Everyone’s Talking About Peptides — Here’s My Take
If you’ve been anywhere near skincare TikTok, Sephora, or pretty much any Hailey Bieber video, you’ve probably noticed one thing: peptides are everywhere.
They’re in moisturizers, serums, milks, eye creams, lip treatments, and somehow every product claims their peptide blend is the one that will “firm,” “lift,” and “erase” lines. So let’s slow it down and talk about what peptides actually are, what they can realistically do for your skin, and how I like to use them in a routine.
Before we go anywhere else, I do want to start with a little bit of a spoiler: peptides can be a great supporting ingredient, but they’re not magic. I only break this hard news because I do think marketing nowadays convinces us that if we use just this one ingredient, all our skin problems will go away! Ok ok enough of this tangent, let’s get into it…
What Are Peptides?
Peptides are short chains of amino acids, and amino acids are the building blocks that make up proteins in the body.
Why does that matter for skin?
Because some of the most important “structure” proteins in skin, like collagen and elastin, are made from amino acids. As we age, collagen production naturally declines, and the skin’s ability to bounce back and stay resilient can slow down.
This is where peptides come in. In skincare, peptides are often described as messengers. They can help “signal” the skin to support processes.
Ok I am going to pause more and do a whole separate section on listing out the peptide benefits…
What Peptides Can Do (Realistic Benefits ONLY)
You can probably put 2 and 2 together from the last section, but who doesn’t love to hear a list of the benefits?! Let’s discuss…
They support a healthier skin barrier
They can improve the look of fine lines over time
They can help skin feel more resilient
Even when the “before/after” isn’t dramatic, people often notice peptides make their skin feel:
less reactive
more comfortable
more balanced
What Peptides Can’t Do
Let’s be very clear:
Peptides are not a replacement for retinoids. If your goal is true collagen- stimulation and long-term texture/wrinkle improvement, retinoids still have the strongest track record.
Peptides can be an amazing “supporting character, ”especially for barrier support and hydration, but they’re not the main driver the way retinoids can be. My only point with say this is I’ve seen an ongoing trend of using peptides to replace retinoids. I recommend them in addition to retinoids, but definitely not as a substitution.
The 4 Main Types of Peptides You’ll Hear About
You don’t need to memorize this, but it helps explain why peptides can feel confusing.
Signal peptides: “Signal” the skin to support collagen-related processes.
Carrier peptides (like copper peptides): Help deliver trace elements that can support repair processes.
Enzyme-inhibitor peptides: Designed to slow enzymes that break down collagen.
Neurotransmitter-inhibitor peptides: The ones sometimes marketed as “Botox-like.”
Bottom line: peptides are a big category, and formulation matters more than buzzwords.
Where Peptides Fit in a Routine
Peptides are most worth it in leave-on products, like serums, moisturizers, eye creams and lip treatments. Here is a list of the products with peptides that I absolutely adore!
Can You Use Peptides With Other Actives?
The age old question. Most of the time: yes, peptides generally play well with others.
The one caveat you may see mentioned: strong acids (like AHAs) may reduce peptide efficiency in some formulations because of the low pH environment.
If you love your exfoliating acids, the simple workaround is to use acids at night and peptides in the morning, OR alternate nights.
Ultimately, My Take
(although it’s probably pretty obvious at this point)
I like peptides. I use peptides. I recommend peptides. They’re one of my favorite “support” ingredients for If you want to add peptides into your routine and you’re not sure where to start, I’ll share the 5 peptide products I am always reaching for below:
I love these deep dives on trendy skincare ingredients. Let me know which I should cover next! Also, want more detail on building your skincare routine. My Skincare Guide is officially live!
Hungry for more? Check out my Comprehensive Skincare Guide in the Skinthusiast Shop!
**Disclaimer: This post does not constitute medical advice. Please speak to your Dermatology provider before adding any at home procedures or products into your routine!
***This post contains affiliate links.***
