Ingredient Spotlight on Peptides

What are peptides?

Peptides are made up of chains of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. They can either be short-chain or long-chain and come in a wide variety of combinations. Each unique combination that makes up a peptide will, in turn, give that peptide is own distinct properties and functions. This is why the following meme perfectly explains my reaction whenever I'm asked what peptides can do:

To simplify, though, peptides are sought after in skincare formulations for their potential to help:

Bind water and hydrate the skin
Diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Firm the skin
Soothe and take down redness in the skin
Temporarily plump the skin

Reality Check

Peptides are not Botox in a jar! While this phrase has been frequently used to market neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides, it’s not accurate and believing it will only lead to disappointment. Absorption and injection are two completely different processes, and no topical skincare ingredient will deliver the same results in the same amount of time as an in-office procedure. Like all other skincare ingredients, peptides require consistent use over time to see tangible, lasting improvement, and even then, there’s a limit to the results you can reasonably expect a topical skincare product to deliver.

Why I love peptides

As someone who can be sensitive to ascorbic acid/vitamin C, types of alpha hydroxy acids (especially in leave on products), and both cosmetic and prescription retinoids/vitamin A, I find that peptides and antioxidants are a great option for my skin. In addition to their potential long-term benefits in supporting the structure of my skin and increasing hydration, they can be integrated seamlessly with other ingredients without setting the stage for further irritation.

Xo,

Jordan

Here are some of the peptides featured in Jordan Samuel Skin products:

The Performance Eye Gel