What are peptides in skincare?

We’ve lived through the reign of hyaluronic acid, Vitamin C, and niacinamide in skincare, but an inevitable new queen has risen: peptides. My apologies for going full high school chemistry on you, but the following context is necessary. According to Healthline, “Peptides are amino acids that are the building blocks of certain proteins needed by the skin, like collagen and elastin.” As we age and collagen production slows down, the topical use of peptides can plump and strengthen the skin barrier. This scaffolding can lead to lessened fine lines, wrinkles, and redness. Basically, peptides are the pipeline to cherub skin. But wait…there’s more! (Please read that in your best infomercial voice).

Peptides can also be used on the hair to prevent breakage, increase moisture, and promote hair growth. Much like our skin, hair also loses collagen as we age, leading to limp, dry strands. Whole haircare brands like Vegamour and (Lightning Awards 2022 winner) K18 have jumped on the peptide wagon with promises to grow and heal hair.

I must admit I’m easily influenced and have already incorporated a slew of peptide-packed products into my routine, from haircare to skincare to makeup. Here are my favorites so far:

Iris & Romeo Power Peptide Lip Balm

If you’re a fan of softer lip balms that melt easily into the lips, this could be the one for you. I have the Peony shade, and while it can look a bit intimidating in the pot, it sheers out to a light pink à la 60s Twiggy.

Pacifica Vegan Silk Overnight Peptide Serum

I’m down to try almost any overnight hair treatment, but when I see “silk” in the name, I’m getting detangled and ready to go ASAP. This one left my hair soft, manageable, and (shocker) silky. I’ve been extra focused on keeping my hair healthy since I got an Airwrap recently, and my fine hair isn’t used to heat, so this product has been an easy ticket to strong hair city.

Ordinary Copper Peptides Serum

Did the blue color sell me? I’ll never tell. While I’m a hardcore fan of the OG Hyaluronic Aid + B5 Hydrating Serum, I wanted something with a bit of oomph. The Copper Peptides serum includes hyaluronic acid in addition to a whole peptide complex I’m praying will keep my skin bouncy for years to come.

Paula’s Choice 1% Retinol Treatment

Y’all, listen. This stuff is legit. It has retinol, Vitamin C, and peptides. Need I say more? No, but I’m going to. This serum never sensitized my skin, even after nightly use. Each morning, I would wake up with smoother, more glowy skin. I’m convinced the cocktail of ingredients created a trifecta of gorgeous skin.

Rhode Barrier Restore Cream

You didn’t seriously think we could get through this whole roundup without a mention of Mrs. Beiber, did you? From one of the only celebrity skincare lines that has rarely received flack, meet the Barrier Restore Cream. She’s thick. She’s moisturizing (even when I traveled to Colorado). She has peptides. She gets a thumbs up.