When it comes to skin care – especially anti-aging skin care – it all comes down to science. Even when using natural skin care ingredients, there is a hefty amount of science involved. Skin care products require a balanced approach to ingredients – and how those ingredients are blended together. And while there is no one “miracle” ingredient or product, there are some things that most skin care experts can agree on: the benefits of peptides is one of those things.
Peptides and their relationship to collagen
If you know about skin care, you know that collagen is one of the most important proteins in our skin. It is the “building block” of our skin that gives it its firmness and thickness. Unfortunately, collagen breaks down: It does so as a natural part of the aging process, as well as through exposure to environmental factors, such as sun exposure and exposure to pollutants. As collagen breaks down, our skin becomes thinner and more slackened, leading to wrinkles and dryness. Peptides are portions of amino acids that bind together to form proteins. Specific types of peptides can signal the body to produce more of the crucial protein Collagen. And producing collagen helps the skin stay firmer and thicker.
Peptides aren’t just about collagen production
Because skin care science gets so much attention, new peptides are being discovered all the time. There are several different types of peptides used in skin care, each with a different function.
Signaling peptides
These are the most common peptides used in anti-aging skin care, as they stimulate collagen production, and/or the production of other crucial proteins or elements of the skin. They can also inhibit the formation of certain types of proteins. Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 is one example of a signaling peptide.
Neuropeptides
Also known as neurotransmitter-inhibiting peptides, these amino acid fragments work to relax the underlying muscles of the skin, reducing the repetitive actions that help form fine lines and wrinkles. Think of these neuropeptides as a less invasive version of BOTOX®. Argireline is an effective neuropeptide used in skin care.
Carrier peptides
Carrier peptides facilitate the delivery of trace elements/trace minerals, such as copper and magnesium. These trace elements also help with collagen synthesis. Copper peptide GHK-Cu is a commonly-used carrier peptide.
Enzyme inhibitor peptides
These peptides perform as their name suggests: they inhibit the activity of certain enzymes that break down collagen and other proteins.
Great skin needs more than peptides
Peptides are an important part of anti-aging skin care – but they are only one part. A great anti-aging skin care routine also requires antioxidants, hydrating ingredients, and most importantly, broad-spectrum sun protection. Reviva takes pride in our product formulations – we carefully blend our ingredients to work at their peak efficacy. Our peptide formulations are no different. We have several products that contain peptides and other ingredients to help you achieve healthy, youthful-looking skin. Check our website or call us toll free at 1-800-257-7774 – one of our experts can help you find the right product(s) for you.
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