Peptide

How Peptides Work

Peptides function as cellular messengers, signaling skin cells to perform specific tasks. Signal peptides trigger collagen production, carrier peptides deliver trace minerals to stimulate repair, neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides relax facial muscles (mimicking Botox effects), and enzyme inhibitor peptides prevent collagen breakdown.

Types of Skincare Peptides

Key peptide categories include palmitoyl tripeptide-1 and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 (collagen stimulation), acetyl hexapeptide-3/Argireline (muscle relaxation), copper peptides (wound healing and collagen synthesis), and matrixyl (wrinkle reduction). Each targets different aspects of skin aging and repair.

Formulation Considerations

Peptide efficacy depends on molecular size (ability to penetrate skin), stability in the formulation, and concentration. Many peptides are fragile and can be deactivated by certain ingredients (particularly strong acids), making formulation expertise critical for effective peptide products.

OSF Perspective

OSF views peptides as one of skincare's most sophisticated active categories — their targeted signaling approach represents a more nuanced strategy than broad-spectrum ingredients.

Related Terms

Active Ingredient  |  Collagen  |  Cosmeceutical  |  Retinoid  |  Skin Barrier

Notable Brands

The Ordinary (Buffet), Drunk Elephant (Protini), Olay (Regenerist), Peter Thomas Roth