putting the ‘pep’ in your peptides

Anti-aging. It’s a term I don’t love.

It’s a buzz word. A keyword that gets a lot of website clicks and Google searches. Everyone over the age of 30 seems to be searching for skincare tips, tricks, procedures, products and hacks that purport ‘anti-aging.’ It’s such a popular concept, that we’re ready to believe almost anyone, whether qualified or not, to tell us their anti-aging secrets. Look no further than all the skincare ‘influencers’ on TikTok as an example of this.

It is my belief that beauty, as a concept, should not be tied to youth. I believe aging is a beautiful thing. Not everyone is lucky enough to age. Aging means wisdom, clout, experience. And what is more inspiring or empowering than seeing someone who is confident and completely comfortable in their own skin? I prefer terms like ‘aging gracefully’ or ‘timeless and enduring beauty’.

So, to help you age gracefully, you should be incorporating peptides into your skincare regimen. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that act as structural components of cells and tissues. When used topically, peptide serums absorb deep into the skin and aid in collagen production, anti-aging (yeah… I said it), improved elasticity, and reduced fine lines and wrinkles. After two weeks of peptide use, one study shows a marked improvement in the appearance of crow’s feet, nasolabial folds, glabella frown lines, forehead lines and neck lines.

Different types of peptides can be used in serums. You might commonly see pea peptides, copper peptides or ingredients beginning with ‘palmitoyl’ in your skincare products. Although peptide products are commonly available, you want to be mindful of the delivery method you’re using. Having peptides in a thick, creamy moisturizer is only going to sit on the top later of your skin. Look instead for a serum or ampoule containing peptides as it will penetrate deeper into the skin, providing more efficacious results.

The efficacy of peptides in skincare can be affected by acids, so don’t use peptides simultaneously with glycolic or salicylic acid. Retinols and retinoids also don’t play well with peptides, so don’t used them at the same time. However, most peptides work well when used alongside vitamin c or hyaluronic acid (not a true acid), so the most ideal time of day for topical application of peptides would be in the morning.

In addition to topical products that contain peptides, you also want to make sure you’re eating food sources that are high in peptides. Eggs, lean meats, seafood, legumes, nuts, and soy products like edamame are all great sources of peptides. In addition, dairy products like Greek yogurt and cottage cheese are also good food sources.

If you’d like to talk more about peptides, skincare recommendations or have a complete skin analysis done, contact rebel + dart to book your next skincare treatment.