Short answer: Peptides are short chains of amino acids — the building blocks of proteins. In skincare they are used as active ingredients to make the skin look firmer and more even and to reduce the appearance of fine lines. They are described in terms of the skin's appearance, which is what a cosmetic product may claim.
What is a peptide?
Proteins are long chains of amino acids. When only a few amino acids are linked together, a peptide is formed. Depending on the number, you speak of di-, tri-, tetra- or heptapeptides (two, three, four and seven amino acids respectively).
What are biomimetic peptides?
"Biomimetic" means the peptide is designed to mimic structures that occur naturally in the skin. They are manufactured under controlled conditions for consistent quality and used in low concentrations as active ingredients.
The peptides in our line
The Natural Beauty line uses two biomimetic peptides developed by Spanish Lipotrue:
- SkinArch™ (a tetrapeptide) — in Face & Neck Oil, for a smoother, more even skin feel and a firmer appearance.
- Telessence (heptapeptide-6) — developed for the appearance of mature skin.
What peptides do — and don't do
In cosmetics, peptides are described in terms of how the skin looks and feels: firmer, more even, smoother. A cosmetic product does not, however, claim to build or increase the body's collagen production — that would be a physiological (medical) claim. The effect is about the skin's surface and appearance.
Frequently asked questions
Do peptides build collagen?
In a cosmetic product we talk about the skin's appearance — firmer and more even — not about affecting the body's collagen synthesis, which would be a medical claim.
Are peptides good for mature skin?
Peptides are popular actives in products aimed at mature skin, for a more even and firmer appearance.
What are peptides called on the INCI list?
As specific names, e.g. a tetrapeptide or heptapeptide followed by a number. How to read an INCI list.
Can peptides be combined with oils and hyaluronic acid?
Yes — in a facial oil they are often combined with plant oils and hyaluronic acid for hydration and a smoother skin feel.