each peptide, which makes it oil soluble, therefore making it easier for the skin to suck all the peptides up and work most efficiently.
The overall effect of using these two peptides synergistically is that your skin plumps up, looks healthier reduces wrinkles over time.
[My Advice]
Use a serum that contains Matrixyl 3000 underneath your moisturizer, twice daily. As always; peptides, like all other topical products, do take time to work their magic. Getting into good skincare regimen habits at home is vital to skin health. Regular treatments aren’t only enhanced by a home-care regimen - most of the time they depend on it. Cleanse, tone, [peptide], hydrate, and protect daily!