Peptides in skin care: How they help with collagen formation and against wrinkles

What are peptides and why are they so important for the skin?

Peptides are short amino acid chains that act as the building blocks of proteins such as collagen, elastin, and keratin. These proteins ensure firm, elastic, and hydrated skin. With age, natural collagen production declines—this is where peptides in skincare come into play.

How do peptides affect the skin and collagen formation?

Peptides act as messengers: They signal the skin to produce more collagen and elastin. They mimic fragments of degraded proteins, stimulating fibroblasts to renew cells. The result is smoother, firmer, and more youthful-looking skin.

The most important peptide types in skin care

Signal peptides Effect: Targeted stimulation of collagen and elastin production Examples: Palmitoyl Pentapeptide-4 (Matrixyl), Palmitoyl Tripeptide-5 K-Beauty products: COSRX The 6 Peptide Skin Booster Serum Medicube PDRN Pink Peptide Serum Dr. Ceuracle Royal Vita Propolis 33 ampoules

Neuropeptides Effect : Reduces expression lines similar to Botox Examples : Acetyl Hexapeptide-8 (Argireline), Pentapeptide-18 K-Beauty products: Tosowoong Syn-Ake Wrinkle Spot Cream Mizon Peptide 500 Serum Missha Time Revolution Night Repair Ampoule 5X

Carrier peptides Effect : Transports active ingredients such as copper deep into the skin Examples : Copper Tripeptide-1 (GHK-Cu) K-Beauty products: Purito Centella Unscented Serum Isntree TW-Real Bifida Ampoule

Enzyme-inhibiting peptides Effect : Protect existing collagen from degradation Examples : Oligopeptides, soy peptides K-Beauty products: Innisfree Black Tea Youth Enhancing Ampoule  Klairs Midnight Blue Youth Activating Drop

Application: How to properly integrate peptides into your skincare routine

Morning:

1. cleaning

2. toner

3. Peptide serum

4. Moisturizer

5. Sun protection

At evening:

1. cleaning

2. toner

3. Peptide product or retinal (alternating)

4. Night care

Do's & Don'ts when using peptides

DOS

• Daily use (morning and evening)

• Combine with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide

• Be patient: visible results after 4 to 8 weeks

• Always use sunscreen

Don'ts

• Do not combine with strong acids or directly with retinol

• Do not use products with too acidic pH at the same time

Conclusion: Peptides as an effective anti-aging agent

Peptides are highly effective yet gentle anti-aging ingredients that specifically promote collagen production. They are used effectively and with skin compatibility, especially in K-beauty. Those seeking long-term skin improvement will find peptides a safe and effective solution against wrinkles and loss of elasticity.