by Joy Manto, Registered Chemist
In the world of skincare and health, the term "peptides" has gained significant attention for its potential benefits. Peptides are a fundamental component of life, playing essential roles in various biological processes. They are like messengers that communicate with cells, instructing them to perform specific functions. They are involved in a multitude of biological processes, including enzyme function, hormone production, and cell signaling.
But what exactly are peptides, where can they be found, and how can they benefit the skin? This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of peptides, their sources, and a focus on the best peptide for skin health.
In this article
- What Are Peptides?
- Where Are Peptides Found?
- How Do Peptides Work?
- The Role of Peptides in Skincare
- Best Peptides for Skin
What Are Peptides?
Peptides play an essential role in fundamental physiological processes and are necessary for many biochemical processes. A peptide is a short string of 2 to 50 amino acids formed by a condensation reaction, joining together through a covalent bond. Sequential covalent bonds with additional amino acids yield a peptide chain and the building block of proteins.
Peptides are named based on the number of amino acid residues in the sequence. As peptide chains form between the joining of the primary structure of amino acids, they may enlarge to become an oligopeptide when there are between 10 to 20 amino acids in the chain. In vivo, each amino acid is added to the amino-terminal of one amino acid to form a peptide chain. When there are greater than 20 amino acids, the peptide is an unbranched chain deemed a polypeptide.
Each amino acid comprising a peptide is called a “residue” since that is the portion remaining after the loss of water in the dehydration reaction. Amino acids are the organic starting molecule composed of a carboxyl-terminal and an amino group that makes up the foundation of a protein. Peptide synthesis depends on three main reactions: 1. an amino acid goes through a deprotection step, a preparatory reaction that adds the next amino acid to the chain, and lastly, a coupling reaction that forms the final peptide with functionality, In the second step, the amino acid becomes activated with several reagents. The carboxylic acid in the amino acid will react to make the activated form, which will then enter into a coupling reaction. After one round of peptide synthesis, this process is repeatable to add more amino acids until creating the desired length of the peptide.
There are 20 naturally-occurring amino acids, and like letters into words, they can be combined into an immense variety of different molecules. When a molecule consists of 2-50 amino acids, it is called a peptide.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2023.
Where Are Peptides Found?
Peptides are naturally occurring biological molecules. Peptides are found in all living organisms and play a key role in all manner of biological activity. Like proteins, peptides are formed (synthesized) naturally from transcription of a sequence of the genetic code, DNA. Transcription is the biological process of copying a specific DNA gene sequence into a messenger molecule, mRNA, which then carries the code for a given peptide or protein. Reading from the mRNA, a chain of amino acids is joined together by peptide bonds to form a single molecule. (2) These peptides are known to be endogenous.
However, some peptides are sourced or found outside the living cells and tissue, which are known as exogenous peptides. Modern biotechnology is able to mimic peptides in the body through synthesis or modifications. This gives rise to synthetic peptides that have the same function as the natural peptides, addressing some of the limitations of the previous, such as enhanced permeability, low toxicity, and enhanced bioavailability. In the chemical synthesis of bioactive peptides, there are currently two major strategies, namely, soluble-phase and solid-phase syntheses. In addition to these two methods, there is another chemical method, hybrid synthesis, which is sometimes used to produce pharmaceutical peptides.
Also, exogenous peptides can be extracted from natural sources such as animals, plants, or microorganisms. Production of these exogenous peptides is summarized below:
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How Do Peptides Work?
Peptides can work as antioxidants
BPs have a strong antioxidant activity against free radicals and other reactive species. These antioxidant peptides contain 5–16 amino acids. The mechanism by which peptides exert their antioxidant effects has not been fully elucidated, although various studies have shown that hydrolyzed peptides and proteins prevent enzymatic and nonenzymatic oxidation by removing free radicals and chelating metal ions. Several peptides have been found in protein constituents with antioxidant capacity, and their biological activities have been extensively studied. Although the energy of free radicals (such as hydroxyl) is high, in general, all 20 amino acids found in proteins can have internal interactions with free radicals. Food-derived antioxidant peptides are safe and healthy compounds with low molecular weight, low cost, high activity, and easy absorption. The antioxidant properties of peptides are mostly related to their composition, structure, and hydrophobicity.
The antioxidant properties of peptides are affected by the following:
- Amino acids content and sequence - Aromatic amino acids, such as tyrosine, histidine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine, and hydrophobic amino acids, such as valine, leucine, methionine, glycine, and alanine, are essential for the antioxidant role of the peptide.
- Peptide size - In some cases, the higher antioxidant power of smaller peptides compared with large chain peptides was attributed to their easier access to free radicals and more effective removal of these radicals.
- Hydrophobicity - Hydrophobic amino acids such as valine or leucine can increase the affinity of peptides in the fat phase, thus facilitating access to free radicals produced in the fat phase
Peptides can work as antimicrobial
The factors of the effectiveness of these biologically active peptides as antimicrobial agents depend on structural properties (e.g., peptide size, amino acid composition, or charge). Most antimicrobial peptides are composed of fewer than 50 amino acids, 50% of which are hydrophobic. Most of which contains the amino acid lysine and arginine.
Some antimicrobial peptides are also anti-inflammatory.
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The Role of Peptides in Skincare
Peptides are naturally occurring in the skin, but they can also be found in many skincare products. Peptides can penetrate the outer layer of the skin and send signals to other cells to produce collagen and elastin. They also stimulate the production of hyaluronic acid and regulate pigmentation production
The extracellular matrix or ECM of peptides comprises mainly structural proteins such as collagen, fibronectin, elastin, and laminin. During the aging process, the production of these proteins decreases and their degeneration increases. Furthermore, exposure to destructive environmental factors accelerates these aging processes.
With the discovery of more functions of BPs, it was seen that these molecules are able to rejuvenate the skin and increase its repair power. Today, peptides are used to stimulate collagen, heal wounds, and smooth out skin wrinkles and for antioxidant, antibacterial, and skin whitening effects. Cosmetic peptides can affect skin freshness through several mechanisms. These pathways can be used to signal peptides that modulate collagen levels, such as Lys-Thr-Thr-Lys-Ser; reduce IL-6 secretion and stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis, such as palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 stimulate human skin fibroblasts and increase skin angiogenesis, such as Val-Gly-Val-Ala-Pro-Gly peptide; and inhibit tyrosine enzyme activity, such as Nonapeptide-1.
Some peptides act as inhibitors of neurotransmitters. The mechanism of action of neurotransmitter-inhibitory peptides is similar to botulinum neurotoxin type A under the brand name Botox®.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2023.
Best Peptides for Skin
Peptides are versatile, potent, and valuable in skincare. They can help firm the skin, boost hydration, even out skin tone, and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. They also have anti-inflammatory and hydration-boosting benefits, which lead to clearer, smoother, and more resilient skin.
Using a serum or moisturizer that contains peptides can lead to firmer, younger-looking skin and maybe even fewer breakouts. Peptides are generally considered safe, and while they may be more expensive than other skincare ingredients, they are worth the price tag.
- Quick absorption
- Anti-aging powerhouse
- Collagen booster
- Damage repair
- Wrinkle and fine-line fighter
Advantages of peptides
- Improved skin barrier: Peptides work exceptionally well to strengthen the skin's barrier, which can help protect it from environmental stressors.
- Reduced wrinkles: Peptides can help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines by stimulating collagen production, resulting in a firm and younger-looking skin.
- More elastic skin: Peptides can help improve skin elasticity, making it more resilient and less prone to sagging.
- Eases inflammation: Peptides can help reduce inflammation in the skin, which can be beneficial for people with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
- Boosts collagen production: Peptides can boost collagen production, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
- Regulates pigmentation production: Depending on the peptide in question, it may help even out skin tone
Disadvantages of peptides
- Expensive: The price tag of peptides in skincare can be hefty.
- Allergic Reaction: When you start using peptide products, you may notice some side effects such as redness, itching, or dryness.
Foxbrim Naturals Collagen Peptide Boost Serum
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals.
Foxbrim Naturals Peptide Collagen Serum is a skincare product that offers a wide range of benefits for achieving healthy, youthful-looking skin. This FDA-approved serum is formulated with natural and organic ingredients, making it a top choice for individuals seeking safe and effective skincare solutions.
One of the key features of Foxbrim Naturals Peptide Collagen Serum is its potent peptide complex. Peptides are small chains of amino acids that play a crucial role in maintaining the skin's firmness and elasticity. By incorporating this powerful complex into their serum, Foxbrim Naturals ensures that users can enjoy a noticeable improvement in the overall appearance of their skin. Regular use of this serum can help reduce the visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, and sagging, leading to a more youthful complexion.
The benefits of Foxbrim Naturals Peptide Collagen Serum extend beyond addressing visible signs of aging. This serum is also highly moisturizing, helping to hydrate and nourish the skin deeply. Its lightweight and non-greasy formula allows for easy absorption, leaving the skin feeling soft, supple, and revitalized. Whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, this serum can effectively balance moisture levels and promote a healthier complexion.
Additionally, the natural and organic nature of Foxbrim Naturals Peptide Collagen Serum makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize using clean and environmentally friendly products. The carefully selected ingredients are free from harmful chemicals, artificial fragrances, and synthetic additives, ensuring a gentle and non-irritating experience for all skin types. By harnessing the power of nature, this serum promotes skin health and vitality without compromising on quality or safety.
Buy Foxbrim Naturals Collagen Peptide Boost Serum at the website, Shopify, and Amazon.
Foxbrim Naturals Collagen Peptide Boost Moisturizer
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals.
Foxbrim Naturals Peptides Collagen Moisturizer provides a wealth of advantages for creating healthy and bright skin. This FDA-approved moisturizer is a top pick for anyone looking for a skincare solution that is both efficient and secure because it is carefully designed with a blend of natural and organic ingredients.
One of the key features of the Foxbrim Naturals Peptides Collagen Moisturizer is its impressive peptide complex. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that play a vital role in stimulating collagen production in the skin. By incorporating peptides into the formula, this moisturizer actively works to promote collagen synthesis, resulting in firmer and more youthful-looking skin. Regular use of this product can help minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, giving your skin a smoother and more refined texture.
In addition to its collagen-boosting properties, this moisturizer offers deep hydration and moisturization. It contains a blend of nourishing ingredients such as jojoba oil, hyaluronic acid, and shea butter, which help to replenish and lock in moisture, leaving your skin feeling soft, supple, and hydrated throughout the day. This powerful combination of hydrating elements ensures that your skin maintains optimal moisture levels, preventing dryness and flakiness.
Another notable advantage of the Foxbrim Naturals Peptides Collagen Moisturizer is its natural and organic composition. Free from harsh chemicals and artificial additives, this product harnesses the power of nature to provide gentle yet effective skincare. The use of natural ingredients not only minimizes the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions but also contributes to the overall health of your skin. By opting for a natural and organic moisturizer, you can avoid exposing your skin to potentially harmful substances found in many conventional skincare products.
Buy Foxbrim Naturals Collagen Peptide Boost Moisturizer at the website, Shopify, and Amazon.
Photo by Foxbrim Naturals, 2023.
Final Note
Peptides are remarkable molecules with diverse functions, from supporting essential biological processes within the body to enhancing the health and appearance of the skin. Found naturally in various sources and often synthesized for specific purposes, peptides like Matrixyl have emerged as key players in the world of skincare. As research continues to uncover their potential benefits, peptides are likely to remain a focal point in both the scientific community and the realm of beauty and wellness.
Luann Koerper
I'm the co-owner and founder of Foxbrim Naturals. Leaving the corporate world in 2015, I've been developing natural and organic products as a concerned mom ever since! I'm passionately sharing the power of natural and organic ingredients that are not only scientifically proven but are also mother nature's solutions to aging into grace and beauty.