Peptides are short chains of amino acids — the same building blocks that make up proteins such as collagen and elastin. In skincare, they have become one of the most studied and most requested ingredient families, and for good reason: they are gentle, versatile and pair well with almost everything else in a routine.
Why peptides in skincare?
Because they are small and precise, peptides can be designed with a particular job in mind. Some are chosen to help soften the look of expression lines, others to support a firmer, more resilient-looking complexion, and others still to help skin feel comfortable and hydrated.
The main families
- Signal peptides — such as Palmitoyl Tripeptide-1 — are formulated to help skin look smoother and firmer.
- Neurotransmitter-inspired peptides — such as Snap-8 — are chosen to help soften the look of expression lines.
- Carrier peptides — such as copper tripeptide (GHK-Cu) — are prized for supporting the look of healthy, resilient skin.
How to use them
Peptides are best applied to clean skin, in a serum or cream that stays on the skin. They layer beautifully with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, and they are comfortable enough for morning and evening use.
At Worth Aesthetics every formula is built around a multi-peptide complex, so each step of your ritual works in harmony with the next.